Expressions by Em Frequently Asked Questions
WEDDING FAQ's
How soon should I order my wedding invitations?
It is usually best to give Expressions by Em 4-6 months prior to your wedding to design your invitations and stationery items. However, we can turn around your invitations and stationery items within a week if needed. The extra time just gives you a peace of mind that your invitations are done in time for you and eases your stress.
How soon should I send my invitations and save the dates out?
Invitations should be mailed out 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding date. Save the Dates are usually sent out 8-10 months prior. This may vary depending on your wedding date and RSVP requirements.
What format should I send my addresses for printing?
Expressions by Em will custom print your addresses and return address on your invitations for FREE. The best format to send your list of recipients to Emily is in Microsoft Excel in columns. Each column should be exactly as you would want them to appear on the envelope. Columns should include Name, Address, City, State and Zip Code. We do accept Microsoft Word files also.
What does my design fee or package include?
Expressions by Em charges a design fee for all wedding stationery items. This is a one time fee and includes all custom designs for all stationery items, full assembly, printing of your return address and addresses, all rounds of changes, stuffing of invites into envelopes and sealing of envelopes, etc.
How soon will I receive my proofs?
Once Emily receives the deposit, you should plan to see your initial designs within two to four weeks. This may vary if we are on a tighter schedule so a quicker turn around time may be applicable.
What if I found an invitation or stationery item that I love?
Not a problem! Expressions by Em can recreate the style and design of your invitation you found. Just send Emily the link or show her a photo of what you are wanting and we’ll make sure to make you the perfect invitation!
How many invitations should I order?
Order as many invitations as you need. Expressions by Em is different than most print shops and online sites as we do not have minimum orders. We let you order in the exact quantity you need. If you run out when you are sending your stationery items or missed someone, not a problem! We can get you as many extras as you need in a short turn around time so that you don’t have to worry.
What types of paper options are available?
Expressions by Em specializes in pearlized metallic paper. We also offer matte finish card stock, luxe paper, glossy finished paper, crinkle paper and any other paper you may be looking for. We have a wide variety of colors available also.
Will you mail my invitations for me?
Expressions by Em will purchase all postage for you (at the post office prices) and include on your invoice. This just makes it easier for you and one less thing you have to worry about. Don’t want to have to worry about mailing? Emily will even drop your invitations in the mail for you.
BUSINESS FAQ's
Where are you located?
Expressions by Em is located in Ankeny, Iowa. Emily works out of her home office and is able to meet with clients for consultations and meetings here as well.
What are your prices?
Expressions by Em designs and creates everything custom for you, the client. You tell us what you are looking for and we will send you a custom quote based on what you are looking for. Pricing is dependent on your project. Contact Emily to get a free, custom quote.
Do you only work locally?
Absolutely not! Expressions by Em works with clients all over the United States. Because of the advancements of technology we are able to communicate and work with you as though we are meeting face to face.
What is your process and how do you do business?
Expressions by Em has a very simple, direct process. We like to schedule an initial meeting so that we can discuss your project, needs and expectations. At the initial meeting we are able to discuss how Expressions by Em works and the process. After the initial meeting, Emily will send you a quote and contract for review and approval. Once the quote is approved, Expressions by Em requires a deposit. Once we receive your deposit and signed contract, project work begins. We will begin designing for your project and send you proofs or the password to view proofs online. We work with your schedule but if we are designing for your wedding, designs will be sent within two to four weeks. From there, we wait for you to tell us what changes and other ideas you have and welcome any and all feedback. After we go through the rounds of changes, we will finalize your design and wait for approval. Once you approve the design, we will take it to production. If production is not needed (logo design work), we will send you an invoice. Once we receive payment, final artwork will be sent.
What are your hours?
Expressions by Em works on your schedule. We do not have specific hours however we do ask that you follow our phone hours.
What is typical turn around time for a project?
We are able to turn around projects as quickly as you need them. Typically we prefer to have atleast a week to turn your project around but we can turn projects around the same day as needed. Additional fees may be incurred for rush jobs.
When do I pay for my project?
Payment is due within 30 days of the date of the invoice. At times, Expressions by Em will require payment before you can take your project home with you. See terms, conditions and policies for more information on payment.
What types of payment do you accept?
Expressions by Em accepts cash or check. Checks are to be made out to Expressions by Em or Emily Heim.
When and where can we meet?
Because Emily works from home, we are able to meet with you at your convenience. We have the flexibility to meet with you during the day, evenings and on weekends.
How soon will I get my designs and project?
Designs and printed projects will be sent or emailed as soon as we receive final payment. Printed projects will be shipped to you or picked up at our office. Electronic designs will be sent via email. We work on your schedule so turn around time is based on your schedule.
Contact Em today with any other questions you may have.
