Did you know that you could print your wedding invitations on wildflower seed paper that can actually be planted? Now THAT is environmentally sustainable! Kelly McDevitt of Kelly McDevitt Design creates custom invitation suites and calligraphy that is elegant and stunning. It was such a treat to do an interview with her - she has some awesome insights and perspectives that I personally wouldn’t have thought about for wedding invitations. Check it out here:

AEP: How would you describe your style and/or your brand?

KMD: I would describe my style as timeless, romantic, and elegant. Every wedding invitation suite that I create includes a completely custom design that is inspired by each couple’s unique story, overall wedding vision, and personal preferences. To set the stage for this significant day, I like to incorporate one-of-a-kind materials and special finishing touches, many of which are handcrafted throughout the country by other women-owned small businesses!

AEP: How did you get started designing invitations?

KMD: My passion for fine paper and custom stationery design began while planning my own wedding (with wonderful guidance from All Events Planned!). I was unhappy with the limitations of some of the large invitation retailers, so I decided to design my own wedding invitations and stationery. The end result included a custom monogram and a seasonal flower pattern, which complemented our garden wedding so well! Later that year, I started designing invitations for close family and friends. Soon after, I followed my heart and launched this creative business, bringing 12 years of professional graphic design experience with me.

AEP: What things should couples consider when choosing/designing an invitation?

KMD: Your wedding invitations provide the “first look” at your wedding day for your guests, so it’s important to consider the style, tone, and level of formality that you want to share.

I also encourage couples to consider textures. The feel of various materials can also subtly define the style of your wedding and shape first impressions.

AEP: What is your favorite part about creating invitations?

KMD: There are endless opportunities for creativity when designing custom wedding invitations. As I collaborate with couples on their custom design, we have the opportunity to be thoughtful about every element that we include. I really enjoy incorporating little details that highlight the ceremony location or wedding venue, which is typically a meaningful place for the couple. The suites that I design are more than just pretty paper. A lot of heart goes into them.

AEP: What is the one paper product you could not live without (e.g. cardstock, envelope liners, etc)?

KMD: I love handmade paper! It’s soft and delicate, and when paired with a custom wax seal and the pillowy texture of letterpress printing it can make a really romantic statement.

AEP: What was one of your favorite projects to work on?

KMD: One couple that I recently worked with requested a sustainable alternative to traditional wedding paper, so I printed their save the date on wildflower seed paper made from 100% recycled fibers. The appearance of the seeds was very subtle, which still allowed for the minimalist look that they hoped for. Their guests loved this dual-purpose save the date and were excited to watch their wildflowers grow!

AEP: What is the biggest misconception about wedding invitations/programs/etc (or a mistake a lot of couples make)?

KMD: Don’t wait until the last minute to start thinking about your invitations. Finding your wedding stationer may not be your first priority when you begin wedding planning, but the earlier you secure your stationer, the more options you’ll have for your design!

I recommend that couples secure my services a minimum of six months ahead of their wedding date. Custom wedding invitation design takes time and is a detail-oriented process. In addition to the development of the design itself, there are a number of variables to consider that may affect the overall timeline—such as commissioned illustrations, special printing methods, embellishments, calligraphy and guest addressing, and assembly—and they all have their own distinct production times.

If you want all of your wedding stationery to have a cohesive look (from save the dates to menus and everything in between), you’ll need to hire your stationer as early as possible.

AEP: What is something you wish all of your clients knew, or a certain thing you wish all of your clients would do to make working with them easier?

KMD: Your wedding invitations should be a reflection of you and your fiancé, so it’s important to hire a wedding stationer whose aesthetic complements your personal style and overall wedding vision. Every stationer is different, so take your time to find the right match and you’ll be much happier with the outcome!

Be sure to check out her work featured throughout this post, and visit her website. Kelly will help you create an invitation suite that reflects your vision and the look of your wedding. She also has tons of amazing ideas if you aren’t sure where to even begin. Believe it or not, sometimes it can be the invitation that jumpstarts the design of your entire event.

If you want to be featured in our blog, send us an email at caitlin@alleventsplanned.com!