10 Pretty Things We Love About: Bella Grafia

When it comes to setting the tone for your nuptials long before the Big Day actually arrives, there’s no better way to do so than with beautiful invitations. And no one knows this better than hand lettering expert, Janet Henderson Brown of Houston-based calligraphy studio Bella Grafia. We asked Janet 10 quick questions about what inspires her, below!

How did you get into calligraphy?

I was planning my daughter’s baby shower, and when I picked the invitations up, I was presented with “computer calligraphy” for the recipient addresses of the envelopes, and I was beyond irritated. That irritation led to taking calligraphy classes and private lessons from master penmen (there are only 12 in the world!) and former White House calligraphers. From there, it became an obsession! I had no intention of making a business out of it; that part just happened organically.

What’s your personal motto, or a phrase that inspires you creatively?

Do it beautifully or don’t do it at all.

Can you describe your aesthetic in three words?

Simplicity, well-executed with a kiss of panache.

What are three things in life you absolutely can’t live without?

Where do you find inspiration?

My penmanship is heavily influenced by Platt Rogers Spencer and Louis Madarasz. I also draw inspiration from paintings and music. Like any artist, I’m constantly learning so I am always looking at other art forms for “something new” or at least new to me that I can put my spin on.

What’s your favorite social media platform?

Pinterest and Facebook. Pinterest is really groovy to me because you can pull so many items of inspiration into one place and then have others collaborate as well.

What is a calligraphy detail that often gets overlooked, that you wish got more attention in the planning process?

Strangely, I think that many people overlook what to a calligrapher is obvious… the paper. Beautiful calligraphy is produced by 3 things — 1) beautiful paper, 2) beautiful ink, and 3) the writer. The quality of the paper is just as important as the beauty of the invitations. That invitation in the mail is the first thing that guests see with regard to your wedding. It sets the tone.

What do you think is the most important question a client can ask, when deciding who to hire for their wedding’s calligraphy?

I would say that it’s not so much of a question, but more of looking at their body of work or their samples (physical samples or website portfolio). Make sure that the style they execute is in line with your aesthetic.   Being on the same page is always beneficial to both parties.

What’s been your proudest professional accomplishment as a calligrapher?

I’ve had a few, but working with clients like Neiman Marcus, Chanel, Macallan, and Möet Hennessy, that I never would have imagined working with years ago is up there.

When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?

Wine is a hobby that my husband and I share. I have been through an evolution with wine over the last 15 years or so, but my favorites are from Burgundy and Champagne.

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Calligraphy: Bella Grafia | Photography: Mustard Seed Photography + Alicia Pyne | Printed Pieces, Graphic Design + Styling: Sip Hip Hooray