Approach
How a stationery inquiry turns into a design, and what each step does and doesn’t commit you to.
Bring a clear brief
The more of this you can share in your request, the more useful the first reply can be. Leave out anything you don’t know yet.
The occasion
What the stationery is for and the tone it should set.
The pieces
Which items you need, and quantities if you know them.
The date
When you need the stationery by.
The place
Where it will be used or sent.
A budget range
If you have one. It helps set realistic options.
References
Colors, papers or examples you like, and anything you want to avoid.
What each step means
An inquiry, a proposal and a confirmed date are different things. Here is what each one means on this site.
Inquiry
Your first message. Nothing is reserved or agreed.
Estimate or proposal
A written outline of scope and cost, if the studio sends one. It’s an offer, not a booking.
Agreement
A signed contract or paid retainer, where one is used. Only this commits either side.
Confirmed date
A date counts as held only when the studio confirms it in writing.
Handover
Delivery of the agreed design, on the terms in your agreement.
Revisions, files and rights
None of these are published for the studio.
Ask how many revision rounds are included, which files you’ll receive, and how you may use the design. Get the answers in writing before work begins.
Start with the brief.
Your consultation request can be short. Share what you know so far.