We’ve stumbled upon some confusion when it comes to calligraphy styles and pricing but thankfully Carla Hagan is here to help sort it all out. You see, not all calligraphied envelopes and escort cards cost the same – it depends on the style you’re choosing for your big day. Carla Hagan Designs recently conducted a survey and her results (below!) helps it all make more sense – because we all know, mixups are one thing we don’t need when it comes to wedding planning.
From Carla Hagan Designs… In July 2016, I conducted a business pricing survey with over 233 professional calligraphers, asking them to share their pricing structure. Participants in the survey included members of calligraphy guilds, The International Association of Master Penman, Engrossers and Teachers of Handwriting (IAMPETH), and various professional forums. While conducting the survey we found a considerable difference in price structure between “modern calligraphers” and calligraphers classically trained in traditional styles such as copperplate, spencerian and Italic script.
We also found that many blogs and online magazines post prices for calligraphy more consistent with “modern calligraphy” versus traditional hands. This is causing conflict throughout the calligraphy industry where brides have unrealistic expectations for the cost of traditional calligraphy based on these articles.
I’m excited to share some of the key points from our survey:
Modern Calligraphy
Twenty-five percent of the participants in the survey classified themselves as Modern Calligraphers. Modern Calligraphy is a unique, script style using free-form, mix and match lettering.
Base Envelope Average Price: $2.70
Range: $2.00 – $4.00
Return Address Average Price: $1.50
Range: $1.00 – $2.25
Custom Ink Color: $0.40
Range: $0.25 – $0.75
Inner + Outer Envelopes
Black Ink: $4.00
Range: $3.00 – $7.00
Gold/Metallic Ink: $4.43
Range: $2.00 – $7.25
Place Cards
Black Ink: $1.45
Gold Ink: $1.78
Escort Cards
Black Ink: $1.80
Gold Ink: $2.05
Rush Fee: 25%
May be applied to orders needed in less than 10 business days.
Seating Charts
100 Lines: $200.00
Chalkboard 100 Lines: $190.00
Mirror 100 Lines: $200.00
Traditional Calligraphy
Set Up Fee: $40. 00
* Unique to traditional calligraphers
Range: $25.00 – $50.00
Base Envelope Average Price: $4.30
Range: $3.00 – $7.00
Return Address Average Price: $2.10
Range: $1.00 – $2.50
Custom Ink Color: $0.50
Range: $0.25 – $0.75
Place Cards
Black Ink: $2.25
Gold Ink: $2.50
Escort Card
Black Ink: $2.65
Gold Ink: $2.86
Rush Fee: 40%
May be applied to orders needed in less than 10 business days.
Seating Charts
100 Lines: $400.00
Chalkboard 100 Lines: $400.00
Mirror 100 Lines $400.00
*These are results from a broad survey, not guaranteed pricing for all calligraphers within the wedding industry. Please note that pricing will vary by artist and business.
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ONGOING GIVEAWAYS + DISCOUNTS…
We’re excited to share that Shine invitations is currently offering FREE SHIPPING on orders over $500 (US orders only) as well as a free sample kit featuring the invitation of your choice, color charts, paper samples, and an example Save the Date! Don’t miss out!
THIS WEEK’S DISCOUNTS…
For our California Brides… Discounts from The Ranch at Laguna Beach
For our Destination Brides… Discount from Hitch’d Weddings & Events
For our Southwest Brides… Don’t miss upcoming trunk shows at Lovely’s in Dallas, Phoenix and Houston!
For our New England Brides.. Discount from Long’s Jewelers
For our Tri-state Brides… Discount from Femina Photo + Design, giveaways from NST Pictures, OLLI STUDIO and Twobirds Bridesmaid, and don’t miss the Anna Campbell and Rue De Seine trunk shows at Lovely NYC location Oct. 28th – Oct. 30th!
OUR WINNERS:
Congratulations to our The Heritage House Resort & Spa winner Macye!
Congratulations to our Jenny Yoo winner Melanie E!
Calligraphy Information: Carla Hagan Designs