At Inkspiration by Gabrielle, I design favour tags that blend seamlessly with your wedding stationery suite, bringing everything together with consistency, charm and that extra bit of personality. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these tiny details so impactful.

Why Favour Tags Matter

It might be easy to overlook the tag, but it’s often the very first thing your guests will notice before opening their gift. Whether it’s a simple thank-you, your names and date, or a witty message to make people smile, these tags offer a chance to make a lovely impression, and even spark conversation around the table.

Beyond the words, the design itself is an opportunity to reflect your wedding style. A minimalist couple might go for crisp white tags with subtle fonts, while a boho couple may lean into earthy tones and hand-lettering. It’s all about adding that little moment of you.

What to Include on Your Favour Tags

Here’s what I recommend including:

• Your names – First names are usually enough, especially if your design is more informal.
• Wedding date – A lovely keepsake detail for your guests to remember your day.
• A thank-you message – This could be as simple as “Thank you,” “With love,” or something more playful like “Love is sweet!” or “Take this treat, you’ve earned it.”
• Optional extras – You might want to add a location, a short quote, or even a QR code that links to your wedding website or a shared photo album.

It’s all flexible depending on the size of your tag and your overall style.

Design Ideas to Inspire You

I love working with couples to create wedding favour tags that truly reflect their day. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Match your main stationery – Using the same fonts, motifs, or colour palette as your invitations or menus will instantly make everything feel cohesive.
• Add a floral touch – A tiny floral illustration or motif from your bouquet design brings everything full circle. I’ve done this for many couples, especially those using floral elements in other stationery pieces.
• Use shaped tags – Consider square tags, or something unexpected like a wax-sealed wedding favour tag. Details like these add so much charm.
• Layered or textured tags – A vellum overlay or ribbon detailing can bring dimension and tactile beauty to your wedding favours.

If you’ve ordered your full stationery suite through me, I will ensure your favour tags are a natural extension of everything else that’s been designed; elegant, custom, and unmistakably yours.

Final Thoughts

Favour tags may be small, but their impact is mighty. They’re a beautiful way to personalise your thank-yous and bring one last thoughtful design moment into your wedding day. Whether you’re going for classic romance, quirky charm or something totally bespoke, these tags are a chance to express your style and leave a lasting impression.

If you’d love some help designing the perfect tags for your wedding favours, I’d be delighted to create something special for you. You can get in touch with me directly through my contact page. Let’s turn your little details into lasting memories.

To view more of my wedding stationery designs, including table names, invitations, RSVPs, wedding favour tags, seating plans, welcome signs and so much more, please take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having wedding stationery designed for your special day, whether this be an invitation, a save the date, a wedding favour tag, a timeline sign, an RSVP, or whatever you may need for your special day, please get in touch with me today.

There are a couple of different ways to include your RSVP: either as a separate card tucked into your invitation suite, or incorporated into the design of the main invitation itself. Each has its benefits, and the right option for you will depend on your overall style, budget, and how you’re collecting your replies.

Let’s break it down…

Option One: A Separate RSVP Card

This is the most traditional option, and one I love designing. Having a separate RSVP card means you can include a lovely little coordinating piece that ties in with your whole suite. It also gives you space to include more personalised details and a sense of occasion.

Here’s what I recommend including:

• A polite request to RSVP (e.g. Kindly reply by 10th August)
• A line for guests to write their names
• A checkbox or space to accept or decline
• Meal choices, if needed
• Any extras you’d like to ask (dietary requirements, song requests, etc.)
• Return details, either your address for postal RSVPs, or a wedding website link, email or phone number for digital replies

Option Two: RSVP Included on the Main Invitation

If you’re after a more minimalist suite, or simply want to streamline your stationery, adding the RSVP wording directly to the invitation or details sheet can work really well. It saves paper, reduces printing costs, and keeps everything in one place.

This option works especially well if:

• You’re asking guests to RSVP online
• You’re hosting a smaller or more informal wedding
• You don’t need to collect lots of extra information

You can simply include a line such as:

Please RSVP by 10th August at www.ourwedding.com

Or, if you’re collecting replies via email:

Kindly reply to hello@ourwedding.com by 10th August

If you still need meal choices or other details, consider adding a little extra insert to capture those responses.

Wording Tips & Tone

Your RSVP wording can be as formal or relaxed as your overall wedding vibe. Some couples prefer classic phrasing, while others love to inject a bit of personality.

Here are a few wording examples to suit different tones:

Formal:
The favour of your reply is requested by 10th August

Modern and warm:
We’d love to hear from you by 10th August!

Playful:
Can’t wait to party? Let us know by 10th August!

Whatever you choose, the key is clarity. Make it easy for your guests to know what you’re asking and how to respond.

Final Thoughts

Your RSVP is more than just a checkbox, it’s a helpful little bridge between you and your guests, and a lovely way to start gathering excitement for the big day. Whether you opt for a standalone card or a neat line on your main invite, I can help you word it perfectly and make sure it fits seamlessly into your stationery suite.

Not sure which RSVP style suits you best? I’d love to chat and help you find the perfect fit. You bring the love story, and I’ll take care of the paper magic.

To view more of my wedding stationery designs, including table names, invitations, RSVPs, save the dates, seating plans, welcome signs and so much more, please take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having wedding stationery designed for your special day, whether this be an invitation, a save the date, a table name, a timeline sign, an RSVP, or whatever you may need for your special day, please get in touch with me today.

If you’re anything like me when I first started out, you’ve probably poured your heart and soul into your business. You’ve done the late nights, the problem-solving, the creative dreaming, and now you want your branding to reflect that same level of care. But branding isn’t always straightforward, and even the most talented business owners can fall into a few common traps when it comes to crafting a visual identity that truly connects.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been going a few years and are ready to refine things, this blog’s for you. Let’s look at five branding mistakes I often see small businesses make, and more importantly, how you can avoid them.

1. Inconsistency Across Platforms

This is hands-down the most common mistake I see. Maybe your logo looks one way on your Instagram profile, a different way on your business cards, and somewhere in between on your website. It might not seem like a big deal, but inconsistency confuses your audience and makes your brand feel a bit disjointed.

How to avoid it:
Create a simple brand guide (it doesn’t have to be anything fancy) that outlines your fonts, colour palette, logo variations, and tone of voice. Stick to it like glue! This consistency builds trust, recognition, and a sense of professionalism.

2. Choosing Aesthetic Over Strategy

It’s tempting to pick colours just because they’re pretty or to follow trends that don’t really suit your audience. But branding isn’t just about looking good, it’s about communicating who you are, what you do, and who you do it for.

How to avoid it:
Think about your ideal client. What do they value? What emotions do you want your branding to evoke? Every visual element like colour, typography and imagery should reflect that. Strategic design is what makes branding truly effective.

3. DIY Branding Without Clarity

There’s nothing wrong with starting with DIY branding, many of business owners do, but the trouble starts when there’s no real direction behind it. Using a free logo maker, mismatched fonts, and random colours often leaves businesses looking unpolished and unclear.

How to avoid it:
If you’re DIY-ing, invest time in researching basic design principles and make sure you’re building a brand with intention, not just decoration. Better still? Work with a brand designer who can help you create something custom and cohesive (hello ).

4. Forgetting That Branding Is More Than a Logo

Branding is often mistaken for just having a nice logo, but your brand is so much more than that. It’s how you speak, how you show up online, the feeling people get when they interact with your business.

How to avoid it:
Think of your brand as an experience. Develop your brand voice, refine your messaging, and consider how your client journey reflects your values. The visuals matter, but so does what you say and how you say it.

5. Rebranding Too Often (or Not at All)

Some businesses change their branding every few months, while others stick with a logo they made in five minutes ten years ago. Neither is ideal. Rebranding too often can be disorienting; never rebranding at all can lead to a stale or misaligned identity.

How to avoid it:
Rebrand only when you’ve outgrown your current look or direction, or when your audience has changed significantly. And when you do, make sure it’s intentional and comprehensive, not just a new logo slapped on your old content.

Final Thoughts

Your brand is the heart and soul of how your business presents itself to the world. It’s your story, your values, and your unique magic wrapped up in visuals and words that resonate. And while mistakes are part of the journey, avoiding these common pitfalls can help you build a brand that feels aligned, authentic, and truly you.

If you’re feeling unsure about your current branding or think it might be time for a refresh, I’d love to chat. Helping creative, passionate business owners build brands that feel like home is exactly what Inkspiration by Gabrielle is all about.

Got questions or want to work together? Pop me a message anytime, I’m always happy to help.

To view more of my work, including business card, logo and website design, take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having business cards, a logo, marketing materials or a website designed for you and your business, contact me today.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, sending well wishes, or just letting someone know you’re thinking of them, the right card can elevate your gift and add a personal touch that lingers long after the ribbon’s been untied.

So, how do you match your greetings card to the perfect gift? Here’s how to bring everything together beautifully.

1. Think About the Occasion First

Different moments call for different moods. A new baby card should feel tender and full of joy, while a sympathy card might need to be soft and comforting. If your gift is playful, like a funny mug or a quirky book, don’t be afraid to go for a light-hearted card to match. On the flip side, if your gift is more sentimental, like a handwritten letter or a memory box, choose a card that leans into that emotion with heartfelt design and wording.

At Inkspiration by Gabrielle, every card is created with a specific tone in mind, so whether you’re after something romantic, funny, or deeply thoughtful, there’s something that will fit just right.

2. Let the Colours & Style Work Together

A beautiful gift feels cohesive. If your gift is wrapped in soft pastels, maybe a card with hand-drawn florals or muted tones will complement it perfectly. If you’ve gone bold with the packaging, bright ribbons or vivid patterns, why not echo that with a vibrant card that packs a punch?

When designing cards, I always think about the little details that tie everything together. Match those visual cues to your gift wrap or the gift itself, and your recipient will notice (and adore) the care you’ve taken.

3. Let the Card Carry the Message

Sometimes the gift is simple, but the card says it all. In fact, one of the most powerful pairings is a small, meaningful token, like a handmade candle, a bar of luxury chocolate, or a pressed flower in a frame, al with a card that speaks directly from the heart.

Use your card to share a story, recall a memory, or simply write a few lines that show how well you know the person. My best advice? Don’t overthink it. Write as if you’re speaking to them, and let your voice shine through. The right card gives you the space to do just that.

4. Personal Touches Make All the Difference

If your gift is handmade or chosen with real intention, then a personalised card makes it even more special. At Inkspiration by Gabrielle, I offer custom card designs, which are perfect for those one-off moments that deserve something unique.

Pair a bespoke card with a gift you’ve curated just for them, maybe it’s a themed box of their favourite things, or a photo album filled with memories. The beauty is in the details, and your card is the finishing flourish that brings it all together.

Only recently I was asked to design something for a customers Grandmother, by where they wanted the food she would give all of her grandchildren when they were children featured on the greetings cards. There were 3 grandchildren, so I designed 3 cards all with the foods on. You can see these below. These were really fun to design and I loved how happy the grandchildren were with the final result:

Final Thoughts

Pairing a greetings card with the perfect gift doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s really about creating a moment. Something that says, “I see you, I know you, and I made this just for you.” Whether your card is the main event or the supporting act, it has the power to add heart, warmth, and soul to whatever you’re giving.

So next time you’re choosing a card, don’t just pick one and pop it in, take a moment to think about the message, the mood, and the magic. It might just become the most treasured part of the gift.

To view more of my greetings card work, take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

You can purchase some of my designs from my shop on my website:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having a greetings card designed for you and your special occasion, contact me today.

It sounds simple, right? But suddenly, you’re wondering: Should we have a top table? Who should sit at it? What if it feels awkward or too formal? If you’re not sure whether a top table suits your day, or you’re looking for alternative ideas that feel more like you, you’re in the right place.

Let’s take a little stroll through this very traditional concept, and see how you can shape it (or skip it!) to fit your unique celebration.

What Is a Top Table, Anyway?

The “top table” is a classic wedding feature, especially in the UK. Traditionally, it’s the long rectangular table at the front or centre of your reception room, seating the newlyweds along with the key members of the wedding party. This usually includes both sets of parents, the best man, and the maid of honour (or chief bridesmaid).

The idea is that this table is the focal point of the room, perfect for speeches, toasts, and those all-important photos of you and your favourite people sharing a laugh over dinner.

For some couples, this feels like a lovely way to honour family, include your wedding party, and add a little structure to the reception. But for others? It might feel a little too stiff, too formal, or simply not right for the dynamics of your day.

Why You Might Want a Top Table

If you’re leaning into tradition and formality, a top table can be a lovely way to carry that through your reception. It creates a clear centrepiece and a sense of occasion, and helps to guide the flow of the day, particularly when it comes to speeches and toasts.

Here are a few reasons couples opt for a top table:

• Visibility – You’re in full view for speeches, toasts, and for guests to spot you easily.
• Tradition – For some families, the formal seating arrangement feels important and symbolic.
• Togetherness – It can be a lovely way to honour your parents or wedding party by having them by your side.
• Structure – For venues with a clear “front” or layout designed around a focal table, it can anchor the space nicely.

If you’ve got a close-knit wedding party or parents who’ve played a big part in the planning, this setup might feel just right.

Why You Might Not Want One

Let’s be honest, not everyone wants to feel like they’re on display during dinner. A top table can sometimes feel a little too formal, or even a bit awkward depending on your family situation. Blended families, strained relationships, or simply different preferences can all make the traditional layout feel more stressful than special.

And here’s the important bit: there’s no rule that says you have to have one.

Here are some reasons couples skip the top table:

• Family dynamics – Sometimes it’s tricky deciding who should be there, and who might feel left out.
• Shyness or introversion – If you’re not a fan of the spotlight, a quieter or more private table might feel more comfortable.
• Modern vibes – More relaxed, informal weddings often suit a less traditional layout.
• Connection – Some couples prefer to sit among their guests rather than apart from them.

Alternative Seating Options

If a traditional top table doesn’t feel like the right fit, there are plenty of beautiful (and meaningful!) alternatives to consider.

1. Sweetheart Table

This is a small table just for the two of you, often placed where a top table would normally go, but with a much more intimate feel. It gives you a few rare moments of togetherness on what will be a very busy day, and makes a lovely visual feature too.

2. Round Table With Your Closest People

Instead of the formal line-up, you could opt for a round table that includes your wedding party or close friends. It encourages conversation and feels more relaxed and natural, like a big celebratory dinner rather than a performance.

3. Family Table

You might choose to sit with just your immediate family or both sets of parents, especially if you don’t have a traditional wedding party or want to honour family ties in a more personal way.

4. Blended Banquet Style

Long trestle tables that flow throughout the room, often referred to as “banquet style”, are growing in popularity. You can sit anywhere you like, and everyone feels like part of one big gathering.

5. No Formal Seating at All

For more casual receptions (think festival weddings or garden parties), some couples skip assigned seating altogether, letting people sit where they like. You could still reserve a couple of seats for yourselves but avoid the formal top table entirely.

What Should You Consider?

Still torn between tradition and alternatives? Here are a few things to think about before deciding on your layout:

• What’s your vibe? Is your wedding more formal and traditional, or relaxed and informal?
• How do you want the day to feel? Is the structure and symbolism of a top table important to you, or would you rather something more intimate and relaxed?
• Who do you want around you? Think about who makes you feel comfortable. You’ll want people by your side who bring joy, calm and laughter.
• Venue layout: Some venues naturally suit a top table setup, while others might lend themselves better to round or banquet-style seating.
• Speech logistics: If speeches are important to you, consider who will be speaking and whether the table setup will help or hinder that.

As always, communication is key, talk it through with your partner and anyone else involved in the planning. You don’t have to follow the expected route if it doesn’t feel right and doesn’t feel you.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the top table question isn’t about tradition or rules, it’s about what feels right for you. Whether you want a classic head table lined with your closest people, a quiet sweetheart table for two, or a completely different arrangement altogether, the most important thing is that you feel relaxed and at ease on your wedding day.

There’s no wrong answer here. The beauty of modern weddings is that they are entirely yours to shape. And if you need help putting together a gorgeous table plan, or want beautifully designed signage that brings your layout to life, you know where I am.

To view more of my wedding stationery designs, including table names, invitations, RSVPs, save the dates, seating plans, welcome signs and so much more, please take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having wedding stationery designed for your special day, whether this be an invitation, a save the date, a table name, a timeline sign, an RSVP, or whatever you may need for your special day, please get in touch with me today.

Choosing a colour palette for your wedding stationery can feel overwhelming at first, especially with so many beautiful shades and combinations out there, but don’t worry, I’ve got you. In this post, I’ll walk you through some simple ways to select colours that reflect your style, tell your story, and bring everything together beautifully.

Start With Your Wedding Vision

Think about how you want your wedding day to feel. Is it romantic and soft, modern and bold, rustic and relaxed? The mood you’re aiming for will naturally lend itself to certain colour palettes. For example, soft blush and sage green work beautifully for a timeless garden wedding, while deep navy and gold might suit an elegant evening celebration.

Your venue and season can also offer clues – a winter wedding in a historic manor house might call for rich, moody hues, while a summer barn wedding could lean towards earthy neutrals and pops of colour from nature.

Reflect Your Personal Style

Your stationery should feel like you. Are you drawn to classic and understated looks, or do you love a bit of drama and flair? If you’re not sure where to start, look at your wardrobe, home décor, or Pinterest boards, you’ll often find a pattern in the colours you gravitate towards.

And remember: your wedding stationery doesn’t have to match your wedding colours exactly. It can complement them, introduce a variation, or even highlight one tone as the star. The key is that it all feels cohesive, not cookie-cutter.

Don’t Be Afraid of Neutrals

While we all love a statement colour, neutrals can be incredibly effective in stationery design. Soft whites, warm ivories, greys, and muted tones can act as a base that allows your accent colours to shine. They also bring a sense of calm and balance to your designs, and pair beautifully with metallic foiling or textured paper for added interest.

If you’re not sure about going bold, a neutral palette with thoughtful details can be just as striking.

Think About Print & Finish

Some colours look different when printed, especially across different textures and finishes. For instance, pale pastels can sometimes appear too faint on matte cardstock, while rich jewel tones might pop more with a glossy or vellum overlay.

If you’re working with a wedding stationery designer (hi, that’s me!), they’ll guide you through these decisions, so you can see how everything comes together before sending to print.

Pull Inspiration from Nature or Art

If you’re stuck, step outside. Nature offers the most stunning colour palettes, from soft lavender fields to the changing tones of autumn leaves. You could also turn to your favourite artwork, architecture, or even fashion for unexpected and personal combinations.

Sometimes, the best colour choices aren’t the trendiest, they are the ones that remind you of something special.

Choose Colours That Mean Something to You Both

One of the most special ways to choose your wedding stationery colours is to start with something meaningful to you as a couple. Maybe it’s the deep green of the forest where you got engaged, the sunset orange from your favourite holiday, or the lilac of the flowers you always buy each other “just because.”

Your colour palette can be a quiet nod to your shared memories, heritage, or the little details that make your relationship unique. Even if no one else knows the story behind your choices, you will, and that makes every piece of stationery feel even more personal.

When your wedding colours come from the heart, they won’t just look beautiful… they’ll mean something, too.

Create a Colour Story Across Your Wedding Stationery Suite

Once you’ve chosen your colours, think about how they’ll flow across your full wedding stationery suite, from save the dates to on-the-day pieces and thank you cards. Your palette doesn’t have to be used in the exact same way each time, but a sense of continuity helps everything feel beautifully considered.

For example, you might feature your main colour more prominently on your invitations, then bring in accent tones through envelope liners, wax seals, or your table plan. Or, you could reverse the palette for your menus and place cards to keep things fresh but cohesive.

A layered, thoughtful approach not only elevates your design, it tells a visual story that ties every detail together.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your wedding stationery colours should feel exciting, not stressful. Whether you go for timeless tones or something totally unexpected, the best palette is one that feels like you. If you’re still feeling unsure, I’m here to help you bring it all together and create something that feels beautifully cohesive from save the dates to thank you cards.

After all, your wedding stationery isn’t just about the day, it’s a keepsake of this incredibly special chapter. Let’s make it one to remember.

To view more of my wedding stationery designs, including invitations, RSVPs, save the dates, seating plans, welcome signs and so much more, please take a look at my website links below, Instagram or Facebook pages, or my Pinterest page:

Contact Inkspiration by Gabrielle

If you’re interested in having wedding stationery designed for your special day, whether this be an invitation, a save the date, a details card, a timeline sign, an RSVP, or whatever you may need for your special day, please get in touch with me today.