Stationery: So Many Choices,
So Little Time!

What is stationery? It's one of those things you never really thought about; you just know what it is. But when I looked it up in Wikipedia, I found the definition kind of neat. It says "paper used for written correspondence, usually decorated or personalized with matching envelopes." It's true, how personal it can be. Some note cards really say a lot about the sender. It's like the adult version of getting out the crayons and drawing someone a picture.

And while we're on the topic of definitions, I find it ironic that "stationery" is often confused with "stationary", because the latter means "not moving", and the whole point of stationery is to move it (well, give it) to someone else. If you ever get confused which is which, remember that the one you want has an "e" for envelope, letter, pen and pencils.

Anyway. If you've ever gone looking online for even some simple note cards, you were probably overwhelmed by the choices. Sure you can always go to the mall and find a Papyrus or Hallmark, nothing wrong with that. Papyrus has some really cute stuff and they have printing services too. But if you're looking for something more personal, take a look online. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) did a review of stationers in 2004. (I always like the Journal's reviews; you learn something just by seeing how they approach them.) Here are the companies they covered, with approximate pricing:

1. Crane & Co.
WSJ awarded Crane's "Best Overall". $332 for 100. Not cheap but when I last looked at their website I saw they were having a 50% off sale. By the way: I knew they were old but did you know they've been in business since 1801??

2. FineStationery.com
$427 for 100. They offer a 100% guarantee, so you can't go wrong.

3. Alden Grace Fine Stationery
The WSJ gave this one "Best Value". $141 for 100.

4. American Stationery
$82 for 100.

5. Claudia Laub Studio
WSJ didn't award it anything but did mention that Jennifer Aniston was a client, if that's important to you. $350 for 100.

Here are a few more I've come across online that I like:

1. Paper Shouts
   High-quality cards for all occasions in darling vintage, traditional, and modern designs. You can personalize and preview them online, even adding photos. Their puppy announcement cards make me want to get a dog!

2. Knock Knock Fill-in-the-Blank Notecards
   I wouldn't normally say that checking a box is an appropriate way to thank someone but these cards are so darn funny. Sent to the right person, they could be perfect. The choices sound like "Thank you for the nuptials gift. We look forward to a) using it b) enjoying it c) exchanging it d) putting it out when you come to visit.

3. The Stationery Studio
   (If that link didn't work, go to The Stationery Studio and click "Stick Figure" and then "Stationery".) Design your own notecards with darling illustrations of each family member, including pets. I had a ton of fun just looking through the female body choices. (Depending on the day, I would either be the polka dot apron and bowl of cookie dough or the gal in a yellow tube top with both arms raised, one hand holding a green martini.) Almost better than a Christmas photo.

4. Do It Yourself Invitations
   Examples, ideas and instructions to make your own thank you cards.

5. Free personalized invitations, cards & announcements at Cards Shoppe for Baby Shower Invitations and Party Invitations with same day printing & shipping.