An Inside Look at the Custom Stationery Design Process

​Wondering what it’s like to work with Lexi Mayde on custom wedding stationery? In today’s blog post, I am giving an overview of the process that will get us from stationery dream to watercolor reality!

Why Custom? 

Before we delve into the process involved in creating your one-of-a-kind wedding paper goods, let’s talk briefly about why couples choose to work with me. When I say custom, I mean completely custom! For each project I charge a flat design fee that covers unlimited custom designs for the pieces you’ve decided you want included in your suite. That means the sky's the limit in terms of the design. Want to see your beloved pup in a bow tie on the RSVP card? Absolutely! The shiny green vintage card you’ll be driving off in on the back of the invite? You bet! A map of your wedding location highlighting all of your favorite spots? Yes please! With custom invitations, you’ll get a suite that is completely tailored to you—a keepsake item that you and your guests will cherish forever. Now, let’s talk about how we get there!

Completely Custom

A custom suite is a reflection of you as a couple, and your love story!

Getting Started

The process begins with an inquiry. That’s your job! Clients will reach out to me via email, or by filling out the custom stationery questionnaire here on my website. This will give me the information I need to build a custom quote for your project.

Proposal

Based on what you tell me on the questionnaire, I’ll aim to get back to you within 2 business days with a custom proposal for your project. The proposal form is your invoice and contract all in one. If everything looks good to you, you'll sign the agreement and pay 50%, securing your spot on my calendar! If not, I am happy to answer any questions you have over phone or email, and make changes to the invoice accordingly. ​

Style Quiz

Once you’ve signed on with me, I’ll send you a little bit of homework. Don’t worry, it’s fun! My wedding style quiz allows me to get to know you as a couple a little bit better, and obtain an understanding of your wedding vision and stationery dreams! This survey serves as a base for the sketches that I’ll present to you, so detail is appreciated!

Inspiration and Concept

Mood

The design process starts with a color palette and moodboard, which I send in conjunction with my concept sketches for the project

Once I’ve received the style survey back from you, I should have everything I need to start the design process. I start by sending an inspiration and concept along for you to review. This is essentially a moodboard, complete with rough sketches of your project. In this form, you’ll be able to review and give me feedback on the direction of the design. I love collaborating with couples to make their stationery as unique and personal as possible, so don’t hold back when it comes to conveying your stationery vision. ​

Starts with a Sketch

Along with the moodboard, I send a sketch of the invitation concept, along with my notes on the sketch!

Watercolor!

Once you approve the sketches, it’s time for watercolor work to begin. That’s where my hard work really begins, so sit back and get excited to see your first proofs! ​

Proofs

The Proofing Phase

Once your design is ready, you’ll have the opportunity to review multiple rounds of digital proofs.

Once your suite has been painted, edited, and designed, you’ll see a first round of digital proofs, and you’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback on the design. I’ll be able to make changes to the design, as well as any minor tweaks to the artwork that can be done digitally. Once you’re happy with the proof, you’ll see a final printing proof to approve everything before it goes off to the printer. ​

Production & Assembly

After your final approval, I'll send the design(s) off to the printer. I'll also take care of any assembly and envelope calligraphy at this point.

You've Got Mail!

Now for the best part. Your custom stationery is headed your way! You'll finally get to hold your wedding stationery in your hands, before sending them off to guests, of course. Final payment is collected at this time. ​

Custom watercolor wedding invitations add a truly personal touch to your event. Imagine a fun watercolor map or an illustration of your venue being the very first impression your guests get of your wedding? It’s all possible when you work with me! 

Ready to work with Lexi on your custom stationery?