Wedding Invitations That
Make A Statement
Secretarial Services That Reduce The Stress
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't see your question and answer below, please send us an email.
Why can't I find prices on your website?
No two weddings are alike and so a custom package is built for each couple. Our average client spends anywhere from $500 - $2,000 for design and secretarial services. It's all dependent on the size of your guests list and the number/type of items you want designed and printed.
After our initial consultation, a proposal will be built to give you an idea of the overall stationery printing costs. But, until your guest list is finalized, we won't know exactly how many of each item you'll need. The proposal will include a "guesstimate" of quantities so that you can see what you'll have to budget for but we will keep accurate records of everything ordered and then bill you the exact amount as we go along.
So what exactly am I paying for?
When you hire The Bride's Secretary, your fee pays for the custom design services, the organization of your stationery calendar and careful project management. Our expert secretarial services are what set us apart from other designers. We can address and mail all of your pieces directly, manage your guest list, follow up on RSVPs and create and keep your wedding website up to date. Isn't this what you'd expect from a secretary anyway?
How long does it take to design a suite?
The length of the initial design phase will vary depending on the quantity & quality of details you provide (i.e. do you have a specific layout idea in mind or are we starting from a blank canvas?) We aim to provide you with a first draft within a week from your timeline start date. If you should need a faster turnaround, let us know and we'll do what we can to accommodate your request.
How many edits can I make - in other words, how many times can I change my mind?
As much as you want! We will be as flexible as you need us to be for redesigns and changes until two business days before that product's print deadline. A PDF of the final custom design for each item will need to be approved and signed by you before printing commences. You're more than welcome to request revisions to your wedding website design as well, to make sure it's uniquely yours.
What paper choices will I have?
We will make recommendations on paper type and quality for your custom wedding invitation suite within your budget. Most products are printed on a standard variety of paper weights and finishes. If time allows, we will gladly send you option proofs to consider so that there are no surprises. But you're also not limited to standard variations of anything. We promise to research and find exactly what you're looking for within your budget.
Will you send me the digital files so I can have them printed myself?
In keeping with our philosophy to be your all-in-one resource, we will work directly with a reliable printer of our choice based on your budget. This allows us to streamline the communication by providing one point of contact...and give you access to some amazing printing prices. What's the point of hiring a secretary if you don't let them sweat the details?
Do I need to sign a contract or make a deposit?
Once you have accepted our written proposal, we will send you a contract to review and sign. At least a 50% deposit will be expected at that time. The cost of our services only, minus the deposit, will then be due before any design work begins. The printing/mailing costs of each item will be billed prior to printing commencing. Any additional specialty services not listed in the original contract will be billed at $65/hr and included on the invoice with the final products.
Occasionally, mistakes happen because that's just part of life. Who pays for that?
When printers make an error, they usually guarantee their work with a free reprint and we will work with them to make sure that you are completely satisfied. Because the design itself is intellectual property and nothing goes to print until we have received your final approval of the PDF file(s), we will not pay for reprinting. If we ship printed materials directly to you, we will use mailing services that provide tracking numbers.
What's the best way for us to communicate?
Email is preferred so that we can avoid misunderstandings or mistakes by having it in writing. Texting is not as reliable but acceptable. Phone calls, in-person meetings or zoom calls will be followed up by an email outlining what was discussed and agreed upon.
What do you charge for rush or last-minute orders?
Any design work required that doesn't fall within the initial contract will be charged at our standard $65/hr. As long as our schedule allows, we will not charge an extra fee for rush/last-minute orders, unless it means we have to work through the night to get it done, at which time a quote will be provided for your consideration before any work is done. However, we will pass along any additional fees that our printer or mailing services might charge for rush printing or express mailing.
Got more questions? Ready to take the next step?