Edgy, editorial wedding stationery for design-led couples from Aisle Studio
You know how it is at MC HQ - constantly searching for the newest, freshest, most exciting brands and designers in the wedding industry, and then getting feverishly excited when we find them. Let us tell you, the absolute mania that descended when we found Aisle Studio was mega - someone who was marrying (no pun intended) edgy, directional modern graphic design with the world of wedding stationery.
Gemma, Aisle Studio’s founder, has a background in design which leaps through when you see her incredible alternative wedding stationery designs. They look less like wedding invites, and more like super slick, edgy, editorial magazines. Not only are they perfectly suited to a design-led couple, but her semi-customisable suites mean that they’re also perfectly suited for the time-poor, style-savvy couple too. (And isn’t that us all?!) And as if that wasn’t enough goodness, they’re all also printed on 100% recycled paper too, so they’re perfect for eco-conscious folk. Basically, she’s covered all bases, and covered them brilliantly too.
We chatted to Gemma to find out some more about Aisle Studio and how it all started…
Tell us a little bit about your design background!
I have worked in design for over ten years now; working with fashion and lifestyle brands such as ASOS, Converse and Nike. I work on a mixture of art direction and pure graphic design, which means no two days are ever the same. Design is truly a passion for me, so I wanted to try and create something of my own, using the passion I have mixed with the experience I’ve got to create joy in people’s lives through my designs.
Where did your inspiration come from for the collections and their names/designs?
I get my inspiration from all sorts of places. I love getting out and going to galleries, reading magazines, going to talks. They are all sources of inspiration for me and inform what I create. I can’t wait to visit the Lee Krasner at the Barbican, I know that’s going to be big on colour, it’s the perfect place to get inspired for potential new collections.
How would you describe your design style and Aisle Studio’s style?
I think ‘anti wedding’ style is how I’d best describe Aisle Studio’s aesthetic. They are collections for people who don’t want to be forced down the traditional wedding florals, but want something that reflects them. So the collections are big on colour, bold type and bags of personality in the copy. Just because it’s a wedding doesn’t mean you have to tone down your personality.
Can you tell our readers a bit more about the customisable factor of your ranges?
All the collections are customisable, which is the great thing about them. If you want to change the colour, we have different colour palettes to pick from. Think the wording isn’t exactly you, we can change that. AND we’re now working with a new printers who are working to create hot foils on the name sections, so you can luxe up your invite suite.
What’s new right now for Aisle Studio and what are you working on next?
The next big focus is going to be hitting up some wedding shows. I did my first Un-Wedding show in September, and then next up will be Most Curious, which obviously is super exciting. It’s where I went when I got engaged, so it feels exciting to bring my brand to a place I really respected when I got engaged.
What is your work space like, can we have a snoop??
I’m a bit nomadic when it comes to work spaces, I like to be around people when I’m designing, being alone can drive me stir crazy. I tend to camp out in places like STJS in St James Street or Wood Street Coffee at Blackhorse Studios. But if I’m not out and about I have a room at home that I use as a studio space. I create prints, which I sell, plus cycling caps and apparel and Aisle Studio collections.
So….. we hear you’re getting married! We’re sure you’re gonna be the coolest bride - Can you tell us some secrets about it?
I am, in a couple of weeks time! I’m really into typography…if you couldn’t tell?! So I have been designing a few surprises for the guests when they sit down for the meal, plus some customised typographic mirrors. And I also heard the invites are pretty good too! We used the We Found Love collection with red foil envelopes, proper disco vibes.
Coffee or Tea?
Espresso martini?! Does that count?
Gym or lazy breakfast on a Sunday morning?
Both! I’m (shamefully) a massive fan of a weekend gym class. But it must be followed by a good brunch somewhere.
To see more of Aisle Studio’s stationery head to the website, follow on instagram and, of course, grab your tickets to see it in person at the London show!