Art For Life

With Jade Social, create something lasting for your love story

By Kerri Molitor  |  Photography by Julie Page, Collab Creative

Wedding stationery designer Liz Fons has been designing custom invitations, save-the-dates, and more for weddings for nearly 15 years. Her custom paintings and sketches transform every couple’s story into beautiful art that can set the tone for your wedding — and be used throughout your life. Fons also owns and operates a storefront, Jade Social, in Ferndale, selling her stationery and other curated gifts. Here, we chat with Fons about creating wedding art that lasts a lifetime.

How did you get your start in the wedding industry?

After graduating from art school, I struggled to find a job in textiles, the career I thought I wanted. I took a job in event planning and started designing wedding invitations on the side. As word spread and more people wanted my designs, I knew I wanted this to be my career. Looking back, I don’t know if I would have found this path if it weren’t for my early career struggles. Everything happens for a reason.

Why is wedding stationery so important?

Invitations and save-the-dates are the items your guests will interact with the longest because they’re posted on refrigerators for six to 12 months. They are also one of the most customizable parts of your wedding that sets the tone for your whole event. Plus, the longevity of my designs is so fun — you can use a custom monogram for the rest of your life.

What are your favorite kinds of projects?

I love to really push the envelope on creativity. I recently worked on a wedding at the Shinola Hotel where we added all these creative ideas in a crazy, fun shade of pink. Getting out of your box helps you stretch as a designer.

The more years I do this, the more I love adding personal touches. I’ve painted a lot of dogs and even put them on koozies. For one couple, I painted the waterfront from their ceremony for their envelope liner and gave them a print as a wedding gift. Venue paintings are a popular choice for weddings, and I have a line of cards with custom paintings of 45 Michigan venues.

What advice do you have for couples looking for custom stationery?

We recommend having an open mind and being ready to collaborate with your designer. We know how to turn your inspiration into reality. However, the most important part of the process is you — we need your input to create something lasting for your love story.

Learn more at jadesocial.com.