Does Sarasota Calligraphy offer any other fonts?
My own unique penmanship which I call "St. Armands," "Sanibel," and "South Beach" are the only hands that I use.
Is there a minimum amount that I have to order?
Yes, the minimum order is $25. You can check our pricing page for more details.
What is the best method for placing an order?
I have not ordered my invitations yet; Is there anything I should know first?
One consideration is your mailing list- if you have many long names and addresses, a small envelope may not be suitable.
Many underestimate how many invitations they will send. Go over your basic invitee list ahead of time. Also, order at least 10% extra envelopes to cover mistakes and corrections.
Last note, all papers used in envelopes are not ink-friendly. If you have any doubts, test a sample with a fountain pen or check with your calligrapher. Dark, opaque and heavily lined paper are difficult to write on. Some papers cannot take pen and ink at all.
How long does it take to complete an envelope addressing order?
Allow about 10 days per 100 addresses. Advance booking of 2 - 3 months is recommended
for peak wedding season.
Is rush service available?
Yes, when my schedule allows, I will work with you to provide rush services if needed. Extra fees will apply.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and PayPal. We prefer deposits to be made by check. A 50% deposit (non refundable) is required before work is begun. Final payment is due upon completion of job. The balance including shipping is due and nonrefundable once I complete the job and before it is delivered. Shipping is at the expense of the customer. Clients are responsible for all charges listed on their invoice.
Do you keep my address list private?
Absolutely. Sarasota Calligraphy will never use your information for anything other than completing your order.
How do I submit my mailing list? Place Cards?
Typed, in a 12 point font such as Times Roman. You can email it, fax it, or snail mail it. Please review the eqtiquette page before submitting your list. Addresses should be done as follows, with no abbreviations for streets, avenues, states:
OUTER INNER
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
706 The Masters Avenue Madison and Zachary
Sarasota, Florida 34243
(Separate line for Apartment is optional and additional lines in excess of standard 3 line addresses, are charged at $ .50)
The format above should be followed for all of the names on your list. It is also easier to work from when proofing and stuffing your invitations.
Lastly, please send me a completed list. I get concerned that I may miss something when clients keep sending additions or corrections, but I know changes/additions can occur while I am in the midst of completing your job.
What about seating cards, place cards?
Seating cards or escort cards tell your guests at which table they are seated and typically contain only their title and last names. (Mr. and Mrs. Thomas; Ms. Evans; Mr. Jones). Pricing is for this type of "simple" names. Clients who choose to include first names for all their guests will incur additional charges. Please note - cards and envelopes used for seating assignments are typically small in size and including long first names may present a problem in fitting them neatly on the cards. It may also force your guests to pull out their reading glasses! When duplicate last names are on a list, add in first initials or first names as needed. There is no additional charge when this occurs.
Do you have a storefront?
No, I work out of a home studio. All meetings are by appointment.
Can you send me a sample of your calligraphy?
What is your cancellation policy?
Your 50% deposit will act as your cancellation fee.
Do you offer stuffing, stamping, and mailing services?
Yes. The cost is $ .50 each. The customer pays for the postage.
What about mistakes?
I proof all of my work before delivery; however, any errors that are my fault will be redone right away at no additional charge. Errors that are your fault will be charged at the same rate as previous items.
Does you hand ever hurt from addressing so many envelopes?
No, I have not had any problems so far! I try not to overbook myself, and take frequent ergonomic breaks to ensure that my wrists do not suffer too much strain. Also, I do not hold my pen too tightly.
Where was the photo taken on your home page?
Siesta Key, Florida - which is a beautiful barrier island eight miles long just offshore of Sarasota, Florida. It is one of the world's finest, whitest beaches.