FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1.) How much do you services cost?
This is probably the question I get asked the most! Well, when it comes to my custom, one of a kind designs, because I dedicate so much of my time and energy to each client the cost of the average custom invitations will range from around $8 up to $50+ for an elaborate silk box invitation. Most will fall around the $10-20 per invitation range.
I know for some people this is definitely out of their budget, so I also created my Signature Collection to offer my original designs that can be customized to match the occasion. This collection is more affordable starting at just
$2 . 50 for an invitation with matching envelope and is perfect for the bride who wants a custom look without the custom price or for when you need smaller quantities or you don’t want to sacrifice on style for other special occasions such as birthdays and parties.
2.) How does the custom design process work?
The custom design process begins with a complimentary consultation so that I can get a better idea of your style and preferences. To start the actual design process I require a non-refundable $250 design deposit to cover my initial time. I will take the information I’ve gathered from you and from that create several unique designs that specifically cater to your tastes. You will receive a digital proof and if you like what you see, and I’m sure you will, your $250 design deposit will be credited towards your order should you decide to proceed.
Now that we have your main design all set, I’ll design any other pieces or paper accessories around the main design so that it all coordinates nicely without being too “matchy matchy”. Again, you’ll receive a digital proof for approval or to make changes. A 50% deposit (minus your initial design deposit of $250) of your total balance will be due and supplies for your project will be ordered in.
You will receive a physical mock-up of your finished design for final approval before printing and production.
When your order is printed and ready to go your remaining balance will be due upon pick up or prior to delivery. I also offer mailing services as well to take the hassle and stress away from my clients. For an additional charge I can address, stuff, seal, stamp and mail your invitations for you too! You just have to sit back and let the compliments come your way!
3.) How do I order from your Signature Collection?
I am currently working on an online system so that clients can customize designs from my Signature Collection from my website. However, as this is not yet completed, right now you’ll have to print and complete my Signature Collection order form and get it back to me via fax 559.275.7627 or email lisa_lisatakao.com. I will review it and contact you to make sure everything looks right to you and I’ll also give you your total due and arrange for pick up or delivery.
4.) Do you offer other things besides invitations?
Heck yes! The invitation is just the start of the fun! I’ve created all sorts of paper goodness – Christmas cards, thank you cards, personal stationery, art prints, programs, menus, place cards, seating charts, birthday banners, gift tags…if it’s on paper, yes, I can probably do it for you! And even some stuff not on paper like shirts and bags – just ask me!
5.) I'm from out of town, can I still work with you?
For sure! I’ve worked with clients from Virginia, Washington DC, San Francisco, Los Angeles – in this day and age distance is never an issue! You will feel just as much in the loop on your design as a local client would.
6.) Since I'm out of town, do you ship?
Yes, definitely! I ship out orders via USPS, OnTrac and FedEx and I also provide a mailing service where I address, stuff, seal, stamp and mail your invitations for you too! Depending on your location, this may be even cheaper than shipping the invitations to you! Then you just have to sit back and let the compliments come your way!
7.) What printing method do you use?
I use a digital printing method using a commercial laser printing. Most of my orders are printed in house so that I have complete control of the look of my invitations. But, if you’re looking for letterpress or thermography printing I can arrange for that as well too!
8.) How do you apply your glitter embellishments?
Glitter is lovely isn’t it?! It adds just the right amount of sparkle and you can use it to follow any shape! And this isn’t your regular third grade class chunky glitter from the store either. I use a broad selection of fine glitter not available at your local craft store (I know this is what you were thinking ). I like using it over rhinestones because you’re not limited to the shapes you can apply it to!
I painstakingly apply all of my glitter embellishments by hand! There is not easy way around it. Because of the tedious nature of applying it, it will increase your costs, but it will also drastically increase your WOW factor!
9.) Do you offer calligraphy services?
Why, yes I do! No, I do not possess the talent to do the hand calligraphy myself (darn!), but I do have someone I work with who does amazing work and who is reliable and on time!
I also offer an address printing service if you would like me to print your guest’s addresses onto your envelopes in a font that coordinates with your invitations. This options is not as costly as hand calligraphy, but you’ll still achieve the look!
10.) How do you come up with your designs?
This is probably my second most asked question! And honestly, my answer is a bit cliché – I draw inspiration from everything! From interior design, from fashion, from art, from everything around me! I might get an idea from a fence pattern or from a pair of cute heels.
I’ve always been the artsy kid and I’ve always loved to paint and sculpt and draw – I favor drawing over all other things! In college, I started to combine my artistic skills with the computer and it allowed me to express my creativity on another level!
So if you’re looking for something that you just can’t seem to find elsewhere, ask me! I can probably draw it up and design it for you!
11.) Do you hvae a retail store?
No, sorry at this time I just have my office location where I meet with my clients. But someday maybe?! ;)
12.) Can you create matching postage stamps to coordinate with my invitation?
Oh yes, I love coordinating a design from head to toe! It just makes it that much more special I think!
13.) How long have you been doing this?
I’ve been running my little invitation company since 2006, but I’ve been creating and designing my whole life ;)
