Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will it take to complete my job?
A: Typically for a wedding, with inside and outside envelopes of approximately 100-150 it would take a week to ten days to complete the job. The rule of thumb for weddings is to have them in the mail 6-8 weeks in advance of your wedding date so contacting me at least 10 weeks before your wedding. For poetry, quotes, certificates or other pieces please allow 2-3 weeks for completion.
Q: Should I order more envelopes than I need?
A: Yes please! An extra 10-15 envelopes is ideal per 100 envelopes. Extra envelopes ensure that any envelopes with errors can be replaced. With your permission, I can keep a few of your extra envelopes in case of last minute additions, to be sent to you as needed.
Q: What format should my list be in?
A: If you meet with me you can bring your list with you or email it to me. Please use Microsoft Word or another word processor (even Notepad) and type your list with your guests name on the first line and their address underneath it, much like it will look on your complete envelope. Please do not send or give me a list in Excel as I find it difficult to use accurately. Please double check your lists to ensure they are error free but if I have questions about details on your list I will contact you.
If you are using an inner envelope please indicate either on a separate line or on the same line in italics, the name you would like me to use. Often the inner envelopes are less formal that the names used on the outside. For example: Mr. & Mrs. Simon Perry could have Simon and Ellen Perry on the inner envelope.
Q: For the illustrated Life Art pieces, what is the process?
A: When you contact me please have as many of the following as possible to ensure the best outcome: photographs, lists of favorite things, images of specific objects that you would like me to include in the piece and knowledge of favorite colors and styles of the person this gift is intended for. Either hard copies or emailed images are fine. These pieces are the most personalized gift that you can give someone. It takes at least 3 weeks to complete them and are 8X10 in size.
Q: Do you use colored inks or just black?
A: Although black is considered classic and goes with most envelope colors, I do use colored inks for envelopes. Darker colors are best for the post office to be able to read to ensure that your invitations arrive at their destinations. Colored inks work well for events such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and sweet sixteen invitations.
Q: If we live out of state can we ship our envelopes to you?
A: Absolutely. Once completed they will be shipped back to you using your preferred carrier, such as UPS or Fedex.
Q: Can we pay by check or credit card?
A: Checks are preferred and payable when you pick up your order, or before we ship back your envelopes. At this time we cannot accept credit cards but may be able to accept PayPal soon. Please make checks to my name, Rachel Diamond Calow and not Calligraphy for All Occasions.