Invitations, Signage, and Stationery That Look Custom Without the Price Tag
Let’s talk about the paper and print details — invitations, menus, signage, place cards — the pieces your guests hold, see, and often take home. While they may seem small, these elements set the tone for your entire event.
Luxury stationery doesn’t have to mean thousand-dollar letterpress suites or hand-painted acrylic signs. With thoughtful design choices and a few clever swaps, you can absolutely create a cohesive, elevated paper suite that feels bespoke without blowing your budget.
Here’s how we do it at Shannon Fowler Events.
1. Start With Semi-Custom Suites
One of our favorite hacks? Start with a designer template from a trusted semi-custom vendor. These offer professional-level design at a fraction of the price — and they often allow you to tweak fonts, colors, and layouts to match your event perfectly.
Some luxe-looking options:
Etsy: Search “semi-custom wedding invitation suite”
Minted or Zola: Great for modern and elegant designs
Canva: Perfect for DIYers with a good eye — just be sure to use high-quality paper when printing
Pro Tip: Pair a simple design with a stunning envelope color or liner for an instant upgrade.
2. Print Smart (Not Pricey)
You don’t need a boutique printer to get beautiful results. Upload your design to a reliable online print shop like:
Prints of Love
VistaPrint (for budget-friendly options)
Zazzle or Mpix (for metallics or specialty finishes)
Then, print menus, place cards, and signage all in one coordinated style to keep the look cohesive.
3. Use Luxe-Looking Finishes (Strategically!)
Can’t afford full foil or letterpress? No problem — sprinkle in one luxury finish in a strategic way.
Ideas:
Vellum overlays with a wax seal or silk ribbon
Gold foil only on your names or monogram
Acrylic welcome sign with vinyl text (DIY with a Cricut or order online)
Custom wax seals you can attach yourself — an easy upgrade!
A touch of texture or shine goes a long way in making your paper feel high-end.
4. Create a Cohesive “Paper Style”
What feels luxe isn’t always about the materials — it’s about continuity. Create a simple style guide with your:
Fonts
Colors
Motif or monogram
Signature phrase or line of text
Then apply it to everything: your invite suite, seating chart, cocktail signage, favors — even your wedding website. When everything matches, it feels polished and elevated, even if each piece was created on a budget.
5. Go Digital (But Make It Pretty)
Don’t underestimate the beauty and efficiency of digital invitations or save-the-dates. Modern e-invites can still feel chic when styled well.
Look for:
Animated save-the-dates or RSVP forms
Wedding websites with coordinated design themes
Canva-made digital invites with a link to your guest portal
Not only do you save on printing and postage, but you also create a streamlined guest experience.
6. Signage That Steals the Show
Signage is one of the most photographable details — and one of the easiest places to save. Instead of custom-built installations:
Rent a sign stand or use an easel
Print large foam boards at Staples or FedEx Office
Layer materials like vellum or fabric on a thrifted frame
Bonus Tip: A beautifully styled welcome sign with florals or candles instantly elevates your event entrance — and it doesn’t need to be expensive.
Details With Intention = Design That Shines
You don’t need custom calligraphy on handmade paper to achieve a luxury look (though if you want it, we’re here for it!). The key is crafting every paper and print element with consistency and intention.
At Shannon Fowler Events, we love helping clients create stationery moments that feel personal, cohesive, and stylish — no matter the price tag. Because luxe is all about the feeling, not the final invoice.
