Hiring a Calligrapher to Write Your Wedding Invitations
Many people have their wedding invitations addressed with calligraphy (the translation is “beautiful writing”), an elegant touch to your big day. You can also use calligraphers for menus and pre-wedding parties, but keep in mind that it’s an elaborate and time-consuming task. If you’re a calligraphy pro, by all means download fonts on your computer, and do it yourself. Calligraphy is not an art you should try and learn in the process of wedding planning.
Generally, a calligrapher will cost anywhere from $2 - $10 per envelope, depending on experience, where you live, and the style of your invitations. Stationers don’t usually do calligraphy, although they are a good source to get recommendations. You can go online, ask friends and relatives, and other vendors. Be sure to ask for references, and check out samples. A wedding calligrapher can take up to two weeks to complete 100 envelopes.
Once you find a calligrapher you’re happy with, you can pick from a series of popular styles, two of the most common being Gothic and Roman. A good calligrapher will have several fonts for you to look at, and offer up suggestions. Make sure the calligrapher you hire has a certificate or degree. You should ask for a sample, completed envelope. What style of calligraphy you choose depends on your personal tastes as well as the style and formality of the wedding. Bring in envelopes for the calligrapher to look at, so he’ll have a better understanding of the type of lettering that will look best on your invites.
Like all aspects of invitations, calligraphy requires careful proofreading. Prepare a list of all invites, and proofread each one carefully—both you and your fiancé should get involved. Since the time and work involved means you won’t be able to make last-minute additions, double check to make sure addresses are updated, and have the calligrapher write up any guests who are “undecided.” Be sure to keep a few for yourself as keepsakes.
Before you sign on the dotted line, cover all “mistakes,” and who pays for errors. Also include the exact time-frame required, so you don’t get stuck sending out invitations at the last minute. Remember, calligraphy is optional, a personal as well as stylistic choice. If it’s in your budget, and you love the lock, think of it as a love write-off.
-David Toussaint
Check Out Planning for No-Shows
Check Out Wedding Invitation Etiquette 101
Check Out Making Your Own Wedding Invitations