STATIONERY
Q & A with Allyson Dupont, owner of
Allyson Dupont Designs
When to begin: I recommend couples schedule a consultation no later
than six to eight weeks before the intended mailing date (though most
will schedule at least three to six months prior). Save the dates are usually
sent out six to eight months before the wedding, while the typical rule for
invitations is six to eight weeks. It is important to note that some vendors,
especially caterers, may have an earlier deadline for the final head count,
which would alter the invitation timing.
Have you noticed any new design trends? Greens and foliage, real
wood veneers and accents, and metallic colors or glitter. Elaborate laser cut
elements and pocket enclosures are also very trendy right now. Themed
weddings — including Halloween, "Harry Potter" and "The Great Gatsby," to
name just a few — are also far more common than in the past.
How can couples cut costs? Focus on the key features that draw your
eye and spend less on pieces that are not a priority. Cut elements from the
response cards first since they will be mailed back to you anyway. Multiple
layers of mattes add a lot of additional labor costs, so consider how many
layers are really necessary to achieve the look you want. Colored envelopes
can often be substituted for envelope lining, and custom or laser cut shapes
should be used sparingly for both the greatest visual impact and lowest cost.
Lastly, embellishments like metallic stamping or glitter are pretty but very
costly, so look at alternatives like using gold iridescent invitation stock instead.
What other types of stationery do you do? If it’s made of paper, I do
it. Menus, table numbers, ceremony programs, place cards and escort cards,
mini table number guest books, albums for instant photos, signage, food
labels, decorative seals, stickers, inserts, thank you notes, wraps for favors,
welcome bag tags and more.
What advice do you have for engaged couples? I can’t stress
enough the importance of starting early and keeping a working list of
who will be invited. This will allow them to give vendors a more accurate
final count estimate; no one wants to be stuck paying the tab for unused,
non-refundable specialty materials or pricey rush-production fees for
late additions.
401.231.5666
www.cherryhillflower.org
265 Greenville Avenue
Johnston, RI
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY'S ENGAGED 2018 | 31