All Things Pretty Paper

I met Meghan the owner of MLShaughnessy Designs a few years back through a bride of ours and we became friends immediately.  MLShaughnessy Designs sure knows how to make a great first impression of your special event, one to remember with her oh-so-pretty invitations and event stationery. When I asked Meghan if she would like to be interviewed for a blog post I was looking to write, she didn't even blink.  Let us warmly introduce Meghan, the creative darling whose chic designs are equally as admired as her fun free spirit.  

Hi! I'm Meghan and I'm the owner and creative director behind MLShaughnessy Designs - a boutique design company here in New Jersey.  I've always had a love for all things pretty paper (yes, I had quite a few pen pals back in the day) but, it wasn't until after I designed my wedding day stationery that I became extremely passionate about design. Following my big day, close friends inquired about my work and it wasn't long before I found myself working with some of the sweetest couples to date.  I believe that choosing your paper goods for any special occasion should capture your personality with a modern approach, as well as be a fun part of the planning process.

Although I specialize in rustic, shabby chic wedding designs, I welcome "ALL" wedding styles and can't wait to create one-of-a-kind stationery that will leave guests anticipating your next event!

Q. How did your business begin? 

As previously mentioned, I've always loved stationery.  Fun fact; While most teenage girls were shopping and finding their style through fashion, I could be found in the mall browsing pretty paper in Papyrus.  I even went in that shop at least two or three times a month (which was a lot for an early teen) and couldn't wait to get my hands on fresh stationery to use for my weekly pen pals.  Growing up I was always creative, but my love for design didn't come to light until after I designed my own stationery to keep wedding costs down.  Close friends inquired about my work and I soon realized I was destined to share my creative talents with the world through invitations, stationery, and pretty paper goods.

Q. How does your creative process work? 

Each and every one of my client's journeys begins with an initial consultation.  We'll meet for coffee, Skype, or even chat on the phone and discuss everything there is to know about their wedding day or event.  It's during this time we'll talk all about color schemes, themes, styles(s), and inspirations, which will help us create the perfect design for your event.  After our consultation, I'll then prepare a detailed proposal, along with a digital design to review.  Upon approving the proposal, we'll then continue to work together during the design process until you love your suite.  Once your proofs are approved, your files will go to print and I'll then hand assemble each and every piece before delivery.

Q. What printing styles do you offer? 

We currently offer high-quality (flat) digital, thermography, letterpress, and foil stamp printing options.

Q. What services do you offer?

I currently offer various services for wedding, special events, and more including wedding invitation suites, save-the-dates, menu cards, cocktail napkins, hotel accommodation stationery, thank you cards, bridal shower invitations, baby shower stationery, birth announcements, and even personal stationery.

Q. Is there a particular style you specialize in? Are there any trends you currently love for invitations?

I've always had a love for simplistic designs with clean lines, so I would say my invitations and stationery have a rustic, shabby chic, bohemian style to them.  I currently love using calligraphy-inspired typefaces and anticipate our new die cut silhouettes to be popular choices among 2016 and 2017 couples.

Q.What is your favorite font? 

I find that typefaces by Emily Lime are easy to integrate and fit within any couple's wedding style.  My current favorite is Carolyna Pro Black.  It has whimsy, yet elegant quality that's simply timeless.

Q. How do you stay inspired creatively?

It's safe to say there are so many creative rock-stars in the industry, so I try to surround myself with other professionals who promote positive encouragement.  Of course, I love seeing my business grow but, I also smile when I see other industry friends succeed in their professional journey.  I also find that the little things in life inspire me, whether it be fresh flowers, textile patterns, and elements from nature.

Q. What is your favorite part of the wedding day?

When the couple sees each other for the first time.  There's something so magical about the first time your significant other sees you on your wedding day.  So much planning goes into making your wedding as perfect as it can be, and it's inevitable that there may be small glitches but, when you see your better half, it makes it all worth it knowing you get to spend forever with the love of your life.

Let's connect!! Join Meghan behind the scenes and follow her on: Facebook, InstaLOVE and  Pinterest 

Photographer of Blush invitation and menu card: LeAnna Theresa Photography, Styling by: EVJ Wedding Company, Card stock and printing by: Envelopments