What happens in the process of making my order?
I work collaboratively with my couples to create the design of their dreams that instils their personalities and passions into their paper goods.
I begin by talking with them to find out their vision for their suite and the personal touches they wish to include. From these discussions I will come up with a rough design idea elaborate and on it, taking into account the materials and elements they wish to include and create a quote. As all my suites are custom the cost will be heavily impacted by the design and material choices so I will often send a multi- page quote with different price points detailing how different design elements and materials impact the pricing – if I know the couples budget I will also do a quote with recommendations for them to get as many of the elements as they can while staying as close to the budget as possible.
Once the quote has been accepted the couple will receive their contract, questionnaire (to gather all the details and information for the suite), timeline calendar and I will create a design draft (or if more than one concept as come to the foreground during our discussions than I may do more than one design draft) – with a sketch of the suite and all the elements to be included to make sure we all have the same vision. This is the ideal time for couples to make any major changes to their design concept and layout. I will then order all of the elements for their suite, including envelopes, wax seals, ribbons etc. When a design is decided on I will begin to create the couple’s final lettering and artwork before putting together a thorough proof for them to go over to check all the details of their suite – I provide as many rounds of corrections as needed however more than three can push back the delivery deadline outlined in their initial calendar. When I receive approved proofs from my couples I send the pieces to print and then package them beautifully ready for delivery or shipping.
Do you address envelopes?
Yes, I absolutely do.
Do you collaborate with other creatives?
Yes, definitely! I very much enjoy collaborating with other creatives to bring their vision to life.
I am interested in calligraphy work that is not for a wedding, an invitation, or an envelope, what should I do?
Please feel free to contact me! Weddings are just a small part of what I do at Little Duck Calligraphy, which spans any and all events as well as logos for small businesses. I love being a part of creation of beautiful things that you can remember and cherish for years to come.
Do you offer different Calligraphy styles?
Yes, I have a modern calligraphy styles and will use the one that best suites the design of your suite. Please note while would love to use the style you love the most I will not copy or attempt to replicate another artist’s work.
When should I book my calligraphy project? What is your turnaround time?
The earlier a job is booked in the better – this allows me to schedule my bookings and ensure that I have enough time for everybody. My time does get booked up especially leading up to seasonal events (including wedding season!) so to avoid disappointment please feel free get in touch as early as possible. Turn around time always depend on the specifics and quantities of your project but to avoid any rush fees there must be at least 3 weeks between your booking confirmation and expected delivery date – please note that projects such as invitation suites or other quantity based pieces will require at least six weeks
What if I haven’t left three weeks for my project?
Rush orders can be made in the event a project requires a faster turnaround time. Such orders may incur an additional 50% surcharge on top of the regular order cost. Rush orders are not actually “rushed” but rather reprioritised above existing orders to ensure completion within the desired timeframe, however we cannot guarantee there will always be time available so we always recommend contacting us well in advance.
Can you send me a price list?
Each piece of calligraphy is written by hand and no two items will ever be exactly the same, so for the most part each quote must similarly be uniquely tailored to your requirements. As a general guide see the below list, however, keep in mind that these prices can vary depending on the use of custom materials, detailing and inks.
- Spot Calligraphy (e.g. names on invitations) $2 each
- Envelope addressing
- Outer envelope $4.50 each
- Inner envelope $4.00 each
- Return Address $3.50 each
- RSVP Envelope $3.50 each
- Place card $2.50 each plus the cost of the card
- Escort Card (name and table number) $3.00
For invitation suites, menus, table numbers, seating plans, wedding vows or other event signage, please contact Little Duck Calligraphy for a quote.
For any other bespoke calligraphy requests, including love letters, custom prints, baby room signs and anything else you have in mind, please provide details and Little Duck Calligraphy will tailor a quote for your request.
Please note this pricing is a guide only. It is always advisable to contact the us for a personalised quote.
Do I need to put down a deposit?
Yes, along with returning your signed contract, you will need to pay a deposit of 50% of the order cost to reserve the necessary time to complete your project on schedule.
What colour inks do you use?
Any and every colour! When you contact us about your project I will discuss ink colours with you and what would suite your project. I have a lovely range of metallics and am absolutely happy to mix custom colour batches or colour match for you, just be aware that these can incur an additional fee.
Who supplies the “paper” goods (envelopes, place cards, chalkboards/mirrors, etc.)?
If Little Duck Calligraphy is creating your wedding stationery I will take care of sourcing and collecting all the elements and materials you need – uncommon items like agate slices, leaves, tiles may incur an additional fee for the time to research and source them.
Usually if a client is booking me just for calligraphy services (addressing, day-of, etc.), they will also provide the materials. If you’d like me to help take care of that step, Little Duck Calligraphy can supply paper goods upon request. I will discuss these options with you to ensure that the paper goods chosen will compliment your order and depending on the requirements there may be additional cost.
(I do recommend that if you are getting your invitation suite from somewhere else that you order your envelopes through them to ensure consistency across your suite, however, I would love to address these for you!)
As with paper goods, the mirror, chalk board or alternative materials (marble coasters, agate slices, etc.) are typically supplied by you. If you would like me to source the materials for your unique idea please get in touch and I may be able to help at a small cost to cover time plus the cost of the item/s.
Do I need to provide extra envelopes or paper goods?
If you are providing the envelopes, place cards or other paper goods you will need to supply approximately 15-20% extra to account for additional requests, errors or mishaps. If Little Duck Calligraphy is supplying your paper I will automatically include 20% extra to cover this.
How do I get my items?
I normally use Australia Post to deliver items with the cost of postage included in your final invoice. If you are nearby you can also arrange to personally collect items, or talk to me about delivery depending on where you are located.
Do you offer refunds or exchange?
Each piece is uniquely designed and written by hand to your project specifications and no two pieces will be exactly the same. I cannot offer full refunds once you have received a proof as by this point I will have spent many hours getting your design just right for you.
Before supplying your proof we will have discussed the design together to work out exactly what you are picturing. I am always happy to walk you through my process, answer any questions and work out what is best for you – so when you get your final piece there should be no surprises anyway!
If you’re really dissatisfied with something, send us an email and we’ll talk. I value my work and don’t want to see any unhappy customers!
I still have more questions?
I’d love to answer them personally. Please contact me at Little Duck Calligraphy with any questions!