5 Philly-Area Calligraphers Who Can Pen Your Invitations & Wedding-Day Paper Goods
Kimberly Shrack of Manayunk Calligraphy offers multiple styles of calligraphy, like this one called Sidecar.
Back in the day, when I was, say, 10 years old, I was gifted a kids calligraphy kit for Christmas. It wasn’t anything fancy—I believe it included an instructional book, a pen or two, some ink and paper to practice on—but since it came from my artist aunt whose handwriting is as perfect as a computer font, I thought it was pretty cool.
Looking back, I think I made one attempt at using that kit. It wasn’t due to a lack of interest—it just so happens that calligraphy is one of the more challenging hobbies you can choose to take on, whether you’re 10 or a grown adult. And that’s exactly why we always try to caution you to think twice before deciding to learn calligraphy for your wedding (which is something we’ve heard more than one bride declare they were going to do). Sure, it may sound like fun to hand write the addresses on your invites or the place cards for your reception, but we’re here to warn you that it’s much more difficult and time-consuming that it appears.
Nonetheless, we’re huge fans of incorporating calligraphy into your BigDay—whether it’s on the invites or elsewhere, from your ceremony programs to signs at your cocktail hour—and luckily, the Philadelphia area has a handful of amazing calligraphers who can do all of the work for you. We’ve rounded up their names below.
Read on to find out where to get unique invitations, then head to our wedding vendor directory to explore even more awesome local wedding vendors to help you plan your Big Day.
Carolyn Verdi Boutique
Where: 1746 East Passyunk Avenue, South Philly
What: This quaint boutique may be known for its vast selection of affordable sample wedding gowns, but owner Carolyn Verdi also stocks a large inventory of wedding invitations that you can customize to fit your Big Day. Verdi is quite the talented calligrapher too, so she can handle all of the envelope addressing once your invites are completed.
Kate Farley Design
Where: Chadds Ford
What: One look at the gorgeous chalk art creations on Kate Farley’s Instagram and you’ll insist on having her work incorporated into the decor at your reception. Not only does her flawless handwriting look great on large seating charts and menus, but her calligraphy can make your invitations stand out as well. From illustrating the entire invite to inscribing names on the envelopes, Farley has your entire affair covered.
Manayunk Calligraphy
Where: Manayunk
What: We’ve already told you about our love of Kimberly Shrack and the amazing work she is cranking out at Manayunk Calligraphy. From her many calligraphy styles (which are named after cocktails) to the super creative illustrations she makes, we’re obsessed with it all, and you’d be wise to check out her offerings for you wedding-day paper goods. She also offers 10 percent off day-of items, like escort cards and menus, when you order envelope addressing through her.
MJW Calligraphy
Where: 8210 Forest Hills Drive, Elkins Park
What: Veteran calligrapher Michael Weinstein has over 20 years of experience in the field and is praised by clients for both his stunning work and how responsive and accommodating he is throughout the creative process. Weinstein will lend his signature script to everything from your invitations to the place cards and table numbers.
Paper Rock Scissors
Where: 700 Fayette Street, Conshohocken
What: We featured the fantastic work of Christina Carnevale’s Paper Rock Scissors in our extensive guide to custom invitation studios, and at the time she told us that her favorite special detail is handwritten calligraphy. Paper Rock Scissors has three different calligraphers for you to work with, all of whom can tackle your invites, envelopes, programs and more.
Check out our other Local Bridal Guides here.
RELATED: We’re Totally In Love With Our Latest Local Find: Manayunk Calligraphy
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