When Should I Book My Wedding Calligrapher and Stationer?

Don’t wait until last minute to book your calligrapher! Here is the recommended timeline to help with your wedding planning.

You’re ENGAGED! Congratulations! I can’t wait to hear about the proposal, so give me all the details!!

Emotions are running high and it’s time to celebrate your love story. Whether you have a wedding planner or you’re putting this wedding together yourself, there’s much to be done. You already know about the main parts of wedding planning: the date and venue, the colors, your attire, etc.

But a question you may not have thought about is… When should I hire a wedding calligrapher?

Too many couples come to me less than a month away from their wedding, and I sadly have to turn them away due to being fully booked or what they want simply can’t be completed within that time frame.

First off…what does a wedding calligrapher do?

As a calligrapher and artist, I don’t just write pretty words and make pretty signage. I get to know my clients and translate their love story through calligraphy and artistry. I want to make sure the work I produce reflects them authentically and who they are as a couple. It’s more than just script on paper or a sign, it’s about creating beautiful experiences and unforgettable memories. Every aspect of your wedding should feel like you. Selecting the right calligrapher is just as important as deciding the colors of your wedding. These details will be locked and preserved in the photos your amazing photographer will capture. Find someone you know you can trust to bring your vision to life!

8-12 months prior to your wedding

This is usually when you’re designing your wedding invitations and save the dates. If you’re having a destination wedding, it’s recommended to send out your save the dates 8-12 months prior – so add a couple months to that to spend on designing.

Not all invitation designers offer handwritten calligraphy envelope addressing, so reach out to a calligrapher! I’m sure your planner or designer will have some great recommendations. If you plan on having menus, programs and other paper goods designed and printed, now would be a good time to discuss those with your designer as well.

Your wedding is a celebration of you and your partner’s love with your favorite people. The personal touch of hand addressed envelopes will make your guests feel even more special and appreciated. Create that “wow!” and excitement the moment they open their mailbox and see your pretty envelope sitting there.

For envelope addressing, most calligraphers will need the blank envelopes 3-4 weeks before you plan on mailing them out. Of course every calligrapher’s timeline will vary, so reach out early to ensure you reserve your spot in their schedule!

Start considering what type of signage you would need at your wedding (place cards, seating chart, welcome sign, bar sign, etc.).

3-4 months prior to your wedding

Invitations and envelope addressing are done! Finalize your wedding signage details with your calligrapher so they can start working on those design proposals.

6-8 weeks prior to your wedding

Mail out your beautifully calligraphy addressed wedding invitations! Confirm the design and wording of your signage with your calligrapher around this time, with the exception of your seating chart (if you’re still waiting on those RSVPs).

3-6 weeks prior to your wedding

Once you start receiving your RSVPs, you can begin to organize your seating assignments. Most venues require final head count 3 weeks before your wedding date, so this is roughly when your calligrapher will need the final guest list for seating charts and place cards.

This is a general guide to help you plan your wedding timeline, so you don’t feel rushed getting everything done. The sooner the better, of course. Good luck!

Finally…Enjoy your wedding day!

Planing a wedding and in need of a calligrapher? Contact me and let’s create beautiful details for your wedding! Email: nancy@nhbydesign.com.