When I am first introduced to new clients, the first questions many ask is “what books do you work out of?” and “how do you work?” I understand where the first question comes from: many people don’t think that custom invitations are an option, perhaps because of a preconceived notion that custom invitations are always expensive.
That is not necessarily the case.
In fact, when you work with me, you get more than just invitations. Here are a few reasons why hiring the Invitation Maven will be one of the best decisions you can make.
Since your event starts the moment your guests receive the invitation, I aim to create a unique experience for you and your guests that starts the minute they open their envelopes. Whether your invitation is ornate or elegant, multi-layered or a single-layer card, adorned with ribbons, rhinestones or is more simple with clean lines and an elegant grace, I work to create the exact invitation you want that conveys your theme and reflects your personality.
Whether you have a specific idea in mind or have no idea where to start, I will work with you to create your perfect invitation.
And I can help you with all the aspects of your event from the invitations to matching response cards, escort/seating cards, menus, programs, thank you notes and other printed work. I also have a list of preferred vendors that I work with and trust, and who have always performed well for me and those I’ve referred them to.
The best way to get an idea of what I do is for us to meet. If you live in the Los Angeles area, I am happy to come to you. If you don’t live near me, we can talk on the phone.
I do not work out of a book, but rather bring samples of invitations I’ve made that you can look at, touch and feel. I also bring paper samples so you can see the variety of materials you can use. If you live some distance away, I email files and send samples in the mail. I do not charge a fee for our first meeting. It’s my way of introducing myself to you.
I don’t have price sheets as everything I do is custom and depends on the materials and styles you choose. Once we design your perfect invitation, I will provide you with a detailed quote that specifies the scope of each piece of your order, including the papers and materials you’ve chosen.
I do charge a design fee, which is $80, but you won’t incur any fees until you decide to work with me and I start making your prototype. I then apply half of the design fee toward your final invoice if you end up ordering invitations from me.
Included in my design fee is an actual prototype of your finished invitation package, complete with the exact papers and materials of your invitation. In fact, it is your exact invitation, the same one your guests will receive! I also include the design of a monogram which I provide as a jpeg file. We can incorporate this monogram into your invitation design, create a custom postage stamp, and incorporate it elsewhere in your event, such as in your centerpieces or gobo design. (A gobo is a device which produces patterns of light and shadow, and is used to throw a pattern of light on the wall or ceiling of an event venue.)
Another service I offer is that I can also print the names of your guests on your envelopes, help you purchase and affix postage, as well stuff and mail your invitations for you. That will free you up to tend to other details of your event.
I look forward to meeting you. And again, congratulations on your upcoming celebration!