Features Product Features

What’s Hot

In this market, efficiency is always paramount, but in a world that emphasizes wellness and sustainability, so too is levity, positivity and color. “I’ve noticed a rise in desk items that have positive and affirmative messages around mental health,” described Janie Velencia, The Card Bureau. “Stationery is serving as a medium to help people work on their own self-care and it (can) encourage others too. Last year, we released a full line focused on mental health and positivity, and this year, we’re collaborating with one of our retailers, Social Goods, to create a candle design and greeting cards promoting mental health. We’re launching it in May for Mental Health Awareness Month, with a portion of the proceeds supporting mental health initiatives. I’m hoping it will help uplift people’s spirits and help them get through difficult times.” 

Meanwhile, Ali Flippin of E. Frances Paper connects the popularity of their Little Notes holder not only to its beauty and classic lines, but because it’s ceramic. “Getting rid of plastic desktop pieces is definitely the current and future wave,” she emphasized. 

Also Look For

Artfulness to help stay motivated and on task. “Denik is always inspired by the amazing art we see in our local community and online,” noted Renee Froerer, retail art director. “It’s a well that just never seems to dry up.” 

To that end, their current main design stories are Desert Journey — rich in warm colors and earthy textures like kraft paper and vegan leather — and In the Groove, a paean to 70s design. Elements like embroidery and saddle-stitching increase perceived value as they add visual interest. 

Tried and True

Color blocking is still prevalent, and speaking of bold color? It’s an established trend, ventured Flippin. “Most of our notepads leave most of the page white for writing, but lately, it’s our more colorful designs that utilize big areas of color that have been selling more.” 

Designer Quote

“It’s our mission to avoid single-use plastic whenever possible and be more responsible with our packaging and shipping; to help other companies wanting to do the same; and to really try to change customer habits and expectations. We’ve all become accustomed to everything wrapped in plastic, much of which is unnecessary!”— Ali Flippin, E. Frances Paper 

ilootpaperie 

Cheery Human Studios 

note•ify

Denik

E. Frances Paper 

Paper Genius 

C.R. Gibson Signature 

Evergreen Summer 

Day One Paper Co.

J. Falkner 

Darling Lemon