There are many things to consider when planning an event. Here are a few helpful hints I have learned along the way:
Paper Selection
The best paper choice for handwritten calligraphy is a fine, smooth surface. Textured or organic paper may cause ink to bleed or create irregular print.
The Guest List
It is helpful to provide your calligrapher with a typed or neatly handwritten guest list that includes the guest formal names, titles, full addresses including apartment or suite numbers, city, state and zip codes. Please make sure you spell out exactly how you would like the envelope to read - leave nothing to be assumed!
Etiquette
There are common rules of invitation etiquette. For example, abbreviations are not used, middle initials are not included, and children over 18 get a separate invitation. If you would like more information on formal etiquette, there are a variety of websites and books I can suggest.
Ordering Envelopes
When you are writing invitations by hand, especially hand calligraphy, focus tends to be on letter formation and sometimes errors occur. It is recommended to order 10 to 20% additional envelopes over your total invitation amount to allow for errors or changes. For example, if you plan to mail 100 invitations, consider ordering 120 envelopes.
Mailing, Postage, and Lead Time
Typically, invitations are mailed 4 to 6 weeks prior to the event and maybe more if there are many out of town guests who need to plan their travel arrangements. It is highly recommended that you take your full invitation, in its entirety, to be weighed at the post office to ensure the correct amount of postage required. Remember when you are ready to mail your invitations, have them "hand cancelled" (the round, red mark over the stamp). If your envelopes go through the postal machine, there is a chance they could be crumpled or torn.
