This is a featured guest re-blog from from Art by Ellie, a Dallas graphic design firm specializing in custom wedding invitations and modern calligraphy. Admin, letterer and instructor Brittni will be teaching at our AACWP members-only Calligraphy & Lettering course on October 18th, 2016.
The addressing on wedding invitation envelopes is one of the most vital elements of the suite – if the invitation doesn't arrive to guests successfully and beautifully, then what's the point of the lovely invitation inside? Art by Ellie offers three addressing styles: envelope printing, modern calligraphy, and hand-lettering.
Printing guest addresses is the most cost-effective option, and coordinates seamlessly with any invitation design since it allows for endless font, style, and color combinations. Printing also allows clients to choose just one font, or mix script and block fonts for a nice contrast. Calligraphers can print guest addresses, your return address on the flap, and print addresses on RSVP reply envelopes as well.
Calligraphy is the most formal addressing option and also the most expensive. Art by Ellie offers a modern calligraphy style that is a mix of script and block fonts, with big beautiful numerals for the zip code. Most calligraphers charge between $3-$5 per envelope based on the intricacy of the lettering style (fun tip: when addressing an order of envelopes with calligraphy, calligraphers can only do about 20-30 per day before their hands desperately need a break, and the envelopes are very time-consuming). Once complete, calligraphers allow the ink to dry for a full 24 hours, spray with a light coating to ensure the ink won't smear in the mail, and then allow that to cure for another 24 hours before preparing the envelopes for final delivery.
Hand-lettered envelope addressing is a less-intense twist on modern calligraphy. Hand lettering allows for more of a whimsical style and is a great way to mix up flourish-styled lettering with block lettering, completed with pen-tip instead of a calligraphy nib and liquid ink. View samples of hand-lettering and more photos of all addressing styles by Art by Ellie here.
Want to learn more from these talented calligraphy and hand-lettering professionals? AACWP Members can log into the member portal to register for our education class on October 18th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at The Laurel. Course fee is only $35 and will earn attendees 1 education credit.
Featured image credit: Erich McVey