I think every invitation purchase (whether from a fine press or anyone else) should include a calligrapher; it’s the extra step that elevates an invitation above the rest of the day’s mail. The truth is,though , hiring a calligrapher isn’t always a fit for your clients. If you’re a wedding planner that’s handling the addressing of envelopes for a client, here’s a tip:

Have your stationer deliver the envelopes and liners separately (you’ll line the envelopes before sealing them-it’s easy). Cut a piece of cardstock to the same finish size as your invitation. Measure and mark (with permanent marker) on the card five-seven lines.

Then, you can simply insert the card in a blank envelope and use the lines (which show very well through light-colored envelopes) as a guide to address the envelope.

This simple tip can save you a lot of time and frustration. If you’re an overachiever, you can prepare some standard-size cards (A7, A6, 7″ square, etc.) ahead of time and use them often.