Custom Wedding Invitations and What Inspires Them

Custom Wedding Invitations and What Inspires Them

Alyssa + Jared | 9.14.24

*Take me to the details.

Custom wedding invitation suite flat lay styled with florals and vintage decor.

A custom wedding invitation is as unique to a couple as a fingerprint. It belongs to them and there is simply no other invite like it. 

White Ink has been specializing in custom invites for several years. And each process is as exciting as the one before. Seeing our brides and grooms incorporate distinctive and meaningful details into their wedding invitations and make their visions come to life is easily the best part of our job. 

The custom invitation suite we created for White Ink couple, Alyssa and Jared, is a beautiful example of what it looks like when we pull together unique textures, tones, florals, and calligraphy that speak to the personality of a couple and what inspires them. 

Custom wedding invitation suite flat lay styled with florals and vintage decor.

“Nothing says ‘timeless southern wedding’ more than blue and white hydrangeas.”

The inspiration behind the design of custom wedding invitations aims to reflect the theme of a client’s big day. For Alyssa and Jared, that meant choosing details that could blend perfectly into their end-of-summer, southern nuptials which included a gorgeous summer wedding reception at the iconic Hermitage Hotel in Nashville. Nothing says “timeless southern wedding” more than blue and white hydrangeas!

From top to bottom, the entire suite is giving southern living with a kiss of Nantucket floral vibes! Each layer is an absolute treat for the eyes with florals peeking from every corner. 

If you’re familiar with the motif of a traditional southern wedding, you’ll know that more is always better- especially when it comes to florals! This invitation suite did not disappoint. From the envelope liner to the vellum gatefold, these invites are blooming with summery, southern florals. 

By giving us an in-depth dive into the details and design of the grandmillenial aesthetic of their wedding, Alyssa and Jared were able to achieve the classic elements and charm they envisioned for their custom wedding invitations. We work closely with our couples to make each project nothing short of special. 

Custom wedding invitation flat lay includes envelope liner and envelope spot calligraphy

It’s all in the Detail.

We are thrilled when it’s time to roll up our sleeves and begin the process of designing the custom wedding invitation our clients dream of. This is what we love to do and it’s why we’re here!

Let’s get into details that perfectly pulled Alyssa and Jared’s invitation suite together to pair with their classic southern, summer wedding day.

  • The dusty-blue toned envelopes were addressed using spot calligraphy in dark blue ink. 
  • We created the dark blue envelope liner that boasted baby blue and white summer florals. Envelope liners are always an eye-catching experience for guests! 
  • A vellum gatefold is used to clutch the invitation suite. The soft transparent texture complete with southern florals easily elevates the elegance of the invites.
  • A custom wax seal added to the charm and texture of the vellum gatefold. 
  • The custom monogram located atop the main invitation is digitally printed. Customized invitation artwork like this can pack a powerful punch in the uniqueness of an invitation suite.  
  • The lettering throughout the invitation suite is done in a soft silver hue using thermography text- a process that is used to mimic the look of engraved lettering. 
Thermography- Did you Know?

Thermographic printing is a printing technique that uses heat to slightly raise the lettering off of paper or cardstock adding to the texture and finish of an invite. It’s like adding an instant layer of luxury to your invitation suite!

custom wedding invite showcases thermographic print in silver ink.

When it comes to custom wedding invitations, White Ink has you covered. We have extensive experience in what it takes to create the exact invite our clients envision. Whether the theme is boho chic or traditionally southern, we know how to make an invitation suite that is uniquely you! 

Tell us about your vision! What details and designs do you want to see on your wedding invites?

Credit
Planner: Vision in White Events
Reception Venue: The Hermitage Hotel
Invitation Photography: Peterson design & photography
Invitation & Calligraphy: White Ink Calligraphy

Charmed in Boston | Georgi + Jason | 9.30.23

Charmed in Boston | Georgi + Jason | 9.30.23

Bride and groom walking up stairs towards entrance of Boston Public Library

The September sky gave way to one of the most gorgeous and memorable weddings we’ve put our touch on. And it couldn’t have happened to a sweeter couple. Getting to watch these nuptials unfold at the Boston Public Library was the cherry on top! Georgi and Jason put together an amazing wedding and as thrilled as we were to be a part of it all, we hated to see the day come to an end. Couples like this, with weddings like this one, are something we keep close to our hearts.

full image of bride walking on sidewalk, veil trailing behind

The detail that I just can’t get over- Georgi’s veil alone was enough to stop us in our tracks. Draped gently behind her long dark hair, this stunning piece was having a moment!

Styled flat lay of formal wedding invitation suite

Georgi and Jason’s invitation suite boasted a seamless balance of delicate and bold features. Full calligraphy done in rose gold ink complimented the black envelopes beautifully. The invitation suite was letter-pressed with spot calligraphy on stock paper and elevated with a beautiful black, vellum overlay which included a custom sketch of the Boston Public Library! Vintage postage and a custom rose gold wax seal completed this impeccable design.

formal, custom wedding invitation suite
black and white image of the Boston Public Library building
invitation suite with print of Boston Public Library, tied with black ribbon
fully calligraphed, black wedding invite envelope
invitation envelope with custom gold wax seal
Bride in gown, long dark hair, standing in front of window
Groom in black tux pulling jacket together and looking out window
Wedding invitation suite styled with jewelry
Wedding invitation suite styled with jewelry
entrance stairway of Boston Public Library styled with florals
Custom, formal wedding welcome sign at entrance of staircase

White Ink was honored to add to the breathtaking staircase entrance of this unforgettable venue. The sharp black wedding welcome sign topped with white lettering, stood out against an impressive array of florals and lit candles which demanded the attention of each guest as they passed by.

Bride and groom walking up staircase looking back at camera
formal table of floral arrangement at entrance of staircase styled in florals
Overhead view of bride and groom walking up stair case
Bride walking down aisle in nighttime outdoor venue
Bride and groom meet at the end of ailse with officiant
Overhead view of formal reception tables styled with high florals
custom table number among florals and formal tablescape

Just as Georgi and Jason’s invitation suite and wedding welcome sign harnessed a delicate boldness, so did the table numbers which sat perfectly into the formal tablescape for their reception. There are times when table signage takes an unassuming role among the tablescape, but then there are moments when table signs play an important part in grabbing the guest’s attention. These sharp lines and block signage with gold numbers set against the soft florals and candles and white linen offered a uniquely formal taste and modern/chic appearance to the 170-year-old venue. A detail which was beautifully and purposefully done.

Formal reception tables styled with high florals
Bride and groom seated at formal head table
Bride and groom dance on the dancefloor.

We love our Nashville couples, that’s no secret. But getting to meet our couples where they are is something we cherish and are always honored to do. Finding ourselves at the Boston Public Library in the presence of Georgi and Jason along with their closest family and friends was an incredible moment for us at White Ink. I am so moved to have been a part of this incredible journey with the perfect couple. To Georgi and Jason, thanks for the memories that will last forever. Cheers!


Venue: Boston Public Library
Photography: Paulina Bichara
Flat-Lay Invitation Suite Photography: Peterson Design House
Calligraphy: White Ink Calligraphy


A Book is Like a Garden…

A Book is Like a Garden…

There is an old proverb that says, “A book is like a garden carried in the pocket.” Within the pages of a book one can find beauty, power, and adventure that is universally understood. This is something that book lovers far and wide keep close to their hearts. And for our couple, Christy and Oliver, nothing was more fitting than being surrounded by an array of literature on their big day. White Ink was honored to be invited to the Nashville Public Library to help our bride and groom turn the page as they stepped into a new chapter of their lives!

Bride and Groom laughing together while seated on a sofa in front of book shelves.
Wedding invitation suite showcasing custom sketch and styled with jewelry and florals. Sitting on wooden surface.
Wedding invitation suite showcasing custom sketch and styled with jewelry and florals. Sitting on wooden surface.

For starters, I want to share this fantastic invitation suite with you! Complete with keepsake tasseled bookmarks and a custom sketch of the Nashville Public Library. These invites are just…. everything.

Wedding invitation suite showcasing custom sketch and styled with jewelry and florals. Sitting on wooden surface.

White Ink designed Christy and Oliver’s reception menus to look like vintage library book check-out cards! Is this not THE most perfect thing for a wedding at a library?! I love when our couples invite us to have fun in creating these parts of their wedding details. This is one that our team will always remember!

Aerial view of bride and groom walking down the black and white checkered aisle.
Green seating chart display standing on black and white checkered floor, boasting custom bookmark escort cards.

Guests were wowed with the seating chart we helped bring together for our bride and groom. The escort cards doubled as keepsake bookmarks! This event was clever from start to finish with so many details like this being carried throughout. These are things that guests ALWAYS notice and remember for a long time.

Green seating chart display standing on black and white checkered floor, boasting custom bookmark escort cards.
Green seating chart display standing on black and white checkered floor, boasting custom bookmark escort cards.

I can’t get enough of this black and white checkered flooring and how well it makes this seating chart pop!

Green seating chart display standing on black and white checkered floor, boasting custom bookmark escort cards.

When your reception is in the middle of a gorgeous library, a simple touch of elegance is enough to seriously elevate the look and decor of the room. Classic black, calligraphed table numbers nestled on top of the bright white table linen was the chef’s kiss to this tablescape. Dreamy, classy, smart.

Custom place cards sat at the head of each place setting for Christy and Oliver’s reception. When it comes to impressing your guests and making them feel like they were a big part of your event planning, place cards truly take the cake! It is a very personal and intentional detail that has a big impact on the person sitting in front of it. I love it when a couple appreciates details like these. Peep those adorable check-out card menus!

Christy and Oliver were an absolute delight to work with and we are forever grateful to get the chance to help elevate some of the most meaningful details of the day. Just like the guests, I know I will be talking about this wedding for a long time to come. For the White Ink team, this wedding was one… for the books.

Venue: Nashville Public Library
Planner: Modern Vintage Events
Photography: Christine Meyer Creative
Calligraphy: White Ink Calligraphy
Florals: Stella Rose Floral
Rentals: Please Be Seated

The Night Before

The Night Before

A bride and groom’s time to shine isn’t narrowed down to just one day. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments happen in the days surrounding a wedding day. One of the biggest roles of a rehearsal dinner is to allow the bride and group an opportunity to properly welcome family and the wedding party. Cason and Eddie set the bar for what a rehearsal dinner should look like and feel like! I was honored that they invited White Ink to take part in delivering a rehearsal to remember!

Bride and Groom smiling together while seated on sofa.
Custom Rehearsal invitation suite, menu, and table number styled with purple florals to match.
Custom Rehearsal invitation suite, menu, and table number styled with purple florals to match.

White Ink knows how to deliver the goods…. paper goods! Cason and Eddie’s June nuptials offered the perfect chance for them to use the beauty of summer floral prints. I especially love that the floral print we used on the rehearsal invite liner was also used when customizing the table number signs for this beautiful couple.

Custom Rehearsal invitation suite, menu, and table number styled with purple florals to match.

I always love to see that gorgeous dusty blue hue. Our couple incorporated this color throughout the entire evening, and I simply didn’t get enough of it.

Custom Rehearsal invitation suite, menu, and table number styled with purple florals to match.

Notice the “C.E.” monogram sporting more gorgeous blue summer floral prints on both the custom Rehearsal Dinner menu and invite.

Custom Welcome Sign in front of draped entrance and ornamented with florals

Cason and Eddie chose the ever-stunning Noelle in Nashville to welcome their close friends and family to their wedding celebrations. White Ink collaborated with Hill Event Rentals to put together this amazing welcome sign that was tucked perfectly against a draped entryway. The florals that lined the bottom of the sign was the cherry on top that made this welcome sign the delicate focal point that it was. Teamwork!

Custom Welcome Sign in front of draped entrance and ornamented with florals
Custom Welcome Sign in front of draped entrance and ornamented with florals
Bride and groom smiling and walking down stairs together.
Bride and groom embrace in a kiss at doorway entrance.
Grand arched entrance flanked by florals and escort card display.

“Your Seat Awaits,” topped the escort card display. Hill Event Rentals once again showcased some of their best work with building this display to match the Welcome Sign display. White Ink did what we do best and added the laser-cut text along with individually calligraphed place cards, complete with a custom monogramed wax seal.

Remember, event signage doesn’t have to be cold or bossy. Direct your guests in a warm and beautiful way! Feel free to make it unique and even playful! We love helping our clients with these ideas.

Florals, champagne flute and custom table number display on a formal dining table.

The table numbers fit perfectly into the stunning formal tablescapes in the Noelle’s Sadiee Gallery Grand Ballroom. They simple belonged in this room!

Formal place setting including gold rimmed plate topped with napkin and custom dinner menu.

The place cards elevated the show-stopping tablescape and fit effortlessly alongside the goldware at each place setting. This is a perfect example of how one seemingly small detail can really pack a big decor punch!

Formal place setting including gold rimmed plate topped with napkin and custom dinner menu.
Formal place setting including gold rimmed plate topped with napkin and custom dinner menu.

Classic display of the custom menu we designed for Cason and Eddie. Carrying details like color and prints throughout the whole of an event sends a message of intention and thoughtfulness and can show guests that their enjoyment is a really big part of the planning process!

Formal place setting including gold rimmed plate topped with napkin and custom dinner menu.
Bride and groom walking away together crossing the street.

We were honored to join our couple, Cason and Eddie, in one of the most meaningful nights of their lives! They made sure that their family and wedding party received a proper welcome. We cannot wait to share more details about their wedding day too! For now, we will hold on to memories that were made “The Night Before.”

Venue: Noelle
Planning: Modern Vintage Events
Photography: Gray Kammera Photography
Calligraphy: White Ink Calligraphy
Florals: FLWR Shop
Rentals: Hill Event Rentals

Letters From Santa! Naughty and Nice!

Letters From Santa! Naughty and Nice!

He’s making a list and checkin’ it twice! We are gearing up to roll out our very popular Letters from Santa!

Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa. Styled with tray of white wax seals, seal press, calligraphy pen, string and tassel.

A Christmas tradition for many children around the world is getting to sit down and write their letter to Santa! You may have even done this yourself as a child, listing your favorite toys, games and treats in hopes of getting what you “wish” for. This rite of passage plays an important role in the magic of celebrating Christmas. If this is a tradition that your family likes to take part in, then we are so excited to share what White Ink has for you! 

Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa.

We think that writing to the North Pole doesn’t have to be a one-way street. This is our favorite time of year because we finally get to offer our “Letters from Santa”! And they are SO much fun! These letters are the perfect way to add to the joy that children delightfully dive into during this time of year.  

Green envelope with calligraphy and vintage holiday stamp.
Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa. Styled with tray of white wax seals, seal press, calligraphy pen, string and tassel.

Each of our letters from Santa includes custom calligraphy on the front of the envelope showing your child’s name. The envelopes are beautifully lined with a properly seasonal tartan plaid liner which always delivers that “holiday feel”. Inside, your child will find their card from Santa Claus confirming that they made it to the Nice List! (Phew!)

Plaid-lined green envelope with wax seal displaying a Letter from Santa.
Green envelope with calligraphy and vintage holiday postage inside red mailbox
Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa.
antique tray with white, custom wax seals and vintage postage
Plaid-lined green envelope with wax seal
antique tray with white, custom wax seals and vintage postage

The letter is sealed with a Santa monogram wax seal. And finally, each letter from Santa will be complete with vintage Christmas postage. Of course, the postage will be stamped by the North Pole because it totally came from there!  Don’t worry though, we will mail your letter in a white flat mailer addressed to you (NOT your child). You get to choose the perfect time for your little one to discover that Santa has a big surprise for them, and it’s not even Christmas yet!  

Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa. Styled with tray of white wax seals, seal press, calligraphy pen, string and tassel.

We are excited to add that Santa has updated his desk stationary! This year, White Ink is offering a chance for parents to get in on the fun by including a “Naughty List” card this holiday season. If you’re looking for a cheeky way to bring a laugh to a spouse, friend or family, send them a letter from the jolly old man himself and enjoy the smile it brings to them.

Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa. Styled with tray of white wax seals, seal press, calligraphy pen, string and tassel.
Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa.
Plaid-lined green envelope displaying a Letter from Santa. Styled with tray of white wax seals, seal press, calligraphy pen, string and tassel.

The only thing that could make this any better is adding our adorable little gift tags from the North Pole, more importantly, from Santa! This is just another small detail that can keep the magic going all the way to Christmas Day! Place these onto the gifts that the “elves” worked so hard to make as an official gift from Santa. I especially love the holly floral print on these little guys!

A From Santa gift tag on vintage tray
A From Santa gift tag on vintage tray

For the kids (and parents) who are still fully wrapped in the magic and enchantment of the holidays, receiving a letter from Santa Claus is sure to leave a lasting impression. Christmas isn’t just a time of year, it’s a feeling. A child will never forget what it felt like to open the letter that Santa wrote just for them. And White Ink is proud to make this happen for your sweet kiddos and family. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Green envelope with calligraphy and vintage holiday postage inside red mailbox
A Symphony of Love | Kayla + Caleb | 7.15.23

A Symphony of Love | Kayla + Caleb | 7.15.23

Kayla and Caleb’s Nashville wedding was an absolute dream! This picturesque event of classic and timeless details was something you just couldn’t take your eyes off of. From the gothic style architecture of Scarritt Bennett’s Wightman Chapel to the grandeur of Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center, there wasn’t a stone left unturned as Kayla and Caleb carefully placed together one of the best Nashville weddings White Ink has seen. I want to share with you all of the finer details that we were honored to be a part of. Hopefully you can take away some serious wedding inspo from this gorgeous day!

Bride and groom under arch way tunnel. Groom holding bride's face as they share a kiss.
Wedding invitation suite styled along with jewelry, perfume, garter and other fabrics.

We designed our couple’s wedding invitation suite to embody the elegance of their big day. A custom monogram delicately stood out on the beautiful card stock. I loved adding the extra touch of using a custom, monogram, gold, wax seal for the envelopes. These are small details that pack a big impression!

Custom wedding invitation
Custom Wedding invitation
Custom Wedding invitation
Custom Wedding invitation
Bride dressed in gown and veil looking out of window.
groom in suit looking down to fix cufflinks.
Hand holding up ceremony program

Programs- What separates White Ink from big box paper retailers? We make it our job to take out the guess work! We understand what should go into your programs, we know how many you need, the size, where to “splurge”, and how even to incorporate elements form your invitation suite. We have the experience and the expertise to help you get EXACTLY what you need for important, day-of details just like this.

Outside image of Scarritt-Bennett church showcasing front double doors and stained glass windows.
Scarritt-Bennet church auditorium facing grand organ.
mirrored seating chart styled with florals at top corner.

It’s hard to top the simple elegance a mirrored seating chart. I have always loved how the white lettering on the glass instantly elevates the beauty of this double-rib framed mirror. Kayla and Caleb styled this gorgeous seating chart with florals (always a good idea!) and surrounded it with glass vases holding floating candles. I can’t think of a better way to be invited to take my seat at a table in the opulent Schermerhorn. Divine!

Custom dinner menu on top of gold rim plate.

The most elegant part to these custom designed reception menus is that each menu had the guests’ names calligraphed directly on to them. This is why I love what I do! I love when my couples give me the chance to really elevate the finer details of their reception. And yes, guests DO notice little things just like this and often appreciate the level of attention.

Bride and groom share an embrace as the look on at the reception space with chandelier above them.
Bar menu, cocktail napkins and glasses on a counter top.
Custom cocktail napkins with print of dog's face.

Kayla and Caleb went with one of my favorite bar signs from our rental collection. We customized the drink menu to fit with the style of all other day-of paper goods as well as the invitation suite. And please take a moment to gush over the print of their sweet pup, Cash, on the cocktail napkins! Cocktail napkins are the perfect moment to bring in something special or personal to your big day. And it’s a detail that will be cherished forever.

Cocktail napkins and glasses on a counter top.
Bride and groom standing cheerfully while groom pours champagne of tower of champagne glasses.
Custom koozie and florals on top of table.

I think one of the most appreciated details of the evening were these adorable koozies that we customized for Kayla and Caleb! They once again took time to personalize an item that guests were able to use and enjoy. It was the perfect little koozie for guests to use with their drinks while they let loose on the Schermerhorn dance floor! I couldn’t love this more.

Groom on a person's shoulders. Wearing a cowboy hat on the dance floor at reception.
Bride cheering with guest on the dance floor.

For the White Ink team, this was a night to remember. Nights like this make us proud to do what we do. We love making our couples happy! Kayla and Caleb were an amazing couple to work with. They knew exactly what they wanted and trusted us to pull their vision together. And we are honored to do just that. Cheers to the happy couple!

Bride and Groom dancing on the dance floor as guests look on.

Planner: Velour Premier Events
Wedding Venue: Scarritt Bennett
Reception Venue: Schermerhorn Symphony Center
Florals: The Enchanted Florist
Photography: Feiten Photography
Calligraphy: White Ink Calligraphy