Ask the Expert: Designer Kristen Folzenlogen of Poême

by Michelle Taute
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If we were asked to describe Poême, the stationery store in Hyde Park, using only one word, it would be “creativity.” Kristen Folzenlogen, co-owner and designer, loves her job because every bride—and every event—is unique. She’s printed on wood, created fabric envelopes, and adorned invitations with patterns based on lace from the bride’s dress. From invites and thank you cards to guest books and welcome bags, the shop creates pieces that help brides set the right tone for their big day.

CW: Are there any materials or special techniques that are hot right now?

KF: I see a lot of very simple, classic designs printed on thick—like double thick—cotton stock that’s letter-pressed. A lot of brides are worried about dating their weddings. They want to be able to look at their invitation in a frame in 10 years and say that it was really lovely then and it’s still lovely now.

But I also find that people are being creative in terms of adding an element that’s not paper-related. It might be a wrap that’s made of burlap tied with a twig. We’ve been using embroidery thread quite a bit and twine. We did an invitation recently on Lucite, which was very fun and very heavy.

CW: What etiquette rules do you think should always stand?

KF: I feel like it’s my job to tell a bride, “This is the etiquette, but it’s your job to decide whether or not it fits your event.” The etiquette is that you address an invitation formally and that you have a double envelope. Some brides come in who are having a very small wedding, and they want it to feel very close and personal. So sometimes those things just don’t feel right. My rule is, “Know the etiquette and be prepared to break it when you feel it’s best.”

CW: When do I mail save-the-dates and invitations?

KF: Save-the-dates can go in the mail six to eight months before the wedding. If you’re getting married in May or June, or you’re getting married in September or October, or if you’re getting married over a holiday weekend, maybe shoot for an earlier save-the-date. If it’s a destination, go a little earlier.

Traditionally, wedding invitations would go out six weeks before the wedding. You could send them out eight weeks before the wedding. If you send them earlier than that, you might find that you don’t get as many of your response cards back promptly. By creating that sense of urgency, people make a decision and they respond.

This article originally appeared in the Spring/Summer 2013 issue of Cincinnati Wedding magazine.

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