When it comes to creating unforgettable events, bespoke calligraphy is a powerful way to add personalisation and elegance.

But with different service options available—like live personalisation, in-studio personalisation, back-of-house personalisation, or even corporate workshops—how do you know which is the best fit for your event?

Start by working backwards from your objectives. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the right type of calligraphy service and find the perfect artist for the job.

1. Live Personalisation: Bring the Experience to Life

Live calligraphy or on-site engraving is a show-stopping option if you want to wow your guests with real-time personalisation.

Whether it’s writing guests’ names on keepsakes or engraving custom designs on gifts, watching a calligrapher work their magic live is an interactive experience that guests love.

This option is perfect for brand activations, corporate events, or luxury weddings where you want to create a memorable moment that’s both personal and entertaining.

However, live services do come with logistics.

Make sure you hire a calligrapher experienced in live events, and check that they can work quickly and accurately under pressure.

If you’re in Australia or New Zealand, check out our page HERE to see if we're the right choice for you.

2. In-Studio Personalisation: The Perfect Touch Before the Event

If you prefer a more controlled environment where every detail is perfected ahead of time, in-studio personalisation might be the way to go.

This is ideal for luxury corporate gifts, handwritten place cards, or custom signage that can be ready and waiting at your event.

Key benefits of in-studio work are:

• If you don’t need live on-site activations, but still want to send out personalised gifts to your staff, clientele, etc
• If you want to create PR packs to promote your brand like the big companies
• If you're looking for a more convenient option to get the work done and have it ready for you to pick up

With this option, you ship or drop off your items at our Kimlligraphy studio (based in South-West Sydney), where we'll spend dedicated time creating each personalised piece. You can learn more HERE.

3. Back-of-House Personalisation: Personalised in Private

Back-of-house personalisation offers a nice balance between live services and in-studio work.

While the personalisation happens on-site, it’s done behind the scenes—either at your event venue or in the client’s office or studio—so your guests don’t see the process, just the beautifully finished products.

This option works well if:

• You want personalised items prepared on the day of the event prep activities
• You don’t yet know the full details (eg. guest names) until the day of the event
• You're considering any additions or last minute changes

When choosing a calligraphy artist for back-of-house personalisation, you want someone adaptable, detail-oriented, and efficient under pressure.

Look for experience in similar projects, strong time management, and a portfolio that shows their ability to personalise items quickly and flawlessly without being in the spotlight. Click HERE to learn more about our back-of-house service.

4. Corporate Workshops: Creative, Interactive, and Fun

If you’re planning a team-building event or looking for corporate event ideas with a creative twist, why not opt for a calligraphy workshop?

Corporate workshops are a hands-on experience that engages attendees in learning calligraphy while encouraging collaboration and creativity.

It's ideal if you want to:

• Engage your employees in a unique, non-work setting where they can connect and interact in a fun-filled environment.
• Provide your team with a refreshing experience that goes beyond the office walls, promoting camaraderie and strengthening bonds.
• Let their creativity flow while building connections that elevate your workplace culture and productivity.

When choosing the right calligraphy artist for a corporate workshop, you want someone who not only masters the craft but also has an engaging and approachable teaching style.

Look for an artist who can create a fun, interactive atmosphere while keeping things professional. They should aim to ensure everyone feels involved and walks away with something memorable.

Check out Kim's past workshops HERE to view references or testimonials from our previous clients!

5. How to Choose the Right Option

Ultimately, the right calligraphy service depends on your event’s needs.

Consider whether you want to create a live, interactive experience with your guests, have everything prepped and perfect beforehand, or work behind-the-scenes to allow for flexibility.

Each option brings its own level of personalisation and engagement, so think about what will best suit your event and your audience.

Once you’ve decided on the service type, be sure to review portfolios and ask about experience in your specific event type.

Whether you need custom calligraphy services for corporate gifts, on-site personalisation for a brand activation, or a bespoke calligraphy workshop, finding the right artist ensures your event has that unique, elegant touch that will leave a lasting impression.

Happy planning, and may your next event be beautifully personalised in all the right ways!