All of this made it very difficult to choose just 10 items for my collection on Felt & Wire Shop. But here’s why each item made it into my list (and on my own personal wish list).
Multi-occasion Invitations from Paper + Cup
Aside from the fact that the design duo behind Paper + Cup, Minhee and Truman Cho are just lovely, these invites are a throwback to an old-school form that make me want to grab a fine point bright Sharpie and start checking boxes and filling in blanks.
Love Bird Place Cards from Timeless Paper
Maybe it’s because I grew up going on birding trips with my dad, or maybe it’s because they just perch so prettily on the edge of a cocktail glass, but whatever the reason, these place cards will be a must when I get around to hosting my first adult dinner party.
Numbered Edition Napkins by Heather Lins Home
When it comes to type, I love old-style numbers above all else. There’s something so elegant and proper about them and how they hearken back to a different era.
Full Set of Sweet Snarky Mini Cards from Constellation & Co.
Who doesn’t love a bit of snark? I can be a bit of a sarcastic person (which can get me into trouble, if I’m not careful!). These would be reserved for my nearest and dearest — those who appreciate my brand of humor.
P and Q Postcard Duo by Paper & Type
It’s two cards in one! I firmly believe Emily Post would approve. A thank you note is always appropriate, and I think too often forgotten.
You Me Letterpress Print by Constellation & Co.
Another winner from the folks at Constellation & Co. It’s such a lovely sentiment (it speaks to the sap in me). I don’t know how you couldn’t love it.
Today Was a Good Day by Paper Jam Press
I actually have this poster hanging in my office. It serves as a good reminder on those long days. Plus, I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on it.
Jezebel Wrap by Paperdolls Precious Paper Goods
This isn’t stationery, per se, but I love how it’s a modern take on traditional cherry blossoms — or at least that’s what I see. My favorite is the red and khaki.
Brittany Skwierczynski Feedback Loop Notebook
So simple and elegantly designed, this notebook is on my wish list. And the fact that it supports a design and mentoring program makes it 10 times better.
Eiffel Tower Stationery by Thornwillow Press
Ah, Paris! I’ve never been, but that doesn’t stop me from dreaming about it. Maybe 2011 will be my year to visit, and I will send these notes from a café to everyone back home.
Kristin Appenbrink is the associate editor of RealSimple.com where she edits the Daily Finds feature and manages social media for the brand. (Come say hello on Facebook and Twitter.) She is a Kansas City native and has lived in New York since 2007. Despite being a web editor, she still loves a hand-written note, and her love of stationery borders on obsessive, with a stock pile of cards in both her office and her apartment. Next year, she hopes to design and letterpress her own stationery at a studio in Brooklyn.























Kristin,
I’m thrilled to see my love bird place cards featured here among such a beautiful collection. Thank you! I greatly appreciate your support of my designs and Felt & Wire shop. Please let me know if you need anything for your next party.
Sincerely,
Emily Arrison
Designer
Timeless Paper
I think we should all stop waiting to have our “grown-up” dinner parties and just do it! Fabulous post, thanks!
Hi Kristin,
It’s Arianna from Paper Jam Press. You made my day by seeing my Today Was a Good Day poster in your Top 10. Reciprocal loops of goodness sure are nice and I’m very happy to be a part of one.