The Custom Stationery Design Process: What It’s Really Like to Work With a Pro Graphic Designer for Your Special Day

Here’s what actually goes into creating invitations that don't look like anyone else’s.

If you’re here, it’s because you’re not interested in default fonts, the same-same designs you saw at the last wedding, or mass-printed card stock. You want something that feels like you - your energy, your aesthetic, your story - translated into something tangible your guests will hold in their hands and say, “Wow.”

Creating that kind of experience doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not drag-and-drop, or templated. It’s a process built on creativity, collaboration, detail, and time.

There’s a reason I ask for a minimum of 6–8 weeks to complete the full wedding stationery process. That window gives us space to design intentionally, without stress or overwhelm. It covers every part of the journey: Our initial consultation, collaborative design, proofing, edits, production, assembly, and shipping or pickup. 

Here's how it all unfolds:

1. Discovery & Consultation

The vision starts here.

First, we talk. Not just about fonts and florals, but about YOU. Your style, your story, your love, your event. Whether it’s a beach ceremony, backyard bbq, or a black-tie city wedding, I want to understand the entire atmosphere you're creating. The more detail, the better. And, when I say we get to know each other, we truly do. I’m not AI creating your custom design - I’m a real human on the other side of the screen. How rare these days! 

This is the foundation of the design process. Everything evolves from here.

If you're local, let's grab a coffee and chat! If you're farther away, I offer a complimentary video consultation.

2. Design & Collaboration

Custom means custom.

Based on our conversation, I’ll create a fully original design tailored to your vision. You'll get a digital proof to review, and from there, we refine it until it’s exactly right. This part is deeply collaborative. I guide and offer suggestions, but nothing moves forward until you’re completely satisfied.

You’ll see your ideas translated into colour palettes, type choices, illustration work, and layout. This is where your design dreams start becoming paper reality. You’ll also notice the difference between a designer's vision and a plug and play template that just doesn’t represent you. 

3. Production & Delivery

Craftsmanship, without compromise.

Once the design is locked in, I handle production using trusted, high-quality printers and materials. This means textured papers, custom finishes, and print techniques that feel elevated and elegant.

Your final suite is assembled and carefully packaged. You can either pick it up in person or have it shipped to you - wherever you are in Canada.

4. Day-Of Stationery Coordination

Your aesthetic, fully carried through.

If you would like menus, place cards, programs, or signage to match your invitation suite, we’ll begin a new design cycle 6–8 weeks before your wedding day. This ensures your paper story is consistent from RSVP to reception.

Custom stationery isn’t fast, and it shouldn’t be.

It’s deliberate. It’s intentional. It’s personal. It’s the kind of detail guests notice, and you’ll want to hold onto long after the last slice of cake is gone.

If you're planning your wedding, and looking for someone to bring your vision to life thoughtfully and beautifully, I'd love to hear from you.

Let’s make something that’s entirely yours. Start here.