Before we jump back into holiday cards, I just have to share these amazing hand-painted watercolor letterpress Save the Dates created by Kristy at Momental Designs for her upcoming 10-year vow renewal ceremony.  The pop of watercolor detail works so well with the letterpress impressions on thick cotton paper – and Kristy was kind enough to send over the background behind her design.

From Kristy: Hand-painted details and original artwork are my passion.  While planning my own renewal celebration I knew letterpress had to be included but of course wanted to incorporate my signature hand-painted look.  Thus, hand-painted letterpress was born!  I simply love the very visceral, textured nature of letterpress.  When combined with juicy, romantic watercolor brushstrokes, letterpress, in my opinion is transformed to a whole new level.  The intimate touch of the pressed image first makes an impression but then the washy, romantic quality of the watercolor gives the perfect finish.

Choice of materials were extremely important for this project.  I wanted to mimic the many natural occurring textures so obvious in Zion National Park, where are renewal ceremony is taking place.  From Crane’s roughly textured cotton stock to the champagne silk ribbon and cobalt blue envelopes, every detail needed to be reminiscent of the crystal clear river, intense blue skies and towering red rock landscape of Zion.  So many of our guests have never traveled to this magical place.  The goal was to translate the Zion experience on paper in hopes of creating great anticipation of the adventure to come!

Original illustration didn’t stop at the save the date cover!  Each page features one of my sketches with watercolor details added throughout.  At the center of the booklet is a hand-drawn map which is not only functional but seems to unify the look overall.  Envelope liners are reproductions of vintage topographical maps.  I just love the rich orange and blue colors — nothing needed to be altered!

Betsy Dunlap created a printable file with the calligraphy for my envelope backflap.  This was a great budget option I would add — it certainly doesn’t hurt to save when you can!  I am saving patiently to have Betsy pen all the invitation outer envelopes!  When I first contacted Betsy I proclaimed that this particular lettering style was simply perfect as it really mimicked the red rock landscape of Zion!  Thank you Betsy for your artistry!

Thanks so much Kristy!  You can read more about Kristy’s design process right here and see some of her other recent projects here.

{image credits: Momental Designs}