Tinder Love Stories

April 15, 2016April 5, 2016 ~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

I love the small glimpses my work gives me into my customers’ lives—whether they’re the guy who opened an etsy account just to buy a handmade “I’m sorry” card, stocking up on congratulations cards because this is the summer all their friends are getting married, or creating custom invitations for one of the biggest days of their lives, every order reminds me of the small acts of kindness that are so prevalent, yet often overlooked, in this world.

My “So glad you swiped right” cards have definitely yielded the best stories. Recently I had the most moving order from a man in Brazil, who asked if I could write his message (which was in Portuguese) in the card and send it halfway around the world. Naturally I obliged… and then snooped to see what he had written (thank you Google Translate!). Turns out, I had just transcribed one of the sweetest love notes I’ve ever read!

Another customer shared the way she and her boyfriend met after purchasing the card. In her own words:
“Robert and I met on Tinder almost 2 years ago! I had been on Tinder for a couple of months before matching with him, and had never actually had anything come out of it besides a few almost date-worthy conversations. When we matched, I almost didn’t believe he was real because of how inconsistent his pictures were (some with a beard, some with a mustache, short hair, long hair, etc.)…but decided to still swipe right, because what are the odds I was actually going to date one of these people?

“After a day of talking, I immediately realized he was different than any of the other guys I was talking to, mainly because he didn’t ask me right away to get drinks or meet up. So, about a week after we started talking, I took a risk asked him out on a date! I wanted to meet at a super public space for our first date because I was terrified to meet someone off the internet, let alone Tinder (hello catfish!), so we met at a bar in Chicago for dinner. After a 6 hour dinner, we finally decided our first date should end…only to have our second date the next day. Two years and endless amounts of dates later, we both couldn’t be happier that we made the somewhat shallow decision to be on Tinder way back when :)”

And here’s a photo of the couple because they’re adorable. Share your Tinder love story below!

New Retailer: Laurel Grove

April 13, 2016April 14, 2016 ~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ 1 Comment

One of my main goals for 2016 is to expand the network of stores that sell 622 press goods. I’ve been working hard at this one—emailing my catalog to dozens of stores over the last few months, and sending samples to as many as I can. (Know a local shop that would be a good fit for 622 press? Get in touch!) However, the most recent addition to the 622 family fell right into my metaphorical lap!

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Laurel Grove is an adorable boutique in Sudbury, Mass. that grew out of the owner’s part-time vintage business. She was in a similar situation to mine two years ago: Working full time at a job that she loved, but also pursuing her own business on nights and weekends… plus she had a two year old. Eventually, the stars aligned and with the perfect space, business partner and her husband’s support, Laurel Grove was born!

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The shop carries a mix of vintage and handmade and select new home decor and jewelry. Kim’s goal is really to showcase artisans whose stuff she loves. She says, “I do try to stay mostly local to New England, but every once in a while if someone catches my eye (like you did) and I just love the product I’ll reach out.” The store also offers customization and furniture refinishing.

Kim picked out an awesome collection of cards that includes some of my very favorites, and got the last of a few designs, like our wood type “good luck” card and select colors of “best day ever!” Laurel Grove is also the first to carry my new calligraphy inspired “oh happy day” and “mr and mrs” cards! And, she picked up a great selection of Mother’s and Father’s Day cards, so pop in soon to grab those while they last!

Letterpress Card Sale!

April 10, 2016April 1, 2016 ~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ 1 Comment

You guys, I’m so excited. I finally took the plunge and switched from the magnesium and wood plates I’ve used for years to photopolymer plates from one of the biggest producers in the U.S. I say “finally” because it’s been a long time coming—not only have the quality and customer service declined at my old platemaker, but I’m looking forward to better print quality and registration as well with this new system. For a few years now, I’ve watched what other printers can do with photopolymer with amazement, and I’m so excited to be part of the club! And the icing on the cake? Shipping and production costs are a bit less, so I won’t have to raise my prices again right away this year. Win-win-win!

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I created a handful of new designs to learn the new system with, and I’m planning for a big order of new work this summer, so to make room for all these new designs, I’m trying to clear out a few older ones. I’ve moved a ton of merchandise to the SALE SECTION in my shop, so make sure to go check it out! I won’t be reprinting any of those designs soon, so if there’s one you love, make sure to stock up!

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New Retailer: The Waxwing

April 3, 2016March 29, 2016 ~ 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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Snarky New Hoop Art

March 31, 2016March 17, 2016 ~ Bess Paper Goods & Gifts ~ Leave a comment

I’ve been friend with Nicole, who I recently visited in Houston, since she moved to Wisconsin in fifth grade. She’s one of the funniest, weirdest (in a good way!) people I know, and also happens to love the embroidery hoops I can’t seem to stop making. So when she started shouting out funny and often inappropriate phrases followed by “Put that in a hoop!” I started taking notes.

The first hoop I worked on was actually my idea—one of my favorite sayings actually! A lot of these hoops will be set in my favorite gorgeous calligraphy typeface, I just love the contrast of the cheeky message with the elegant typography—especially in such a traditional medium. It’s been super popular on Instagram, so get it here while you can!

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These little orange numbers are all Nicole. I even sent the “lolz” design her way as a birthday present last week (hopefully it has arrived and I didn’t just ruin the surprise!), but if you want your own (in custom colors!), just get in touch.

I’ve also made a few non-vulgar hoops, but where’s the fun in that? Anyway, this dreamcatcher one is my favorite. Get it here.

Well folks, now I have some sad news. I’m out of hoops. I went to the local fabric store to pick up some more, and oddly enough, all sizes were about the same price. But that means the smaller sizes cost about 5 times what they cost in the states, so I just can’t swing it. I’m exploring other ways to frame these up (which may end up being cheaper to ship too! YAY!), but in the mean time, I’ll still be stitching away! Here’s a design that doesn’t have a home yet:

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Now go away ;)