How To

How to Select a Stationer

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

Whether you want to keep it simple with just invitations and place cards or would like to add a bit of whimsy to your wedding day with items such as printed matchbooks and napkins, the right stationer will make sure that all looks paper perfect.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Draw up your guest list.

  2. Step 2

    Figure out your priorities in terms of budget and originality.

  3. Step 3

    Begin your search for a stationer four to six months before the big day.

  4. Step 4

    Keep an eye and ear out for experienced stationers - consult with family and friends, and start collecting wedding invitations that you've received and liked for future reference.

  5. Step 5

    Provide the stationer with specific quantities, as well as color samples, sketches and fabric swatches if you'd like your invitations custom-made.

  6. Step 6

    Ask for written price estimates, as well as guarantees if mistakes are made and the time expected between ordering and receiving the invitations.

  7. Step 7

    Proofread your order carefully before signing; have a second person go look at the order as an extra act of caution. This simple measure could save you hundreds of dollars in reprints.

  8. Step 8

    Buy your entire "stationery wardrobe" - that is, invitations, programs, place cards, menus and thank-you notes - as a package. This ensures uniformity of design and possibly a lower rate.

  9. Step 9

    Order extras - 50 invitations and 100 envelopes - to account for mistakes and guest list changes.

Tips & Warnings
  • Go with a large stationery store, the most popular option, and get great prices from a moderate selection, or save time by ordering your stationery when you register at the department store for gifts. Expect to find a small selection of classic designs.
  • Why not go the creative route? Hire a graphic design pro and concoct an original (this costs a bit more and may take a bit more time, so get going early). Or, do it yourself - all you need is access to a computer, a laser printer and some good software, like QuarkXPress or PageMaker.
  • Get the envelopes as soon as possible so you can begin addressing them.

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