Vendor Spotlight Series: Signage + Stationery
Planning your dream wedding involves a myriad of details, and finding the perfect signage and stationery vendor is certainly among them. From elegant invitations to charming signage that sets the tone for your big day, these elements play a crucial role in creating the ambiance you’ve always envisioned. To shed light on this essential aspect of wedding planning, we reached out to seasoned vendors, asking them a series of insightful questions aimed at helping couples navigate the process seamlessly.
What key items/information do you ask from couples when they book with you?
Shi: With each couple, I begin by offering a complimentary consultation. This meeting is mainly focused on getting to meet one another and to hear broad-level about their wedding day and vision. I also take the opportunity at this meeting to talk them through what they can expect from the process when they sign on with me. In terms of what the couple needs to come prepared with to this meeting, I just ask that they know, generally speaking, the details that they are interested in having made for their big day. Whether it be save the dates, invitations, signage pieces, etc. If they don’t know this, that’s okay too! That’s what I am here for and I am happy to walk them through items that they might need or be interested in.
Summer: When first beginning with a couple, I like to know the basic things like date, guest count, color scheme, budget, etc. But I also request any inspirations photos that they might have, whether that be stationery or just the vibe in general. Whatever gives me the greatest idea of their vision and hopes for the day.
Of this information, what do you think is the most helpful for you when coming up with their design/vibe?
Shi: It’s helpful for me to hear about the couple’s story and interests as well as their wedding day colors and overall aesthetic that they’re trying to achieve. Whether it be romantic vintage, whimsical, or classic and timeless. All of these factors are helpful for me to consider so that I can be sure to create their details in a unique and intentional way, curated specifically to them and their preferences.
Summer: I start with a discovery session to learn about the couple and find out who they are! To me, the most important part of your wedding vision is that it represents who you are and what you’re into. If you met each other somewhere fun, let’s play off of that! If you both love a certain band, or activity, or city, or color, or style, let’s bring that into the design and details. Making things as personal as you can will truly make your day feel like you, and I cannot recommend exploring that enough!
What would your ideal timeline/process timeline be from couples inquiring to booking to final product?
Shi: It is always very helpful for me to book couples sooner rather than later. If they are looking to have Save the Dates and Custom Invitations made, I ask that they book about a year in advance. If they are just looking for Day of Details, it is preferred that they book at least four to six months in advance. More time is never a bad thing!
Summer: One year ahead is what I would recommend, but don’t be afraid to ask if your timeline is doable. We offer both Custom and Semi-Custom, and are able to create for all different types of events.
If you could give one piece of advice to couples when they are at the stage of looking for stationery/signage – what would that be?
Shi: The details make a big difference. Your invitations will give guests an introduction to your event, and your invitations are something that you will forever hold as a keepsake. They’re the invitations to one of the greatest parties of your life. I promise, this isn’t a place to skimp on quality. It’s important to keep all details from the introduction to the day of details cohesive and intentional. If done right, all details will flow, tell about your personalities and love story, and keep your event organized from the very beginning to the very end.
Summer: Don’t underestimate the importance of stationery and signage when it comes to your wedding vision, and don’t rely on a website for these things. Wedding suites can be as elaborate or simple as you want, but be sure to think of the other details for the Day-Of. Put energy toward the fun details, because that’s what your guest will remember!
Is there anything you wish couples would ask you when they are in the research process/inquiring with you?
Shi: I think it’s important that they ask what it is that I offer that serves them in ways that exceed larger companies that mass produce wedding details. In my opinion, there’s great benefit when booking through a boutique stationer like myself as opposed to a largely run company that mass produces wedding signage and stationery. When booking with my business, they can rest assured that they’ll receive guidance and advice from a wedding industry professional and intentional details curated to who they are. I pride myself in offering a truly human experience which I don’t think can be beat.
Summer: Just ask for exactly what you want, because we can likely accommodate that! No package is set in stone, and no idea for details is too wild! Let’s get funky!
