💌 Real Wedding Feature: Lauren & Peter’s Elegant Wedding Stationery Suite

I'M LITERALLY SO OBSESSED AND EXCITED!!!! You absolutely nailed it, this was such an exciting email to open on a Monday. 

 — Lauren

From Etsy Discovery to Paper Dreams

When Lauren first reached out, she mentioned finding my work on Etsy or Pinterest while deep in the rabbit hole of wedding planning. She had a clear vision: timeless, elegant, and custom—with thoughtful details woven throughout every piece of paper her guests would touch. She loved my specific calligraphy style which is the best complement to receive as a calligrapher. A quote from Lauren below when she filled out her inquiry form.

Hi! I found your work via Pinterest and Etsy and am absolutely OBSESSED! Wanted to inquire about a save the date and wedding invitation suite in the calligraphy style you used for your handwritten menus on Etsy. 

We started with a simple moodboard she’d saved, full of soft neutrals with pops of color, modern calligraphy, and textures like linen. She loved the idea of a dinner party with friends and wanted that look of calligraphy to be woven throughout her suite. I could already tell she had such an intentional eye—and that this suite was going to be special.

Save the Dates: The First Impression

We kicked off with a clean and romantic Save the Date featuring a delicate script for their names and a minimalist layout. Printed on soft white cotton stock, we paired it with a warm ivory envelope and letterpress—setting the tone for a sophisticated celebration.

Designing Their Wedding Suite

From there, we built a full wedding invitation suite that felt effortlessly luxe. Lauren and Peter chose:

• Main Invitation on thick, textured paper with letterpress + all calligraphy artwork and custom swan illustration

• Rehearsal Card with a pop of color and all calligraphy letterpress
  
  

• Welcome Party card with pop of color and all calligraphy letterpress
  
  

• RSVP card with a modern twist—no envelope, just a chic custom website

Each element was designed to reflect their day: classic but not fussy, modern with heart.

Day-Of Paper Goods That Tied It All Together

One of my favorite parts? Seeing it all come together on the wedding day. We created:

• Ceremony programs 

• Menus and place cards in coordinating colors to echo their suite
  
  

• Custom signature cocktail signs with hand-lettered details
  
  

• A beautiful linen Welcome Sign printed on soft ivory and displayed in a hanging bar

• A Culture card 

• Reserved signs with matching ribbons 

• Guests names for Seating Chart 

• Signage for Guest Book and Seating Chart
  
  

Every piece echoed the calm, elevated energy of their celebration.

Lauren’s Review

Victoria was absolutely amazing to work with for the year leading up to our wedding! She designed and calligraphed our entire wedding package– from the invitation suite, to the day-of paper components, to printing and sewing our linen welcome sign- all so beautifully. She was collaborative from start to finish in understanding our vision and bringing it to life through her tasteful aesthetic, intentional design iterations and meticulous attention to detail.

Anyone planning a wedding understands the stress that goes into each component of the event, and working with Victoria was one of the best decisions we made throughout the planning process. She was super fast, communicative, organized, and calmly worked through any feedback or roadblocks that occurred along the way. She gracefully accommodated any of our last minute requests and changes. Her work is beautiful and speaks for itself, and I couldn't recommend her enough! — Lauren

Final Thoughts

Lauren and Peter’s wedding was the perfect example of how thoughtful, cohesive design can enhance the entire guest experience—from the first envelope they opened to the final thank you card. It was an honor to play a small part in such a meaningful celebration.

Planning Your Wedding Stationery?

If you're dreaming of a custom suite that reflects your story, style, and celebration—I’d love to chat. Whether you’re starting with Save the Dates or looking for a full wedding paper experience, I’m here to bring your vision to life with intention and artistry.

📩 Fill out the form below to inquire about custom wedding stationery

Wedding Vendor Team

Photography: @courtneyleeweddings
Florals: @steelcutflowerco @steelcut_md
Planning: @leighandcoevents
Venue: @baltimoremuseumofart
Rentals: @selecteventgroup
Gown: @netadover_bridal @lovecouturebridal
HMU: @makeupbyanab
Catering: @zeffertandgold
Baker: @sugarbakers_cakes
Lighting: @eventdynamicsinc
Live Music: @bachelorboysband
Stationery: @sunsetscribe Letterpress: @pressedmellow

Trends in Wedding Invitations for 2025

As we look forward to 2025, wedding invitations are evolving to reflect new trends in design, personalization, and sustainability. Here are the top trends that are set to make wedding invitations stand out in the coming year:

1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

Couples are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their wedding planning. In 2025, expect to see more wedding invitations made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled paper, plantable seed paper, and biodegradable materials. These options not only reduce environmental impact but also add a unique touch to the invitations.

2. Minimalist and Modern Designs

Simplicity continues to reign supreme with minimalist designs that emphasize clean lines, elegant typography, and ample white space. Modern couples are opting for invitations that are sophisticated and uncluttered, reflecting a less-is-more aesthetic.

3. Bold Colors and Unique Palettes

While pastels and classic white remain popular, 2025 will see a rise in bold and vibrant color choices. Deep jewel tones, rich earth tones, and unexpected color combinations will make wedding invitations more eye-catching and memorable.

4. Interactive and Multifunctional Invitations

Innovative couples are looking for ways to make their invitations more interactive and multifunctional. This includes invitations that double as keepsakes or functional items, such as pop-up designs, invitations with QR codes for RSVPs, or those that can be transformed into decorative items.

5. Handcrafted Elements and Artisanal Touches

Handcrafted details add a personal and intimate feel to wedding invitations. Look for invitations that feature hand-painted elements, custom illustrations and calligraphy, wax seals, and hand-torn edges. These artisanal touches reflect the couple's personality and add a bespoke quality to the invitations.

6. Luxurious Textures and Finishes

Texture plays a significant role in creating a sensory experience with wedding invitations. In 2025, expect to see invitations with luxurious finishes such as velvet, foil stamping, letterpress, and embossing. These textures add depth and sophistication, making the invitations feel truly special.

7. Personalization and Customization

Personalization continues to be a key trend, with couples opting for custom monograms, bespoke artwork, and personalized messages. This trend extends to incorporating cultural and personal elements that tell the couple's unique love story.

8. Vintage and Retro Inspirations

Nostalgia will influence wedding invitation designs in 2025, with vintage and retro styles making a comeback. Invitations inspired by the elegance of past decades, such as Art Deco, mid-century modern, or 70s boho, will add a touch of timeless charm.

9. Themed and Destination-Inspired Invitations

Couples hosting themed or destination weddings will reflect their event's location or theme in their invitations. This could include incorporating elements like tropical motifs for a beach wedding, rustic designs for a countryside celebration, or cultural symbols for an international destination.

Conclusion

The trends in wedding invitations for 2025 are all about personalization, sustainability, and unique design elements. Whether you're planning an eco-friendly celebration or looking to make a bold statement with your invitations, these trends offer plenty of inspiration to create invitations that are as memorable as your big day. Let’s work together!

Wedding Stationery Timelines: When to Book and Send Out Your Invitations

Properly timing your wedding stationery is crucial to ensure everything runs smoothly leading up to your big day. Here’s a comprehensive guide on when to book your stationer and when to send out your various wedding stationery items, based on the timeline of your wedding.

Hi! I am Victoria and I am happy you found my page!

I am your go-to calligrapher based in Bergen County New Jersey, specializing in wedding invitation design, custom calligraphy commissions, and on-site calligraphy and engraving services for events. With a background in the fashion industry, my passion for calligraphy has evolved into a thriving business, creating heirloom artwork and personalized invitations for clients. 

Want to work together? Or just say hi! You can find me here.

https://sunsetscribe.com/

Booking a Stationer

To ensure you have ample time for design, revisions, and printing, it's recommended to book your stationer 8-12 months before your wedding date. Here's a month-by-month breakdown:

• January Wedding: Book by April of the previous year.

• February Wedding: Book by May of the previous year.

• March Wedding: Book by June of the previous year.

• April Wedding: Book by July of the previous year.

• May Wedding: Book by August of the previous year.

• June Wedding: Book by September of the previous year.

• July Wedding: Book by October of the previous year.

• August Wedding: Book by November of the previous year.

• September Wedding: Book by December of the previous year.

• October Wedding: Book by January of the same year.

• November Wedding: Book by February of the same year.

• December Wedding: Book by March of the same year.

Save-the-Dates

Save-the-date cards give your guests ample time to make travel arrangements and plan for your wedding.

• When to Send: Send save-the-dates 6-12 months before the wedding.

• Destination Weddings: For destination weddings or during peak holiday seasons, send save-the-dates closer to the 12-month mark.

Invitations

Wedding invitations should be sent out to your guests with enough time for them to RSVP and make necessary arrangements.

• When to Send: Mail invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding date.

• Destination Weddings: For destination weddings, send invitations 10-12 weeks in advance.

Here’s a timeline for mailing invitations based on your wedding month:

• January Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-November to early December of the previous year.

• February Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-December to early January.

• March Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-January to early February.

• April Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-February to early March.

• May Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-March to early April.

• June Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-April to early May.

• July Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-May to early June.

• August Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-June to early July.

• September Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-July to early August.

• October Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-August to early September.

• November Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-September to early October.

• December Wedding: Mail invitations in mid-October to early November.

RSVP Deadline

• When to Set: Set the RSVP deadline for 3-4 weeks before the wedding date to give yourself enough time to finalize the guest count and seating arrangements.

Day-of Stationery

This includes programs, menus, place cards, and other stationery items needed for the wedding day.

• When to Order: Order day-of stationery 2-3 months before the wedding.

• When to Finalize: Finalize details such as guest list and seating chart 3-4 weeks before the wedding.

Sample Timeline for an August Wedding

Planning your wedding stationery involves a series of steps to ensure everything is prepared and sent out in a timely manner. Here’s a detailed timeline for an August wedding:

August Wedding

12+ Months Before the Wedding

• August (Previous Year): Begin researching and booking your stationer. This allows ample time for designing and revising your invitations.

10-12 Months Before the Wedding

• October-November (Previous Year): Start working on save-the-dates. If you’re planning a destination wedding, send these closer to the 12-month mark.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

• February (This Year): Finalize the design of your save-the-dates and have them printed.

• February-March (This Year): Send out save-the-dates to your guest list.

6 Months Before the Wedding

• February (This Year): Start designing your wedding invitations. Confirm all details, such as venue, timing, and RSVP information.

4-5 Months Before the Wedding

• April (This Year): Finalize and order your wedding invitations. This gives you time to review and make any necessary changes before printing.

3 Months Before the Wedding

• May (This Year): Send out your wedding invitations. This gives guests plenty of time to RSVP and make travel arrangements if necessary.

6-8 Weeks Before the Wedding

• June (This Year): Confirm and order your day-of stationery, including programs, menus, place cards, and any other printed materials needed for the wedding day.

3-4 Weeks Before the Wedding

• Early to Mid-July (This Year): Set the RSVP deadline. This gives you enough time to follow up with any guests who haven’t responded and to finalize your seating chart and catering numbers.

• Mid-July (This Year): Finalize your guest list and seating arrangements. Make sure all day-of stationery is printed and ready.

1 Week Before the Wedding

• Late July to Early August (This Year): Assemble any welcome bags or final touches that include stationery items.

Wedding Day

• August (This Year): Ensure all day-of stationery is delivered to the venue and set up as planned.

Summary Timeline

Booking Your Stationer

• August (Previous Year)

Save-the-Dates

• Design: October-November (Previous Year)

• Send: February-March (This Year)

Wedding Invitations

• Design: February (This Year)

• Order: April (This Year)

• Send: May (This Year)

Day-of Stationery

• Confirm and Order: June (This Year)

• Finalize Details: Early to Mid-July (This Year)

• Print: Mid-July (This Year)

RSVPs

• Deadline: Early to Mid-July (This Year)

Final Preparations

• Assemble Welcome Bags: Late July to Early August (This Year)

• Set Up at Venue: Day Before or Day Of the Wedding

Conclusion

Staying organized and adhering to this timeline will help ensure that all your wedding stationery is prepared and delivered on time. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your wedding planning and enjoy the journey to your special day.

Behind the Scenes: Setting Up for a Live Calligraphy Event

I would love to share the process of preparing for a live calligraphy event, from selecting materials to setting up the workspace. 

Live engraving events are a fantastic way to add a personalized touch to any occasion, whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or brand activation. They not only showcase your craftsmanship but also create memorable experiences for attendees. Proper preparation is key to ensuring everything runs smoothly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set up for an on-site live engraving event. I will be running through this list as I prep for On Site Events.

Hi! I am Victoria and I am happy you found my page!

I am your go-to calligrapher based in Bergen County New Jersey, specializing in wedding invitation design, custom calligraphy commissions, and on-site calligraphy and engraving services for events. With a background in the fashion industry, my passion for calligraphy has evolved into a thriving business, creating heirloom artwork and personalized invitations for clients. 

Want to work together? Or just say hi! You can find me here:

https://sunsetscribe.com/

Here are some of the things to consider to prep for a live calligraphy event:

Understand the Event Details

Before diving into the setup, gather all the essential information about the event. This type of information I would gather during the email process with the brand or client to find out logistics and guest count. I would also want to know the guest count so I could calculate how many pieces I would need to finish hourly if I was hired for 4 hours (which is my minimum) 

• Event Type and Theme: Knowing the event type (e.g., wedding, corporate, retail) and theme helps tailor your setup and engraving styles.

• Guest Count: Estimate how many items you’ll be engraving to ensure you have enough supplies and if you need to hire another engraver or calligrapher for the event if the budget allows.

• Venue Specifications: Understand the venue layout, available space, lighting, and any restrictions. This also helps with the flow of the activation in order to keep your table busy but not overwhelming.

Plan Your Equipment and Supplies

Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials for live engraving:

• Engraving Tools: High-quality engraving pens, depending on your method, engraving burrs, burr lubricant.

• Engravable Items: I bring my sample bottles so that clients can see my style but typically the venue provides what is being engraved and that is planned ahead of time.

• Protective Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, mask and any other protective equipment required for your tools.

• Backup Supplies: Extra tools, replacement parts, and a back up engraver.

• Drafting Pencil/Marker: Stabilio white pencil, chalk marker to draft the clients personalization

• Alcohol: To clean the surface of the glass

 Create a Portable Workspace

Design a workspace that is functional, attractive, and easy to transport:

• On Site Kit: something that is easy to carry, think roller or backpack and is professional. Most likely all black.

• Lighting: Portable lighting to ensure you have enough visibility, especially if the venue lighting is dim.

• Display Setup: Arrange your tools and materials neatly. Use displays to showcase samples of your work and attract guests. I like to use acrylic pen holders to hold my rub and buff and qtips, etc.

  Personalize Your Setup

Make your setup visually appealing and aligned with the event theme:

• Branding Materials: Desk sign with your name, company and “calligraphy + engraving” or your title. You can keep business cards in your kit and pass out to anyone that asks.

• Signage: Clear signage to explain your services and any instructions for guests.

Prepare for Interactions

Engaging with guests is a crucial part of live engraving events:

• Greeting Guests: Have a friendly introduction prepared to welcome guests and explain the engraving process.

• Customization Options: Offer a variety of fonts, designs, and engraving styles for guests to choose from.

• Order Forms: Use order forms or post its to collect information and personalization details.

Conduct a Test Run

Before the event day, do a complete test run of your setup:

• Practice Setup and Teardown: Ensure you can set up and dismantle your workspace efficiently.

• Test Equipment: Check all your tools and equipment to make sure they are functioning correctly and charged.

• Time Management: Practice engraving to gauge how long each piece takes, helping you manage time during the event.

Pack Strategically

Organize your materials for easy access and transport:

• Storage Containers: Use labeled containers or bags to keep your tools and supplies organized.

• Checklists: Create checklists for packing and setting up to ensure nothing is forgotten.

• Transport Arrangements: Plan how you’ll transport your equipment, whether it’s by car, or public transport.

Arrive Early

Give yourself ample time to set up before guests arrive:

• Early Arrival: Arrive at the venue early to allow for unexpected delays and to ensure a calm, organized setup.

• Coordinate with Event Staff: Communicate with the event organizers and staff for any last-minute instructions or adjustments.

Engage and Enjoy

Once everything is set up, focus on creating a memorable experience:

• Interactive Demonstrations: Perform live engraving demonstrations to attract and engage guests.

• Customer Interaction: Chat with guests, answer questions, and ensure they are satisfied with their engraved items.

• Collect Feedback: Encourage guests to leave feedback or reviews to help improve your services.

Conclusion

Setting up for an on-site live engraving event requires careful planning and preparation. By understanding the event details, organizing your equipment, and creating an inviting workspace, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests. Remember, the key to a great live engraving event is not just the quality of your work, but also the interactions and memories you create for your guests. Happy engraving!

Checklist for On Site Events:

• Engraving drill (charge the night before)

• Back up engraver

• Burrs in different sizes and back up

• Collet reducer if needed

• Drafting pens and pencils

• Alcohol, wipes, cotton pads, qtips

• Rub and buff (silver, gold)

• Post its or small intake forms 

• Branding sign

• Business cards

• Container to hold rub and buff, cotton pads, etc

• Samples of bottles to clients can see personal style

• Portable light

• Phone mount for videos/content

• Personal makeup kit (lip gloss, hairties/clips, contacts, gum, headache meds)

• water/snacks

• Washi tape

• Small bag for trash 

• Drafting pens or pencils

• cushion

Happy Engraving!!!