Invitations used to be the first thing a guest held in their hands, and at Paperwhite Stationery Boutique in Baton Rouge, they still are. The shop on Santa Maria Parkway builds custom invitation suites the old-fashioned way, with an antique letterpress machine sitting right in the store.

That press is the heart of the business. Letterpress pushes the design into thick paper so you can feel every line, and Paperwhite pairs it with engraving, foil and flat printing depending on the look a customer wants. Calligraphy and custom monograms round out the menu, and those monograms can end up on far more than paper: invitations, cups, napkins and plenty in between.

Who's behind the counter

Paperwhite is run by owners Alisa Kennedy and Kathryn Podorsky, who have known and worked with each other for more than 20 years. Kathryn is the creative director and holds an interior design degree from LSU. Alisa brings a business management background and handles merchandising and finances. Rounding out the team is artistic designer Kristie Stapler, who came to the shop after retiring from the public school system.

Book a sit-down first

Wedding invitations are Paperwhite's specialty, but the shop also designs for rehearsal dinners and parties. Every invitation consultation is by appointment, so the team can sit down one-on-one and design a suite around your event. Appointments can be booked online through the shop's website or by phone.

With engagement announcements, holiday parties and New Year's celebrations stacking up on Baton Rouge calendars, now is a smart time to get on the schedule. Custom work takes planning, and a printed piece can't be rushed the way an email blast can.

One note for online shoppers: the "Shop Stationery" button on Paperwhite's website leads to an affiliated printing partner, which is a separate business.

Plan your visit

Paperwhite Stationery Boutique is at its new address, 18010 Santa Maria Parkway, Baton Rouge, LA 70810. Call 225-408-7078 to set up a consultation, or follow along at @paperwhitebr to see recent suites before you go.

Photo courtesy of Paperwhite Stationery Boutique.