I love hearing stories from creatives of a hobby or something they just enjoy doing leading to life change. I would consider my own story to be along those same lines. Dipping a toe into a new art or craft, you think “that was a blast” but then move on with your day. In the back of your mind though, it keeps popping up until one day the lightbulb moment hits you to turn a fun outlet into something really special. Paige Rimmele, owner and designer/illustrator aficionado of Paige & Pen shares her origin story. I am so excited to introduce her and her beautiful work of wedding invitations, stationery, prints, and so much more to you today!

Paige & Pen’s Beginnings

Paige was an editor in New York City when an engagement ring and her true love brought her almost to the literal other corner of the country in Phoenix! Her first stationery suite design was her own sister’s wedding invitations. A few friends’ projects later and a move to the desert, Paige decided she was going to start this new adventure as a designer and illustrator of elegant paper goods.

The all too familiar feeling of not knowing what she was doing showed up after taking the leap. However, Paige has the perfect attitude, as she loves learning new things, sharing what she has learned, and then doing it even better the next time! There is a ton to tackle when starting a new small business. She became a website builder, marketer, and photographer of her work, none of which had any paper involved! But each new feat keeps her intrigued and her beautiful website is evidence of her success.

The Details Matter!

It is obvious how much Paige has poured into her business, and the passion she carries for her work is no exception. She loves meeting with brides and hearing their design ideas. The details are the heartbeat of her work. Paige wants to do more than just show brides options, but educate them on the details. Working through the design process, Paige enjoys all the various drafts, but nothing compares to when a bride sees them printed and holds them in their hands for the first time. “Digital doesn’t do them justice,” Paige says. The in-your-hand end product is the magical moment!

Depending on a client’s location, Paige loves when she has the chance to meet the client in person at the beginning, and hand them the final product at the end. Meeting up in person allows Paige to gather information about the bride and to understand their essence so that she can help them hone in on the design style that will fit their wedding. Don’t let distance stop you from checking out Paige’s work though. She ships out of state!

Design Possibilities

I was so impressed by not only all of the elements Paige talked about, but the details that make the difference in her work. The way she sees wedding invitations, “It is the very first glimpse your guests are going to receive of the look of your wedding”. Paige is loving letterpress and foil printing as of late. Foil printing in particular is so shiny! Sometimes her clients challenge her to try new things that amaze her. The pairing of charcoal paper and rose gold font was a lovely surprise. Paige says, “Every other month I have a new favorite color”. One of her favorite pieces to design is cocktail napkins. It’s so different printing on a napkin with the tiny details involved. Paige also shared that she is a fan of wax seals because it is a little piece that completes the whole image and experience. The list doesn’t stop there. From table numbers, cocktail menus, to escort cards, Paige has you covered! She is even currently working on popcorn bags for a bride. Of course with all the fun details!

I would highly recommend checking out some of Paige’s latest projects. Her Cathedral in Mexico drawing is stunning, and definitely worth a look! She took a trip to Sedona, which she had no objections to as she loves the desert, to sketch the red rocks for a client’s Sedona suite. A black envelope and prickly pair wax seal was the finishing touch on an elegant desert cactus suite. For venue illustrations or sketches, Paige begins by hand first then converts them digitally. Her text pieces usually start digitally, but she is working on her calligraphy!

Paige & Pen Offerings

The best time to reach out to Paige about her work is six to eight months before the wedding. She sends her designs to print three months before the wedding and you’ll need RSVPs back four weeks before the big day if not slightly sooner. A hand off to a bride usually includes the completely addressed envelopes with a full wedding invitation suite inside ready to pop in the mail. This includes envelopes addressed, filled, wax seal added and stamped. Paige’s clients receive four rounds of original drafts, with six unique digital mock ups in the first round.

When it comes to pricing, most of Paige’s suites range from $900 for digital prints for about 120 people to $1800 for full suites of wedding invitations. Elements such as ribbon, foil, letter press, wax seals, and inside envelope liners do all impact the overall price as well. For events below 40 people, there is a set design fee.

I hope you enjoyed learning of Paige’s passion for detail and gorgeous designs! You can see more of her work on her Instagram and website. She is one creative gal that loves making your ideas come to life! Her passion doesn’t stop at paper as she strives for brides to get the look they are dreaming of on their big days!