Discover the Artistry of Handcrafted Wedding Stationery: An Inside Look at Pink Ink Studio's Creative Process

As a passionate advocate of the art of handmade paper, I had the privilege of asking some questions to the creative minds behind Pink Ink Studio, where innovation and tradition meet in the realm of wedding stationery design. With their shared appreciation for the intricacies of craftsmanship, Chiara and Cristina have seamlessly integrated handmade paper into their repertoire, adding a touch of tactile elegance to any invitation suite. Join me on their journey to learn more about the inspiration and dedication they bring to creating unforgettable designs.

"How will the guests feel when they hold it? Is it going to be up to their expectations? Will it adequately represent what we - as a couple - stand for? It’s incredible if you think about it, how much a stationery design - thus the paper - can say."

1. Could you share a bit about your background and experience as wedding stationery designers? How did you get started in this field?

Pink Ink Studio is a duo of designers with a backbone of 10 years of advertising agency work; in fact, we met each other as colleagues in a common workplace and became immediately pals. A common friend was a destination wedding photographer and pulled us in the wonders of this world. A few years passed by, Chiara picked up studying calligraphy, and then we understood we wanted to make something that would let us express ourselves without the constraints of corporate designs, something that was romantic, fulfilling and beauty filled.

Thus Pink Ink Studio was the natural birth of something we had never done before, we had the expertise & we were ready to put it all in!

2. What is your personal style or signature touch when it comes to designing wedding stationery?

Because of our background in agency work we have always been able to adapt to extremely different aesthetic realms; this is a big plus when couples hire you to make totally custom stationery for their big day based on their desires and feelings, which is exactly our mission. Of course we do have preferences and personal taste, and we infuse that in everything we do. If you look at our instagram feed you will see a common modern romantic detail-oriented aesthetic, but we have been able to work on projects ranging from disco ball extravaganza to super sleek luscious elegance… and everything in between. And we have great fun every time a new design challenge arises!

3. What do you find most rewarding about being wedding stationery designers, particularly in the context of using handmade paper?

The challenge of being the spokesperson announcing the big day and the responsibility of saying it with the correct tones, textures and elements: it’s both challenging and rewarding! Paper is a big element of this, being it a central element that conveys different feelings… without speaking at all.

How will the guests feel when they hold it? Is it going to be up to their expectations? Will it adequately represent what we - as a couple - stand for? It’s incredible if you think about it, how much a stationery design - thus the paper - can say.

4. How do you stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the wedding stationery industry?

Social media, especially instagram and pinterest, are of course a big source of inspiration but we try to go a little further. Going at themed exhibitions is another way of getting into broader trends, not necessarily specifically for paper goods. We are also traditional graphic designers at heart, so all design related fairs and exhibitions thrills us and gives us tools of inspiration from other fields. Last but not least, we believe inspiration can really come from different fields and not necessarily from paper designs; even a specific interior design trend or a tv series can trigger inspiration - just think about Bridgerton!

5. Are there any other creative passions or interests that influence your work as designers?

Ah, the list is so long, where even to begin? We have a keen eye for all things aesthetic, which ranges from photography to traditional arts but also into advertising, pop culture, entertainment industry, packaging designs, interior designs, fashion. We’re no expert in any of the fields, of course, but our eyes are always capturing stuff. Well, we live in a sight based world, don’t we?

Chiara gets a headache from the excessive visual inputs a shopping street can have during Christmas holidays: too much gorgeousness to look at, so much to learn from!

6. How did you first discover our handcrafted paper, and what inspired you to incorporate it into your wedding stationery projects?

We have always been in the lookout for a valid paper mill that could supply our needs, but a few years ago there weren’t so many options in Europe. It was a trend coming from overseas, with USA brides having destination weddings in Italy and asking for that aesthetic. We believe taking a very handcrafted artistry - like paper making - and transforming it into something that is businesswise doable and shoppable is the biggest challenge. But we found Eliv just nailed it!

Wedding Irene and Alessandro

7. Could you share one or two of your projects where you used our handmade paper? What was the design concept behind them?

The wedding stationery of Irene & Alessandro and Nicole & Rolf were a harmonious blend of local inspiration, embracing the cultural richness and natural delights that make Volterra and Arezzo truly special. The events not only celebrated the union of two souls - the first with soft and pastel hues, the latter with a fresh young palette - but also paid tribute to the timeless allure of the Tuscan landscape and its vibrant, picturesque surroundings.

Camille & Louise’s invitations were thoughtfully designed to draw inspiration from the ethereal beauty found in Monet's paintings and the delicate cotton paper traditionally used by artists for watercolor creations, with a particular emphasis on the tactile and aesthetic qualities. The result was a unique and personalized touch, echoing the beauty and craftsmanship of both the Impressionist master and the artistry inherent in handmade paper.

8. What advantages have you found in using handmade paper compared to other types of paper?

Handmade paper elevates the aesthetic appeal across projects, even the simplest ones. Its unique texture and irregularities add character and the subtle variations in color and thickness create a bespoke touch, enhancing our search for utterly unique invitation design. This distinctive material transforms ordinary designs into exceptional, contributing to a heightened aesthetic experience.

9. What special printing or finishing techniques have you applied in conjunction with our paper to achieve a unique and impressive result?

Letterpress printing and hand calligraphy on handmade paper confer unparalleled uniqueness to wedding invitations. The deep impressions of letterpress add tactile elegance, while hand-calligraphed details impart a personalized touch. The combination results in bespoke invitations, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience for the recipients.

10. Can you tell us about the reactions of your clients when they saw your wedding stationery featuring handcrafted paper?

Despite working remotely via video calls and digital presentations, couples already fall in love with handmade paper, captivated by its texture and uniqueness. It is our mission to explain its charm through a screen, but the confirmation always arrives upon receiving tangible samples and a moment of immense joy.

Some clients were so impressed that they mistook the printed illustrations for actual watercolors due to the remarkable quality that the paper withholds!

11. What challenges have you encountered while working with handmade paper, and how did you overcome them?

Handmade paper's unique characteristics may limit certain printing techniques. During consultations, we guide couples on suitable alternatives and creative avenues, by emphasizing methods like letterpress or foil stamping, that ensure elegant results. Handmade paper becomes an asset, inspiring couples to explore bespoke designs that align with the paper's inherent charm.

12. How would you describe the creative process when incorporating handcrafted paper into your wedding stationery projects? Are there any particular sources of inspiration or approaches you use?

The creative journey in designing invitations follows a consistent process. We begin with diverse conceptual inspirations, employing mood boards and drawing from our past works to grasp the couple's envisioned aesthetic. Through thoughtful experimentation with various graphic proposals, we refine and tailor the designs to align with the couple's preferences. This methodical approach ensures that each invitation, whether it be with handmade paper or not, becomes a representation of the couple's unique style and the essence of their celebration.

13. Do you have any tips or advice for other designers looking to work with handmade paper?

Our advice to those opting for handmade paper is to effectively communicate to couples the intricate craftsmanship and the uniqueness inherent in each sheet. By explaining the complex process and highlighting the individuality of every piece, clients gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved, fostering a greater understanding of the exceptional value that handmade paper brings to their project. Afterall, they’re not experts in the field!

14. What are your favourite colours to work with from our palette? What colour trends and colour combinations do you anticipate for wedding stationery in 2024?

Anticipating the trend, we incorporated the Pantone Color of the Year 2024, Peach Fuzz, in Irene and Alessandro's wedding, adding a contemporary and fresh touch to their celebration.

Also, we've fallen in love with your new custom colors and can't wait to experiment with them! 

15. In your opinion, what role does handmade paper play in creating memorable and unique wedding invitations and details?

Handmade paper, combined with other handcrafted materials and techniques, contributes to making the wedding invitations embody a unique level of craftsmanship, showcasing the skill and dedication of the artisan. The process involves individual attention, imparting a sense of authenticity and care. Handcrafted items frequently exhibit subtle variations, making each piece distinct.

The uniqueness of each sheet enhances the overall aesthetic, ensuring that wedding invitations become not just communication tools but cherished keepsakes, reflecting the couple's style and the essence of their special day.

 

 

Thank you to Chiara and Cristina of Pink Ink Studio for the captivating insights they've shared with us into the world of wedding stationery. Their passion and expertise have not only broadened our perspective but also ignited our enthusiasm for the art of handmade paper. It has been a true pleasure to learn from their experiences and uncover their creative processes.

Ready to dive into the world of unique wedding stationery paper yourself? Visit Pink Ink Studio's website and follow them on Instagram to learn more about their stunning designs and get inspired!

Credits:
Wedding Irene and Alessandro: Fotografia: @valentina.oprandi.weddings, Pianificazione e Stile: @iltodisco, Video: @merakstudioita, Coordinato grafico: @pinkinkstudio.it, Allestimento floreale: @sfumaturedicipria, Location: @countryrelaislecapanne, Noleggi: @preludiodivisionenoleggio, Orecchini: @nea.milano, Fedi e anello di fidanzamento: @taya.gioielli, Vestito Sposa: @ideasposacouture @evalendel, Scarpe sposa: @loefflerrandall, Mua: @chiarab.makeup, Hair Styling: @ganna_hairstyle, Abito Sposo: @sanvenero.cerimonia, Scarpe sposo: @tommyhilfiger, Musica: @_strawman___ e @111celine, Backdrop: @marryandlilo E ovviamente, gli sposi! Sposa: @irenefucci, Sposo: @almantor_86
Wedding Nicole and Rolf: Photo @aberrazioni_cromatiche_studio, Stationery @pinkinkstudio.it, Wp @floeweddings
Camille and Louise elopement: Planning & Design @reverweddingsevents, Photography @irenefucci, Videomaker @damianoscarano_films, Venue @relais_villa_porta_colmegna, Flowers Designer @paolanegroni_flower, Lingerie @mariannalanzilli, Bridal Dresses @ideasposacouture, Bridal Shoes @bellabelleshoes, Stationery @pinkinkstudio.it, Rentals @af_opening, Cake Designer @sweetpielab, Hairstylist @ganna.hairstyle.bride, Makeup @chiarab.makeup, Hairpieces & Earrings @jonidaripani, Rings @corgioielli, Models @raffaella.vela @alexandrina_ochisor