I received a beautiful bouquet of flowers last week from a dear friend and a lovely-hand-me-down Dooney & Bourke purse from another. Rather than express my gratitude by sending an e-mail, text or Facebook wall post message, I wanted to send something a little more special; a real handwritten thank you card on pretty stationery. Shocking, right? Especially in a world where everything is acceptable digital.
When was the last time you received an actual greeting card or handwritten letter? When was the last time you sent one? It’s a dying art and it has been a while for me, too. In fact, I couldn’t remember the last time I bought pretty stationery, so it became my weekend’s mission!
My mother always taught me to send prompt thank you notes, acknowledge loved ones’ birthdays and be mindful of other special occasions. Besides, pretty things are nice to receive in the mail, especially when all your mail box usually sees is junk mail and bills. And, it is refreshing and thoughtful to sit with pen in hand and write out your thoughts.
My favorite place to turn for greeting cards and other lovely writing paraphernalia is Paper Source because they never disappoint and carry the most gorgeous wrapping paper, tissue paper, gift bags, bows, holiday items, note cards and office supplies. Plus they offer custom printing , “how to’s” and other workshops.
Classes vary in level of difficulty and specialty – experiment with something new, get your friends together for group crafting, or perfect the skills for your personal hobby. Check the website or your local store for classes in your area.
Paper Source - Floral Thank You Notes - $18.95 for 8
Papyrus is another favorite stationery source that also has a wonderful selection of boxed thank you cards, whimsical stationery and other gift items. Right now their stores are all decked out for spring and Easter and if that doesn’t get you in the mood, nothing will.
Papyrus - Elum "Many Thanks" Thank You Note Cards - $16.95 for 6
Papyrus - Sage Brown Thank You Card $4.95ÂÂ
Last but not least, Hallmark is a family favorite for every day-type cards. Hallmark Cards, Inc. has been around for over 100 years and is the world’s largest and best known producer of greeting cards. The sales staff is friendly and it is always a good go-to for any and every occasion.
Hallmark - Sparkle Foil Thank You, $1.79
As with the other stationery stores I mentioned, Hallmark has a lot more than cards! My in-laws gave my son Recordable Storybooks for Christmas last year and he absolutely adores them. Such a clever idea; even though they live miles away, he can hear their voices each and every night.
If you are like me and are suffering from digital fatigue and are looking to go the extra mile to make someone feel special or offer your thanks, shut down your computer and write a card on beautiful stationery. It may require a little extra time and effort, but I believe it’s worth it. And if nothing else, browse through your favorite stationery store for inspiration, a new journal, writing instrument or other pretty things.
Photo credits:
ejorpin
Paper Source
Papyrus
Papyrus
Hallmark
