At Gates Paper Co., we believe that luxury stationery is an art form—one that deserves time, intention, and precision.
Some items demand strict adherence to deadlines, while others allow for a little more flexibility in favor of artistry. Here’s how we approach timelines and what you can expect when working with us.
Day-Of Paper Goods: When Timing Really Really Matters
For day-of paper goods (like menus, programs, escort cards, and signage), the timeline is crucial. These are items that absolutely need to arrive before your wedding day, no exceptions. To ensure you have everything on time, we aim to deliver all day-of stationery at least two weeks before your wedding. This built-in buffer allows for any last-minute adjustments, unexpected delays, or shipping mishaps.
Because of this, our approach to day-of items is firm and proactive:
- We will strictly enforce deadlines and will follow up persistently until we have the approvals and details we need.
- If you are slow to respond or provide necessary information, this can impact the timeline—we’ll remind you, but it’s important to stay on track.
- There is no flexibility in pushing day-of timelines. If your responses are delayed, we won’t be able to guarantee delivery on time, and we do not rush production at the cost of quality.
In short: We take these deadlines seriously so you don’t have to stress about whether your wedding day stationery will arrive on time.
Save the Dates, Invitations & Wedding Websites: Artistry Over Speed
Unlike day-of items, Save the Dates, Invitations, and Websites aren’t dependent on a single day, which allows us to focus more on quality over speed. If you’re looking for Amazon Prime-style turnaround, we’re probably not the best fit. Good design takes time, and we work with artisans and small businesses to create pieces that are truly unique.
Here’s our approach to timeline expectations for these items:
- We will always communicate if something is running behind, but delays are never excessive—we’re talking a few days, not weeks.
- If a design is 90% there but needs an extra day or two to be perfected, we’d rather take the time to make it exceptional than rush something that doesn’t feel finished.
- If a one-day delay on Save the Dates (that you’re sending out 10 months before the wedding) would stress you out, we may not be the right fit. Our process values creativity and craftsmanship above rigid, factory-like turnaround times.
Your Responsiveness Impacts Your Timeline
When you book with us, we’ll provide a promised send-out date—but that date is contingent on you responding on time. Here’s how it works:
- We expect proof approvals and email responses within 3 days of receiving them (whether it’s from the couple or the planner).
- You must provide essential details (wording, guest lists, etc.) by the deadlines we set.
- If you are late providing information or approvals, that time is added to your timeline. For example, if you take 10 days to approve a proof instead of 3, your delivery could be delayed by up to 7 days.
- This policy ensures that if you need more time, it won’t disrupt our workflow or other clients’ timelines.
We completely understand that wedding planning is a lot (whether it’s your own or it’s your full time job), and sometimes things get delayed on your end. That’s okay! But just know that our turnaround times rely on your responsiveness—if you need more time, your timeline will naturally shift accordingly.
Our Commitment to You
We’re here to make sure you get the best possible wedding stationery, on time and stress-free. That’s why we maintain clear communication, keep you updated on progress, and work diligently to meet agreed-upon deadlines.
If you have any questions about timelines, deadlines, or our process, we’re always happy to chat and make sure we’re aligned on expectations. Your wedding stationery should be as seamless as it is stunning!
