A few months ago, Kim, owner of paperKuts Studio shared advice at our Smart Bride Bootcamp on shopping for wedding stationery. There were so many questions presented by brides at our camp that I thought you, our online readers, might also want to know a little more about wedding stationery. So I reached back out to Kim to ask specific questions that might benefit you.
Invitations give your wedding guests the first impression and taste of your wedding style; so, it helps to get expert advice on how you want to be represented and where you can save vs where not to cut-corners. Here's what Kim had to say about wedding stationery during our Q+A.
What exactly does a wedding stationery set include?
There are two basic elements for wedding stationery: invite and RSVP card. Everything else would be considered additional items, such as: reception card, accommodation card, maps, related events…you name it! You can add anything to your invite that you want or need.
What are some great ways to save on wedding stationery? Ways to save can include:
*eliminating the extras (lined envelopes, embellishments, etc.)
*order standard sized invites (saves you from spending extra on postage)
*include RSVP on invitation
*basic printing (use black ink)
*order extra invitations with your initial order so you don’t have to order more expensive ones if you run out
The best way to save on invites is the DIY way! Even with that, you have to be careful. If you are not a ‘crafty’ person, then it can become costly if you make a mistake, have to purchase more, etc. With the Internet, you can find anything, so, to me, knowing your budget is primary. You can easily get an estimate on how much your stationery will cost.
Are there trends you're seeing brides do for wedding stationery that's both affordable and creative?
Sometimes what’s trending is not what a bride wants. So, I believe it is truly the brides decision and what she wants for her big day! I’ve had brides that purchased a basic invite and added a crystal or a bow. Some have used calligraphy to add a special touch. Also, having a custom invite can be affordable and specific to meet the bride’s needs.
What are some red flags? Are there things that appear to be inexpensive for wedding stationery that actually turn out to be surprisingly expensive?
Items that turn out to be expensive really depend on the needs of the bride. Any additional item that you add on will add to the cost of the invite. What I really find to be costly is waiting until the last minute, not proofing the invite (and not catching mistakes before they are printed) and not ordering enough invites. Most invites are ordered in increments of 25. When you have to go back and order more, it is expensive.
What do you think brides should keep in mind when they're sorting out their wedding stationery?
Brides should keep in mind their budget, what the impression is that they want to convey, and their primary needs.
How does the theme of a wedding affect wedding stationery?
I believe your invitation sets the tone for any event that one is having. If a bride has a certain theme in mind, it can really affect her choice of stationery, the cost, and if the invite will have all of the additional items that she might need (RSVP, accommodation, etc). A custom invite might be needed in this case.
Can you tell me a bit about paperKuts studio and what it offers to the bridal community?
paperKuts studio is a cozy, home-based business. I offer stationery for any occasion and can provide all of the bride's needs, from beginning to end - napkins, favors, programs, shower invites, etc. I try to make my brides feel comfortable and confident in their choice of stationery. It is an honor if a person chooses to work with me and I want the experience to be a pleasurable one for all. Stationery makes me happy and I want anyone that visits to be just as excited about their paper choice as I am.
All invitations shown are a few of my favorites from the Marsupial Invitation line (via their Facebook page). This chic invitation line and others are available by contacting Kim of paperKuts studio.
Husband and wife team, Brian and Kathy are co-owners and residents of Front Porch Farms. Kathy's grandparents were married 54 years and managed a variety of businesses, inventions, and projects. Her grandfather taught her to always give people more than they expect and believe me, she brings that philosophy to engaged Nashville couples with whom I've spoken. The venue is gorgeous but the service and dedication is also what makes brides teary when they speak of their experience with Front Porch Farms.
I admire their dedication to making their already incredible venue even better. Here are a few additions that will make your 2012 or 2013 wedding even more stunning, enjoyable for your guests and easier to plan!
The outdoor fireplace is great for wedding day s'mores!
"Last summer, we added the outdoor fireplace. We keep the fireplace burning during the entire reception for an inviting hang, warmth on a cool night or a fun time roasting marshmallows and eating s'mores. In the warmer months, decorated with candles, flowers and string lights, it’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic nook, dessert and coffee display or cigar bar. It’s also a great kids area where parents can enjoy the reception while keeping an eye on the little ones nearby."
Space and parking makes it easier for guests and vendors
This winter, we extended our catering kitchen area, added more space for mingling around the pool during cocktails, built a privacy fence around the parking area, upgraded electricity, and built a new barn for the props, décor and rentals.
More delightful details
We stained the concrete a beautiful rich brown tone, completely remodeled the guest house, added more gorgeous landscaping, built benches, re-finished our church pews, and created some really cool props and DIY decor. Whew!
And there's more! Couples can choose from a professional lighting package, provided by Nashville Audio & Visual.
ABG Notes: Beautiful lanterns and lighting elements add an intimate feel to an open space. (Photo by Front Porch Farms)
Photo by Front Porch Farms
Photo by Front Porch Farms
Full Service - They'll take care of everything for you
Couples can enjoy roundtrip shuttle service from Nashville for their guests or any number of services to make their experience as memorable as possible – even skylanterns or fireworks! And did I mention the staff? We've got a great crew who set up, break down, clean up and all jobs in between. They have talent and experience and they love seeing guests enjoy the results of their hard work.
ABG Notes: Front Porch Farms' staff make sure everything is perfect just for you! Even if it means escorting you with umbrellas! (Photos by Red Letter Days)
Couples who get married at our home follow in our own foot steps and I'm proud of what we have created for them. Not only is it the perfect backdrop for a wedding but it’s a wonderful life full of love for our family. MORE than I could have ever dreamed of or planned for. I think my grandparents would be proud.
Picture by Front Porch Farms
If you would like to see more beautiful pictures from around Front Porch Farms of weddings and shoots they've done, visit FrontPorchFarmsTN.com. When you contact Kathy, please do not hesitate to let her know you heard about her on Ashley's Bride Guide!
Two things are obvious when talking to Tiffanie of Elliott Events: 1) she loves weddings and 2) she believes wedding should be fun. She attracts fun couples and works with them to design a wedding that they will truly enjoy and make their own. Not all couples or planners want a fun wedding. Some of you might want a classic or traditional wedding that is formal - and that's fine. But, if you are looking to do something memorable where your guests will laugh and dance throughout your wedding celebration, Elliott Events just might be the planning company for you.
Take Tiffanie's own wedding - where she and her husband danced out of their ceremony - all the way down the aisle and so did their parents. There's video proof and you should see it for yourself! Elliott Events has a different approach to weddings. Aside from infusing fun and personality thorughout, Elliott also offers full design service, including draping and basic lighting, if your venue needs such.
Today, we welcome Elliiott Events to the ABG family. Learn more about Elliott Events in my interview below with Tiffanie. Elliott Events might be the team to create a wow factor at your wedding!
Main Contact: Tiffanie Elliott
Blog: Elliott Events blog
Phone Number: 615-485-2193
Email Address: tiffanie{at}elliottevents{dot}com
Folow them on Twitter: @elliottevents
Like them on Facebook: Elliott Events
Elliott Events offers basic lighting, such as the gobo C shown above, as well as extensive draping. Photos by Jeremy Binns Photography
Photo on left by Shots by Cheyenne; photo on right by Jeremy Binns Photography
How long have you been in the business?
I have been in the industry for six years.
How did you get started in weddings?
I interned for a wedding planner in college. I found that I really enjoyed being a part of making a couple’s special day come together, and I knew I wanted a future in wedding and event planning.
What do you like most about weddings?
I love the creative challenge. There is something new design-wise for each wedding and I love seeing all the details come together. Every couple and every wedding is unique, so my job is always new and exciting.
What’s your favorite wedding photo/video and why?
This video is of my wedding. I am a believer in thinking outside of the box and incorporating a couple’s personality into their wedding. For every wedding that I plan and design, I think to myself, “How can I create that “WOW” factor for the guests?”. In my opinion, every wedding should be filled with lots of love, laughter and dancing! So this is how we surprised our guests! Of course, at Elliott Events, we get to know our clients so we can help them create and customize their own “WOW” moment.
What is your service philosophy?
To deliver what I promise. I strive to go above and beyond my clients’ expectations. I am the professional and my clients invest a lot of trust in me. At the end of each wedding, when the guests and the bridal party are leaving, I like to hear them all leaving happy and talking about how wonderful the wedding was. It’s all about successfully creating what the bride and groom had envisioned for their special day.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
I put 110% into each wedding. I truly enjoy getting to know each of my couples and at the end of the planning process I consider them friends. I pride myself in having the ability to take a few ideas of inspiration from my brides and create a wedding day they will never forget. I have a “get it done” personality and do not rest until all the details have come together!
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
1. Fadds Entertainment (David Heimbach) - David is the best DJ around. He knows how to keep all the guests dancing and having a great time at the reception.
2. The French Confection - Their cakes are amazing. They not only make beautiful cakes, but some of the most delicious cakes in Nashville, too. I could eat their Strawberry and the Jack Daniels chocolate cakes all day!
3. Connie Duglin Linens - I really enjoy working with Jennifer at Connie Duglin. She is always so helpful in picking out the best linens for each event!
4. The Chef and I - Chef Chris and Erica are so fabulous to work with. They create unique menus and the food is amazing!
5. Mattie Cakes - Jill is so great to work with. She puts so much effort into her cupcakes and they are truly spectacular.
For "budget savvy" brides, what's the one thing you think should always make it into a budget?
A videographer. There is nothing like having video of when you walk down the aisle. It is something you will want to share with your children years down the road.
I love Greys Anatomy. Since college, every Thursday I have Greys night with my best friend, Amanda. We drink wine and always end up crying! It is something I look forward to every week.
What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
Enjoy the process! Although it is stressful you only get to do it once. So hire the professionals and let them work their magic.
All of the paper goods for the Cedarwood's Style Show were designed by Designs in Paper. It's no surprise that we were left swooning over every table's unique paper creations - from invites to program fans. We decided to do a round-up of some of our favorite paper goods from the style show. Custom paper is often overlooked but as you see, it can add a sophisticated touch throughout your event. Fall in love with some of the great details and contact Designs in Paper to let them create something special to fit your wedding vision.
Rustic Wedding Inspiration with Vintage Paper Accents by Designs in Paper
When our friend Michelle Stepp of Everyday Celebrating reached out to us for recommendations for a floral designer for the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Blue Tie Gala, The Enchanted Florist was at the top of our list. Their floral design skills run the gamut from small, intimate weddings to large-scale, wedding extravaganzas and their versatility knows no bounds. You can tell a well-rounded floral designer based on the styles and types of events they do and because Enchanted Florist doesn't limit their scope to just weddings, they're always on the forefront of what works for various styles and spaces.
While the MTSU event is clearly not a wedding, their event was stunning and might serve as inspiration for your wedding, especially the unique floral centerpieces that were different for just about every table! Have a look!
Michelle was the lead event planner who came up with the concept, design and logistics of the event. We asked her about working with Enchanted Florist and she said, "Working with Caprice and her team was a dream! In our initial meeting, we spoke at length about my vision for the space. Caprice was extremely helpful in taking my inspirational photos and giving me many options to not only bring my vision to life, but stay within budget."
The color scheme for the gala was royal blue and white - MTSU's school colors.
Michelle: "The MTSU Blue Tie Gala served as the official grand kick off to the school's Centennial year. It was a birthday party, 100 years in the making! Our event was a large undertaking with 120 guest tables (1200 guests), plus a lounge area to decorate. On the day of Gala, Caprice and her team descended on the event space with stunning work and cheerful attitudes. They had everything installed within an hour and were back at midnight to help with tear down. We were thrilled to have them on board!"
Event Team:
Venue - Embassy Suites Murfreesboro
Catering - Embassy Suites
Rentals - Classic Party Rentals (Nashville)
Draping - Events Plus, Inc.
Lighting and Sound - MTSU Production Services
Fabric Photo Murals - The Very Idea (Murfreesboro)
Flowers - Enchanted Florist
Cake - Lenneke Driskill
Dinner and Lounge Music - MTSU Jazz Ensemble
After Dinner Band (for dancing) - The Tyrone Smith Revue
Photo Favors - Schenk Photography
Photography - Andrea Hallgren Photography
Thank you Michelle for telling us a little bit more about the event. For more beautiful floral design visit Enchanted Florist's blog for florals that will take your breath away.
At Ashley’s Bride Guide, we’re always on the lookout for innovative and exciting wedding ideas.
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