The first written invitations date back to the middle ages where they were a luxury created for the wealthy nobility of Europe to announce their royal nuptials.
As a mark of wealth and stature, even after the invention of the printing press the aristocracy continued to commission skilled monks in the art of calligraphy to craft individually written notices that were hand delivered far and wide as mass production was considered bad taste.
Today the elements of style and personal touch are still fundamental aspects of wedding invitations as they not only serve as the first impression of your special day but also remain a lasting token of the celebration for your family and friends.
Katerina Nellis owns the Invitation Gallery in Bourke Street, one of the few remaining Greek businesses in Melbourne’s CBD.
With over 25 years’ experience in wedding invite design she credits the success of her business to old fashioned service values: “Internet based businesses can be cold and impersonal so we pride ourselves on dealing primarily with our clients on a face to face basis during the design process assuring all expectations are met. I give obligation free quotes and guarantee all my work.”
A proud mother of four children Nellis has seen her fair share of weddings over the years and knows all too well the pressures of planning one.
Her caring predisposition instantly puts customers at ease during what can be an extremely stressful time.
“I develop great consultative relationships with my customers,” Nellis said. “Past clients are often stunned when I recall details of a wedding they had 10 years ago. I’m extremely dedicated, finding excitement in helping couples through the beginning of the rest of their lives together.”
Nellis’ husband Jim was a wedding videographer and photographer for many years and was the inspiration behind starting her own business.
“What attracted me most to a wedding business is that it revolves around happiness and was, of course, family related,” she recounts. “Even though I’m working in a stress-orientated market with emphasis on perfection and deadlines, customer satisfaction is extremely rewarding for me.”
Although specialising in wedding invitations, The Invitation Gallery caters for all occasions providing many personalised printing and stationery needs.
However Katerina Nellis really knows the ropes when it comes to weddings.
“We cover everything from invitation protocol and wording to timelines for posting, RSVP dates and even recommendations for other wedding services.”
Following the evolutions in wedding trends over the years, Nellis keeps up-to- date with what’s in vogue each season enabling her to offer the most extensive array of designs from classical to contemporary including all the materials and accessories necessary to create your own.
“We cater to all generations and races with facilities to print in most languages. People love it when they discover I’m Greek, maybe because we’re so relatable and passionate about people and our work.”
The Invitation Gallery is centrally located in the Melbourne CBD Paramount Centre. Shop 23/108 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000. Contact (03) 9650 2317. Website: www.theinvitationgallery.com.au