New Invitation Design

DEPPENcover

Originally uploaded by DanielleSuzanne

(Click to photo to see more)

I just finished up some awesome wedding invitations. There was a lot of last minute drama to get it done, but my printer came through for me! They always do.

I absolutely love this design, and if I could do my wedding over again this would be my invitation.

Not only do I love the design, but I love the bride. I was so honored to work on this. I can't wait to complete to rest of the designs for her special day.

Love you, Megan!

Envelope Sizing and Information

(this is an update from a post on one of my older blogs)

When I began the process of designing invitations and announcements, the one thing that frustrated me the most was figuring out which envelope to use when and what size to use with which paper, etc. I've compiled a small list of the most popular sizes in my experience. Hopefully, this helps you. There are two different types of announcement quality envelopes that are most popular: announcement text and baronial.



This first one is announcement text, the second is baronial:

Baronial envelopes are formal style envelopes with a large pointed flap. They can be used for invitations, announcements, greeting cards, and anything that needs an added touch of elegance. They are usually made of more expensive papers. Announcement text envelopes are designed for use with matching text and cover papers. You can usually find a paper that matches exactly. These are still appropriate for special occasions.



Here are two charts that show the most standard sizes and then the ideal size for an enclosure. The enclosure doesn't have to be exact, but these do indicate the best, clean-looking fits. Feel free to click for a larger view and save each image for your own use.

You should always double-check postal regulations. Depending on the weight of your piece, there may be additional cost involved, so take one to your local office and have it weighed before you make too many. Sometimes, it is just a matter of trimming a piece or using a lower weight paper to bring down the cost.

8 Ways to Save Money on Event Stationery

(this is a re-post and adaptation from my old beautiful papers blog)

Of course I am biased here, but I would say that paper goods for your event are one of the most important investments you can make. Whether it's a wedding or baby shower, a well thought-out invitation design will do a great job to set the stage for your celebration. The downside is that it can be expensive to get invitations, place cards, etc. custom designed and printed. Oh but people, there is an upside. Here are some tricks to making it more affordable:

1. Budget, Budget, Budget: When you talk or email with your designer, make sure to give her a price range that you have in mind. This will help when designing the piece, and you won't fall in love with something that is too expensive for your budget.
2. Use one color, and use it well: Some of the best invitations I have seen have only incorporated one color. If done well, it creates a very bold and dramatic look.
3. Size DOES matter: Ask your designer to figure out the most economical size for your particular design. A good designer will know the methods of the print shops she works with.
4. Envelopes Shmenvelopes: Skip the inner envelope and use specific names on the outer envelope. This could also save weight on postage.
5. Google Maps is the best: instead of a separate piece with detailed directions, include a small card that leads to an online map.
6. Dancing Queen: For a wedding, you can include a line about the reception right on the invitation (unless it's a majorly formal event).
7. Addressing: instead of hiring a calligrapher, have a friend with good handwriting help you out (or, GASP, use labels. News flash: not many people care. How many wedding ENVELOPES do you see hanging on the fridge?)
8. Return Address: Your designer should be able to make a file for you that can be made into a rubber stamp, using your font. Just take it to a place like Copy Max or Kinkos. The stamp can be used on the actual invitation and the reply card, if there is one. Or, ask your designer to create an address label that includes your return address.

I guarantee that you will be glad you set aside a little bit of extra money in your budget for this. At least promise me that you won't dismiss the idea without talking it over with a designer first. Most of us just want to make beautiful things. I know for me, that if I can work within a pre-existing budget, it makes the whole process easier.

Cara and Alan

caraopen2, originally uploaded by DanielleSuzanne.

Wedding season rocks. Cara and Alan have been so great to work with. I've loved every minute of the process with them. Their invitations have arrived at their guests' homes, so here they are for you to see. I'm sorry they are so dark. I need to re-shoot them for sure. Eek.

(click the picture to see more...dark and horrible photos...what was i thinking?!!?!?!)

Jamie & Bryan Invitation

Jamie and Bryan, originally uploaded by DanielleSuzanne.

I finished this invitation about a week ago for a couple I met through work. I have always told myself that I wouldn't recycle an invitation, but when I met them, I knew they would love what I did for another wedding (Blythe and Pete!). I was slightly obsessive about making it different, and I think I accomplished that. I really love it. Click the above links to see more pics of the set.

I am also finishing up a few other ones (yay Cara!), and I'll post those after the first guests receive them.

I really do like doing this. I'm itching to do some baby announcements, though (ahem...I think you girls know who you are). ;-)

April Paper

Paper Source has some new stuff I've been eyeing. Here are some of the offerings:

I love anything Vera Wang does. Here are three cards she designed (and by "she," I mean the team she hired, of course):



Wrapping:





See more here.

Sneak Peaks

Here are some clippings of things I'm working on lately. I love making invitations. 

I Need This

FINE. "Want," whatever.

Purchase here.

(Via design crush. Her blog is great. Check it out!)

Also, I'll post 40 Clove of Garlic Chicken stuff after my friend uploads pics to her flickr acct.)

Sorry!

I've really been neglecting my blog lately. I haven't had time for much. Things were starting to slow down until the beginning of this week. Blah blah.

Anyway...I just wanted to let people know that this awesomeness exists (and that I want 100):

Valentine's Day Roundup

I actually really like Valentine's Day. I know there are some people who take issue with the holiday, but I think it's really cute. I like baking for Valentine's Day more than Christmas! I don't know...I've always liked it. If I have time, I think I'm going to make and send valentines to my friends and family. I mean, why not? And, if I'm making the cards, I suppose that means I'm not supporting the evil empire that has sucked the joy out of the innocent holiday (which it made up for its own gain anyway)*.

Here are some great items I found online:















(from red stamp, luxe paperie, egg press, and paper source)

p.s. Red Stamp is my new favorite site.

*opinion via my husband