1. When should I order my wedding stationery?
2. How does the process work?
3. Can I get samples?
4. Do you have order minimums?
5. What forms of payment do you accept?
6. Is my deposit refundable?
7. Is there tax on my order?
8. How does calligraphy work?
9. Can you address my envelopes even if I am ordering my invitations elsewhere?
10. Can you assemble my invitations?
11. Can I get coordinating programs and menus?
12. Can you do invitations for other events?
13. I already designed my own invites -- can you just print them for me?
1. When should I order my wedding stationery?
In general, the earlier the better! Ephemera is a small studio, and we can only take on so many projects. We can accommodate rush orders when our schedule permits. A rush fee will apply.
Invitations are typically sent out 6-10 weeks before a wedding. We recommend placing your invitation order 4-6 months before your wedding date.
Save-the-date cards are typically sent out 6 months before your wedding, allowing your guests to make travel plans with your event in mind. We recommend placing your save-the-date order 8-9 months before your wedding date.
Thank you cards, programs, menus, place cards, and other reception items can be ordered about 6 weeks before your wedding.
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2. How does the ordering process work?
The best way to get started is to contact us for a price quote. Once we know a little bit about your project, we will create an estimate customized just for you.
If you are in the Seattle area, we can then set up a complimentary consultation to show you more of our work in person, and hash out the details. If you are working with Ephemera from afar, you might want to order a Sample Pack so you can see our work before you buy.
Once we have nailed down the details, we will write up the order and request a 50% non-refundable deposit to get started. For wedding invitations, the process (from deposit to delivery) typically takes 6-10 weeks, depending on your project's complexity and our workload. For other items, the turnaround is closer to 3-5 weeks. The balance is due before we can ship your order. If you are picking up your order locally, you can pay the balance due at that time.
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3. Can I get samples?
Yes. Please visit the order page for a link to order a sample pack.
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4. Do you have order minimums?
We require a minimum order of 25 of any particular item, but beyond that, but you may order any quantity you like -- even a number like 93. Simply contact us to request a precise quote.
When specifying your quantity, remember that you will want at least 1 extra invitation as a keepsake for yourself. Most people actually order 10-20 extras in case of last minute guest list additions.
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5. What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept personal checks. We do not accept credit cards at this time.
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6. Is my deposit refundable?
No, deposits are not refundable.
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7. Is there tax on my order?
Orders delivered or shipped to addresses within the state of Washington are subject to your local sales tax.
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8. How does calligraphy work?
Once you’ve chosen your preferred script and ink color, we request a typed guest list with all your guests’ names and addresses, written exactly as you want them to appear on the envelope. You’ll want to take time to make sure your spelling, addresses, and etiquette are correct. We can provide help with the etiquette part! Envelope addressing typically adds 2 weeks to the turnaround time of your order.
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9. Can you address my envelopes even if I am ordering my invitations elsewhere?
Probably! It depends on our workload and a few other factors. Let us know your timeline, quantity and how many extra envelopes you ordered.
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10. Can you assemble my invitations?
Yes! We can completely assemble your invitations for an additional charge. The charge will depend on the complexity of the job. Otherwise, you will receive (for example) a package of invitations, a package of envelopes, a package of reply cards, a roll of ribbon, and so forth.
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11. Can I get coordinating programs and menus?
Yes! We can design and print much more than invitations! Popular accompaniments include programs, menus, thank you cards, favor tags, place cards, escort cards, wish bowl or guest book note cards, and just about anything else that you may need.
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12. Can you do invitations for other events?
Absolutely! Corporate events, anniversaries, bar or bat mitzvahs, birthday soirees – anytime you need to make a distinctive impression with letterpress, Ephemera is here to help.
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13. I already designed my own invites -- can you just print them for me?
Sorry, we are no longer printing others' designs. We suggest contacting a commercial letterpress print shop in your area.
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