BEAUTIFULLY BESPOKE

Local stationers showcase their top tips

An area that is often overlooked when planning your big day is the stationery. From the initial save-the-dates to the table plan and thank you cards, there’s a lot to take into consideration. To help give you some inspiration, local stationers have sent in some of their top tips and ideas.

www.cherishedcards.co.uk and www.andrewfranklin.co.uk

“We’re going to continue to see lots of blues and soft pinks, whether it’s baby blue, ice blue or darker blues and/or blush or pale pinks for the rest of 2021 and going into 2022. As so many weddings have had to move from last year, these colours have carried over from postponed weddings.” – Emma Ellis from Cherished Cards.

▲ “A floral theme is still on-trend, and so is incorporating dried flowers into your stationery. There has been a shift in what couples are ordering, as weddings have been smaller, individual menus have become popular, and in line with restrictions, name cards for ceremony seating have been current this year too.” – Emma from Cherished Cards.

▲ Sending savethe-dates made from recycled cards or sustainable sources is a great way of helping the environment. “Which colours are you most drawn to, or which hues do you envisage for your bridesmaids or wedding flowers? Do you like a neutral palette, monochrome with some accents, something bold and dramatic, or romantic soft pastel shades? By identifying your preferences, you can look to incorporate these into your stationery. The season in which you’re marrying will provide inspiration too, either from the shades usually associated with the season, or indeed the sort of flowers that will be available at the time of your wedding. Rich, warm hues and jewel tones are often used for autumn/winter weddings, whilst a fresh, colourful palette tends to be used more for spring and summer nuptials, however, it’s entirely up to you!” – Natalie Drage from Flamboyant Invites.

www.barkandrock.com ▼ Guest books are a lovely way to remember your big day. This exquisite guest book from Bark & Rock is made from carefully selected wood from Bubinga trees.

▲ Your invitations set the scene for your big day so make sure they stand out. Create a moodboard to show your stationer so they can get an idea of what colours and themes you like. Before finalising your design, ask someone to check all your proofs to make sure there are no mistakes. It’s common to mention any dress codes you may have on your invites and if you have a specific gift idea or would like the money donated to charity.

▲ “When I first meet couples, I ask them to send photos of their style – this could be the wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, the groomsmen’s suits, cakes, décor, flowers etc. From there, I can put together stationery samples that match their look or theme.” – Emma from Cherished Cards.

www.cherishedcards.co.uk and www.mariamadison.co.uk

▲ “When choosing your colours, opt for something that complements your theme and venue’s décor, so the hues don’t clash.” – Emma from Cherished Cards.

Set up a website with all the important information and include a link on your save-the-dates. If you’re having a themed wedding, then incorporate it into the website’s design. Consider an unusual wood for your guest book to create a luxury product that you’ll love for years to come.

www.flamboyantinvites.com

“How would you describe your dream dress? Timeless and elegant, boho and relaxed, total glamour, or something colourful and non-traditional? Your gown vision will often drive the style of your big day, including your stationery. So if you love a sleek minimalist dress, then you might also prefer a modern minimalist style too. Get a Pinterest board together and pin your favourite styles that reflect your vision. Ultimately you’ll be able to share your moodboard inspiration with your wedding stationer, which is always super helpful!” – Natalie from Flamboyant Invites.

▲ “Online pictures can look amazing but keep in mind you cannot determine the quality of the stationery from a photo.” – Emma from Cherished Cards. Personalise your guest book with engravings or plaques to make it truly unique.

Some of your loved ones may be travelling, so include a list of local accommodation on your invitations and if you have a website, try and include a map. ▲ “Ideally, it would be best to work with suppliers that have been recommended to you. However, at a minimum, I would always suggest that you ask potential stationers to send you samples of their work before booking.” – Emma from Cherished Cards. ▲ “The cost of stationery can vary widely, depending on the type of printing, quantities and supplier. Products that are tailored to you, professionally designed and printed onto luxe paper is always going to cost a premium. Each couple is working to a different budget, so when shortlisting your favourite stationers to contact, you must be sure of their pricing. There’s nothing more disappointing than setting your heart on a particular designer, only to find out later on that their prices are way over your budget!” – Natalie from Flamboyant Invites.

▲ Your stationery should reflect your personalities. Remember to choose a font that’s easy to read and try not to forget anyone when ordering your invitations as it can be expensive to buy extras.

CONTACT THE EXPERTS:

Cherished Cards, www.cherishedcards.co.uk | Bark & Rock, www.barkandrock.com Flamboyant Invites, www.flamboyantinvites.com