Every wedding starts with a feeling. Before the venue, before the dress, before the details come together, there’s a certain mood that defines everything that follows. The role of design is to translate that feeling into something tangible.
At Studio Pen, it happens through surface and texture, custom stationery, hand-painted tablecloths, and drapery that don’t just decorate a space, but shape it. Founded by Peni Petersen in Cape Town, the studio approaches each project with an artistic point of view, where even the smallest detail carries intention.
We spoke with Peni about her process, the ideas behind her work, and how she approaches creating pieces that feel both personal and visually distinct.
Photo: Courtesy of Studio Pen, Riesography
How would you describe Studio Pen’s signature style to a couple seeing your work for the first time?
Studio Pen’s style is artistic, intentional, and deeply personal. It’s rooted in simple, timeless, fluid and flowing forms where each brushstroke is considered and expressive. My work is grounded in hand-painted details and storytelling, creating moments that feel soulful rather than overdone.
I focus on pieces where art, weddings, and celebration come together seamlessly. Every detail is designed to feel warm, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind, never trend-led or generic.
Photo: Courtesy of Studio Pen
How do you usually begin designing for a couple’s wedding?
I always start with the couple’s story. I want to understand who they are, how they live, what they value, what they love, and how they want their guests to feel. From there, everything else flows naturally – the colors, textures, and materials are all informed by that narrative, so the design feels like an extension of the couple.
Photo: Riesography
Your hand-painted tablecloths are such a signature piece — how do you come up with the designs for them?
Each hand-painted tablecloth is designed specifically for the event and space. I take inspiration from the couple’s story, the setting, the season, the menu, or the atmosphere they’re trying to create. I treat the table as an artful canvas – the brushstrokes are expressive and imperfect on purpose, because that’s what makes it feel alive and personal.
"No two are ever the same.”
Can you share a project or wedding you’ve worked on that felt especially meaningful?
The projects that feel most meaningful to me are those rooted in trust and true collaboration. When a couple gives me the creative freedom to interpret their story through art, the work naturally becomes deeper and more expressive. Those weddings feel less like formal events and more like intimate gatherings — which is where I thrive creatively.
Photo: Courtesy of Studio Pen
One example is my collaboration with South African designer Gavin Rajah. The shared authorship and openness in that process led to hand-painted garments that felt effortless and personal. Pieces I could easily envision brides wearing across multiple moments, from recovery-day pool party celebrations and pre-wedding events to rehearsal dinners and even their wedding day, and beyond.
Photo: Dicker & Dane
What advice would you give couples when it comes to choosing stationery or unique design elements for their day?
I always encourage couples to focus on intention rather than excess. It’s not about having everything, but about choosing elements that truly feel like you. When design choices are considered and detail-oriented, even the smallest touches can have the most impact. A few meaningful pieces, whether hand-painted details, personal motifs, or thoughtfully chosen materials, will always feel more special and timeless.
Photo: Courtesy of Studio Pen (1-3), Riesography
Are there any trends in wedding design that excite you right now?
Couples are embracing imperfection, texture, and individuality. I’m especially loving the use of embossed metallics, lace, and layered fabrics incorporated into paper, even through hand-sewn details. It feels like a thoughtful, tactile shift that allows each celebration to feel more personal and considered.
Photo: Courtesy of Studio Pen
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for Studio Pen in 2026?
Looking ahead to 2026, I’m excited to expand Studio Pen beyond traditional stationery, exploring how it can live across various objects, materials, and experiences rather than just paper and fabric. I’m especially inspired by more immersive tablescapes, creative collaborations, and tactile design moments that blend art, hosting, and storytelling.
I’m also looking forward to working with couples who value creativity and intention, and who want their celebrations to feel deeply personal, considered, and memorable.
