What is a Custom Invitation?
"Custom Invitations" is a phrase you'll see bandied about quite a bit on the internet. But what is a custom invitation? Is it going to cost a fortune? The answers are easy: a custom invitation should mean that it is a design created just for you, it isn't a stock invitation design with personalized wording (but unfortunately these terms get interchanged quite a bit). It doesn't have to be expensive; making informed choices and considering what you need (and want) will help you save money. Custom designs are often hand-crafted, giving your invitations a professional, yet personalized look.
What are your most eco-friendly options?
Many Waste Not Papers are 30% PCW (post consumer waste) and all their custom colors are milled in a plant that uses 100% clean, renewable hydroelectric energy produced at the mill. By the end of 2008, all of their papers will be at least 30% PCW. We also have partnered with a new company that only offers either 30-100% PCW papers. Stardream metallic papers, while not recycled, are manufactured under strict guidelines using Elemental Chlorine Free pulp from well managed, sustainable forests. We also offer plantable papers that are embedded with wildflower seeds and Lokta paper, which is created from a plant is completely tree-free (the plant is a self-renewing resource).
For the majority of our printing, we either use high-end inkjets or professional laser printers, while which both use consumbles, they don't need any of the harsh chemical cleaners that off-set printers use. We're happy to help you figure out what the best options would be for the least amount of environmental impact.
How come I can't just order the invitations online?
Well, you can order directly from our Carlson Craft, Regency or Birchcraft sites, but for custom invitations, this does pose a bit of a problem. There are so many options available, it would make online ordering very tricky. This part of our business works best when we work together. 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.
Can I see what my invitation will look like before I order?
The answer two this question is two-fold. Yes, sort-of. We have a program that will allow us to create virtual representations of Envelopments invitations- it's pretty rad. But we do charge for this service if we are not currently working together and a deposit hasn't been retained. Current charges are $10 for non-personalized images, $35 for personalized (meaning you would be able to see exactly what your invitation would look like with the wording and the font). We will also just do "Virtual proofs" which are $15 per each design set up (meaning you would just see the wording of your choice, in the fonts you've chosen), 75% of which is refundable upon ordering.
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 mock-ups, however, begin at $40.
Can I get a sample invitation/favor?
Yes- but there is often a charge for these as many have to be made just for you. Sometimes samples aren't possible, but please contact us about availability. Invitation samples begin at $5, depending on what you'd like to see, but we would refund any charges when you order, though only if you order the same invitation.
What are the benefits in ordering from you?
Lasso'd Moon Designs is here to cater to your paper needs. You'll receive personalized attention from the owner, we don't charge extra for things like custom cuts or proofs because it's part of the process. We're here to make this part of your wedding planning as easy as possible. When we can, we'll sit down with you and figure out what you really need and what's going to work best within your budget.
How do you print your invitations?
Most of our invitations are printed with a professional Laser printer. The papers we use are high-quality and would be damage an ink-jet printer in most cases. Thermography (raised lettering) is available for those desiring that print process, as is Letterpress.
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.
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 Cathy's Concepts website and our Carlson Craft sites for gifts and favors.
We also have our own favors website that includes our favorites from major companies like Kate Aspen and Wedding Belles at www.favorsbytheseason.com
How long will it take to get my order?
For custom wedding invitations, approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on the quantity ordered, 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 surcharge for rush orders need in less than three weeks. In addition, there will be higher shipping costs involved with rushing an order out to you.
For birth announcements, they will probably take a week to ten 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. Priority mail costs start at $4.50, and FedEx charges start at $12.00. 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.
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?
Of course! While we may be based in Vermont, we're more than happy to work with any bride in any state. 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. Otherwise we can work over the phone and internet. We have the capability to photograph anything and send it to you. We will do everything to make sure that you are happy with your invitation. Then, a 50% deposit is required to get started with the balance due before shipping.
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!
Have a question we haven't answered? We will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Please e-mail us and we'll get back to you shortly.
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