FAQ's
What services does Belletristics offer?
Belletristics provides graphic design services for the do-it-yourself bride. A wide variety of ready-made designs are available, and will be personalized with your wedding information and colors. Belletristics also offers custom stationery design services.
All designs are sent via email.
Monogram designs will be sent in easy to use jpeg format.
All other designs are provided in ready to print PDF format. You can either print your designs at home or take them to a professional printer.
Who owns Belletristics?
Me! My name is Sarah Brown, and I am the founder and owner of Belletristics. As the sole employee, I am also the graphic designer, accountant, secretary, and copy writer! When you choose Belletristics for your design, I'm the only person you'll work with. If you'd like to find out more, please visit the about page.
What are your hours of operation?
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 am to 6 pm (eastern time).
Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 4 pm (eastern time).
Closed Saturday and Sunday, and all major holidays.
Please visit Belletristics' Design Blog for the most up to date information on any scheduled closings.
How long will it be before I receive my designs?
You can expect to receive your first set of proofs in 3-5 business days from the time your payment is complete and I've received all the required information for your design.
Please keep in mind, if you place an order after business hours, it will not be processed until the next business day. So while an order placed at 11 am on Wednesday will be processed the same day, one placed after 4 pm on Friday will not be processed until Monday.
Rush services are available for a fee. Please contact me before ordering to make sure I can accommodate your needs.
Ordering
How can I order a monogram?
You can order a ready-made monogram by filling out the ready-made monogram order form.
To order a custom monogram, please fill out the custom monogram quote form. I'll reply with a custom quote based on the design requested, and send instructions on how to proceed.
How can I order invitation designs?
You can purchase a ready-made invitation by filling out the ready-made invitation order form.
To order a custom invitation, please fill out the custom invitation quote form. I'll review your form, then get back to you with a custom quote for the design within 2 business days. After you accept the quote, I'll send a PayPal invoice for the total cost and a form requesting any additional information needed. You will receive a custom design contract containing the details of the design. As soon as payment is complete and you've returned the agreed to the contract, I'll begin work on your invitation design.
How can I order your other designs?
You can fill out the ready-made accessory design order form to order designs other than monograms, save the dates, or custom invitations. After you submit the form, within 2 business days you'll receive a quote or PayPal invoice for your design. After payment is complete I'll begin work on your design.
Payment
What forms of payment do you accept?
Belletristics accepts PayPal for all transactions.
Please keep in mind that if you pay by e-check, or if you have an unconfirmed Pay Pal address, I will wait until funds clear to begin work on your project.
If you don't have a Pay Pal account, you can still make a purchase. You can either sign up for a Pay Pal account, or you can pay with a credit card through Pay Pal without creating an account.
Pricing
How much do your monograms cost?
Ready-made Monograms: one for $6, three for $15, or five for $20
Custom-made monogram pricing varies depending on the complexity and individual needs of each design. To receive a price quote, please fill out the custom monogram quote request.
How much do your other designs cost?
Prices vary, please see the pricing page for a complete list of ready-made pricing options.
If I order more than one design, can I get a discount?
Yes! There are design packages available that are less expensive than purchasing each item individually.
I purchased a monogram from you before, can I get the 3 for $15 pricing if now I want two more monograms?
Unfortunately, the discount pricing only applies when you purchase all designs at the same time. This applies to all design pricing and package pricing. The reason it's less expensive per design when you purchase multiples at once is that I create all the proofs at the same time. When the designs are created separately, it takes more time, and therefore costs more.
Custom or ready-made?
What is a ready-made design?
Ready-made designs are all the pre-made designs shown on this website. All ready-made designs will have a style number (looks like sta-023) or name (Bliss, Whimsy, etc.) found directly above the design that you should reference when ordering.
Ready-made designs are personalized with your information and colors. Additional customization, ie. changing the font or layout, is available for a $5 fee.
What changes are allowed in ready-made designs?
Colors and all text will be changed to your specific wedding information. Dates or other text can be removed at no charge, but if you would like to add additional text to a design, change the layout, or substitute a different graphic in a design, a fee will apply.
Ready-made monograms can also be used as family crests or logos or personal monograms. You can remove the date from the monogram, or substitute it with "family established" if you like.
What is a custom design?
A custom design is a design that is created from scratch to your specifications. You call the shots, and get to decide on the colors, graphics, style, fonts, and layout used in the design.
File Formats
What file formats are available?
JPG/JPEG, TIF, PNG, GIF, BMP, and PDF are the most common, but if you need a different type, let me know and I'll do my best to accommodate you.
Vector file formats (EPS or AI) are also available for an additional fee. Please let me know prior to ordering if you require a vector format.
I would like a transparent background for my design. What file format should I choose?
The PNG file format supports transparency, and you can use the file just like you would a JPG or other picture file.
Can you send my file as a Microsoft Word document?
Yes! Just make sure to let me know that is the file format you prefer before I begin work on the design.
However, even if a design is sent in Microsoft Word format, you will not be able to edit the text or layout of the design.
Because of the margin and layout limitations of Microsoft Word, receiving your final file in PDF format is recommended.
Colors
Can you change the colors shown in a design?
Absolutely! The colors in all Belletristics' designs are completely customizable. For best results, choosing at least one dark color and one light color is recommended.
How can I tell you what colors to use?
To choose your colors, please print out Belletristics' color chart. For best results, you should print the chart using the printer and paper you will be using for you final project.
(more colors can be used than are shown in the color chart- the chart is a starting point)
You can also let me know the RGB, hex code, or PMS number for your colors.
Why do the colors in my design look different when I print them?
Keep in mind that all computer monitors will show colors differently, and the printed color will not match exactly what you see on the screen.
The type of printer, the printing method, and paper you print on will all affect the colors in the final design.
The only way to guarantee your colors will print the way you want is to print out a test copy using the paper and printer you will use for your final project.
Fonts and Graphics
What font did you use in my design?
Unfortunately, I cannot provide exact details of the design process, including font names or information on the graphics used in the design.
Due to copyright and licensing on fonts and graphics, I am unable to share these with others.
Can you use a different font than shown in a design?
For ready-made monograms, one font change is included, free of charge. For all other ready-made designs, there is a $5 fee to make changes to the font.
I have a graphic/clip art that I'd like you to use in my design, is that possible?
Maybe. First, the copyright must allow me to use it commercially. Second, the graphic must have a resolution of at least 300 dpi. If for any reason I'm unable to use the exact graphic you have is mind, I will usually be able to suggest a similar graphic we could substitute.
Can you use a photo in any designs?
Yes! Any images will need to have a resolution of at least 300dpi. Also, if it was taken by a professional photographer, I'll need to see a copy of the release form.
Resolution
What does "DPI" mean?
DPI stands for "dots per inch". If you'd like to know more, check out the wikipedia on DPI.
What resolution do you recommend for my design?
As a rule of thumb, 72 dpi is the standard for graphics that will be viewed on a computer, and 300 dpi is the standard for printed graphics.
If you're having your design printed professionally, check with the company that you'll be using and they can tell you what resolution they prefer.
Proofs
What are "proofs"?
A proof is a copy of your design that I send to you to look over, and you have the opportunity to request changes.
Please note that all proofs sent will include my watermark. It may or may not be obvious, but it is there and will show up if you print the design, so please wait to use your design until I've sent the final file.
Will I get to see a proof before you send the final file?
Yes! 3 total proofs are included with the order of a ready-made design (the initial proof along with 2 revisions).
Custom design orders include 5 total proofs (the initial proof and 4 revisions).
What if I don't like the custom design option you provide in the first proof, and would like to see different design options?
The first set of proofs for a custom design will include 3-5 design option. If you don't feel the provided designs match the style you want, you may request 1new design option.*
*Please note: You may only request a new design option during the first round of proofs. The rest of the proof rounds are limited to revisions of previously provided design options only. If, after the second proof has been sent, you wish to see new design options, you must make a new custom purchase.
Can you make changes after I've received the final file?
Yes, but there will be a $5 fee per revision after final files have been sent. Requests for changes should be made during the proofing stage, and all sales are final once you have received the final files.
I've already used the included revisions and would like more changes, what now?
If you've used all your allotted revisions and still require changes, you can add additional revisions at $5 each.
Will your watermark appear on the final design?
No, my watermark is only used during the proofing process and will not be on the final design.
I'm not happy with the final file. What should I do now?
If there was a mistake on my part, let me know right away and I will fix it for you immediately.
If you've approved the design and received your final file, and then change your mind, you'll have to make a new purchase. You'll also need to make a new purchase if you told me to send the wrong design (ie. you said proof A but meant to say proof B).
I lost/damaged/corrupted the design you sent me. What do I do now?
Please don't let this happen to you!! As soon as you receive your final design, save a back-up copy of your file and put it in a safe place.
If it has been less than four weeks since I sent the file, email me and if I still have a copy I'll send it to you, free of charge.
Unfortunately, if it has been more than four weeks, I can't guarantee that I'll still have a copy. I will redo the design for you at a discount (50% of the original price).
Monograms
What is the proper etiquette when using a monogram?
According traditional etiquette, you shouldn't use you married monogram before the wedding. Instead, you could use a monogram with just your first initials or names for all your pre-wedding stationery (save the dates, invitations). But feel free to throw so called "proper" etiquette out the window! These days, it's common to see a couple using their married monogram before the wedding, so do what you feel comfortable doing!
For more detailed information, visit my blog post on Monogram Etiquette.
Will I be able to edit my monogram design after you send the final file?
You'll be able to resize the design like you would any JPEG or picture file, but beware of trying to enlarge it too much since your design will appear fuzzy or pixelated.
You will not be able to change the text or colors.
If you want to be able to resize your design to whatever size you like, you'll need to order a vector (AI or EPS) format. You'll also need access to a vector editing program, such as Adobe Illustrator, to make changes.
How much do your monograms cost?
ready-made Monograms: one for $6, three for $15, or five for $20
Custom Monograms: please use the custom monogram quote request form for a price quote based on your individual design needs.
Can you show me more monogram styles than I'm ordering so I can decide which I like best?
You may choose to see 1 more monogram than you order, then decide which you like best during the proofing process. For example, if you are ordering 1 ready-made monogram, you may pick 2 designs to see personalized with your information and colors.
What happens after I purchase a ready-made monogram?
After you make your purchase, make sure to finish the transaction by paying through Pay Pal to avoid any delays, since I can't begin work until payment is complete. If I have any questions about your order, I will email you at the email address you provided in the form. (if I do not have questions about your order, I will not contact you until I send the first proof- your PayPal receipt is your order confirmation)
You can expect your first proof within 3-5 business days. You can look them over, then let me know what revisions, if any, need to be made, and we'll continue the proofing process. Once you give the okay on the final design, I'll email you the final file in JPEG format (unless a different file type was requested) at a resolution of 300 dpi.
What happens after I order a custom monogram?
After you submit a quote request for a custom monogram, I'll reply to you within 1-2 business days with a custom quote based on your requests. When you accept the price quote, I will send you a PayPal invoice for the design fee, along with a contract stating the details of the design.
Once payment is complete and you've returned the signed contract, I'll get started on your design.
Your first proof for a custom monogram design will include 3-5 design concepts based on the information provided. After receiving your first proof you have the option to:
1) Approve 1 design to move forward with and make revisions to
2)Request a design that combines elements from the provided options
3)If you feel the design options provided do not fit the specifications you requested, you may request 1 new alternate design*
*Please note: You may only request a new design option during the first round of proofs. The rest of the proof rounds are limited to revisions of previously provided design options only. If, after the second proof has been sent, you wish to see new design options, you must make a new custom purchase.
You are allowed to choose 1 design from the provided options for your final file. The chosen monogram will be sent in high resolution JPEG format, unless a different file type was requested. Vector formats (AI or EPS) may be available for an additional fee. Please contact Belletristics about vector format availability.
If you would like to purchase any of the other monogram options provided, you may do so for $20 each (no revisions are included in this cost- if you'd like additional revisions it is $5 each).
What can I do with my monogram?
When you receive your final file, it's yours to use as much as you want! (just no commercial use, please!)
Need ideas on where to use your monogram? Check out this list!
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You can also see examples of how past customers have used their monograms in the "Real Weddings" section on this site.
Invitations
Can I use different wording than is shown on ready-made invitations?
Yes! You can use the sample wedding invitation wording shown, or supply your own. If you need tips on how to word your invitations, you can view Belletristics stationery wording guide.
You can also substitute wording to use the invitation for a different type of event, ie. a baby shower invitation or graduation announcement.
Please note, when supplying your own wording for an invitation, please keep the length within three lines of what is shown in the design (for example, if the sample invite has 12 lines of text, so please no less than 9 or no more than 15 lines of text for your substitute wording).
What sizes are the ready-made invitations, and can they be changed?
Most ready-made invitations were created at the following dimensions: 5"x7", 7"x5", 5"x5"
The dimensions can be changed to accommodate your needs, as long as the invite will retain is overall shape and orientation. For example, a square design must be resized to square dimensions.
What file format will my invitation be in?
Invitations are sent as high resolution, ready to print PDF's. Crop marks for cutting purposes can be added at no cost.
Where can I have my invitations printed?
Printing at home is usually the most economical option, but if you don't want to do it yourself, you can use a professional printer. Make sure to check with your local print shops! They are often more reasonable than big office stores (such as Kinko's or Office Depot).
There are also online print shops (such as Vista Print and Overnight Prints) you can use. However, I'd suggest getting a sample of their printing to judge the quality of the work before placing a large order.
Save the Date Cards
Can you use a photo in any designs?
Yes! Any images will need to have a resolution of at least 300dpi. Also, if it was taken by a professional photographer, I'll need to see a copy of the release form.
Can you design a magnet to match my Save the Date design?
Yes! You can add a coordinating magnet design to any ready-made save the date design for $5.
Table Numbers
What size are your ready-made table numbers?
Standard sizes for table numbers are 5"x7", 7"x5", or 5"x5", but the dimensions can be changed to accommodate your needs, as long as the card will retain is overall shape. For example, a square design must be resized to square dimensions.
What file format will my table numbers be in?
Final files will be sent as high resolution, ready to print PDF's. If you'd like a different file type, please let me know when ordering.
Can I use words instead of numbers on my table number cards?
Yes! In ready-made designs you can substitute a word (ie. "love" "happiness") for the number, for an additional $5 fee.
Can I use a photo in a table number designs?
Yes! Any images will need to have a resolution of at least 300dpi. Also, if it was taken by a professional photographer, I'll need to see a copy of the release form.
Escort Cards
What size are your escort card designs?
Standard size for flat escort cards is 3"x2", or 3"x4" for folded styles, but the design can be adjusted to fit other dimensions.
What file format will my escort cards be in?
The final file will be sent in PDF format, set up to print multiple cards per page. If you prefer, spacing can be left to accommodate a tented design.
If you will be typing in your guests' names, I can insert editable text boxes for you. You will be able to change the font, color, size, alignment, and placement of the text boxes. Keep in mind, for any editable text, you will need to use a font installed on your computer.
You can also receive a single copy of the design in jpeg format at a resolution of 300 dpi.
What is the difference between an escort card, table card, and a place card?
Traditionally, an escort card assigns the table where a couple will be seated, and is placed inside a small envelope with the couples' names on the outside. A more contemporary approach to escort cards skips the envelope, and the names and table numbers are on the card together.
A table card is the same as the modern take on the escort card: it tells guests what table to sit at.
Escort and table cards are generally set up outside of or at the entrance to the reception.
A place card is placed at the individual seats at a table and lets your guests know which seat to take at the table.
Address Labels
Is it okay to use an address label on my wedding invitations?
According to traditional etiquette, wedding invitations should be hand addressed. However it's becoming more and more common to see address labels used.
The wrap around address label (popularized by Martha Stewart- if she says it's okay, it must be!) is a slightly more formal option. You can handwrite the address on the label, or you can type it in.
What is a wrap around address label?
A wrap around address label usually features some kind of pattern or design , with a space on the front to insert the recipients' address, then wraps around the envelope with the return address on the back.
The pictures below show what a standard size label (2" x 8") would look like on an A7 (5.25" x 7.25") envelope.
What size are your address labels?
The standard size is 2" x 8" and fits an A7 (5.25" x 7.25") envelope. The size can be adjusted to fit your particular envelope.
What file format will my address labels be in?
The final file will be sent in PDF format, with approximately 5 (depending on the size ordered) labels on one page.
If you will be typing in your guests' addresses, I can insert editable text boxes for you. You will be able to change the font, color, size, alignment, and placement of the text boxes. Keep in mind, for any editable text, you will need to use a font installed on your computer.
You can also receive a single copy of the design in jpeg format at a resolution of 300 dpi.
Can I use a monogram or graphic instead of the return address?
Yes! However, there is a $5 fee to customize a ready-made design, or you can order a custom design and let me know what you'd like instead of the return address.
Where can I buy labels to print the address label design?
I recommend buying full sheet labels from an office store, and then cutting them to size.
Alternatively, you could print the design on regular paper, then attach it to the envelope with adhesive or use a xyron sticker maker to turn it into a sticker.
Water Bottle Labels
What size are your water bottle labels?
The standard size is 8" x 2", but the size can be changed to accommodate the size water bottle you'll use the label on.
To figure out what size you need, you can peel the label off the water bottle brand you'll be using, and then measure it's dimensions laying flat.
Where can I order labels to print the water bottle label design?
You can use any full sheet label, but I recommend buying white matte vinyl water-resistant labels from labels by the sheet.
What file format will my water bottle labels be in?
The final file will be sent in PDF format, with approximately 5 (depending on the size ordered) labels on one page. If you order your blank labels from labels by the sheet, I'll use the template from their website to insure your labels print correctly.
You can also receive a single copy of the design in jpeg format at a resolution of 300 dpi.
Favor Tags
What are favor tags?
Favor tags are generally a small label or tag that attach to your wedding favors. They can say thank you, include your names or wedding date, or have another saying, like "eat, drink, and be married".
What size are your ready-made favor tags?
The standard size for favor tags is 2"x2", but this can be adjusted to accommodate your needs.
What file format will the favor tag design be sent in?
Final files can be sent as high resolution (300 dpi) jpegs or in PDF format set to print multiples per page. Other file formats are also available. If you require a vector format (resizeable - AI or EPS file types) there is a $5 fee. Please let me know when ordering if you'd like a different file type.
Menu Cards
What size are your ready-made menu cards?
Standard sizes for menu cards are 5"x7", 5 1/2"x8 1/2", or 5"x5". The dimensions can be changed to accommodate your needs, as long as the card will retain is overall shape. For example, a square design must be resized to square dimensions.
What file format will the menu card design be sent in?
Final files will be sent as high resolution, ready to print PDF's.
If you'll be typing in the menu yourself, the final file can also be sent with editable text boxes. You will be able to change the font, color, size, alignment, and placement of the text boxes. Keep in mind, for any editable text, you will need to use a font installed on your computer.
Can I use different drinks for the cocktail menu card?
Yes! Cocktail menu cards can be ordered as shown, or I can substitute your own signature cocktails.
Will I be able to edit the menu text after I receive the final file?
If I set up the text for you, you won't be able to edit the text. Please make sure that your menu is final before having me insert your text.
You can also purchase a blank template design with an editable text box inserted. You will be able to change the font, color, size, alignment, and placement of the text boxes. Keep in mind, for any editable text, you will need to use a font installed on your computer.
Wedding Signs
What sizes are the ready-made wedding signs, and can they be changed?
Most ready-made wedding signs were created at the following dimensions: 8"x 8" or 8.5" x 11".
The dimensions can be changed to accommodate your needs, as long as the design will retain is overall shape. For example, a square design must be resized to square dimensions.
What file format will the sign design be sent in?
Final files will be sent as high resolution, ready to print PDF's. Other file formats are available, just let me know when ordering what file type you prefer.
{back to top}Seating Charts
How much does a seating chart design cost?
Ready made seating chart designs start at $45, depending on the number of names to include.
For custom seating chart pricing, please request a quote.
How can I print my seating chart design?
Because of the large size of most seating charts, using a professional printer is recommended. I'd suggest checking with your local office stores or print shops.
How can I send you the names to use in my seating chart?
Microsoft Excel or Word format is preferred.
If the chart will be arranged alphabetically, I'd need your guest list in alphabetical order by last name, with couples/families grouped together. You'll also need to include the table number/name they'll be sitting at. Or if it will be arranged by table, I'll need the guest listing grouped according to the table number/name they'll be seated at.
If you have a question that is not answered here or in my policies, please contact me anytime.
General
Belletristics
Hours of Operation
Turn Around Time
Ordering
Payment
Pricing
Design Process
Custom or ready-made?
File Formats
Colors
Fonts and Graphics
Resolution
Proofs
Design Specific
Monograms
Invitations
Save the Date Cards
Table Numbers
Escort Cards
Address Labels
Water
Bottle Labels
Favor Tags
Menu Cards
Wedding Signs
seating charts