Picture this: You open your wedding invitation, and before you even read the words, you’re struck by the sheer beauty of the hand-lettered script. It’s timeless, elegant, and deeply personal. Then, at the wedding, you spot your name engraved on a glass favor or delicately tied into a ribbon on a custom gift box. It’s more than paper and ink—it’s a work of art.
In this special episode of Bridal Club™, we are honored to introduce you to Susie-Melissa, the woman behind these extraordinary touches. As the founder of Calligraphic Arts & Gift Wrap Studio, Susie-Melissa has spent over 50 years mastering the art of calligraphy, engraving, and presentation. Her craftsmanship has graced the tables of Buckingham Palace, the White House, and been commissioned by dignitaries including President George W. Bush, President Bill Clinton, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Often hailed as a modern-day Michelangelo of the written word, Susie-Melissa’s story is a celebration of passion, tradition, and refined artistry. If you're a bride-to-be looking to make your wedding truly unforgettable, her legacy will leave you inspired.
The Role of Calligraphy in Weddings
The Invitation
To Susie-Melissa, calligraphy is not just design—it’s storytelling. “The invitation suite is the first thing your guests will see,” she explains. “The lettering, paper choice, and overall design matter—they set the tone for the entire celebration.” From Save the Dates and envelope addressing to menus, escort cards, and thank-you notes, she helps couples create a consistent and visually rich experience through the power of pen and ink.
Custom Monograms
Her custom monograms and logos are designed to evolve with the event. “Before the wedding, use just the bride’s initials. After the ceremony? That’s when you debut the official monogram—on napkins, cups, stationery, and more.” These timeless designs aren’t just for the wedding day—they become cherished symbols of a couple’s story for years to come.
Engraving as Art
Susie-Melissa brings new life to everyday items through hand engraving. Whether it’s custom champagne flutes, leather-bound vow books, or elegant guest gifts, she transforms these objects into one-of-a-kind heirlooms that capture the heart of the celebration.
Signature Gift Wrapping
There’s gift wrapping, and then there’s Susie-Melissa gift wrapping. Her packages are layered in color, texture, and thoughtful detail—each one complete with a hand-lettered name tag that feels as treasured as the gift inside. It's not just about presentation—it’s about creating a moment of joy and connection.
Get In Touch
Though SMU’s enrichment program has closed, Susie-Melissa continues to teach at her studio—sharing her craft with the next generation of artists. After all these years, her eyes still light up when she talks about letterforms and legacies.
If you’re a bride—or know someone planning a wedding—and want to elevate your day with timeless calligraphy, thoughtful engraving, or exquisite gift presentation, Susie-Melissa would be honored to help bring your vision to life.
Call: 214-522-4731
Email: susie-melissa@calligraphicarts.com
Whether you're dreaming of heirloom-worthy invitations or personalized keepsakes, Calligraphic Arts & Gift Wrap Studio is your destination for elegant, unforgettable details.
Watch the full episode of Bridal Club™ now and discover the magic behind Susie-Melissa’s legacy. Catch it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube! Trust us—this is one story you won’t want to miss.
The Bridal Club™ Podcast is your go-to source for expert advice from top luxury planners and real brides, offering inspiration and guidance for creating your dream day.
