Originally posted on Polka Dot Bride on March 20, 2009 
Today’s expert is the lovely Natalie of Dizzy Wizzy Stationery Design, a graphic designer who founded her own custom stationery business based out of Western Australia. Today Natalie tells Polka Dot Bride the secrets behind her designs.
Tell me about yourself?
I’m a Perth based Graphic Designer with 10 years experience. I’m inspired by the ocean and being outdoors. I also travel as often as possible.
Do you have a particular interest in colour, design or marketing?
I’m inspired by retro graphics and colour combinations. I have fallen in love with letterpress – it’s so pretty. I love using a common thread or theme through my designs so my clients stationery is incorporated throughout their wedding day.
What was the catalyst for setting up the Dizzy Wizzy website?
I loved my job as an in-house graphic design within the sport and recreation industry but I felt like I needed another creative outlet. I was always happy to help friends and family out with invitations, birth announcements and alike. After receiving a lot of positive feedback I decided to open an online store. www.dizzywizzydesign.com.au opened its virtual doors in October 2008.
Dinky
How do you keep your website fresh and different?
Design with clean lines, I think white space is the key to making things feel fresh.
What are your aims for your business?
In the coming months I’m planning on launching a new range of wedding stationery to my online shoppe. I’m also collaborating with a friend on a collection of greeting cards.
What sets you apart from others?
Geographical location, Perth is far far away from anywhere. In all seriousness I hope it is my customer service. I’m willing to go the extra mile for my clients. I try to design stationery that is truly suited to my clients style and personalities.
How do you keep on learning?
I’ve got a bit of a design blog and magazine addiction. I also participant in Minted stationery design competitions to hone my skills.
What inspires you? How do stay inspired?
Definitely the beach and being outdoors. I think to stay inspired you need to take time out and change your surroundings.
What inspires you about Australian brides?
Australian brides are relaxed and quite often are keen to do things a little differently.
What is your number one tip for brides?
Incorporate bit of your personality / style into your wedding day and don’t forget to enjoy every moment of your wedding day, it will be over before you know it.
Black Rose
What are your favourite wedding invitation ideas?
Monograms or ‘wedding logos’ are a simple way to thread all your stationery pieces together.
What bridal stationery trends do you see in the future?
Nostalgic and rustic designs are definitely in at the moment. I think there is will be a return to very simple patterns with clean lines. Letterpress is very popular in USA and UK will become more popular with Australian brides.
What should brides start with when they’re planning their stationery needs?
Start with the invitation when designing your stationery. If you are on a tight budget perhaps have your invitations professionally designed and DIY other parts of your stationery.
Tropics
What are the biggest mistakes you see brides making?
Taking on too many DIY projects for their wedding. Sometimes it is more cost effective to get a bit of professional help.
Cleverest ideas you’ve seen?
Down loadable wedding monograms so brides can DIY.
Could you give us 5 tips and tricks for the bride?
- Invitations should be mailed six to eight weeks prior to the wedding date so keep this in mind when placing your order with a supplier.
- Have a close friend or family member check your stationery for errors, it could save you a bundle.
- Make your RSVP cards interactive, include a box for your guest comments or messages.
- Order about 10 extra invitations than you think you need, just in case.
- Create a wedding website, especially if you are planning a destination wedding.
Thanks Natalie for joining Polka Dot Bride today! Check out the Dizzy Wizzy website for more of Natalie’s work or visit her blog
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