Guest Blog by Ashley Kendall, the owner of RSVP Love Custom Invitations

With wedding planning comes a lot of tough decisions: colors, venues, bridal party members, the list goes on and on. Today, our guest blogger, Ashley Kendall is helping brides and grooms learn the differences between customizable and custom stationery so they can make a more informed decision for their wedding paper goods! Read on to learn the differences between these stationery options – and how a professional wedding stationer can make all the difference for your wedding plans!

Stationery Product

The allure of quick, cheap and “ oh, that fits our color scheme” online invitations understandably appeals to most couples who have no idea where to even begin with this huge wedding to-do! These online products are less expensive because of the mass production they are able to achieve. They offer standard design templates and product options that are inexpensive so their costs are a low as possible.

As a stationer and paper geek, I don’t expect couples to know the differences in cover stock weights or finishes. You will most likely be able to feel the differences as soon as you open that flimsy, white, standard envelope, though! With custom stationery, Stationers are able to source the perfect hues. You could match your wedding feel or match bridesmaid’s dress color. You won’t be stuck choosing between the few boring shades and swatches that most sites offer. Online costs can often be deceiving, as the promotional price only includes the main invitation and envelope. You will need other pieces, which are additional fees, to complete your wedding suite. A good custom stationer will guide you through your product and pricing options during a consultation. 

Customization for Wedding Stationery

Customizable means you will be able to go in and change your main information like names, dates and location. You may be able to change the color theme. But, if you aren’t a fan of say… part of the florals used in a design, then you are out of luck. And, you’re stuck with the pre created template. Often couples come to me after scouring the web for their dream invite, disappointed. They’ve found that they aren’t able to customize insert cards with all of the information they need their guests to have. 

When it comes to custom stationery and hiring a stationer, there are no restrictions to design and layout! Wording is personal and unique to each event. It should sound like it’s coming from the couple, not a basic template. Custom invitations offer a wider range of products and additional accessories like ribbons, wax seals, laser cut enclosures, and more. With accessories, you can truly showcase who you are as a couple and convey the feeling of your big day. 

Services from a Custom Stationer

As a custom stationer, not only am I creating something unique and beautiful to fit who you are as a couple, I am bringing my years of experience to help you sift through your wedding information and make sure we include all of the things your guests will need. This is the one chance you have to inform your guests and for you to get the information you will need later for your caterer, venue and other vendors.

Online sites don’t have personal relationships with your other vendors in the community, nor are they working on your behalf. Custom Stationers have the knowledge and experience when it comes to printing methods, paper options, post office requirements and wedding etiquette. I personally take care of all guest addressing, assembly and personally deliver every invitation to the post office. Online sites simply print and send you your order. They may offer services like address printing or partial assembly for additional fees, but you are still stuck with mounds of paper to get out on your own.

Custom stationery and using a Stationer can often sound expensive. However, when factoring the added service you are receiving on top of a truly custom design, that’s something you can’t add into your online cart! 

Final Thoughts…

Now, more than ever, the value of a custom stationer can be seen. As couples scramble to inform their guests of unfortunate changes in wedding plans, a stationer can be great help. Consider adding a designer to your vendor team and pricing out the options just like you do with other vendors. 

Ashley is owner of RSVP Love Custom Invitations based in Lancaster County, PA. She has over 12 years of experience, a degree in graphic communications, and a passion for paper and marriage. Ashley walks through the engagement journey with each couple to create memorable and personal stationery that helps tell your story.