What are your most eco-friendly options?
Starting in late 2011, we began offering our printed cardstocks with anywhere from 30% PCW content to completely tree-free cotton and bamboo stocks. We also have matte cardstocks for layers or pockets that range from 30-100% recycled.
How come I can't just order the invitations online?
For custom invitations, there are so many options available, it would make online ordering very tricky. This part of our business works best when we work together (plus it's more fun that way!). It can be a combination of e-mailing and phone conversations, or it can be all via e-mail. But it really is a custom service that depends entirely on your needs and wants. And, if you're local to Brandon or the Lake George/Saratoga region in New York, we'd love to meet in person so that you can see all of the papers and portfolio in person. Our Signature Line, however, can be ordered in our online shop at the links above.
Can I see what my invitation will look like before I order?
Yes. We offer custom designed on-screen proofs for $50- a try before you buy. We'll provide 2-3 invitation concepts using information provided to us. If you are just looking for a recoloring to see what it might look like you can order this in our shop here.
What is a Virtual Proof?
A virtual proof is a "photo" created by our printing program. It allows us to create as many designs as we want without using so much paper and creating less of an impact on the environment. We will create a proof on paper, should you wish, so that you may get a feel for what kind of paper your order will come on. Contact us for availability (because we order most of our supplies when you order from us, we don't always have everything in stock). Custom paper mock-ups, however, begin at $40.
Can I get a sample invitation/favor?
Because we offer so many styles, we've now started offering our Sample Kit- which includes a sample of each of the stocks that we use for printed, your choice of four printed invitations (to get a feel for quality) and our Color Kit. You can order them here.
Do my invitations come assembled?
Most orders will come assembled, meaning any taped layers will be attached for you (you'll only need to stuff any pockets or envelopes). Should you wish to assemble them yourself, contact us about a price discount.
When should I order?
At the very latest, 4 months before your wedding (particularly for custom invitations). But, if you are having something created especially for you, the process should really begin at least 6 months before your wedding (remember, they will go out 6-8 weeks BEFORE your big day). If you are closer to your wedding than four months, please contact us about availability. We may be able to print and design, but due to limited time, you may need to assemble.
Do you sell just the paper if I want to do it myself?
Yes, we can sell you just the paper. Please let us know your interests and we will get prices for you (should only take us a day to get that information to you). Because we have access to over 500 different types of papers and mediums, we don't carry them in stock at all times. Use our contact form to get information.
Do you offer any other products besides invitations and favors?
Absolutely. We can design all of your paper needs: invitations, programs, place cards, menus...whatever you need. We also have companies we deal with that sell personalized gifts and accessories, bridal jewelry, candles, reception decorations...if you need it, we can probably find it. Just contact us with what you are looking for and we'll get back to you most of the time within 24 hours. You can also check out our Carlson Craft sites for gifts and favors (always 20% off).
How long will it take to get my order?
For custom wedding invitations, approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on the quantity ordered, time of year, and how much assembly we need to do. Rush orders are possible, but you would need to contact us so we can give you an approximate time frame. There is a $50.00-$100 surcharge for rush orders need in less than three weeks depending on quantity needed. In addition, there will be higher shipping costs involved with rushing an order out to you. Orders that don't require assembly will not take as much time.
For birth announcements, they will probably take between 10-14 days to arrive, and are shipped priority mail unless you prefer another method. They can be ordered before your baby's arrival, so that minimal set-up work needs to be done and will ship out sooner than if you order them after baby's arrival.
How is my purchase shipped?
We will ship priority mail with delivery confirmation, unless you ask us to ship FedEX or UPS. Priority mail costs start at $6. (for small orders- most USPS will be $14 or more), and FedEx and UPS charges start at $14.00. Depending on your location, we may be able to deliver your product (for a charge of $7.00, outside a 15 mile radius) or we may be able to schedule a time for pick-up that will incur no shipping charges. Typical shipping costs range from $12 to $20- paper gets heavy!
How do I pay for my order?
We will send an invoice via e-mail, through which you can pay by credit card via Paypal- no account needed. We can also accept payments by telephone with Mastercard or Visa. If you wish to send a check, we will need to wait until the check clears before your order can be processed (usually five business days). Returned checks will be subject to a $25 Returned Check Fee.
Do you provide your services nationally?
Absolutely! While we may be based in Vermont, we work with clients all over the United States and Canada. We can work over the internet, through "snail" mail or by fax. We do, on occasion, work with customers internationally as well. We have a computer program that allows us to "virtually" build your invitation in a graphic image, and then e-mail it to you so that you can see what it will look like.
How does this process work?
First, contact us by either phone or e-mail. If you are local, we can set-up a time to meet (though no meeting is really necessary, it's always nice to put a face to an e-mail).. Otherwise we can work over the phone and internet. We have the capability to photograph anything you'd like to see and send it to you. We will do everything to make sure that you are happy with your invitation. Then, for orders over $400 a 50% deposit is required to get started with the balance due before shipping. Orders under $400 we request payment in full.
Are there any other charges we should be aware of?
We do not charge for proofs unless you require more than 3 versions of a particular design (this is for each element requiring a proof). Maps are typically $30-40, and if you require graphics in a certain color, depending on the complexity of the design, there may be a small graphic design fee. Custom design fees for creating a new graphic are priced according to complexity.
Is your business name from that old movie- the one with Jimmy Stewart?
Yes! Our business name is from "It's a Wonderful Life" starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. George Bailey (Stewart) offers to lasso the moon for sweetheart Mary (Reed)...a symbol of catching your dreams and doing whatever it takes to win something that you really want (in this case, Mary's heart)...well, we've caught our dream which is why we've "Lasso'd" the moon. If you've never seen the movie, we highly recommend it. It's the ultimate feel good movie!
Final notes: If there is a design that you love, but feel it may be out of your budget, please don't hesitate to contact us. Many designs can be altered or done in less expensive ways.
While we've tried to cover the basics, we might've missed something. Don't hesitate to call or e-mail with any questions you might have.
*a few exceptions apply, but most will be included
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