Category: clothing

New Retailer: Heyday

~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

Raise your hand if you live near Fort Collin, CO! If your hand is in the air (like you just don’t care), chance are you’ve already heard of Heyday, the ultra-chic fashion, home and gift boutique in the Jessup Farm Artisan Village.

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Owner Jen said it best, “Our philosophy is that simple-living doesn’t mean going without; it’s about effortlessly incorporating classic elements and well-worn pieces into your wardrobe and home — blending simplicity with luxury, old with new, large with small, fun with serious.”

And so in that vein, she chose a variety of cards—some funny, some heartfelt and all different occasions. Perfect to stock up for the holidays and well into the spring!

New Retailer: Assembly

~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

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It’s been a few months since I added a new store to my stockists, but I’m feeling like it was worth the wait! Assembly in Stevens Point, Wis. is owned and operated by Quyen—that’s her smiling mug above—a recent Twin Cities transplant with superb taste.

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Assembly offers quality, modern and fairly minimalist clothing, accessories and gifts in the heart of downtown Stevens Point. The space feels like it belongs in a bigger city, with its high ceilings, exposed brick and seriously fashionable wares, but this gem of a shop is flourishing in a town of less than 30,000.

I was “up North” (as we Wisconsinites say) anyway while I was home, so I took the opportunity to deliver her goods in person. I haven’t visited my alma mater in quite a few  years, so it was almost eerie driving along streets I used to know so well, past places where I used to work and houses where I once lived.

There’s something really poignant about having my work for sale in the place where I first learned about letterpress. Despite being a fairly small order, it feels significant somehow, like here’s the signal that I’ve finally “made it”… whatever that means.

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Quyen, in keeping with her minimalist brand, chose a palette of primarily black and hot pink ink with one robin’s egg card in the mix. She chose some of my favorite designs, so I’m hoping they fly off the shelves! Next time you’re headed “up North” along I-90, make a pit stop in Stevens Point to check out Assembly: You’ll be tempted by all her beautiful goods, but be sure to pick up a few cards!

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New Retailer: The Waxwing

~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

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I’m super excited to announce 622 Press goods are now available at The Waxwing in Milwaukee! I’ve been wanting to get into MKE for years now, but hadn’t found the right fit—until now! The Waxwing is just my style: an eclectic mix of local and international artists and makers curated into a one-stop shop for any occasion, including when you just need to treat yourself!

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Owner Steph carries art and paper goods as well as clothing, housewares and more! She’s carrying my wood type “hello” cards in exclusive colors, along with a few of my favorite designs for any occasion! Stop by E. North Avenue to see them all!hello_multi_1563

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Gift Guide 2015: Dudes

~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

Men! So hard to shop for, right? How many years in a row is too many when it comes to Gander Mountain/REI/Home Depot gift certificates? Never fear—whether it’s your boyfriend, best friend, brother or dad, I’ve got you covered this year!

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Dudes are the worst because they rarely lust after objects like women… and when they really want something, they just go buy it. But you know what dudes need but never buy? Art! The numerals print above is perfect for his office—especially if he’s a numbers guy… your accountants, actuaries, general nerds.

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Not so math-oriented? If there’s one thing all men love, it’s beer! This print was made by hand using antique wooden type on my antique printing press. Lots of antique things—hipsters and old souls alike love that shit. Round out your offering with these coasters and voila! A gift made in man cave heaven.

If you’re feeling super fancy, get in touch in the next week or so to commission a set of personalized coasters just for him! Pick a favorite color and I’ll print his name above “BEER goes here”! I can even print them with “scotch” or another favorite cocktail. Last day to order is December 9!

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And finally, if your fella is a fashionista (or you just wish he was), here’s a collection that’s sure to please. First up: that skinny tie. Zuzu Wear is a husband and wife team handmaking ties in tons of fun fabrics and colors. Personally, I’m a fan of these floral numbers, but they offer some more traditional striped options as well.

While we’re on the subject of neckwear, I love a dude in a scarf. There’s nothing more manly than admitting it’s f*$#ing cold outside so let’s all bundle up, amiright? This hand-crocheted number will keep him cozy while not being overly full (read: girly).

In my opinion, no stylish person is complete without bespoke stationery. I made this set for my own mister with a lead typeface that’s friendly while remaining quite simple. Order your own set here!

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Gift Guide 2015: Girlfriends

~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

I love shopping for my friends—I basically just buy them something I want in their personal style—easy, right? But if you’re feeling like this is the year to pick up something a little different, I’ve got some ideas for you!

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ALL MONOGRAMMED EVERYTHING! Whether it’s your sorority sister or favorite southern belle (I know, total stereotypes, but they do just love monogrammed things!), personalized goodies go a long way this time of year. Less than two weeks left to order stationery, so get in touch soon! Here’s where to find everything: Initial Necklace by Tom Design, Monogram Coaster by 622 press, Stationery Sets by 622 press, Script Stationery by 622 press.

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Then there’s that friend who is always cold. We’ve all got one, we’ve all told her to eat a cheeseburger and all will be well, but since that hasn’t yet happened, you should get her a huge super cozy cowl. I actually wore mine constantly when I worked in an office that kept the AC on well into November in Wisconsin. The unique crochet pattern keeps you warm while staying breathable enough so you don’t get all claustrophobic and hot.

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Making a new house feel like a home can be a challenge. So for a friend that moved this year—especially if it’s a big upgrade from their last place—help cozy up their new spot. Kitchen accessories, artwork and flowers should do the trick! Bonus points if you find out their ideal decorating color scheme. Citrus Coaster set by 622 press, Hand-crocheted dish cloth by 622 press, French 75 original painting by 622 press, Bulb Teapot by Maia Ming Designs, Floral Initial by 622 press.

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And then there’s that friend with the boho style you just can’t seem to nail down. For her, I’ve gathered unique accessories that come with a story. This incredible walnut and brass ring comes all the way from South Africa, courtesy of Zeal Living. It was hand-carved by a local jewelry artist and is sure to become the recipient’s new favorite piece!

I love supporting etsy shop owners—especially those that are just starting out. This gold-rimmed agate pendant and tassle bracelet—which I’ve been lovingly calling a friendship bracelet for grown ups—both come from women-owned shops with less than 20 sales. An order would make their holidays!

Speaking of, an order for one of my new custom floral crowns would make mine! Shown here is the Maxi Crown, but there’s a minimalist version as well (see previous post). They’re only available for custom order at the moment, so get in touch here to order one!