I recently posted an article on the timeline for custom wedding stationery. Clients are always surprised that the entire process can take so long. This post is to go more in-depth on exactly what goes into the process for custom wedding invitations to show why that timeline is so important.

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First, you will fill out the custom invitation form with as much info as you can. I will follow up to clear up any questions and offer my advice on any of your unknowns like printing methods. We will talk about design briefly to make sure we’re a good fit. Then, I will put together a quote based on your needs.

The quote that I send can updated and manipulated to totally fit your needs. After you approve the quote, it is time to officially book me and reserve your spot on my calendar. To book, you will sign the contract and pay your retainer. I require 50% paid upfront before any design work can be done.

Once you are officially booked, we will have our design consultation. If you are in the Chicago area, this can be in person, or we can have a video chat! This is when we go in-depth into the design aspect, and I can help you with wording and etiquette. You will send me inspiration images, we will select colors, and I will get a better feel for your vision.

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After our consultation, I immediately start brainstorming. I will send you a look book with inspiration images, a color palette, and (rough) concept sketches of each piece in your suite. You will then give me feedback to make sure I am heading in the right direction. You may even have some design options to choose from (ie. different monogram or crest variations).

At this point, I start the real designs based on your feedback. This is when I sketch your venue illustration or wedding monogram. Once I complete this initial design phase, I will send you your first set of design proofs to review.

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You will review the proofs and give me feedback and revisions. We repeat this design and revision process a few times to get your invitation suite perfect.

Once designs are finalized, you will be asked to sign a final approval/print release form. Once this is signed and your remaining balance is paid in full, your suite will move into production. Production can take 1-4 weeks depending on your chosen print method. Letterpress and foil take longer than digital.

Once all pieces are completed and in my hands, I will assemble any of the parts that we agreed upon during the booking process like installing envelope liners or applying postage. It’s helpful to hire me to assemble the more challenging pieces like wax seals.

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At this point I will package up all assembled pieces to ship to you. If I am not assembling your suite, I will then ship the pieces to you for assembly. I wish I could be there to see your face when you receive your custom wedding invitations.

All of these steps can take longer than you would imagine, which is why I recommend in my timeline article to book months in advance. I would love to chat about the process for custom wedding invitations and your dream wedding.