HELPFUL INFORMATION
Envelope Addressing
Preparing your Guest List
Please send your guest list in a typed format (preferably Microsoft Word). We prefer you avoid sending in an Excel file if all possible. This tends to come across in very small print and can be harder for us to follow. If you have inner envelopes, please be sure to send a separate list on how you would like those addressed or include the Inner Envelope underneath the Outer Envelope address (see below example). Please be sure to carefully proof read your list before sending. Don’t worry about spelling out Street, Drive, Lane, Apartment, States, etc. (we will spell those out for you). Below we have listed some examples of acceptable guest addressing layouts.
Example One: Outer Envelope Mr. and Mrs. Christopher William 23 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90010 | Inner Envelope Mr. and Mrs. William *kids names if included* |
Example Two Outer Envelope Mr. and Mrs. David Bryant 3497 18th Fox Run Court New York, New York 10010 | Inner Envelope David and Theresa |
Abbreviations and Formatting
You may include abbreviations such as the State, St., Rd, Blvd, Apt. etc. and we will spell all those out for you. If you have extremely long addresses/foreign addresses, occasionally we will have to implement the “&” symbol, abbreviate words, or even put guests names on separate lines depending on how long the address is and how large your envelope is. We will always use our best judgement to make sure the address doesn’t appear overcrowded on the envelope. Also, if you have two guests on one envelope and they are not married, etiquette states they should be on two separate lines without the word “and” in between. We will always try to follow the format you have provided us on your guest list, but please note there are occasions due to spacing restrictions when we can’t fit everything on one line. If you do not want us to change the layout of your address you have provided, please make us aware upfront. Thanks!
* Please note that extra fees do apply if the address goes beyond four lines. Check out our envelope pricing guide for more details.
Also, please note we will do our best to format your address so that it is centered properly on each envelope unless you have opted for a unique layout. For more layout options see our Envelope Gallery along with Custom Font Gallery We also welcome other creative layouts! Just because you don’t see it on our website doesn’t mean we can’t do it. Please email us any ideas and we will customize your envelope just for you!
Extra Envelopes
When shipping your envelopes please be sure to include 15% extra for additions or mistakes. Most invitation companies sell extra envelopes in increments of 25 for a low cost. It is important that you provide us with extras to allow for mistakes and additions you might have.
Additions and Corrections
Once we have received your guest list, you can certainly add, remove or make corrections if they arise. Please just email us these edits (not the entire list over) and we will be happy to make these updates for you. Also, please note if we have already done an address that needs revisions you will be charged twice.
Assuming you provide us with enough extra envelopes, we will hold a few here at our studio in the case you have later additions or corrections that need to be made. We are always happy to immediately correct any mistakes on our behalf and will return them immediately via Priority Mail (free of charge), which generally takes 2 to 3 days to get to you. We do check all of our work carefully before returning to the customer.
Calligraphy Styles, Ink Colors, and Flourishes
Calligraphy Styles – We pride ourselves in offering a wide variety of calligraphy styles ranging from elaborately flourished scripts to more modern fonts. All of our styles can be customized with unique layouts, flourishes, ink colors, etc. Check our Envelope Galleries to learn more. Once you are ready to book us make sure all fields are marked on the Order/Contract Form that you would like done on your envelope, along with any additional comments/instructions you may have for us.
Custom Fonts and Layouts – We are more than happy to create a custom font for you or match your invitation font. Please just send us photos of the font or invitation font you would like us to mimic. Slight variations in our lettering verse the font you send us might occur since we did not create the font. A sample will be provided for you at your request for approval. Also, we can create any envelope layout you desire. There are a variety of unique envelope layouts in our Envelope Galleries for ideas. If you have another one in mind please email us your ideas.
Ink Colors – We offer pretty much any ink color you can dream of! Most of our inks are waterproof, however some of the colors have to be mixed and not all can be waterproof. We have never really had any issues with smearing. If you have a particular color you would like matched please send us a color swatch in advance so we can prepare and make sure your ink is in stock upon the arrival of your envelopes.
Calligraphy Flourishes – We can create just about any flourish you desire. There are several examples in our Envelope Galleries to give you an idea. If you have another idea in mind please email us examples. You may choose to have one simple flourish added on your envelope or a variety of small flourishes added in a few places. The possibilities are endless!
Shipping
All packages can be shipped to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier). If you wish to have your envelopes shipped directly from your stationer/company in which you have ordered, you may do so as well. If your envelopes are coming from a company, please make sure a note is included in the package stating they belong to you (your name provided). All packages should be mailed to the below address.
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
*Important* Please be sure to ship your envelopes to us on the date you have provided on your Order Form/Contract. It is very important that your order arrive on time as we have scheduled accordingly around other client orders. Late shipments will either need to be treated as a rush order or if you have some wiggle room, we will request longer to complete. Generally for everyday late, we will need to tack on an extra day for completion unless of course you have now opted to do a rush order.
Turn Around Time
The time it takes to complete your order is based on various factors such as: the quantity of your order and our current schedule. We will always do our best to meet your deadline! Please let us know in advance when you need everything completed.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to do rush jobs if our schedule permits. Rush fees are based on the quantity of your order and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing.
Pricing
All of our pricing is up to date and can be found on our Envelope Pricing Section. If you are unsure or confused on what the price is going to be for your specific order, please do not hesitate to email or call us. Occasionally we will offer special promotions on envelope addressing orders. If a promotion is going on you will see it on the homepage of our website.
Samples
You may request one free sample of your choice. We are happy to mail it, text it, or scan it over in an email to you. Please send us an email to jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net with the specifics of what you would like to see and how you would like the sample sent to you. If you are interested in purchasing a sample pack instead let us know. The pricing of a sample pack will depend on how many samples you want and what you have specifically requested for each. All sample packs will be mailed out within 3 to 5 business days from our studio. Shipping charges will apply.
Payment
We will require a $30 (non-refundable) hold fee upon receiving your Calligraphy Order/Contract Form. This will ensure your dates are reserved on our calendar. A 50% (non-refundable) deposit will be due before we begin your envelopes. You may send a check, cash or money order with your shipment. We also accept Paypal and can set up an invoice for you once your order arrives. The $30 hold fee will either be deducted from your deposit or balance. Your balance (non-refundable) will be due once we have completed your envelopes. Most clients pay the balance via Paypal so there are no delays upon us returning the order. Paypal hits immediately and we can ship out the next day. If you prefer to send your balance with one of the other options listed above, we will have to wait until it arrives to us before your completed order is mailed back.
Shipping charges will be factored into your balance. Please note shipping is not that costly if you choose UPS Ground or Priority Mail. We will always factor in one of those methods into your balance unless you have requested for a faster shipping method. Also, we occasionally have promotions offering Free Return Shipping. If a special like that is going on you will be able to locate the details on the homepage of our website.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!
Place Cards and Escort Cards
Preparing your Guest List
Please send your place card/escort card list typed. If we are writing the table numbers for you be sure to list those underneath or next to the guest names. Everything needs to be typed in full how you want us to letter it. For example please type out how you would want the table number written – (Table One, Table 1, Table #1, etc.).
Abbreviations and Placement
Place cards and Escort Cards are generally smaller in size which gives us limited space to do the calligraphy. Please keep in mind if there is a lot of text to be placed on one card (multiple guests or long names), we use our best judgement on spacing. For example, the (&) symbol may have to be incorporated due to spacing restrictions and guests names may have to be stacked. Overcrowding isn’t readable so please keep this in mind that we may have to change up the layout a bit. A few examples of how we have written the names on a place card are:
Examples of how the Guest Names/Names could be placed on your Place Card/ Escort Card
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gillespie | Mr. & Mrs. Charles Gillespie |
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gillespie | Charlie and Jennifer Gillespie |
Christopher Baker Melanie Thompson | Christopher Baker and Melanie Thompson |
Examples of how the Table Number could be placed on your Place Card.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gillespie
Table One
or
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gillespie Table One |
Extra Place Cards ~ Escort Cards
When shipping your materials please be sure to include 15% extras for additions you may have or mistakes. We do not carry cardstock so please be sure to provide this.
Additions and Corrections
Once we have received your list you can certainly add, remove or make corrections if they arise. We understand you may not have all of your guests names gathered when shipping your cards and that’s perfectly ok! Please just send us any names that have sent their rsvp’s in at the time you ship your cardstock. You may email us continually throughout the time we are working on your order with any additional names. If you do need to make a revision to a card or remove a guest that we have already done, we will have to charge double.
Once your order is complete, assuming we have enough extra cards, we will hold a few in the case you have any additions or corrections that later arise. We are always happy to immediately correct any mistakes on our behalf and will return them immediately via Priority Mail (free of charge), which generally takes 2 to 3 days to get to you. We do check all of our work carefully before returning to the customer.
Calligraphy Styles, Ink Colors, and Flourishes
Calligraphy Styles: We pride ourselves in offering a wide variety of calligraphy styles ranging from elaborately flourished scripts to more modern fonts. Check our Envelope Style Galleries to learn more. Once you are ready to book us make sure all fields are completed on your Order Contract/Form with any special details pertaining to your order you may have for us.
Custom Fonts: We are more than happy to create a custom font for you or match your invitation font. Please just send us photos of the font or invitation font you would like us to mimic. Slight variations in our lettering verse the font you send us might occur since we did not create the font. A sample will be provided for you at your request for approval. .
Ink Colors: We offer pretty much any ink color you can dream of! Most of our inks are waterproof, however some of the colors have to be mixed and not all can be waterproof. We have never really had any issues with smearing. If you have a particular color you would like matched please send us a color swatch in advance, so we can prepare and make sure your ink is in stock upon the arrival of your place cards and envelopes.
Calligraphy Flourishes: We can create just about any flourish you desire. There are several examples in our Envelope Galleries to give you an idea. If you have another idea in mind please email us examples. A great way to incorporate a flourish on your place card would be to place it underneath the guest name/names.
Shipping
All packages can be shipped to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier). If you wish to have your place cards shipped directly from your stationer/company in which you have ordered, you may do so as well. If they are coming from a company, please make sure a note is included in the package stating they belong to you (your name provided). All packages should be mailed to the below address.
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
*Important* Please be sure to ship your place cards to us on the date you have provided on your Order Contract/Form. It is very important that your order arrive on time as we have scheduled accordingly around other client orders. Late shipments will either need to be treated as a rush order or if you have some wiggle room, we will request longer to complete. Generally for everyday late, we will need to tack on an extra day for completion unless of course you have now opted to do a rush order.
Turn Around Time
The time it takes to complete your order is based on various factors such as: the quantity of your order and our current schedule. We will always do our best to meet your deadline! Please let us know in advance when you need everything completed.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to do rush jobs if our schedule permits. Rush fees are based on the quantity of your order and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing.
Pricing
All of our pricing is up to date and can be found on our Place Card – Escort Card Pricing Section. If you are unsure or confused on what the price is going to be for your specific order, please do not hesitate to email or call us. Occasionally we will offer special promotions on envelope addressing orders. If a promotion is going on you will see it on the homepage of our website.
Samples
You may request one free sample of your choice. We are happy to mail it, text it, or scan it over in an email to you. Please send us an email to jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net with the specifics of what you would like to see and how you would like the sample sent to you. If you are interested in purchasing a sample pack instead let us know. The pricing of a sample pack will depend on how many samples you want and what you have specifically requested for each. All sample packs will be mailed out within 3 to 5 business days from our studio. Shipping charges will apply.
Payment
We will require a $30 (non-refundable) hold fee upon receiving your Calligraphy Order/Contract Form. This will ensure your dates are reserved on our calendar. A 50% (non-refundable) deposit will be due before we begin your place cards/escort cards. You may send a check, cash or money order with your shipment. We also accept Paypal and can set up an invoice for you once your order arrives. The $30 hold fee will either be deducted from your deposit or balance. Your balance (non-refundable) will be due once we have completed your order. Most clients pay the balance via Paypal so there are no delays upon us returning the order. Paypal hits immediately and we can ship out the next day. If you prefer to send your balance with one of the other options listed above, we will have to wait until it arrives to us before your completed order is mailed back.
Shipping charges will be factored into your balance. Please note shipping is not that costly if you choose UPS Ground or Priority Mail. We will always factor in one of those methods into your balance unless you have requested for a faster shipping method. Also, we occasionally have promotions offering Free Return Shipping. If a special like that is going on you will be able to locate the details on the homepage of our website.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!
Mirrors, Welcome Signs, Seating Charts Menus and More.
Getting Started
Please be sure to book our services and inquire with us about all details. You can view more information on this by visiting our How to Order Section.
If we are working on a mirror for you or any other large piece that you will be shipping please be sure to wrap it up securely and ship to us or you can deliver it if local. At this time we do not provide mirrors or other large signs for rental. We do have carry canvases, poster and a variety of papers in all sorts of sizes. Please email us to discuss further. Also, we typically do not do any framing but in some cases if time allows, we can help with this service.
Calligraphy Styles and Ink Colors
Calligraphy Styles- We offer a wide selection of fonts to choose from. You can view our calligraphy styles HERE. We can also create something custom for you! You are more than welcome to send us images of fonts you love.
Ink Colors- We offer pretty much any ink color you can dream of! On glass surfaces however we are limited to colors. Gold, White and Black are always popular on this type of surface but we can find other colors as well. If you need a different color please let us know in advance. Also, we use oil based pens so they will not ruin or smudge. You will also be able to remove the lettering if you want to preserve your mirror by using a paint pen remover or other product. For any paper products, poster board, etc we can accommodate most any color. Please be sure to inquire first about your options.
Design and Layout
Everything we do is custom designed specifically for our clients. The options are endless and full of fun and creative possibilities! We can add gorgeous calligraphy flourishes, simple artwork, and prepare your document in any layout you prefer. We will use our own creative expertise when designing your piece or you may send us inspirational photos of specific ideas you want incorporated. We will send you sketches along the way for approval. You will be able to make two free rounds of revisions to your piece before we do it in calligraphy/ink. Each edit after that will be billed at $50 per edit.
Turn Around Time
The time it takes to complete your order is based on various factors such as: the length of each piece, complexity/design of the job and our current schedule. We will always do our best to meet your deadline! Please let us know in advance when you need everything completed.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to do rush jobs if our schedule permits. Rush fees are based on the quantity of your order and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing.
Payment
For all custom design work, we will require 50% up front. Once you approve the sketch we provide you, the balance including shipping charges will be due before we do anything in permanent ink. Please reference to the Design Process section to view more information.
You may pay by check, cash or money order. We also accept PayPal and Venmo and can set up an invoice for you. Most clients pay via PayPal or Venmo so there are no delays upon starting your design.
Shipping charges will be factored into the total. We usually ship UPS Ground unless you prefer a different method. We can do faster shipping as well.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Shipping
If you are shipping your own paper, please send to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier).
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
When your order is complete we will package up the document carefully and securely before shipping back to you.
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!
Table Signage (Numbers, Names, Custom Signage)
Preparing your Document
Please send a typed document containing all text and any details you would like written for your signage. Be sure to provide any notes or special requests you may have pertaining to your project. If for example we are writing out large table cards, it is important you let us know how you would like those written. For example: (Table 1, Table One, etc.) Same thing applies for custom signage or name cards (type all text out). Include any special instructions you may have. For example: (If your cards are to be written double sided, any flourishes/embellishments you may want to add, a special layout you like, etc). We also encourage that you send images of things you like for inspiration. Pinterest is a great resource for this!
Layout
Your table names, numbers and custom signage can be written in any layout you prefer assuming there is ample space. As mentioned above, please let us know of any special instructions on a particular layout you like. We can come up with something creative for you if you’d prefer. Also, we always welcome and encourage clients to send us inspirational pictures of things they like. The possibilities are endless!
Cardstock and Materials
Please be sure to provide your own cardstock for Table Cards. If we are doing custom signage, depending on what you want, we can provide some high quality papers for larger signs.
Extra Materials
When shipping your materials please be sure to include 15% extra for additions or mistakes.
Calligraphy Styles, Ink Colors, and Flourishes
Calligraphy Styles: We pride ourselves in offering a wide variety of calligraphy styles ranging from elaborately flourished scripts to more modern fonts. Check our Envelope Style Galleries to learn more. Once you are ready to book us make sure all fields are completed on your Order/Contract with any special details pertaining to your order you may have for us.
Custom Fonts: We are more than happy to create a custom font for you or match your invitation font. Please just send us photos of the font or invitation font you would like us to mimic. Slight variations in our lettering verse the font you send us might occur since we did not create the font. A sample will be provided for you at your request for approval. .
Ink Colors: We offer pretty much any ink color you can dream of! Most of our inks are waterproof, however some of the colors have to be mixed and not all can be waterproof. We have never really had any issues with smearing. If you have a particular color you would like matched please send us a color swatch in advance.
Calligraphy Flourishes: We can create just about any flourish you desire. There are several examples in our Envelope Galleries to give you an idea. If you have another idea in mind please email us examples. If you would like us to use our creative judgment when designing your table signage we are more than happy to do so and will incorporate appropriate flourishing were it fits best.
Embossing: If you would like us to add heat embossing to your signage please let us know in the notes section on your contract-order form. For example you may want to heat emboss words or even incorporate a decorative heat embossed stamp. This adds an amazing effect to your table signage. We are more than happy to provide you with a variety of ideas on how to incorporate this.
Watercolor: Adding a splash of watercolor is a great way to incorporate some color to your table signage. If you would like for us to add a swash of watercolor please provide details in the notes section of your contract-order form. bit of watercolor to your signage can give it some gorgeous color!
Shipping
All packages can be shipped to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier). If you wish to have your any cardstock shipped directly from your stationer/company in which you have ordered, you may do so as well. If they are coming from a company, please make sure a note is included in the package stating they belong to you (your name provided). All packages should be mailed to the below address.
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
*Important* Please be sure to ship your cardstock to us on the date you have provided on your Order Form/Contract. It is very important that your order arrive on time as we have scheduled accordingly around other client orders. Late shipments will either need to be treated as a rush order or if you have some wiggle room, we will request longer to complete. Generally for everyday late, we will need to tack on an extra day for completion unless of course you have now opted to do a rush order.
Turn Around Time
The time it takes to complete your order is based on various factors such as: the quantity of your order and our current schedule. We will always do our best to meet your deadline! Please let us know in advance when you need everything completed.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to do rush jobs if our schedule permits. Rush fees are based on the quantity of your order and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing.
Pricing
All of our pricing is up to date and can be found on our Table Signage Pricing Section. If you are unsure or confused on what the price is going to be for your specific order, please do not hesitate to email or call us. Occasionally we will offer special promotions on envelope addressing orders. If a promotion is going on you will see it on the homepage of our website.
Samples
You may request one free sample of your choice. We are happy to mail it, text it, or scan it over in an email to you. Please send us an email to jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net with the specifics of what you would like to see and how you would like the sample sent to you. If you are interested in purchasing a sample pack instead let us know. The pricing of a sample pack will depend on how many samples you want and what you have specifically requested for each. All sample packs will be mailed out within 3 to 5 business days from our studio. Shipping charges will apply.
Payment
We will require a $30 (non-refundable) hold fee upon receiving your Calligraphy Order/Contract Form. This will ensure your dates are reserved on our calendar. A 50% (non-refundable) deposit will be due before we begin your order. You may send a check, cash or money order with your shipment. We also accept Paypal and can set up an invoice for you once your order arrives. The $30 hold fee will either be deducted from your deposit or balance. Your balance (non-refundable) will be due once we have completed your order. Most clients pay the balance via Paypal so there are no delays upon us returning the order. Paypal hits immediately and we can ship out the next day. If you prefer to send your balance with one of the other options listed above, we will have to wait until it arrives to us before your completed order is mailed back.
Shipping charges will be factored into your balance. Please note shipping is not that costly if you choose UPS Ground or Priority Mail. We will always factor in one of those methods into your balance unless you have requested for a faster shipping method. Also, we occasionally have promotions offering Free Return Shipping. If a special like that is going on you will be able to locate the details on the homepage of our website.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!
Invitation Design
Invitation Calligraphy Fonts, Flourishes, Artwork/Graphic Design and Motifs
Calligraphy Fonts When designing your invitation you have the option to select from any of our calligraphy fonts and can incorporate multiple fonts if you’d like. Many times clients will opt for a more flourished font for the bride and groom names. We can also custom match fonts – create a unique font that best fits your wedding style. If you are wanting a custom font, please send us any images you may have of the desired script you have in mind.
Flourishes Adding elegant flourishes can really add extra beauty to your invitation. We can add just about any flourish you desire! Whether you want to see flourishes flowing loosely off the letters or standing alone, the possibilities are endless. If you have a particular look in mind we encourage you to send images for our reference.
Artwork/Graphic Design & Motifs If you are not wanting text alone then we encourage you consider adding in some artwork. There are so many options in this department to select from. If you know exactly what you want please be sure to tell us or we can send you ideas once we learn about your wedding theme.
Invitation Layout and Size
Layout Your invitation can be created in any layout you desire. If you have particular specifications on how you would like your invitation written please let us know in advance. More than half of couples choose a traditional layout, however there are many other creative ways your invitation can be written. We are more than happy to send you ideas or you can send us photos of things you love.
Size If you are working with a printing company or invitation designer that we are emailing high resolution of our calligraphy work to, please let us know in advance size specifications of each piece. Most companies can resize our work, however it is helpful to them when we can get semi close to their size requirements.
Invitation Ink Colors
All of our invitations are first done in black calligraphy ink. If we are scanning a file over to your printer they will be able to colorize our work before printing. If we are doing the printing for you, colors will be changed after the initial design is done and approved. There are a wide range of color printing options available depending on the printing method and paper you choose. All of these options will be discussed thoroughly with you before we begin your invitation design.
Paper and Envelope Choices
There are a variety of luxurious papers to choose from when printing your invitations with various paper weight options, colors, and textures. Depending on your budget and the printing method we are doing, will better help us narrow down what fits best for your invitation. The same goes for envelopes. We have a large selection of envelope colors, textures and even envelope liners to choose from. All of these options will be discussed thoroughly with you before we begin your invitation design. Please let us know if you have any specifications as to what you are looking for in advance.
Printing
We work with several fabulous printers that offer a wide range of printing methods including digital, flat, thermography, engraving, embossing, foil stamping and letterpress. To further educate yourself on these methods check out this link.
The pricing per printing method varies greatly depending on what you choose, colors, and quantity. All of these options will be discussed thoroughly with you before we begin your invitation design.
Digital Files
If you have your own printing company and we are sending over camera-ready files (high resolution scan), please be sure to provide us with detailed information regarding their policies. These might include size requirements, expected resolution of scan, type of file needed, etc. We can also vectorize and clean up your file if needed for an extra fee or your printer may be able to do this for you.
Process and Proofs
We start your invitation design with a pencil sketch. You will be sent image proofs of this sketch once we have completed it or half way through. You will be able to make two rounds of revisions at this time before the design is inked in calligraphy. Any additional revisions will be billed at $50 per revision. If you have contracted us to add any graphic design elements or motifs, these will be incorporated into each piece after all calligraphy text has been approved by the client. You will then receive another round of proofs containing all graphic design elements and allowed up to two rounds of revisions. Please note any further revisions will again be billed at $50 per revision. The final proof will be sent to you for approval before printing takes place (if you have opted for us to do that for you).
Pricing
All of our invitations are custom designed and therefore pricing can vary depending on what you want. We do have general starting price points for the actual calligraphy design. That information can be found here. Printing fees are not listed on our website due to the variety of options available. These will be sent to you after you have contacted us with your desired specifications.
Envelope Addressing
To give your invitation the ultimate polished look we recommend having your envelopes addressed in matching calligraphy to coordinate. Why spend money on a beautiful custom calligraphy invitation and not have gorgeous handwritten envelopes to go with it. Most all couples have us address their envelopes in calligraphy as well. We can book you for this portion of your order at the same time you book your custom invitation design. Please just make sure to check off all calligraphy services desired when completing our calligraphy contract/order form.
Turnaround Time
The time it takes to complete your invitation design greatly depends on:
- How many pieces are to be designed in calligraphy
- If we are doing the printing for you
- How long it takes you to approve your proofs.
Generally we can complete an entire invitation package (camera-ready artwork) in 7 days if all things run smoothly. Printing can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks depending on the vendor we use.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to accommodate rush jobs if our schedule permits. Invitation rush fees are based on when you need the design completed, how many pieces are to be designed, whether are not we are printing, if we are addressing your wedding envelopes and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing and details.
Samples
Our custom calligraphy invitations are designed from scratch per client. We do not have extra invitations on hand since all orders are custom. You are more than welcome to view our invitation samples on our website under the Invitation Calligraphy Gallery or we can email/text you samples of our work as well. We are also more than happy to send you one free example of our calligraphy. Please let us know what calligraphy font style you are interested in or if you prefer a custom font we will need to see images to replicate. Email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net with the specifics and your mailing address. If you would rather have the sample sent in a text please include your phone number in the email and let us know you prefer that route.
We also offer sample packs! The pricing of a sample pack will depend on how many samples you want and what you have specifically requested for each. All sample packs will be mailed out within 3 to 5 business days from our studio. Shipping charges will apply.
Payment
For all custom design work, we require 50% up front. Once you approve your sketch, the balance including shipping charges will be due before we do anything in calligraphy ink. Please reference to the Process and Proofing information above or you can visit our Design Process section for more information. If you have contracted us to do the printing for you, that payment will be due once the invitation design is completed in calligraphy. Before printing production begins, you will be required to pay 50% (non-refundable) of the printing fees upfront. Your balance (non-refundable) will be due once printing is finished and your order will then be mailed back.
If we are doing your envelopes in calligraphy, a 50% (non-refundable) deposit will be due once you submit your guest list. The balance (non-refundable) is due upon completion of your order.
You may pay by check, cash or money order. We also accept Paypal and can set up an invoice for you. Most clients pay the balance via Paypal so there are no delays upon us returning the order. Paypal hits immediately and we can ship out the next day. If you prefer to send your balance with one of the other options listed above, we will have to wait until it arrives to us before your completed order is mailed back.
Shipping charges will be factored into your balance. Please note shipping is not that costly if you choose UPS Ground or Priority Mail. We will always factor in one of those methods into your balance unless you have requested for a faster shipping method. Also, we occasionally have promotions offering Free Return Shipping. If a special like that is going on you will be able to locate the details on the homepage of our website.
You may pay by check, cash or money order. We also accept PayPal and can set up an invoice for you. Most clients pay via PayPal so there are no delays upon starting your design.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Shipping
Typically when you contract us to do your custom invitation you will not be shipping anything to us. In the case you do need our shipping information please read below.
All packages can be shipped to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier). If you wish to have your envelopes shipped directly from your stationer/company in which you have ordered, you may do so as well. If your envelopes are coming from a company, please make sure a note is included in the package stating they belong to you (your name provided). All packages should be mailed to the below address.
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
*Important* Please be sure to ship your envelopes to us on the date you have provided on your Order Form/Contract. It is very important that your order arrive on time as we have scheduled accordingly around other client orders. Late shipments will either need to be treated as a rush order or if you have some wiggle room, we will request longer to complete. Generally for everyday late, we will need to tack on an extra day for completion unless of course you have now opted to do a rush order.
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!
Poems, Lyrics, Vows, Quotes, & More
Paper Options
We have access to a variety of high quality papers in varies colors, weights and custom sizes suitable for framing purposes. Please be sure to let us know in advance what you are interested in so we can make sure it a good option and in stock. Most always our customers opt for our popular off white thick parchment paper. It is by far the most popular paper we offer and is always in stock!
Generally we prefer clients not ship their own paper since we can’t guarantee the quality will be suitable for writing. If you do want us to write on a paper you have purchased please be sure to send us a sample in advance so we can test our ink on it. Some things to look for when searching for a high quality paper suitable for calligraphy are ones labeled acid free and archival. It is also very important that the paper has a smooth surface, to avoid snagging and produce clear-even lines when lettering. Drawing paper and watercolor paper are not good options for lettering.
Calligraphy Styles and Ink Colors
Calligraphy Styles- Your document can be lettered using any of our calligraphy fonts seen here. We can also use our creative judgment if you prefer and prepare your custom piece using a variety of fonts or even a custom font. The options are endless and we are more than happy to send you suggestions. Also, you are more than welcome to send us images of fonts you love too so we can custom match.
Ink Colors- We offer pretty much any ink color you can dream of! Most of our inks are waterproof, however some of the colors have to be mixed and not all can be waterproof. We have never really had any issues with smearing. If you have a particular color you would like matched please send us a color swatch in advance. You may also do a variety of colors on your custom piece.
Design and Layout
Everything we do is custom designed specifically for our clients. The options are endless and full of fun and creative possibilities! We can add gorgeous calligraphy flourishes, simple artwork, and prepare your document in any layout you prefer. We will use our own creative expertise when designing your piece or you may send us inspirational photos of specific ideas you want incorporated. Check our Design Process here to learn more. You may also view some previous work we have done for past clients here to get more ideas.
Shipping
If you are shipping your own paper, please send to the below address with no signature required (your preferred carrier).
Ship to the following address:
Calligraphy by Jennifer or Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
When your order is complete we will package up the document carefully and securely before shipping back to you.
Turn Around Time
The time it takes to complete your order is based on various factors such as: the length of each piece, complexity/design of the job and our current schedule. We will always do our best to meet your deadline! Please let us know in advance when you need everything completed.
Rush Orders
We are more than happy to do rush jobs if our schedule permits. Rush fees are based on the quantity of your order and our current schedule. Please email us at jenn@calligraphybyjennifer.net for rush order pricing.
Pricing
All custom pieces (poems, vows, lyrics, quotes, etc.) are priced based on the following components.
• Length
• Complexity of Lettering/Design Work
• Ink Color
• Paper Size
• Artwork/Embellishments
Payment
For all custom design work, we require 50% up front. Once you approve the sketch we provide you, the balance including shipping charges will be due before we do anything in permanent ink. Please reference to the Design Process section to view more information.
You may pay by check, cash or money order. We also accept PayPal and can set up an invoice for you. Most clients pay via PayPal so there are no delays upon starting your design.
Shipping charges will be factored into the total. Please note shipping is not that costly if you choose UPS Ground or Priority Mail. We will always factor in one of those methods into your total bill unless you have requested for a faster shipping method. Also, we occasionally have promotions offering Free Return Shipping. If a special like that is going on you will be able to locate the details on the homepage of our website.
.
Make Check or money order payable to:
Jennifer Gillespie
301 Heritage Hill Trail
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
Please Remember
All of our calligraphy is done by hand. There may be slight variations in color, size, style, centering, spacing, and margins throughout the order. All custom orders (invitations, poems, seating charts, unique items we letter on such as ornaments,pumpkins, glass, wood, etc.) are final once returned to the client. For all custom jobs you will get to see a few free rounds of edits before anything is done in ink. We will always do our best to make everything as perfect as possible!
Thanks for choosing Calligraphy by Jennifer!