Yes! Well, sorta. Envelopes, place cards, table signs, items like this are each written individually by hand. For larger runs like invitations or programs, the calligraphy and artwork is written by hand, scanned and then placed into a layout on the computer. These layouts and designs are then printed.

Paperfinger calligraphy and handwriting is not an exact science. The words will be written to match an agreed-upon design or style. Please note that since each letter is written by hand, slight variations and subtle inconsistencies are possible. We will not be able to accommodate specific aesthetic change requests -- we stand by the art we deliver as a close match to the style pictured in the original sample.

Once we’re farther along in the design process, we can calculate the estimated postage for you with the size and weight of your suite in mind. Note that square invitations, extra large invitations, invitations with unusual envelope closures and suites with many cards are typically more expensive to mail. USPS sells some beautiful stamps on their site. This is a convenient option that offers a great selection. If you’d like a more vintage and eclectic look for your postage, you can also search ebay for vintage stamps that add up to the correct amount of postage.

You might know the total number of guests but remember that your invitation count will be a lower number. Let's say you're inviting about 150 people. That is probably around 100 invitations because you need to count in terms of household units, couples, etc. to determine the number to order. We always suggest ordering a bit more than you think you need, in case you want to send some last minute additions and keepsake copies for you. Once the invitations print, it is not easy to request "a few more." Printing more is like setting the entire job up for production all over again, so this will be costly.

We request an additional 20% on top of your invitation count. We need to make sure there are extras in case of spilled ink or bloopers and to allow for testing the paper. Most calligraphers follow this standard.

Typically 6 months before the wedding. Anywhere up to a year prior is fine too for destination weddings..

Tradition is to send them 6-8 weeks before the wedding date.

Two to three weeks prior to the event date.

After receiving your inquiry, we'll send you a ballpark quote and arrange a time to talk about the specifics.

We can talk over a phone conversation or in-person meeting. This is when you provide information about the definite components, requirements and any other preferences. If you have samples of designs you really like or examples from the portfolio that you want to reference, that’s always helpful. We may look through examples together to talk about the various options for paper, colors, printing methods, designs. At this time, we also identify possible calligraphy and lettering styles and discuss the look/feel/aesthetic that you’re going for. You’ll provide a draft of the language you’d like to use.

We'll then finalize the estimate and send you a suggested timeline. With your approval and a fifty percent deposit, the design process kicks off!

Then the sketching and brainstorming process begins! During this phase, we work on pencil sketches of the different ideas for your design. We’ll write out samples of the calligraphy styles we’re considering as well. You’ll receive at least 3-5 sketches of different concepts and ideas that you can review by email.

After you’ve spent some time with the sketches, you choose a concept and provide any additional feedback or guidance. With more details clarified, the estimate and pricing can be confirmed at this point in case there are any changes to the project scope.

At this point, the final artwork, ink work and calligraphy begins. We'll produce a near-final version for your review. Any necessary revisions are made. Last step before printing, you will receive the absolute final proof for your approval and sign-off. This is the time when you read, re-read and triple-read it to make sure all the details are correct!

Printing follows, and turnaround times depend on the type of printing and other project specifics. If you’d like addressing done, then that commences as soon as the job finishes printing.

We can create a paperless design for your save the dates or invitations. Customizing something for Paperless Post or email mailing is definitely doable! Contact us for a quote..