Cynthia is the creator of a line of exquisite custom invitations based on her illustrations. Each is an elegant work of art, personally designed by Cynthia and hand crafted by herself and Vermont artisans. Whether the client uses one of Cynthia's existing illustrations or comissions a one-of-a kind painting as the basis for the design, the work is ultimately customized to fit the unique needs of the client. Fine papers, silk ribbon, elaborate design, beautiful fonts, and hand gilding make these invitations valuable keepsakes.
STYLES:
By "style" we mean how a card is put together, decorated and packaged. Currently we create invitations in two style formats: Cloaked or Uncloaked. "Cloaked" means that the announcement fits into a slightly dimensional decorative jacket, like a little gift. "Uncloaked" means the Text Card is encased in a traditional envelope.
CLOAKED STYLES: (Click on each photo to view larger version or more examples.)
THE TUXEDO is an unadorned casing of fine coverstock that coordinates with the flat text backing. The "collar" is folded down to meet the elegant bow. Cloaked in The Tuxedo casing, your invitation is formally attired and ready for any elegant occasion. (Please note that this tuxedo has the response card tucked under the ribbon.)
THE WAISTCOAT is a more decorated version of The Tuxedo. The invitation illustration is repeated on the front and back of the casing, echoing the central theme and colors of your event.
THE SHAWL is a smaller, square version of the cloaked look. Sides are folded and pierced on the hem as well as the collar. A ribbon gathers this creation together. Flowers add even more lovliness to the effect.
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TEXT CARDS: Below are examples of uncloaked, flat announcements.
UNCLOAKED text frames can be made in a variety of shapes and dimensions. Each one is a series of layers in fine paper and cardstock. Hand gilding and flat ribbon only add to the elegance.
Colorful Baby Announcement with hand gilding - can be cloaked.
Most flat text cards can be used alone or cloaked for dramatic effect. Here are two different styles, each using the same illustration.
DESIGN: In addition to choosing a style, the client chooses a
design or illustration. Clients can commission an original painting
from Cynthia or customize one of her existing designs. Most of our
designs can be formatted to fit the client's desired style format.
Cynthia is always creating new styles and designs so please check back often to see what
is new.
Because each invitation is a work of art lovingly crafted by hand, all our invitations are labor-intensive and, thus, expensive. Clients may use one of Cynthia's existing border illustrations as the basis of an invitation package or may commission a custom illustration. Costs are calculated on a per-item basis at the initial consultation. Charges for a basic package (invitation & cloak with envelope or box, response card with envelope) range from $16 to $30 each. No minimums are required. Many other packages are possible. Items for purchase could include:
AN EXCLUSIVE ILLUSTRATION painted by Cynthia with symbols representing your particular life or event.
TEXT CARD Invitation/ Announcement (shown as Uncloaked Cards above) & Envelope.
CLOAK with ribbon, clear protective sleeve, and outer envelope (see above styles) for your text card.
DECORATED BOX for dimensional works with crushable flowers.
RESPONSE CARD & Envelope
THANK YOU CARD & envelope
PERSONAL NOTE flat enclosure card & envelope
CUSTOM LOGO labels
CUSTOM LOGO tags for favors
CUSTOM ADDRESS LABELS for reply card & outer envelope
HAND ADDRESSING of outer envelope in Cynthia's unique calligraphy style
PLACE CARDS
TABLE SIGNS
LARGER SIGNS
Because of the hand-crafted nature of this work, complicated orders must be placed at least ten weeks in advance. Please direct serious inquiries to Cynthia via the "Information" page.
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Please check back often. This is the newest section of our website and is still being designed.
