Frequently Asked Questions
01
What is a semi-custom wedding invitation?
Semi-custom suites start with one of our signature designs — like The Amelia or The Orleans — which focus on specific font pairings and typography. We customize the desired suite with your wedding details, ink colors, and selected paper and printing options. Our semi-custom suites can be further customized with upgrades like original watercolor artwork and illustrations by in-house artist, Michelle LeBleu, and embellishments like ribbon and wax seals.
02
When should I reach out to begin the stationery process?
We recommend reaching out 9-12 months before your wedding date. Save-the-dates typically go out 8-10 months in advance, and your wedding invitations 10–12 weeks before the wedding. If you are considering commissioning original artwork, starting early gives us ample time for the creative process. It is also important to note that we only accept a maximum of 4 weddings per month. We highly recommend securing your spot early. Don't wait until it is time to get started to book your stationer. Hold your date!
03
How does your design process work?
It begins with a Wedding Inquiry Form, where you share your vision, venue, color palette, and any inspiration. From there, we'll send two estimates and schedule a phone call or virtual consultation to walk through pricing, suite options, paper, print processes, and any further design ideas. You’ll then be provided with a contract and deposit invoice to book your wedding date.
For a streamlined process, our clients receive access to a personal portal where you’re presented with digital proofs (up to 4 rounds) for your review. You get to work one-on-one with your designer as we refine every detail exactly right
— then your suite goes to print upon signed approval.
04
What printing techniques do you offer?
We offer digital printing, letterpress, foil stamping, embossing, or combinations of either. Letterpress creates a beautiful tactile impression in the paper; foiling adds a luminous metallic finish; embossing adds a raised effect and digital printing is ideal for detailed watercolor artwork and full-color designs. During your consultation, we'll help you choose the finish that best suits your aesthetic and budget.
05
What printing techniques do you offer?
We offer digital printing, letterpress, foil stamping, embossing, or combinations of either. Letterpress creates a beautiful tactile impression in the paper; foiling adds a luminous metallic finish; embossing adds a raised effect and digital printing is ideal for detailed watercolor artwork and full-color designs. During your consultation, we'll help you choose the process that best suits your aesthetic and budget.
06
Can you help with Day Of Stationery as well?
Absolutely — Day Of Stationery is one of our most beloved offerings. We design ceremony programs, reception menus, escort cards, place cards, table numbers, signage, and more, all intentionally designed to coordinate with your invitation suite. Many of our couples also order custom Day Of Goods like cups, koozies, cocktail napkins, matchboxes, stir sticks, guest books, and more.
07
Do you ship nationwide?
Yes. While we are based in the Houston, TX and Lake Charles, LA areas and love serving Southern brides, we have designed for couples across the country. Your stationery will be carefully packaged and shipped directly to you, and mailed to your guests for you.
08
What is your typical turnaround time from proof approval to delivery?
Turnaround time varies by printing method and order size. As a general guideline: digital printing takes about 4 weeks from proof approval; letterpress and foil stamping take 4–6 weeks. Rush options may be available depending on our schedule — reach out and we'll do our best to accommodate your timeline.
09
Can you create stationery for events other than weddings?
Yes! We love designing for engagement parties, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday celebrations, and other special occasions. We also offer elevated personal stationery sets for anyone who appreciates the art of the handwritten note. Just tell us what you're celebrating.
10
How do I commission original art?
If you are a bride, you'll note it in your inquiry form that you're interested in either a sketched illustration or a watercolor painting. You'll then be given a quote. The commission fee is due upfront in order to begin the art process. This is done prior to any design work on the invitation or save the date. Note: Our venue artwork is exclusive only to Shop Aurea clients. You can learn more about original art below.
Fine Art by Michelle LeBleu
Custom illustrations and artwork add an element of personalization to your semi-custom suite. Feature your venue on the invitation, envelope liner, or details card. Custom art may also be carried over to your Day Of designs.
Sketched and painted by Michelle LeBleu exclusively for our Shop Aurea clients. Michelle specializes in venue illustrations and landscapes.
01
Watercolor Venue
Hand-sketched in pencil, painted using watercolor, and then digitized.
Benefits: Adds beautiful color to your suite.
*Can only be digitally printed.
02
Sketch Venue
Hand-sketched and digitized into vector format.
Benefits: can be used across all print processes like digital, foil stamping, and letterpress. Vectors can easily be manipulated in size and color.
03
Pattern Creation
Hand-sketched or painted, and then digitized.
Benefits: Can be incorporated throughout various elements of your stationery and event design to brand your wedding.
Examples: Bridesmaids Boxes, Envelope Liners, Wedding Day Signage, Stationery, Dancefloors, Bar Facades, Backdrops