Minted: 20% off + free shipping on everything, all year.
Just about to head in that direction. Brace yourselves, folks.
For those who may not be acquainted with Minted, it’s a fantastic online tool dedicated to crafting and acquiring your wedding stationery. They’ve collaborated with numerous talented designers to create customizable templates that can be professionally printed and shipped to your doorstep at an affordable cost. Wedding planners are forming partnerships with Minted to enhance their services while providing you with fantastic deals. Their process is fully automated, making it a breeze for millennials to accomplish tasks without the need for human interaction. No shade being thrown here – it’s wonderful, and personally, I appreciate not having to engage with people when handling tasks. I totally get it.
Over the past few years, Minted has garnered significant popularity, and along with it, some confusion has arisen. Why should I hire a stationery designer to create my wedding invitations when Minted can handle it?
Well, I’m here to explain. If you’re seeking a specific level of service, quality, and comprehensive guidance, Minted (or similar websites) may not be the ideal choice for you. Today, I’m going to make a compelling case for hiring a stationer (like myself!), so you can make an informed decision.
WHERE TO BEGIN
It’s a fact that these websites are brimming with design options. While this is a positive aspect, it can also be overwhelming. You can’t simply send Minted your moodboard and expect it to return suites that perfectly match your aesthetic. Collaborating with a stationer immediately refines your vision, simplifying the selection process and reducing noise.
ONE OF A KIND
This may seem obvious, but if having one-of-a-kind paper is a top priority for you, these websites may not be your cup of tea.
UH-OH, ISSUES ARISE!
Not sure how to properly address an envelope to your gay uncles, both of whom are doctors? Stumped by a curveball from your cousin who just relocated to Germany? Your fiancée’s niece married a Frenchman and has some unusual characters in her last name that the computer can’t handle? An experienced stationer has got your back. Such scenarios crop up with EVERY SINGLE CLIENT. Whether it’s a late address, a change of date, a rehearsal dinner invitation – you name it! There are always questions and exceptions, and seasoned stationers will always have answers or a well-thought-out plan!
COHESIVE DESIGN
Another advantage of working with a stationer for your wedding invitations is that they should be able to design your day-of stationery (such as menus, place cards, signage, etc.) to seamlessly coordinate with your suite. This way, you won’t have to scour Etsy for signs featuring different hand-lettering styles. You might hear people talk about your wedding “brand,” and while it may sound a bit whimsical, it’s a real thing. All your elements should harmonize.
ALL THE ELEGANT TOUCHES
You adore those wax seals and dream of having a gold one with your wedding monogram on every envelope, but how do you make it happen? Silk ribbon? So exquisite, but where do you source it?!
If you have a penchant for exquisite embellishments (which truly elevate a suite, in my humble opinion), working with a stationer eliminates approximately 600 additional hours of effort. Your stationer can even assemble everything for you, sparing you the trouble of lifting a finger (or accidentally spilling hot wax everywhere).
VENDOR-FRIENDORS
Ultimately, the rest of your wedding vendors are most likely human beings. While online shops are convenient, nothing can replace the direct communication between two humans discussing your big day. Stationers collaborate directly with planners, who, in turn, coordinate with everyone else. Partnering with a custom stationer is another way to ensure a smooth and stress-free big day.