For the second year in a row, I had the pleasure of creating custom calligraphy in NYC for the Female Founder Collection’s annual VIP dinner.

While much of my work involves live calligraphy and on-site personalization, I also offer in-studio calligraphy commissions for private dinners, corporate events, brand experiences, weddings, and other special gatherings throughout New York City and beyond.

Each year, the Female Founder Collection creates a distinct vision for its VIP event. The event stationery is thoughtfully designed to complement the overall atmosphere.

Hand-Lettered Place Cards for an Elevated Tablescape

For the previous year’s dinner, I hand-lettered traditional tented place cards finished with beautiful red velvet bows. The combination of handwritten calligraphy and soft velvet gave each place setting an elegant, feminine touch.

This year, we created something completely different: flat burgundy place cards with gold tassels attached at the ends. I wrote each guest’s name by hand in crisp white ink using a traditional calligraphy style.

The contrast of the bright white lettering against the deep burgundy paper made the names stand out beautifully, especially in the softly lit restaurant setting. The gold tassels added texture and movement while tying the place cards into the elegant details of the dinner.

Custom Calligraphy for Table Number Signage

In addition to the custom place cards, I also created hand-lettered table number signage.

Small, vintage-inspired square mirrors from Anthropologie were used as table numbers, with each number written by hand in gold. The reflective mirror surfaces paired beautifully with the gold lettering, creating decorative pieces that felt cohesive with the rest of the tablescape.

How Custom Stationery Can Transform an Event

Custom stationery can have such an impact on the overall feeling of an event. Place cards may be small, but they’re one of the first details guests notice when they find their seats.

A handwritten name immediately feels more personal and thoughtful than something printed. Materials such as textured paper, velvet ribbon, tassels, and mirrors can bring an event’s entire design together.

Working with a calligrapher on an in-studio commission also allows for more creative possibilities. Beyond traditional place cards, custom calligraphy can be incorporated into so much more. Menus, escort cards, seating displays, table numbers, welcome signage, favor tags, branded stationery, and personalized guest gifts.

Every detail can be designed to complement the event’s colors, venue, and overall aesthetic.

Bespoke Details for a Memorable VIP Dinner

It was such a pleasure to collaborate with the Female Founder Collection again and help bring another beautiful VIP dinner to life. I love seeing how the details evolve from year to year while still maintaining the personal, elevated feeling that handwritten calligraphy brings to an event.

Riha Calligraphy Co. offers custom stationery and in-studio calligraphy commissions for private dinners, brand events, corporate gatherings, weddings, and celebrations throughout NYC, New Jersey, and the surrounding tri-state area.

Have an idea for your next event? I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up.