Spotlight on Michelle

Today I have the distinct pleasure of turning a well-deserved spotlight on our Store Manager, Chief Invitation Consultant and resident Visual Merchandiser, Michelle. Though she is clearly an invaluable member of our team in many arenas of the business, today I wanted to focus on her incredible creative talent. We pride ourselves on our imaginative window displays, and in recent years, Michelle is most frequently the font from which they spring.   Without further ado, the lovely Michelle!

 

How long have you been with On Paper? 

Five years this past October!

Michelle's first window at On Paper

What experiences or education led you to visual merchandising at On Paper? 

Luckily, I hail from a very arts oriented family. Growing up, creativity was always encouraged. At the University of Dayton I studied Art History and Fine Arts, focusing on ceramic and paper sculpture with my own work.  I think of displays as 2-dimensional sculpture. It wasn’t until I took a part-time job at CO Bigelow at Easton that I discovered I had a knack for merchandising, and completely loved organizing product into displays. I’d always volunteer to help with floor sets and thought it was fun to see and take part in the seasonal changes of the shopping environment. When I started at On Paper as an Assistant Manager I shared my interest in windows and visual merchandising.  After a while, I was given the opportunity to pitch some ideas and create my very first window display. I was so very thrilled to have the chance!

A clothesline of letters! Could be great inspiration for the home.

What inspires you?

In general; the natural world around us (mother nature sure can create one heck of a color palette!). Traveling. History. Exploring different places. The fashion and visual arts scenes. As far as windows go - antique shops and flea markets are chock full of inspirational objects; I’m always on the prowl. I like milling around in stores like Anthropologie and Ralph Lauren too. They do a remarkable job creating well branded and designed (and in Anthro’s case, crafted) shopping environments and fantastic window displays. Speaking of fantastic window displays, I could stand in front of Bergdorf Goodman’s stunning holiday windows for hours!!       

 

Black and White

Tell us a little about the process of designing and executing a window display. 

Windows should showcase your product and entice walkers by.  So, first we determine a theme or story, and pinpoint the product we’ll merchandise within. The season as well as buying trips help to determine the theme. From there, we sketch out a design. Sometimes construction materials need to be sourced and backdrop elements created. Depending on the complexity, backdrops can take from a couple hours up to a few weeks to complete.  When I’m having fun, they almost always involve using a power tool or two! Most often I’m able to use the fantastic vintage display fixtures we already have here in the shop. In those cases, it’s a matter of selecting the fixtures that best suit the merchandise along with props to polish and enhance the overall look.  Build the display, set the merchandise, and if needed, adjust the lighting. Walah! 

{Funny story - when reading Michelle's responses, I thought I had the heavy burden of informing her that she has been mispronouncing "voila" her entire life. Luckily for us both, I discovered it is simply a trademark of her offbeat humor; a Michelle-ism, if you will.} 

Putting our vintage fixtures to use

What has been your favorite window? 

Have several that I’m fond of, but my favorite would have to be our Holiday Winter Wonderland windows with the white paper trees!

Those white paper trees are likely a community favorite as well - they did earn us Best in Show in the 2011 Short North Arts District Holiday Window Competition, after all!

Thanks so much for sharing with us, Michelle - can't wait to see what you come up with next!

New to the Shop: Candles!

This week has brought On Paper a beautiful new array of candles, each one prettier than the last. We couldn't help but proudly display them in the center of the shop; a shrine to the simple joy of twinkling lights and wafting fragrance. Read on to learn more about a few of our favorites!

The clean European elegance of the Grand Hotel de Paris and Le Grand Cafe candles (upper right and lower left, respectively) are beautifully balanced by their worldly-yet-nostalgic fragrances. Hotel de Paris is fresh but sweet, with a scent of Linen Water -- conjuring up images of airy hotel rooms high above the Seine. Le Grand Cafe is slightly more proletarian -- aiming to remind one of "summers spent picking blackberries in the French countryside." Though I can't claim to have done anything of the sort, if I close my eyes and inhale I might be convinced otherwise....

If you're drawn to a more rustic aesthetic, the sweet little tins or knobby jars wrapped with twine are sure to delight. Fragrances range from the sweet and floral (french violet, cherry blossom) to spicy and sultry (white tea ginger, cedar sage). Soy wax blended with essential oils burns clean and light, aided by their unique wooden wicks (only adding to the rustic charm).

Our regulars will recognize the striking silhouettes of Wicked's Negative Space collection, but our enthusiasm is renewed by the arrival of a fourth fragrance, the victrola featured bottom right. The collection is inspired by the psyches and struggles of provocative authors of the past. The four we carry represent (respectively, clockwise from upper left) Ernest Hemingway, Virginia Woolf, Oscar Wilde and Anais Nin. The melancholy concept alone (and their brilliant packaging) was enough to ensnare us, but the fragrances are truly bewitching. For instance, the Oscar Wilde victrola design that inspired today's fervor is an intoxicating blend of bergamot, warm oak, vanilla and patchouli, with a hint of cedar -- but the depth and complexity is truly indescribable, as though the luminary's essence were contained in the wax.

A word to the wise: if your curiosity is aroused, be sure to stop in! In the time it took me to compile this post, several of these lovely candles have found new homes, and I can only imagine the trend will continue with tomorrow's Gallery Hop. See you soon....

Last Minute Valentine's Day Gifts

Cupid's bow is pulled taut, and tomorrow the arrow flies!

Be sure your sweetheart is lovestruck with these surefire gifts.

FOR THE GENTS

Clockwise from top left: The Italian-made Ogami notebook made from Repap is beautiful, sleek, environmentally-friendly and shows your love is like a rock! The American Bar by Charles Schumann is a fantastic resource for both professional mixologists and amateurs alike. Smell Good Daily Tonic from West Third Brand holds true to its claims - with ultra cool packaging, too! Make him say OH! with this heirloom-quality pewter Ohio State flask.

FOR THE LADIES

Clockwise from top left: Hand her your heart (and her favorite 6 pack) with this hand-painted cast iron bottle opener. Give the gift of inspiration with this luxurious Italian leather journal. A sweet sterling silver necklace will be a reminder that only you hold the key to her heart. The heavenly scent of the Italian Blood Orange Lotion by Mor is only matched by its ability to make even the driest skin soft and sexy.

Tomorrow we'll be open an hour late ('til 7pm!) for all you last minute shoppers. See you soon!

Valentines for Procrastinators

It seems 2013 is determined to fly by even faster than 2012; Valentine's Day is a week from today! That's right, folks... seven days left to find something sweet for your sweetheart. (And we're only open for five of them! Don't forget we're closed Sundays and Mondays.)

So today we're sharing a handful of our favorite Valentines still here in the shop. If you see one you love, stop in or give us a call -- we almost never stock more than 6 cards of each style, which means once they're gone, they're gone!

The four valentines below all use traditional language or motifs, but with a modern twist, whether in the typesetting, printing process or even the addition of three-dimensional elements.

The valentines below are fun, modern updates to the time-honored tradition. I love the use of gold foil, simple typesetting, or surprisingly sweet imagery to create romance in unexpected ways. 

Have you found a valentine for your Valentine yet? Don't delay....

Valentine Gifts for the Home

Since Joan returned from a buying trip last month, the store has been inundated with new goodies. February is always a happy time at On Paper; pretty red hearts are scattered about the shop, and around every corner you'll find some sweet token of love. This month though, we've received an unprecedented influx of fantastic new housewares, and we simply had to share them with you! Whether you've been looking for a little something to freshen your space, or are on the hunt for an artful piece to gift to your Valentine, there's bound to be something that will fit the bill.

Just yesterday we received these sweetly rustic reclaimed wood pieces. The wood is aged and weathered, soft and full of depth and history. Rather like a marriage, come to think of it. Any one of these would be a lovely, romantic gift -- but not so saccharine that you couldn't display it outside the bedroom.

We have just the thing for the craft beer lover in your life -- whimsical bottle openers! The heft of these cast iron trinkets and the antiqued finish make cracking one open extra satisfying.

While we're on the subject of libations, we're enamored with these ingenious bottle stoppers! Fashioned out of antique doorknobs, they have a quirky, romantic appeal while still being incredibly useful. Would make a lovely Valentine's gift with a nice bottle of red!

These clever dishes are too good to resist. They make fantastic gifts for the tea drinkers/waitstaff/foodies/bacon enthusiasts in your life, and I'm pretty sure that covers almost everyone. You're welcome!

Last but certainly not least, the objets d'art below have a bewitching air of nostalgia. Each one is handcrafted, using age-old techniques to painstakingly layer plaster over wood to create a one-of-a-kind piece. They're sturdy enough to sit unsupported on a shelf, but lightweight enough to be hung on the wall. Though we love displaying them clustered together in a whimsical vignette, they would also make a lovely statement standing alone. 

To take a closer peek, find these items and more on our Pinterest page, on the Shop Favorites board.

Show your home a little love and stop by soon to scoop up your favorites!

Daydreaming On Paper

Twice last week first-time visitors to the shop described it as being "like a dream."

Dreamy, no?

Now, I'm informed with some regularity that my job is enviable. (Not to brag, or anything....) I think it's largely because I am able to spend my days surrounded by beautiful things. 

And they're right. On Paper is a special place -- and quite a contrast from a cold gray January day such as this one. Warm bright light radiates from chandeliers, illuminating our paper wall on the right, thousands of cards to the left. Looking straight to the back, delicate jewelry twinkles behind glass. Taking your first steps into the shop, the floor creaks and groans -- there isn't a silent floorboard to be found -- and it's easy to feel as though you've traveled back in time. To a time when fine stationery and the handwritten word were widely valued. 

Note: I said widely, not highly. Because the truth is, our awesomely ancient floorboards didn't transport you through time -- they woke you up to the present day reality, that paper goods are only getting cooler, and the handwritten word? More meaningful than ever.

Come back soon! It's not nearly so nice, out there.

Wednesday was National Handwriting Day -- did you celebrate? We shared a couple sweet little links on our Facebook page, be sure to check them out if you're seeking inspiration. It's gotten me thinking about handwriting... even more than usual! In fact, when drafting up this post, I worked with my trusty paper and pen. A tried, true, more natural method, that had fallen by the wayside in recent years. (Writing research papers on tight deadlines has a way of streamlining the creative process.) I found I was lost in thought, toying with various turns of phrase and enjoying the exercise -- rather than the digital daze that takes over when staring at a blank white screen.

How do you celebrate the joys of paper and pen?
We'd love to hear.

Emily

Emily's Post: Neon!

Unless you've spent the last six months or so under a rock, you're well aware that neon is a huge trend. While I have been prone to dismiss the idea of "trends" (pshh, my tastes are not determined by popular opinion), they are rather useful, to my mind, in two ways.

1. Trends create a sudden flood of thematically-similar products into the marketplace, which can awaken an appreciation for an aesthetic I had previously under-appreciated, and
2. in the midst of that flood there are bound to be products that marry the "trendy" with elements I already love, thus providing me the opportunity to broaden my tastes in a way that feels authentic.

Okay, fine. So maybe I'm a little bit influenced by trends.

I have yet to take the plunge sartorially-speaking, and honestly I probably won't; this Irish/Scottish/Western European mutt does not mix well with lime green.

But! I am quite happily indulging, satiating my newfound neon cravings with stationery. Read on to see some of my favorite cards -- all of which are currently available in the shop!

A beautiful combination of summer's two hottest trends, neon + gold,
courtesy of Sugar Paper

Bright and irreverent.
J. Falkner

These are too, too beautiful. You must peruse the
Moglea lookbook. Seriously, do it.

We can always count on a.favorite for fun,
unique cards. Love this more literal take on the trend. 

Perfect for a pool party!
anemone letterpress

Last but not least: I dare you to not smile,
looking at this card from Farewell Paperie.
Don't hurt yourself.

Happy Friday! Hope your weekend is fun, bright, and indulgent.

Emily

New to the Shop: Amy Butler Bags

More than any other time of year, summer is when I find myself yearning for a fun new bag. My wardrobe is lighter and brighter, and suddenly the purses I loved all fall and winter seem burdensome and boring. If you're suffering from the same sartorial malaise, I invite you to lay your weary eyes on these beauties. 

Designed by Ohio's own Amy Butler, these organic cotton bags explore a modern palette while invoking a vintage nostalgia through the brassy hardware and large scale floral patterns (created using low-impact dyes). The Nora and Brenda (the oversized coin purse and fold over clutch, respectively) are playful, but structured enough to easily transition to evening. It's the Carried Away bag that's captured my fancy, though... it inspires daydreams of an impromptu weekend getaway, perhaps to the shore... or a day trip to see family in the country... or even packing a just in case bag for a night out with the girls.

Come by the shop to see what summertime fantasies they inspire in you!

New to the Shop: Christina Stankard Jewelry

 

Last week brought some delicate yet stunning new jewelry to the shop. Incorporating pearls, sapphires and chalcedony, Christina Stankard creates bright earrings and luminous necklaces. All pieces are handmade in her Brooklyn studio -- we imagine it must be filled with natural light, to inspire such ethereal pieces. To see a gallery of her work, check out her website. To adorn yourself with these gorgeous pieces, stop by the shop! I think any one of these pieces would be especially lovely as wedding jewelry....

 

 

But I can't promise I won't claim one of these for myself, wedding or no. Hurry in, Columbus brides -- you've been warned! 

The Evolution of the Business Card

The business card is a stationery item so omnipresent that most people are unaware of its fascinating roots in European culture, or of its ongoing transformation. Today the exchange of one's card can be a purely professional act or a romantic overture, depending on the context. But in the 1600s, such distinctions were quite clear.

In 17th century England, trade cards became a popular form of advertising. Without reliable street numbering systems or any widespread advertising forums, the trade card -- a small card bearing the business' name and a map -- was an essential means to spreading the word to potential clients.

Calling Cards

Meanwhile, in the courts of Louis XIV, visiting cards were in vogue. Eventually the practice of exchanging these cards became extremely nuanced, dictated by the strict social guidelines of the Victorian Era in both Europe and America. The turning of one corner, the placement just so in the calling card tray, or the number of cards left behind all had varying significance to the lady of the house, and was an essential ritual to establishing oneself in society. It was at this time that the calling card case was invented -- an accessory that to this day delights the fashionable stationery lover.

Frank Lloyd Wright card case

In the twentieth century, the business card was ostensibly intended for professional exchange. But as we all know (whether from experience or, for those of us who came of business card age in the 21st century, from Hollywood), the line between business and calling card is blurry. How many leading ladies have you watched bite her lower lip while running a finger over the engraving of Mr. Right's business card, sighing at a silent phone?

Today the business card continues to transform, along with a workforce that is far more varied and transient. A modern calling card is often more about the individual than the business, especially as employment fluctuates often. It is increasingly common for one's card to include a personal website, and to incorporate more modern and eye-catching design elements -- a means of setting you apart from the rest, and making a lasting impression on your acquaintance.

Crane calling card

Even in today's virtual media saturated space, the business card is an indispensable marketing component for any serious business professional. In Japan it would be unheard of to make a business introduction without the presentation of a business card. And here in the U.S., it  continues to be a integral part of the branding package and a stationery essential. The business card reigns and is gaining, not losing relevance (professional or otherwise).

An up-trending popular variation is the "mommy card". Whether you're a full-time mom or balance work and motherhood, the mommy card is intended as a more personal means of exchanging contact information. Typically a personal email address, cell phone number and home phone number are included, in order to make communication quick and direct. Often these cards bear a photo of your child or fun whimsical designs, thus differentiating it from (typically more reserved) business cards. Intended to be distributed among friends, family, teachers, parents of classmates and playmates, babysitters -- these versatile cards are quickly becoming an essential for the 21st century mom.

Savvy mommy cards

Check out our range of quick and affordable business, calling, and "mommy" cards on our website here! Or stop by our shop to take a look at the beautiful paper options available for a more unique custom design -- we can incorporate your business' logo or custom art to achieve a look that is distinctly yours.

Designer's Fine Press letterpress business card

To Greet or Not to Greet: How to Write a Valentine

 

More than any other time of year, it is as Valentine's Day nears that we most often hear this question: 

"What does it say on the inside of the card?"

Most often, the answer is "Nothing!" 

Victoria Smith

It seems that many have come to expect (and rely on) an interior greeting in their cards, a message meant to suit a myriad of occasions and relationships.

But -- and I'd love to hear some feedback on this -- isn't the whole point of Valentine's Day (or a birthday, or any other card-worthy occasion) to celebrate your affection for someone you feel lucky to have found? Someone unlike anyone else you've ever met?

A Favorite Design

Though the pure white maw of a blank card may intimidate some, our aim is to provide inspiration -- a beautiful backdrop for the thoughtful expression of unique sentiment toward the one you love.

However, if you're the type to panic when you pick up a pen without a prompt, here are a few quick tips:

• Have a photo of the recipient at hand. Looking at their smiling face is sure to inspire!
• Think of songs, movies, books that you both enjoy -- there's plenty of material to mine. 
• The internet is an eternal spring of inspirational quotes. Beware: it's easy to get lost and mired down in the sheer volume of profundity. I'd steer clear of this method unless there's a passage you have in mind. 
•  I (almost...) always write out my message on a piece of scrap paper before writing in the card. My apologies to anyone reading who has received a card I wrote without practicing first.... Believe me, the last thing your valentine wants is a card full of spelling errors, mistakes, and awkward, rambling endearments.

Anzu Ltd.

I asked Joan to share some insights on what she looks for when buying cards for the store. She said that she looks for unique art or text on the front of a card, to be used as a jumping-off point. Her advice for a well-written card? "Let the front of the card be the inspiration for your own, handwritten message. The inside of the card is a blank palette to paint your way to communication." Wise words, no?

La Kaligrafica

There is a lot of pressure this time of year to get everything right. To buy the perfect gift, to make the perfect gesture, to buy the perfect card, to say all the right things. I can understand the perception that a ready-made message is a safe bet. But I would argue that it's the card and the thoughtful, handwritten note inside that is the most important gesture. It's your opportunity to take a moment and make this holiday uniquely meaningful to you and your beloved. It's your chance to say "I Love You" like you mean it!

Mr. Boddington's Studio

Everyday Magic

A few weeks ago a customer came into the shop looking for sophisticated stationery. This twenty-something gentleman had recently acquired a Parisian pen pal (the stuff dreams are made of!) and was overwhelmed by the task of responding to the beautiful letter he had received par avion.

Without a clue at first as to what he was looking for (but certain that he’d know it when he found it) he wandered the store, occasionally asking for guidance or opinions, or consulting with two friends in tow. Eventually he decided (to our delight and approval) to go with a set of light blue bordered G. Lalo note cards – made in France, natch.

G. Lalo - France

Our young suitor served as an excellent reminder of why stationery goods are so appealing to such a wide variety of people. In an age when computers are so omnipresent we carry them in our pockets -- and even stationery shops have blogs -- stationery is becoming not obsolete, but more precious, more inspiring, and more fun!

The Regional Assembly of Text - Canada

For some, the idea of a “pen pal” is a quaint one, loaded with memories of summer camp or travels abroad. Perhaps a geographic separation from a significant other was eased by the exchange of letters. It’s likely you’ve held on to a few of these missives, the creased pages and scrawled endearments more precious each time you discover them. The feel of the paper transports you to the moment you tore open the envelope and luxuriated in the simple pleasure of holding in your hands a card or letter sheet a loved one so recently selected just for you.

Arpa - Spain

Letter writing is a truly affordable and accessible luxury. Though our customer was initially unaware of the nuances of fine stationery, his instincts and taste brought him to one of the most beautiful offerings we have. The tactile pleasure of holding a beautiful piece of paper requires no training to experience – you simply know it’s the good stuff. The act of sitting quietly, and thoughtfully hand writing has always been an enjoyable pastime, made all the more gratifying for its modern rarity. Once the letter’s signed, folding the sheet and sealing the envelope creates a satisfying feeling of accomplishment. And while writing the recipient’s name and address, your mind can wander, imagining their delight when they see your penmanship.

Albertine Press - Boston, USA

The ritual of exchanging letters dates back thousands of years, but even in these modern times it has a feeling of luxury. Perhaps this can be attributed to the pervasive and wide-ranging means of immediate communication, and the forgotten pleasures of anticipation and intention. Or perhaps it’s the feeling of being tied to a not-so-distant past, when the written word carried more weight.

I have a hunch that it’s the appeal of that everyday magic, that aura of love and history.