Custom Linen Bar Signs and Lavender Tones For This Whimsical Soirée in Alexandria
This dreamy rooftop soirée in Alexandria wasn’t a wedding, but with whimsical florals, lavender tones, and a skyline backdrop, it was just as memorable! The event featured one of my favorite design elements: a custom linen bar sign, adorned with a hand-drawn botanical icon.
@alexandrakentphotography
It may seem like a small thing, but as an artist who creates custom stationery and signage, I always quote famous Renaissance painter Leonardo da Vinci: “Details make perfection, and perfection is not a detail.” It’s the accumulation of carefully considered small things that makes something excellent.
Honey and Lavender Events‘ summer party, aptly named Lavender soirée, was indeed an excellent, fully branded experience, with a wide range of talented vendors in the DMV, coming together under one big roof(top).
@alexandrakentphotography
A Whimsical Garden-Inspired Party With City Skyline Views
In events like this, it’s the subtle, layered details that create a sense of cohesion and luxury. Guests may not consciously notice every texture or flourish, but they feel the impact. When each element is intentionally chosen and executed, the entire celebration becomes more immersive, more memorable, and even the simplest of spaces can be transformed into something magical.
@alexandrakentphotography
Why Signage Needs to Be More Than Just “Functional” For Luxury Events
At a luxury event, every element is part of the experience. Signage is not just about telling guests where to go or what’s on the bar menu. The right sign sets a tone, reinforces the aesthetic, and tells a visual story that aligns with the rest of the day. When thoughtfully designed, it becomes part of the ambiance…something guests notice, photograph, and remember.
In a world of curated tablescapes and layered textures, your signage should feel just as considered as the florals, lighting, or stationery suite.
@alexandrakentphotography
Why Choose Linen for Wedding Signage? Both Form and Function
Linen is having a moment in luxury wedding design, and for good reason. The texture brings a softness and elevated organic feel that’s perfect for romantic garden parties, modern estate weddings, and rooftop city affairs alike. Compared to acrylic or foam core, linen signage offers a tactile, editorial look that photographs like a dream… when done correctly.
@alexandrakentphotography
Behind the Scenes: Prepping Linen Signs to Be Photo-Ready
Here’s something most people don’t tell you about linen signage: it’s beautiful, but finicky. If you’ve ever worn linen clothing for the summer, you know it can turn into a hot wrinkled mess if not stored or transported properly. And those creases will absolutely show up in your photos.
@alexandrakentphotography
Not all linen are created equal either. The weight, weave, and finish of the linen can impact everything: from how ink absorbs, to how the fabric drapes. A looser weave may look rustic or wrinkled, while a heavier, tighter weave offers a smoother, more polished appearance.
There is no way around it. If you want custom linen bar signs, you will absolutely have to press them. Better if steamed the day-of, so build that into the timeline. Of course, if you don’t have time for that, at The 11 a.m. Creative, I offer delivery and set up as part of my service. I will personally press each linen sign on-site to ensure it’s smooth, polished, and ready for its close-up.
@alexandrakentphotography
Storing and Caring for Linen Signs Sans Pro
If you must have your linen signs shipped to you, just remember that without proper handling, even the most beautiful sign can be damaged or look sloppy.
@alexandrakentphotography
Here’s what I recommend:
Never leave linen signs folded for long periods. Roll them with acid-free tissue or muslin. If you must fold, create as few creases as possible.
Avoid high heat if steaming on your own. It can burn or warp the ink.
Hang signs ASAP once on-site to allow the fabric to relax.
If you are DIY-ing signs, always test print before committing. Every fabric reacts differently to ink.
The easiest way is to book with The 11am Creative, so you don’t have to worry about any of this. 😉
Your signs arrive camera-ready and perfectly styled.
@alexandrakentphotography
Final Touches: Branding Beyond the Basics
This soirée is a perfect example of how signage can move beyond “just functional” to become part of your event’s brand. Tying the guest experience together in a way that feels immersive, elevated, and joyful.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, rehearsal dinner, or private party, signs are one of the first things your guests see. Why not make them unforgettable?
Planning an Event in Alexandria? Let’s Elevate Your Signage
I serve couples and planners across the Washington, DC metro area, including Alexandria, Northern Virginia, and Baltimore. If you’re dreaming of a custom linen bar sign with hand-drawn details and a premium feel, you’re in the right place.
@alexandrakentphotography
Ready to collaborate on creating details that add to your story?
Stationery designer and calligrapher in DC, with a background in healthcare, she knows how to listen actively, work collaboratively, meet tight deadlines, and value transparent communication.
She approaches your love story and family dynamics with openness, understanding, and a passion to see more of the world and its beings. Culture and travel are huge inspirations for her art, as she is extremely fortunate to experience various destinations and traditions all over the world.
As a hopeless romantic who found her soulmate, she is genuinely a fan of love and marriage, and will cheer you on as you navigate one of the biggest celebrations of your lifetime!
