I’m really excited about today’s post, friends:) Rachael of Appetite Paper reached out to me a few weeks ago and I immediately fell in love with the mission of her company (and I just love her website!!). We’ve been following each other on Instagram for awhile now, but had never gotten the chance to talk. I have loved getting to know her via email, and I think her work speaks for itself:)
When you’re getting married, there’s this Bridezilla complex that can easily overcome you! While Wedding Day IS about you & your groom, it’s about so much more than selfish ambition. Of course you want to look skinny in your gown, have all your friends & family gushing over the décor & make his jaw drop during the First Look… I was that way, too:) But I think it’s important to remember that you can do so much more than all of that.
There’s become a trend in recent years for brides & grooms to give to a charity in honor of their guests, in lieu of a favor. Or instead of a wedding registry, they request that guests give toward a charity of the couples choice. I LOVE this! I love that couples are using such a big event in their lives to give back & support a need they care about.
Rachael of Appetite Paper does something very similar, and I was really inspired by her company. Her mission isn’t just to make pretty paper (although she does that very well!); her mission is to help others along the way. Couples can give back when they work with Rachael, and it’s such a unique business model I’m very drawn to. I knew I wanted to share more about her pretty designs & huge heart, so without further ado … meet Rachael!!
Tell me a little bit about yourself! When did you get started in the wedding industry? How long have you been making pretty paper? Oh a little about Rachael, let’s see… My husband Brandon and I love a quick date to Chick-Fil-A because nothing beats a spicy chicken sandwich. We dream of one day owning a big, adorable dog and driving a care that isn’t from the 1990’s. We dream big:)
I started taking a peek into the wedding industry about a year or so ago. My husband and I refused to let our tight (tight) budget limit us form having that Pinterst worthy wedding we all dream of. I had a wave of inspiration to create obtainable wedding stationery suites that didn’t lack in style. To this day, I think it’s safe to say Appetite can keep you “we saved on our wedding stationery” secret.
Why “Appetite Paper”? What’s the reason behind the name? Can anyone relate to having a dream on their heart without questioning, “Where do I even begin? Am I qualified?”. My name reflects that hunger to always keep learning. In my experience building on what we are passionate about takes baby steps – so we must have an unwavering hunger to press on and trust that God is creating a garden out of all the seeds and ideas we keep nurturing.
You’re business model is so unique! How does the non-profit partnership work?! Explain to readers the mission behind Appetite Paper & how you make it happen! Things like art, for instance, have always come a bit easier then donating my time & money. I’m sure many of you can relate. When I drop a check off at church, I can’t help but reminisce on other ways I could have spent that money, but giving keeps me grounded. Giving keeps my thankful.
So our non-profit partnership is not just a good hearted gesture; it’s a reminder to simply use the blessings entrusted to us to bless others. We are challenged to be generous with out time and money as Appetite teams up with a vivid non-profit partner each season. They deservingly claim 15% of our profits and we aren’t afraid to get our hands dirty. We fight right along side them, adopting their mission and goals as if they were our own.
What’s your design process like? What can a bride expect when she works with Appetite? Too much fun, on both ends. Cheesy, I know, but I love designing and our clients get to soak in all the big reveals and attentive customer service. Every couple has a unique experience, as we adapt to each client assuring all their paper goodies are loved and accounted for come wedding day.
To begin, we gush over the details and dream vision for the big day, while concluding with a recommended wedding suite package. Go completely custom with all the bells & whistles or mark our new wedding collection with a personal touch of color and wording. After a design review with some breezy conversations, clients then approve for print. We then package with care to be shipped to your home or we can address and send your invitations their merry way!
And, just for fun, what would be your dream custom suite?! Is there a particular them you’re dying to create?! Oh, this is easy!! Something super soft and romantic. Florals with peachy hues and soft greens. It’s the complete opposite of the quirky bold wedding we hosted. I already signed Brandon up for a ten year vow renewal, just so I can enjoy another fun night of paper goodies, flowers & of course, cake & dancing!
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Isn’t she fabulous?! I just love her playful designs & heart for her business. Such an inspiration for fellow business owners & engaged couples to give back to the world around them!
xo! kat
Rachael is extremely talented, humble and generous. Her work is always beautifully made which reflects her beautiful heart. Everyone should check out her website and consider having Rach create something lovely for your next event.