Sophie Botsford

It's got to be my own wedding. I designed stationery for over 6 years before I finally got to design my own wedding stationery. I was able to incorporate all the elements of previous couples designs into my dream stationery and I still love it to this day.

Bespoke, luxury, personal, traditional, unique

I am most proud of creating a seamless and stress-free experience for my couples. I always try and stay one step ahead, offer advice and help with timings.

I always think less is more. Due to specialising in personalised stationery it's always a temptation to want to include lots of personal elements to your stationery, but sometimes it's best to keep things simple...especially when it comes to the invitations. Extra personal touches can always be added to the table plan, order of service etc.

I love adding couples pets to their invitations. Nothing makes me more happy than seeing a little dog featuring within your stationery.

I always like to start the process with a phone call or video chat. This allows me to get to know my couples, learning a little more about what they are looking for and explain the process I offer. Once we have had the initial chat I go away and create a selection of sketch ideas, along with a rough quote. At this point couples can decide if they would like to continue with my services and that is when the fun really starts.

I believe that invitations (or save the dates if you are planning to send those too) are the most important piece of stationery. This is the first thing your guest will see and will give them a real insight into your wedding day.

Invitations have always been my best seller. However, often couples don't find me until after they have sent their invites out but love the 'On the Day' stationery I offer. Personalised table plans are becoming hugely popular...especially those featuring past and present pets.

I have a wonderful printers who process all my stationery. This allows me to offer a wider selection of products. All stationery is delivered directly from my manufacturers to couples, which also allows me to keep costs down and pass them over to you. I can't think of any innovative methods used, but there are been a few close calls in the past. I always learn from my mistakes, and now make sure all couples stationery is delivered well in advance.

As I offer a personalised service it is always lovely to see how each couple interpret romance. Some couples prefer to go for fun, colourful designs, whereas others tend to stick to a more traditional design. I personally this that the choice of font can make a huge different to the feel of your stationery. Going for a traditional calligraphy style will instantly add romance and a luxury feel.