Florida’s wedding scene is as vibrant as its sunsets, with venues ranging from the sandy shores of Key West to the chic ballrooms of Miami. As a celebrity calligrapher with over 16 years of experience, I, Carla Schall, have had the honor of adding handwritten magic to luxury weddings across Florida and beyond. At Carla Schall Designs, my goal is to create personalized, elegant details that make your big day unforgettable. In this blog, I’ll share real stories from Florida weddings where calligraphy stole the show, complete with client testimonials and ideas to inspire your own celebration. From invitations to live calligraphy stations, these details elevate your event and create cherished keepsakes. For more wedding inspiration, explore Brides.com’s calligraphy guide.
Why Calligraphy Shines in Florida Weddings
Florida’s diverse wedding venues—beaches, gardens, historic estates, and modern lofts—offer the perfect canvas for calligraphy. This art form brings sophistication, personalization, and emotion to every detail, making your wedding feel uniquely yours. Here’s why calligraphy is a must-have:
- Personalization: Each piece is handcrafted, reflecting your love story and wedding theme.
- Elegance: Calligraphy adds a timeless, luxurious touch that elevates any venue.
- Versatility: From classic to modern styles, it adapts to any aesthetic, from bohemian to black-tie.
- Keepsake Value: Invitations, vows, and signage become treasures you’ll cherish forever.
Calligraphy also photographs beautifully, ensuring your wedding album captures every detail. As The Knot notes, calligraphy is a worthy upgrade for couples seeking a polished, memorable event. In Florida’s vibrant wedding culture, it’s the perfect way to make your day stand out.
Real Florida Weddings: Calligraphy in Action
Let’s dive into three real Florida weddings where calligraphy transformed the experience, drawing from my work at Carla Schall Designs and the heartfelt feedback from my clients.
A Romantic Beach Affair in Key West
For a couple dreaming of a romantic beach wedding in Key West, calligraphy set the tone from the start. I designed their save-the-dates and invitations with a flowing modern script that mimicked the gentle waves of the ocean, printed on textured, handmade paper with soft blue ink. The result was a cohesive, beach-inspired aesthetic that hinted at the relaxed elegance to come.
On the wedding day, a large welcome sign greeted guests at the venue, featuring their names in elegant calligraphy alongside a watercolor palm motif. Each place card at the reception was hand-calligraphed with guests’ names and a small seashell illustration, doubling as a keepsake. The couple was overjoyed, sharing:
“Carla is the best calligrapher ever! She has exceeded our expectations with every project she has made for our wedding.”
The calligraphy not only guided guests but also became a talking point, with many snapping photos of the sign and cards. This wedding showcased how calligraphy can blend seamlessly with Florida’s coastal charm.
Image: A calligraphed welcome sign with palm accents on a Key West beach.
A Glamorous Gala in Miami
In Miami’s vibrant wedding scene, one couple wanted their black-tie gala to exude glamour. I crafted a full stationery suite, including save-the-dates, invitations, menus, and place cards, all in a classic copperplate style with shimmering gold ink. The highlight was a massive seating chart displayed on a gilded mirror, with each guest’s name meticulously handwritten in elegant script. This showstopper became a focal point of the reception, drawing gasps from guests as they found their tables.
The couple also requested calligraphed vow books, which they used during the ceremony and later framed as a keepsake. Their feedback was glowing:
“Anything she touches is involved with, turns to gold! Her time and talent are a true treasure and a gift.”
This wedding proved that calligraphy can elevate even the most luxurious settings, adding a personal touch to a grand event.
Image: A mirrored seating chart with gold calligraphy at a Miami ballroom.
An Intimate Garden Gathering in Orlando
For a smaller, intimate wedding in an Orlando garden, the couple wanted warmth and interactivity. I provided live calligraphy services, setting up a station where I created personalized favors, such as bookmarks and name cards, for guests. I also calligraphed their guest book with love quotes on each page, leaving space for messages. Watching me work added a unique element to the reception, and guests left with one-of-a-kind mementos.
The couple appreciated the personal touch, saying:
“Carla is AMAZING at what she does and her work is truly art! She is extremely talented, kind and always thoughtful with the work she does.”
This wedding highlighted calligraphy’s ability to create memorable, engaging experiences in a cozy setting.
Image: A live calligraphy station with guests receiving personalized bookmarks.
Client Testimonials: Voices of Happy Couples
The true measure of my work lies in the joy it brings my clients. Here are more testimonials that reflect the impact of calligraphy on their Florida weddings:
| Testimonial | Client Feedback |
| Exquisite Artistry | “Her work is exquisite and a true talent. That paired with a beaming smile and a happy friendly personality that puts all your guests at ease.” |
| Long-Term Collaboration | “We have been working with Carla for over 10 years and she is so talented!” |
| Never Disappoints | “Carla is extremely talented, kind and always thoughtful with the work she does. I highly recommend her for any design or engraving you may need, she NEVER disappoints!” |
These words underscore the quality and care I put into every project, ensuring each couple’s vision comes to life.
How to Incorporate Calligraphy in Your Florida Wedding
Inspired by these stories? Here are some ways to add calligraphy to your own wedding, tailored to Florida’s unique venues and vibes:
- Invitations and Save-the-Dates: Set the tone with hand-calligraphed stationery that reflects your theme, whether it’s coastal, tropical, or urban chic.
- Signage: Create stunning welcome signs, seating charts, or directional signs that guide guests with style.
- Place Cards and Menus: Personalize each guest’s experience with calligraphed names or elevate dining with artistic menus.
- Vows and Love Letters: Transform your vows into keepsakes with hand-lettered text on parchment or framed displays.
- Live Calligraphy Stations: Engage guests with on-the-spot personalization, creating favors like bookmarks or name cards.
- Decorative Elements: Add calligraphy to unexpected places, like cake toppers or table runners, for a cohesive look.
Explore my services page to see how I can bring these ideas to your wedding. From classic copperplate to modern brush lettering, I offer styles to suit any aesthetic.
My Process: Crafting Your Calligraphy Vision
At Carla Schall Designs, every project is a collaboration. Here’s how I bring your calligraphy dreams to life:
- Consultation: We discuss your wedding theme, colors, and vision to ensure a perfect fit.
- Style Selection: Choose from styles like copperplate, modern, or gothic, tailored to your event.
- Material Choices: Select from archival papers, mirrors, acrylic, or other surfaces for durability and beauty.
- Design and Approval: I provide a sample or mockup for your feedback before finalizing.
- Creation and Delivery: Each piece is handcrafted with precision, delivered 6-8 weeks later.
This process ensures your calligraphy is as unique as your love story. For more details, visit my calligraphy services page.
Timeline and Pricing
Calligraphy is a time-intensive art, so planning ahead is key. Most projects take 6-8 weeks, depending on complexity. Pricing starts at $1500 for wedding projects, with specific costs varying:
| Service | Estimated Timeline | Price Range |
| Invitations | 6-8 weeks | $5-$15 per piece |
| Seating Charts | 6-8 weeks | $150-$1000 |
| Place Cards | 2-3 weeks | $2-$5 each |
| Live Calligraphy | Varies | $750-$3000 |
For a custom quote, contact me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about incorporating calligraphy into your Florida wedding:
| Question | Answer |
| How far in advance should I book calligraphy services? | Book 6-8 months in advance to secure availability and allow time for customization, especially during peak seasons. |
| What is the typical cost for wedding calligraphy? | Projects start at $1500, depending on scope. Contact me for a tailored quote. |
| Can calligraphy fit non-traditional Florida weddings? | Yes! I customize designs for any theme, from tropical to modern, ensuring a perfect match. |
| How do I choose a calligraphy style? | Consider your wedding’s aesthetic. I’ll guide you through options like classic, modern, or bold scripts to find the right fit. |
Conclusion: Make Your Florida Wedding Unforgettable
Calligraphy transforms Florida weddings into extraordinary experiences, blending artistry with emotion. From the romantic shores of Key West to the glamorous venues of Miami, my work at Carla Schall Designs has brought joy to countless couples and their guests. Whether you’re dreaming of elegant invitations, stunning signage, or interactive live stations, calligraphy adds a personal touch that makes your day truly special.
Ready to elevate your wedding with handwritten magic? Visit my services page to explore my offerings or contact me to start planning. Let’s create something beautiful for your Florida wedding.
