Semi-Custom Invitation Guide
A guide to walk you through the ordering process, customization options and FAQs for semi-custom invitations
Ordering Process
1 – Browse + select an invitation
Browse through any invitations suites I have previously designed (shown on my website on Instagram) and choose one that makes your heart swoon. Once you see one you love, contact me here for a personalized quote!.
2 – Consultation + Retainer
I’ll e-mail over your quote and if you feel like we are a good match and want to chat more, we’ll schedule a phone/zoom or in-person consultation to discuss your invitation in greater detail (like all those little details that make your heart pitter-patter!).
To begin the design process, a 50% retainer is required to secure your spot on my design calendar. Then, the fun begins – Yippee!
3 – Proof + Revisions
Now, I begin on the artwork for your swoon-worthy invitations!
This is when the magic happens – I put what we chatted about and what you dreamed about on paper. You will receive a digital mock-up of your full invitation suite to review. We’ll exchange e-mails back and forth until everything is perfect! Three revisions are included for custom invitations and two are included for semi-custom invitations. Additional revisions are $75/each.
4 – Production + Shipping
Once you are sure every little detail has been checked over and things are ready to print, I’ll ask for a signed final approval and the final balance of your invitations. Once the approval + payment is received, your invitation will be moved to production. Typical turnaround time is 4 weeks for digital and 5-6 weeks for letterpress + specialty invitations. Please allow extra time for shipping.
Client Experience
Invitations can be overwhelming especially with all of the inspiration and images available on social media. What do I need? How do I word my invitations? That's where I come in! I’m here to provide you with expert stationery guidance throughout the entire process of your wedding – from choosing the perfect, swoon-worthy invitation to knowing how to properly address your envelopes.
Personal Design Consultant (that's me!)
1 Hour Complimentary Consultation
Custom Client Portal
Choice of Paper & Print Method
Choice of Ink + Envelope Color
Digital Proof and Mock-up of Invitation
Custom Client Experience
Digital Return Addressing
Digital Response Envelope Addressing
Two Rounds of Design Revisions
Customization Options
I
PACKAGE
items you need
II
PAPER
weight & color
III
PRINT METHOD
how it is printed
IV
COLOR
fonts & envelopes
V
FONT
script & block
VI
BELLS & WHISTLES
the extra specials
I – Package
I aim to keep it simple – the base packages start with everything you need. Want to add on a details card for your reception information? Want to add more like a custom venue illustration or silk ribbon? See more information on Bells & Whistles below.
2-Piece Suite
• 5” x 7” Invitation Card
• A7 Mailing Envelope with Printed Return Address
4-Piece Suite
• 5” x 7” Invitation Card
• A7 Mailing Envelope with Printed Return Address
• 3.5'“ x 4.875” Response Card
• 4 Bar Envelope with Printed Mailing Address
Details Card
Add a details card onto the 2-Piece or 4-Piece Suite Packages. It’s a simplified card giving your guests details on the reception, accommodations and any other information you’d like to include.
II – PAPER
HAND-SELECTED SIGNATURE PAPER
Paper Weight
The Signature Cardstocks are Eggshell and 100% Cotton. They are available in a lovely 110 pound weight or a 220 pound weight that prints letterpress like a dream!
Bright or Soft White
The Signature Cardstocks come in a stunning bright white or lovely subtle ivory. Not sure? I always recommend matching to your wedding gown hue!
Other Paper
Paper selection is not limited to those above - they are just my tried & true, versatile papers that I love to use. Other color selections (navy, black, etc...) are available and I offer deckled edging or hand-made papers as well for the ultimate swoon! For your custom quote – inquire here.
III – PRINT METHOD
Digital Printing
HIGHLIGHTS // Quick turnaround & budget friendly
IDEAL FOR // Large color ranges like watercolor florals
Also known as flat printing, digital printing does not have any raised or indented impression on the paper. The four-color ink process is printed flat on the paper so you can feel the texture of the paper itself, but not the printing.
Letterpress
HIGHLIGHTS // Luxurious texture, timeless impression
IDEAL FOR // Monochromatic color palettes
Letterpress creates a luxurious impression on your paper that is timeless and elegant. A plate of your invitation design is created and then coated with your ink color (or not if you want a blind impression). The ink is then pressed into the paper.
Foil Stamping
HIGHLIGHTS // Luxurious texture & show-stopping impression
IDEAL FOR // Weddings with metallic accents
Foil Stamping, like letterpress, starts with a plate of your invitation design. The plate then presses into a sheet of metallic paper onto your paper creating a deep, shiny, metallic impression. This method can be combined with digital or letterpress.
IV – COLOR
Color is a great way to introduce interest and develop your wedding aesthetic.
Below are my signature colors and can be used as ink, paper stock or envelopes.
Please note that colors on your monitor may differ than what is actually printed.
I do recommend ordering a sample invitation and color card if you are unsure of a color.
Envelope, Paper & Ink
(Digital & Letterpress)
Metallic Foil
(Foil Press Only)
Don’t see a color here that works for you? Don’t hesitate to let me know. I have access to hundreds of color options and can find the perfect fit for you!
V – FONT
Below are some of my most loved fonts in Script and Block.
script font
Block Font
Don’t see a font here that you love? Don’t hesitate to let me know.
I have a library of thousands of fonts with the perfect one for you!
VI – Bells & Whistles
ADDITIONAL OPTIONS TO MAKE YOUR INVITATION EXTRA SPECIAL!
GUEST ADDRESSING
Printed guest addressing on the front of your mailing envelope in fonts to coordinate with your invitation // from 1.25/each
Ribbon
From satin, silk to velvet adding a ribbon to your invitation not only makes for a beautiful presentation, but also adds lovely texture! Simple, classy and timeless // from 1.25/each
Wax Seals
Available in a variety of colors and styles, wax seals are a perfect addition to add to your invitation. Add them on a ribbon, string/twine or on your envelope // from 1.25/each
Envelope Liner
Beautiful envelope liner to really make that first impression the moment your guest opens the envelope. Variety of designs available from floral, monograms or vintage illustrations // from 1.50 each
Vellum wrap
A classy gate-fold vellum wraps around your invitation securing all of the cards with a frosted appearance. Seal with a ribbon or wax seal for a lovely presentation // from 1.75 each
Belly bands
From a solid paper wrap to printed vellum (shown above) or even layered, belly bands are a budget friendly and stylish way to keep your suite together while looking amazing! // from 1.00 each
Pockets
Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, Pocket Folds offer a beautiful presentation and ultimate organization – with a convenience pocket to place all of your suite cards // from 1.75 each
Layered Mats
Layered mats sit behind the main invitation adding extra color and depth. Add 2-3 mats or a glitter layer for even more of a "wow" factor // from 1.00 each
laser-cuts
Laser cuts are available in wrap (shown), pocket and sleeve styles – show-stopper elements sure to wow your guests! Contact me for more information and a quote // from 2.75 each
Venue illustration
Add a custom illustration or watercolor painting of your venue to your invitation or envelope liner! It's a wonderful detail that really adds a personal, custom touch to your invitation // $85.00 Lineart / $115.00 Watercolor
custom map
A fun detail to include with your invitation and a wonderful keepsake. Each map is illustrated and watercolored based on your personal details – venue, first date, favorite restaurant, fun facts – all personalized to you! // from 250.00
deckled edges
Deckled edges are personally hand-torn to create that elegant, hand-made, organic hand-made paper appearance // 1.75 per card
Not sure where to begin?
I'm here to be your personal design consultant and to guide you each step along the way. Not sure on something? Want guidance on colors + fonts? Let's schedule a time to chat or feel free to send me an e-mail at design@brittneynichole.com! I want your invitations to be nothing short of amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Semi-custom or Custom? Which Invitation is right for me?
Each wedding is SO different - design aesthetics, wants & wishes, and budgets. If you swoon with an invitation I already have designed - great! If you are looking for something specific or don't see anything that makes your heart pitter-patter, we can work together to create something custom. I'd be happy to talk it over with you to see which path is right for you and give you a personalized quote.
Can you give me a basic stationery timeline?
I’m a huge fan of timelines! There is a handy timeline right below the FAQs.
How many invitations should i order?
Invitations are the -only- wedding item you'll want to think "households" and not people. So, if you have 300 guests, you do not need 300 invitations. You are looking closer to 150 + 10-15% extras. Don't forget to order extras! If you need 100 invitations, order at LEAST 10 more. This will give you extras incase you forget a guest, one gets returned in the mail and keepsakes. Always better to order extra than to not have enough!
Do you design matching day of stationery?
Yes – I'm a huge fan on your stationery coordinating from your save the date all the way to your thank you cards. Matching items such as programs, escort cards, seating charts, hang-tags and other items are available. We'll use the same design, fonts, papers and colors so everything coordinates. Reach out to me for a custom quote!
Do you assemble the invitations?
Assembly is included with your invitation order. If you order embellishments, those will be assembled. For example, if you order a silk ribbon with a wax seal - it'll come applied to your invitation. Postage will need to be applied to the response & mailing envelopes and the main envelope will need to be stuffed. Partial and full fulfillment services are available for an additional fee. Contact me for a custom quote and more details.
I need my invitations ASAP - can you do rush orders?
Depending on my design schedule and current workload, rush orders will be considered. An additional fee with apply depending on the turnaround time needed.
Why is letterpress and foil so expensive?
Letterpress and foil stamping are both specialty print methods. They both need a special plate made for each color in the print and require special machines. Letterpressing is an art and only done by skilled printmakers which is why the cost is more expensive than digital.
