Live Calligraphy and Engraving FAQs

  • The easiest way to get started is to fill out my inquiry form — just share the basics about your event (date, location, type of service you're looking for), and I'll follow up within 1–2 business days to confirm details. From there, I'll put together a custom proposal with pricing, and once you're ready to move forward, I'll send a contract and invoice for a deposit to hold your date.

  • For live events, I recommend reaching out at least 4–6 weeks in advance — sooner if your event falls during a busy season (November and December book up fast). That said, I do occasionally have last-minute availability, so it's always worth asking even if your event is coming up soon.

    For studio work like corporate gifting or PR boxes, timelines vary based on quantity, but 2–3 weeks is a comfortable window for most orders. Rush timelines may be available — just ask.

  • Yes! I'm based in St. Louis but available for events throughout Missouri and beyond. Travel fees apply for events outside the St. Louis metro area — I'll include those details in your custom proposal. I've worked events across the Midwest and am happy to discuss larger travel for the right project.

  • The more detail the better, but here's what's most helpful:

    • Event date, start time, and expected end time

    • Venue or general location

    • Estimated number of guests or items to be personalized

    • What you'd like personalized (your items, or items I provide)

    • Type of service — engraving, calligraphy, foiling, or a mix

    Not sure about all the details yet? That's completely fine. Send what you have and we'll figure out the rest on a call.

  • Yes — working with brands and corporate clients is the core of what I do. I have experience with retail activations, brand pop-ups, corporate holiday parties, influencer gifting suites, and large-scale events. I understand brand standards, work well with event coordinators and production teams, and show up ready to represent your brand professionally.

  • I engrave on glass, metal, and leather — including champagne flutes, tumblers, wine glasses, ornaments, keychains, compacts, fragrance bottles, and branded merchandise. If you have a specific item in mind that's not on this list, just ask — I'm happy to test it before your event to confirm it'll work.

  • It depends on the complexity of what's being personalized — a simple monogram or short name is much faster than a long phrase or detailed design. As a general estimate:

    • Live engraving or hot foil: 15–25 items per hour for names or short messages

    • Live calligraphy: 20–30 items per hour depending on the item and length

    During our planning call, I'll help you think through guest flow so we set realistic expectations and keep the line moving. For large events, we can also discuss strategies to manage volume effectively.

  • I bring everything I need — my engraving equipment or calligraphy supplies, a table, and a clean, professional setup that fits your event aesthetic. I typically need a 6-foot table space and access to a standard electrical outlet (depending on service). Setup takes about 15-30 minutes before the event starts, and I'll always arrive early to make sure everything is ready to go before your first guest walks in.

  • Both options work. Many clients provide their own branded merchandise, packaging, or gifts — I personalize those on-site. I can also source items for you if you'd like a turnkey experience. We'll work through this together during planning so everything is accounted for before the event.

  • Yes — high-volume events are something I've done many times. The key is good planning upfront: thinking through guest flow, the number of hours needed, and whether a volume management strategy makes sense for your event. Let's talk through the specifics of your event and I'll make sure we have a plan that works.

  • Pricing is custom for every event and depends on the number of hours, the type of service, travel, and the items being personalized. I don't publish flat rates because a 2-hour boutique pop-up looks very different from a 6-hour corporate holiday party — and your quote should reflect that. For ballpark reference, a standard 4 hour live personalization package starts at $950.

    The best way to get a sense of cost is to fill out my inquiry form with your event details. I'll put together a custom proposal, and there's no obligation to book.

  • Events within the St. Louis metro area don't typically include a travel fee. For events outside the area, a mileage or travel fee will be included in your proposal. I'm always upfront about what's included before you commit to anything.

  • A deposit is required to hold your date — the specific amount is outlined in your contract. I understand that plans change, and my cancellation policy is designed to be fair to both sides. Full details are included in the client agreement, which I'm happy to share during the proposal process.

  • Every event includes my time on-site, setup and breakdown, all supplies and tools needed to perform the service, and pre-event planning and communication. If you're providing items, I'll also include a brief test on comparable materials before the event date so there are no surprises on the day.

  • Yes, of course! This is one of my favorite types of projects. I work with brands and agencies to hand-letter gift tags, packaging, enclosure cards, journals, candles, and more for PR mailers and client gift programs. You ship or drop off your items, I letter them in my St. Louis studio, and send them back ready to go. I can accommodate orders from 10 to 500+ pieces, with pricing based on quantity and complexity.

  • Turnaround time depends on the size of the order, but as a general guide:

    • Small orders (under 50 pieces): typically 5–7 business days after items are received

    • Medium orders (50–200 pieces): 7–14 business days

    • Large orders (200+ pieces): timeline discussed and confirmed during project planning

    Rush timelines are sometimes available — reach out and I'll let you know what's possible. I always confirm the timeline in writing before starting so there are no surprises.

  • Yes, always. Before I begin a studio project, I'll complete a sample as a proof and send you a photo for approval. This is especially important for orders with specific wording, branded elements, or items I haven't worked with before. I won't begin the full order until you've confirmed the proof.

  • Within the range of styles I work in, yes. I offer a few different lettering styles — from classic pointed pen calligraphy to more modern, casual scripts — and I'm happy to share samples during the planning process so you can choose what fits your brand best. I don't replicate other artists' specific styles or copy trademarked typefaces, but I can absolutely work within a tone or aesthetic that aligns with your brand.

Calligraphy Workshops in St. Louis FAQs

  • Not at all — my workshops are designed for complete beginners. You don't need any calligraphy experience, and you definitely don't need to be "artistic." All you need is a willingness to slow down and try something new. The class starts from scratch, and most people are surprised by how much they learn (and enjoy) in just a few hours.

  • Everything you need is included — no separate supply kit required. Your ticket covers:

    • A calligraphy nib and pen holder to use during class

    • Ink and practice paper

    • A printed workbook with drills and alphabet guides to take home

    • Step-by-step instruction from start to finish

  • Workshop locations vary — I host classes at local venues around St. Louis, and the specific location is listed on each event. Upcoming workshops and their locations are posted on my workshops page. Parking information is always shared ahead of time.

  • Yes — private workshops are available for groups of all kinds, including corporate team-building events, birthday celebrations, and friend gatherings. Private sessions are held at a venue of your choice and can be customized based on your group's goals and skill level. Reach out through the inquiry form to check availability and discuss what would work best for your group.

  • By the end of the workshop, you'll understand how to hold and use a calligraphy pen, how to form the basic upstroke and downstroke that underpin every letter, how to write a full lowercase alphabet in modern calligraphy, and how to connect letters into words. Plus, you’ll take your workbook and supplies to keep practicing at home. Most students are genuinely surprised by how much progress happens in just one session.