Second generation calligraphy artist Laura Chacon O’Neill creates timeless fine art wedding invitations and ceremonial stationery from her studio in Dublin. She talks us through a day in the life of a calligraphy artist, favourite tools and shares tips for couples looking to send unforgettable invites.

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your story with readers of The Chupi Journal. For those not familiar with your work, can you share an overview of your story?

It all started at the age of six, with my mother, who is a professional calligrapher and fine artist back in my home country Venezuela.  By teaching me this wonderful art, she gave me the best lifelong gift I could have ever imagined.

I’ve been doing calligraphy practically all my life as a hobby and then as a side job, but it wasn’t until I finished a Masters in Business and Branding that I decided that I was going to pursue my dream and put all my heart, mind and soul into transforming my passion into a fulfilling career.

What does a typical day look like for you?

First thing in the morning when I sit at my desk I write down 10 things I’m grateful for, then my workday officially starts with social media posts and answering DMs. Then I check my website and any orders that have to go out that day, before moving on to emails.

It’s not until after lunch that I usually pick up my calligraphy pen and inks for the magic to start, usually with wedding invitations or bespoke commissions, and thank you cards for my lovely clients. Everything that goes out from my studio comes with a personalised thank you card, and writing those is something I get great pleasure from.

Be true to yourself and let your intuition guide your decisions about what kind of invitations you want.

What are some of your most treasured calligraphy tools?

My most precious tool is a calligraphy pen holder my mother gave me the day I was travelling for the first time to Ireland, nearly 10 years ago. Apart from that, I have some collectible nibs, wax seals, and other essentials for everyday writing that I just love and find myself using again and again.

How do you approach the initial stages of designing a fine art hand calligraphed invitations?

Usually, after going through the invitations on my website, couples have a very clear idea of what they would like me to create for their big day. These are often brides and grooms who are into bespoke details, who love the craftsmanship of fine art calligraphy invitations and all the other elements involved, such as handmade cotton papers, wax seals, hand-dyed silk ribbons and so on.

Once all this ends, weddings will get back to the wonderful big occasion that everyone loves and enjoys, but many others will still be considering the idea of small, cosy and intimate receptions.

The first thing we look at is timing and quantities, before moving on to the colour palette, the personalised elements such as embossing details, monograms, personalised waxes, and then of course the wording and the calligraphy style.

Since all the invitations are handmade, the turnaround time is 4-6 months for a small to medium size wedding.

Any top tips for couples planning and researching wedding invitations?

Be true to yourself and let your intuition guide your decisions about what kind of invitations you want. Get in touch with your favourite stationeer as soon as you can, as the earlier you plan the better.

Besides invitations, how can couples incorporate the art of calligraphy into their wedding?

Wedding signage is also a lovely part of the big day, starting with a ‘Welcome’ sign, paired with the table plan, table numbers and place cards. They are a wonderful way to integrate the personal touch of calligraphy into any wedding and to wow your guests.

What has been a career highlight so far?

To have become a full-time calligrapher and finding my sense of purpose by doing what I love. Another dream come true in this journey was to branch out into helping other people with the calligraphy supplies I have always struggled to find, so I decided to take a leap of faith and launch an online calligraphy supplies shop , making calligraphy materials and starter kits more easily available to anyone in Ireland.

I get a big lift from nature – looking at the sea is something that renews my senses and keeps the creative juices flowing.

How have you found these smaller, more intimate Covid-era weddings?

It’s obviously very tough and stressful for couples trying to reduce numbers down to such a small level and leave out so many friends and family that wished to have there on their big day. On the other hand, micro-weddings can be very personal and romantic. Many people have been embracing more non-traditional ways of creating a memorable and breathtaking experience for themselves and their intimate circle of family and friends.

How do you think it will affect weddings in the future?

Once all this ends, weddings will get back to the wonderful big occasion that everyone loves and enjoys, but many others will still be considering the idea of small, cosy and intimate receptions.

How do you stay creative?

I get a big lift from nature – looking at the sea is something that renews my senses and keeps the creative juices flowing.

What are you currently working on, dreaming of, and excited about in your life and work?

Like everyone at the moment, I’m dreaming of our lives getting back to normal and recovering the things that we all have been missing so badly like travelling and seeing family and friends. I’m also looking forward to getting hands-on with more wedding calligraphy and all the creativity that comes with it.

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