10 Tips On Hiring A Calligrapher

If you are considering hiring a calligrapher to address your invitations, write names on your place cards, or create a seating chart for you, then keep in mind the following questions:

1.) Does the calligrapher have any educational background or training in art or calligraphy? Do they belong to any professional calligraphy associations or guilds?

2.) How many clients does the calligrapher work with each month?
If the calligrapher is overbooked or overburdened then you may not receive the personalized attention you deserve and require.

3.) Does the calligrapher write by hand or use a computer program?
If you are specifically looking for handwritten calligraphy then be on the look out for calligraphy websites with words and phrases such as "100's of fonts to choose from", "cheap", and "fast turn around time". Realize too that computerized calligraphy, just like handwritten calligraphy, comes with its own special pitfalls such as your invitation envelopes getting jammed in the printer, smudged ink, lack of a person checking for misprints, etc.

4.) Are you thinking about saving money by having your well meaning artistic friend address your invitations in calligraphy rather than hiring a professional calligrapher?
Stop! Don't jeopardize a treasured friendship in order to save money! Cut down on your already overwhelming amount of stress and hire a professional calligrapher who knows what they are doing. This is your special day and you deserve the best.

5.) Does the calligrapher have a clear and understandable pricing policy for addressing envelopes or writing names on place cards?
You have the right to know what you are paying for and receiving. Yes, calligraphy is an art and sometimes it's difficult to estimate cost, but they should at least have a range of prices. For example, addressing envelopes starts at about $1.75 and up. Writing names on place cards begins at $.75 and up.

6.) Is the calligrapher willing to sign a contract for the services they will be providing for you?
Make sure the contract spells out:
--what services you are ordering (how many envelopes, how much per envelope)
--when you will be able to pick up your completed order
--how much you paid, your method of payment, and when you paid
Always ask for a receipt of the deposit and/or the final payment. Also, always ask for a copy of the contract that should be signed and dated.

7.) Does the calligrapher write with a calligraphy marker or a fountain pen?
Calligraphy markers sometimes fade over the years, but the ink in fountain pens is less likely to do so. Calligraphy written with fountain pens also tends to add a special touch of elegance, distinction, and beauty to any item.

8.) Is the calligrapher able to supply you with samples of their work?
If you find a calligrapher in the phone book or through word of mouth make sure to request a sample of their work before purchasing their services. Specifically ask for a sample of an item you are interested in such as an addressed invitation, a place card, escort card, etc. Some calligraphers will ask for a few dollars to cover the cost of the materials and postage.

9.) Is the calligrapher able to write in more than one font?
Good calligraphers should be able to write in at least 2 or 3 different fonts such as Italic, Cancelleresca, Copperplate, Unical, or Gothic.

10.) Is the calligrapher willing to customize their services to meet your needs and desires?
If the answer is "no" then keep shopping

©	Copyright 2005
	Authors Website