Greetings Today May June 2024

Rebekah

Editor Naomi MacKay naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk

Advertising Manager

Marian McNamara marian@lemapublishing.co.uk 01442 289940

Managing

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Design

Chairman

Circulation

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Editor Naomi MacKay

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Welcome to our May/June issue. Can you believe that we’re nearly half way through 2024 already?

Life never seems to slow down, and for our busy publishers and retailers in the greetings industry there’s always a new range to develop or stock to order in store.

There’s been a flurry of activity as we go to press, with shows and awards galore on the horizon. The Retas finalists have been announced - always an exciting time for retailers as they see their efforts throughout the year recognised. And we’re thrilled to have two of them - Spirals of Brightlingsea, Essex, and Gemini Greetings/ House of Cards from East Sussex - featuring in our Retail Interviews in this issue.

We also welcome one of last year’s finalists - Rebekah Mudie at North Cardiff’s Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts - to our panel of columnists, as she tells us about the exciting transformation the shop is about to undergo in our Diary of a Card Shop. We’re looking forward to seeing the results soon!

As we were sending this issue to the printers, the London Stationery Show opened its doors and the winners of the Stationery Awards were announced. You

can find out who the winners are on our news pages. Next up in the greetings industry calendar is PG Livewe caught up with exhibitors to find out what they enjoy about the show and to share with us the new product visitors can expect to see on their stands.

‘‘The Retas finalists have been announced - always an exciting time for retailers - and we’re thrilled to have two of them featuring in our Retail Interviews in this issue’’

Introducing a host of newness at the show, including new licences such as Despicable Me 4, TV series BatWheels and Dr. Seuss classic publishing titles, is Danilo, which is also our cover star for this issue. Read more about what the publisher has in store on page 14.

Look out for the Greetings Today team at the showdo stop us and say hello! We always love to hear from retailers as well as exhibitors, so if you would like to take part in any of our retail features, let us know.

Meanwhile, our columnist Richard Pass celebrates the importance of independent retailers in his Diary of a Sales Agent on page 46. Richard is also taking part in a very useful webinar being run by the Greeting Card Association in July, which is open to nonmembers, and will help you understand how to work best

Send your views and submissions for the magazine to naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk

with an agent. Find the details on our GCA news page.

The GCA is also the driving force behind Thinking of You Week, which runs from September 16. With the tagline ‘Send a card, deliver a smile’, the aim of the week is to encourage the public to send a card just to let loved ones know that someone cares.

And with that in mind, we have four pages dedicated to cards that are perfect for doing just that. Publisher Ginger Betty has coined a great phrase for them, calling them ‘paper hugs’!

As always, we are keen to hear from any readers who would like to take part in our features, interviews, or news pages. You can email me at naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk or connect with me via LinkedIn. I look forward to hearing from you.

IN THE NEWS

Autumn Fair 2024 elevates its gifting game

Autumn Fair returns from September 1-4 at NEC Birmingham o ering retailers the opportunity to elevate their gifting game with more than 800 quality exhibitors.

Exhibitors include Kikkerland, Widdop & Co, Sifcon, Lesser & Pavey, Joe Davies, Willsow, Gift Republic, Keel Toys, Ty, Toasted Crumpet, Bomb Cosmetics, Gentlemen’s Hardware, Powell Craft, Cognitive Surplus, Burton Blake, Spice Kitchen, William Lamb, Esdevium Games, and more.

The 2024 show will also see a greater focus on new and original products, local ‘Best of British’ suppliers and products, and sustainable suppliers.

Gift has been edited to comprise five sectors; Greetings & Stationery, Gift, Beauty & Wellbeing, Kids, Toys & Play, and Everyday.

Greetings & Stationery brings together the most creative, joyful, fun and colourful greeting cards, wrapping papers, stationery, themed calendars and diaries, and paper decorations; this sector continues to flourish with vibrant and beautifully crafted collections.

Seal the deal on your gift collection with a colourful selection of ribbons from Ribbonly and beautifully designed wrapping paper from The Art File, Paper Salad and Emotional Rescue. An expansive greetings and notecards selection to suit every sentiment can be explored with Five Dollar Shake , Brainbox Candy, Lola Designs, Twizler, Rush Designs and Cardgains. Pencil in time to explore a wide selection of both practical and thoughtfully designed stationery, notebooks, pens and highlighters from Manuscript Pen Company. www.autumnfair.com

Kristina goes over to

Rainbow…

Rainbow Designs has announced the expansion of its Key and Nationals Account Team, with the addition of Kristina Sundby to the Rainbow family.

Kristina immigrated to the UK from Norway in 2020, and joins the team as a National Account Manager, bringing strength and depth to the team, with over seven years of retail experience in categories including party and celebrations.

Rainbow’s prestigious licensed character ranges, which include Paddington, Harry Potter, Peter Rabbit and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh and The Lion King, give Kristina plenty to get excited about this year.

“I’m eager to embark on my journey in the nursery, gifting and toy industries, working with these true heritage brands, and bringing joy into little ones’ first years. It’s hard not to fall in love with our products, and I’m looking forward to working closely with our existing and new retailers in the nursery and toy categories,” said Kristina.

Gladstone jumps aboard Carousel

Carousel Calendars, UK calendar publisher, distributor and licensee, has announced the acquisition of US-based publisher Gladstone Media.

Gladstone Media, under Leonard Phillips and based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, has been a highly regarded publisher since 1995, specialising in distinctive, highquality and creative calendars.

Carousel Calendars has been expanding its distribution worldwide, particularly in the US, so welcomed this opportunity to acquire Gladstone Media. Both companies share very similar values with design, spectacular imagery and stunning photography, as well as having environmental and sustainability issues at the heart of all products.

This move supports Carousel’s growth within the US and its imminent launch of the Carousel Worldwide brand.

Steve Plackett, MD, Carousel Calendars, commented: “This is an exciting and significant step in our international growth. Gladstone’s unique range of calendars is very complementary to our own range.’’

Laura Darrington marks 20 years

2024 sees Laura Darrington Design celebrate its 20th year anniversary in the joyous world of greeting cards.

Laura said: ‘‘What started out in 2004 as a small sideline while studying for a degree in textiles grew into a 20-year career in greeting card publishing, and we are still very much holding our own in a very competitive environment.

‘‘Therefore, to all our longstanding customers and stockists (as well as very close industry friends) we can’t thank you enough for your support over the past 20 years.’’

IN THE NEWS

Museums & Galleries celebrates classic successes

This year Museums & Galleries celebrates the 39th anniversary of its founding fine art card range, Classics. Its mission is to celebrate timeless quality and excellence in art, illustration, and design; to uncover hidden treasures but also sometimes to delight and amuse with quirky, original, and novel artistic expressions that bring style and nuance to the very personal act of sending a card to a friend or relative.

Refreshed for 2024, Classics is curated from a worldwide selection of museum and gallery archives, independent artists and privately held collections. Every image is chosen for its quality and timeless style. The range comes in two sizes – square and rectangular cards, and comprises around 120 designs. New for this year are beautiful designs by Anna Stead, Venetia Higgins, Emillie Ferris, and Larry Smart.

Another timeless M&G range is The Illustrators, originally launched in the 1990s and still among the company’s best-selling ranges. Over the years the range has developed in content, style and focus and today showcases a glittering collection of British heritage character brands – the iconic Paddington Bear artwork by Paddington’s original artist Peggy Fortnum, Anita Jeram’s emotionally rich illustrations for Sam McBratney’s now classic book Guess How Much I Love You, Quentin Blake’s much-loved illustrations for the Roald Dahl books, Jill Barklem’s beloved Brambly Hedge, and David McKee’s Elmer. New for 2024 is a suite of Chris Dunn’s extraordinary Wind in the Willows watercolours. 01373 462165 | sales@mgml.co.uk www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Retas finalists announced

Congratulations to the finalists of the 2024 Retas awards, which have just been revealed.

The finalists will find out who the ultimate winners are in a Beatrix Potter-themed awards event in London on July 4.

The finalists list features a number of Greetings Today Diary of a Card Shop columnists, including Medici Gallery, Creative Cove, Stationery Supplies, and Cards ’N’ Things - and two more finalists appear in our retail interviews at the back of the issue.

Finalists include:

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– London (inside M25)

Earlybird Designs, Stoke Newington

Flaxten Cards, Hornchurch and Upminster

The Indigo Tree, Streatham and Crystal Palace

The Loft, Teddington

Medici Gallery, Kensington

Nor, Beckenham Place Park and West Norwood

Pretty Shiny Shop, Stroud Green and Oval

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– Home Counties & South East

&Quirky, Berkhamsted

Gemini Greetings & House of Cards, Heathfield & Battle

Milford Cards & Gifts, Milford On Sea Objectables, Folkestone

Paddock Wood Cards, Paddock Wood Red Card, Petworth

Threads, Harpenden

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– East Anglia

Cards ’N’ Things, Norwich

Chapmans, Southwold

Dzo Dzo, Woodbridge

Pug & Pussycat, Aldeburgh, Southwold and Woodbridge

Simply Cards, Beccles

Sincerely Yours, Shenfield and Hornchurch

Spirals Cards, Gifts and Stationery, Brightlingsea

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– South West

The Card Collection, Bath and Salisbury

The Card Gallery, Wimbourne

Cilla & Camilla, Beaminster, Bridport

Castle Cards, Barnard Castle

Chirpy Store, Chapel Allerton

Greetings Of Haxby, Haxby

Strictland & Holt, Yarm

Who-Ray, Stockton-On-Tees

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– Scotland

The Bay Tree, two stores in Edinburgh

Ivad Home & Gifts, Paisley

JP Pozzi and Bijou, Buckie and Elgin

Paper Tiger, Edinburgh

Penny Black, Glasgow

Polka Dot and Polka Dot Too, Castle Douglas

Best Greeting Card Retailer Newcomer

(opened since Jan 2021)

Cards & Moor, Yelverton

Casa Green, Cardi

Doodles Cards, Gifts & Balloons, Crowthorne

Fig & Fox, Romsey

Helen’s Wishes, Dursley

The Letter Arty, Ancoats

Serendipity, Hale

Best Greeting Card Small Multiple

Henry & Co

House of Cards

Lark

Mooch London

Postmark

Smart Ideas

Temptation Gifts

Best Specialist Multiple Retailer Of Greeting Cards

Cardfactory

Cards Direct

Cards Galore

Cardzone

Scribblers

Stationery Awards winners revealed

More than 40 brands made it into the finalists’ lineup of the 2024 Stationery Awards. Winners were announced at the Awards Ceremony at the London Stationery Show on May 14. The winners are:

Novelty Stationery Product of the Year

Legami Erasable Pens -Stone Marketing Arts & Crafts Product of the Year

Eugy 3D Model Kit - Brainstorm Writing Instrument of the Year

Aspect Retractable Pen - Andhand Children’s Stationery Product of the Year

Faber-Castell 20 x Connector Fibretip Pens in Dinosaur Tin - Stone

Marketing Working - Home Product of the Year

Organiser Set - Co eenotes

Sustainable Stationery Product of the Year

Clairefontaine Bamboo Watercolour Pads - Exacompta Clairefontaine (ExaClair)

Diary or Organiser of the Year

Weekly Planner and Notebook with Dotted Pages - LEUCHTTURM1917

Licensed Stationery Product of the Year

LEGO Harry Potter Box SetManuscript Brands

Notebook or Journal of the Year

Bullet Journal® Pocket EditionLEUCHTTURM1917

Filing or Storage Product of the Year

Endless Stationery Five Pen

Companion - Mann Inc

Social Stationery Product of the Year

Big Conversations Before I Die Journal - Huunuu

The Icon Award

Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain PenStudio Pens

Expressions, Polkadot and Cat’s Whiskers, Swindon, Keynesham and Bishop’s Cleeve Highworth Emporium, Highworth PaperGangsta, Bristol Sky, Clifton

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– Wales

Creative Cove, Lampeter

Fancy That, Rhos-On-Sea Occasions, Porth

Paperweight, Cardi

Robyn’s Nest and Maple, Porthcawl Stw Stu , Llantwit Major

The Village Gift Box, Cardi

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– The Midlands

Atticusboo, Buxton

Austin & Co, Malvern

Blandfords, Broadway, Hereford and Ledbury

Country Kate, Kinver

Hugs & Kisses, Tettenhall

Set Design, Leicester

Token House, Nottingham

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– North West England

Bailey’s, Ainsdale, Crosby and Maghull Presentation, Barrowford

Ra a, Clitheroe

Reflections, Nantwich and Rugeley

Wishes Of Cockermouth, Cockermouth

Zo & Co, Cheadle, Didsbury, Knutsford and Marple

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer

– North East England

The Card Shop, Hexham

Best Garden Centre Retailer Of Greeting

Cards – independent

Bents, Warrington

Burford Garden Centre, Burford

Garsons, Esher and Titchfield

Okells Garden Centre, Tarporley

Webbs, Frilford, West Hagley and Wychbold, Yarnton Home & Garden, Yarnton

Best Garden Centre Retailer Of Greeting

Cards – multiple or group

Blue Diamond

British Garden Centres

Haskins

Longacres

Notcutts

Otter Garden Centres

RHS

Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer Initiative

Cardies, Stevenage - community campaigns

Celebrations, Carlisle - Boofle 15th anniversary campaign

Helen’s Wishes, Dursley - Thinking Of You Week

hidden cards

House of Cards, Home Counties - Festive Friday

Friends & Family Event

Presentation, Barrowford - Mother’s Day and Easter charity initiative

Red Cards, Petworth - Gifting Tree and Jingle

Bells charity initiatives

Stationery Supplies, Marple and WilmslowChristmas Card Writing Event

For the young at heart

About to celebrate 27 years in business, Rachel Ellen Designs maintains its place as one of the leading suppliers of greeting cards, stationery and gifts for children and the young at heart. For more than a quarter of a century, the company has innovated and led the way in its field and shows no signs of slowing down, with a new range of gift packaging just released.

New from the company is a stunning range of gift packaging that includes roll wrap, gift bags, tissue, ribbon and tags. The range is a perfect example of what Rachel Ellen does best - taking bright, fun and distinctive designs and creating a coordinated and cohesive o ering that in turn sits seamlessly alongside the rest of its catalogue of products.

Having o ered an extensive range of flat wrap for many years, this is the first time the company has ventured into roll wrap after being asked repeatedly by customers for years. “Although gift packaging is pretty well catered for,” says MD Rachel Church, “I was excited to create a fully coordinated range for children and the young-at-heart based on our most popular themes.”

Those themes include iconic Rachel Ellen imagery with a magical world of unicorns, princesses, rainbows and much more across two beautiful female designs. There’s an infectiously fun dinosaur design that both boys and girls will love, and the same applies to the

company’s iconic Love Our Planet theme, which not only looks fantastic but also carries an important and topical message. To finish o the range is a smileinducing Sunny Days design and a bold and striking contemporary design. There are three further designs in the packs of tissue with a heart design, sunflowers and daisies, and a further stunning contemporary floral design for gift bags.

“I was excited to create a fully coordinated range for children and the young-at-heart based on our most popular themes”

As you’d expect from Rachel Ellen, all products are of the very highest quality and the detail is exquisite. The various gift bag designs have either a complementary or contrasting ribbon handle and all come with funky die-cut tags. Each design of gift bag comes in two sizes with the larger option measuring 330 x 260 x 130 and the medium 240 x 200 x 100. The roll wrap measures 700cm x 3m and the printed ribbon comes in 2m lengths on a hanging backboard. The packs of four sheets of printed tissue also come in an attractive wallet complete with a euro hook slot. There is also a bespoke bin for roll wrap, each holding 36 rolls.

As it celebrates its 27th year in business, creating cards, stationery and gifts for children and the young at heart, Rachel Ellen Designs shows no signs of slowing down…

Because displaying products is so important for retailers, Rachel Ellen recently launched a beautiful printed counter-top display for its stationery, which has been a massive success with, and for, its customers. “In addition to more than 30 ranges of greeting cards we have a large and diverse range of stationery and gifting,” says Rachel, “and the ability to tell a story and show ranges and themes together seems more important to retailers than ever.’’ This is especially the case with so many complementary products sitting together, and now there’s the perfect way to wrap and send them!

A similar principle obviously applies to greeting cards. The visual impact a range can make when displayed together can be incredibly striking, and this is especially the case given how bright and colourful many of the ranges from Rachel Ellen are.

To check out some new card designs, gift packaging and everything else from the wonderful world of Rachel Ellen Designs visit www.rachelellen.co.uk.

Rachel Ellen Designs

0115 970 0321

sales@rachelellen.co.uk

www.rachelellen.co.uk

The top 30

Cinnamon Aitch brings you 30 new gorgeous designs to its bestselling range Primrose Hill. This popular range goes from strength to strength as the love for the sensitive, hand-painted images knows no bounds! Each design is carefully hand-finished with little gems and flowers adding an understated sparkle, delicately enhancing each illustration.

The new additions see extensions to age captions as well as introducing relations to the range. A flurry of beautiful open birthday designs and occasions complete the newness that brings the range to a substantial 93 in total. All printed on heavyweight, textured FSC board and supplied with a bespoke printed envelope, all Cinnamon Aitch cards and gifts continue to be designed and entirely made in the UK, with love.

See the loveliness on stand 231 at PG Live.

Cinamon Aitch 0121 773 6833 | hello@cinnamonaitch.co.uk

spotlight Make a note with humour

For stationery addicts, Cath Tate has added new additions to its Lost Plots Notebooks range. Since its launch in January 2024, the notebooks have been proving incredibly popular. The hand-drawn retro illustrations paired with a little subtle humour have resonated well with customers. Who doesn’t need a list of stuff they need to do? The new additions to the range include cat and dog designs and a floral design that’s perfect for gardeners/those with green fingers!

All notebooks are A5, high-quality perfect bound, with 192 inner pages 100gsm lined paper.

Cath Tate Cards 020 8671 2166 | orders@cathtatecards.com www.cathtatecards.com

It’s all relative!

Just arrived at Holy Mackerel HQ in sunny Pembrokeshire are some vibrant new designs in the One Lump or Two range from bestselling artist Erica Sturla.

The cards feature Erica’s signature polymer clay figures and are all about the relatives. Each design is fun, funky, attention-grabbing, yet timeless. First, there are some gorgeous new anniversary cards for proud parents to send to their son and son-in-law or daughter and daughterin-law. Check out those snazzy spa robes on the male version!

It’s grandkids anniversary cards next, with garden-themed designs for grandson and granddaughter-in-law (and granddaughter and grandson-in-law of course). And finally, there are fab new birthday cards for grandson-in-law and granddaughter-in-law.

150mm square, the cards are cello wrapped and each comes with a lovely quality white laid envelope.

These new additions make Holy Mackerel the place to be for cards for all the family. See them at PG Live, stand 217.

Holy Mackerel 01395 578571 | sales@holy-mackerel.co.uk www.holy-mackerel.co.uk

Gold standard

Kali Stileman Publishing has new designs galore! The latest collections include gold foiled greeting cards, from an extended range of the bestselling mini gold number cards to fab new baby cards. There’s even more wrapping papers, too. Latest designs include a revival of the favourite spots & dots paper, as well as a cool and colourful lozenge design and vibrant red hearts wrap.

Kali Stileman

01305 848899

info@kalistileman.co.uk www.kalistileman.co.uk

Festive foil finishes

Following up on last year’s very successful luxury Christmas charity card packs, Laura Darrington Design has produced 11 new designs for 2024 with its chosen charity being The Alzheimers Society.

Complete with a heavy textured emboss, hot foil finish and featuring modern designs, pattern and colour - each pack contains five cards/envelopes of the same design and is lovingly presented in a luxury brown craft box.

Laura Darrington Design www.lauradarrington.com

Belle of the ball

A good indication as to how well a range has been received is how quickly new designs follow, and after the initial launch of 25 designs just three months ago that’s certainly the case with Belle from Rachel Ellen Designs, as the range is being extended with another 18 stunning designs.

Described by designer Rachael Lawton as imperfectly perfect, the brightly coloured striking floral-inspired designs are finished with luxurious gold foil and cover open birthdays, female occasions and relations, with new designs including gorgeous milestone ages. The cards measure 170 x 120 and come with a complementary envelope.

Rachel Ellen Designs

0115 970 0321 | sales@rachelellen.co.uk www.rachelellen.co.uk

Danilo’s innovation spotlight:

Showcasing new designs at PG Live

Danilo is thrilled to announce its participation in the upcoming PG Live show, on June 4 and 5 at the Business Design Centre in London. As industry leaders in licensed greeting cards, gift wrap, and bags, Danilo is eager to showcase its latest collections on Stand 513

Children’s brands take centre stage

One of the highlights of Danilo’s exhibition will be the introduction of new greeting card ranges featuring beloved children’s brands. Fans of classics such as Guess How Much I Love You, The World of Rachel Bright & Jim Field, and Bluey, will be delighted to discover new designs that capture the essence of these

For those seeking unique and distinctive greeting cards, Danilo is introducing new designs for lifestyle collections by Kate Smith and Bexy Boo

timeless characters. The lineup also includes a range of new designs for popular evergreen properties such as Peppa Pig, PAW Patrol, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Pokémon, Minecraft and Super Mario. These vibrant and engaging designs are sure to resonate with young audiences and their families.

Exciting new ranges

In addition to these well-loved brands, Danilo is unveiling a spectacular new range for TV series BatWheels as well as a range of fun Dr. Seuss classic publishing titles. These fresh designs combine innovative artwork with the charm and appeal of these iconic brands, o ering something special for every occasion.

Standalone titles and movie franchises

For those seeking distinctive greeting cards, Danilo is introducing new designs for unique lifestyle collections by Kate Smith and Bexy Boo. Movie enthusiasts can also look forward to exclusive card designs for Despicable Me 4, based on the upcoming summer blockbuster.

Innovative designs to impress

Danilo continues to push the boundaries of creativity with its innovative card designs. Visitors to Stand 513 can expect to see captivating lenticular cards that change perspective based on the viewing angle, adding a dynamic element to the greeting card experience.

For those who appreciate storytelling, Danilo’s new storybook cards offer a delightful surprise with storybook pages integrated into the card design. Additionally, the new jigsaw cards provide a fun and interactive experience, featuring an actual jigsaw puzzle inside for recipients to enjoy.

Don’t miss the surprise activity

As an extra treat, Danilo has planned some surprise activity for Tuesday’s exhibition. This special event promises to add an element of excitement and engagement for visitors, making a visit to Stand 513 even more memorable.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Danilo’s latest collections and innovative designs at the PG Live show. Whether you’re a retailer, distributor, or industry enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to discover and appreciate.

So mark your calendars and the Danilo team look forward to welcoming you at Stand 513 for an unforgettable showcase of creativity, innovation, and inspiration.

Mary Katrantzou and Imaginarium hit their marks for M&G

There’s plenty of newness to look forward to from Museums & Galleries, from The Queen of Print and young artist Emma Frances Grant…

Popping up all over this spring are M&G’s new Mary Katrantzou fine art cards, pictured below, with their stylish and very distinctive black-andwhite geometrically framed and branded envelopes.

The British-educated Greek-based designer is hugely respected in fashion circles for her prints – the fashion press has even dubbed her The Queen of Print – and it is this rich heritage of design that attracted M&G’s creative director Ben Dorney. “Mary’s prints and patterns are fantastic – and often enormous – artworks in their own right,’’ he says. “It was immediately clear to us that elements and crops would work as standalone fashion-led artworks for greeting cards, and that the prints are also perfectly suited to our increasingly physical range of home, gift, textile and stationery products. Mary’s muses are varied, with themes and styles changing from season-to-season, so there is a wealth of material and inspiration to consider for the

future. Somehow, despite the variety, it all retains its unique brand identity. We have loved working with the Mary Katrantzou team to channel their brand into the packaging for the range, which looks fantastic. The result is a really bold, original launch range which feels at home – yet completely new – in the Museums & Galleries collection.”

Moving into the summer, it is apparent that M&G’s Imaginarium (pictured above) launch this spring has been a phenomenal success for its young artist, Emma Frances Grant, a remarkable talent and a very exciting brand launch for Museums & Galleries in 2024.

In a very distinctive style and palette, Emma explores stylised and hypnotically hued animals in a mysterious night-time setting enriched with gold foil. There are 12 designs in her launch collection, with a majestic turquoise elephant and a joyously fluid cavorting whale among the stand outs.

Ben explains: “As soon as we were presented with Emma’s work for Imaginarium we felt we were onto something very special. It creates a look and mood that is quite unlike anything else in our range – and in cards generally. In an already bursting collection of brands and artist, a new licence really has to create its own unique space, and Imaginarium does just that! It’s been an absolute delight to collaborate with Emma, and we can’t wait to share the Everyday and Christmas launch ranges with customers. We also look forward to developing her work on our wider product range in the future.”

Museums & Galleries 01373 462165

sales@mgml.co.uk

www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Last chance for Earlybird Conference tickets!

Earlybird tickets to the GCA Conference in Bristol end on May 31, so order now for a discounted price!

The 2024 annual GCA Conference and AGM will be held in Bristol on Thursday 19 September at the Bristol Harbour Hotel. www.gca.cards/2024-gca-conference-and-agm-thursday-19thseptember-2024

Working with agents

The Greetings Today team is often asked about how to work with sales agents, so this webinar from the GCA should prove popular!

Open to non members of the GCA, it is aimed at anyone currently working with agents, or looking to recruit and build mutually beneficial relationships with agents.

The webinar wil be led by experienced sales manager James Mace, from The Art File. Also on the expert panel are agents Rosie Trow and Richard Pass - a Greetings Today columnist - who will be sharing insights into the role of the agent.

Greetings Today columnist Richard Pass will be joining the expert panel

Chris Bryan, GCA Council Member, and GCA CEO Amanda Fergusson will be joining in the discussion and sharing your questions with the panel.

The webinar takes place on Tuesday July 9. Details at www.gca.cards/product/webinarsales-agents-9th-july-2024.

Championing the greetings industry

The Greeting Card Association is continuing to champion the greeting card industry, and the need for a reliable, regular, a ordable and national postal service.

GCA CEO Amanda Fergusson again met with Minister of State in the Department for Business and Trade Kevin Hollinrake in May, and there is increasing interest from politicians on both sides of the House.

Kevin Hollinrake responded to a question in the House of Commons by Sir Chris Bryant saying: “I am happy to hear from Members across the House to ensure that service levels are where we want them to be. We are committed to ensuring that we have a financially sustainable and e cient universal postal service for all users in all constituencies. I would like to ensure that Members of this House are able to bring concerns to me whenever they or their constituents are disappointed with local services.’’

The GCA is encouraging members to contact their MPs to highlight the importance of a reliable, a ordable and regular postal service to their business. For the latest update on Ofcom’s review of the postal service, and a draft MP letter, see the GCA blog at www.gca.cards/latest-on-review-of-uk-postal-service.

Winchester meet-up

The next GCA Local will be held in Winchester on June 18.

GCA local events are about meeting up to chat about cards over a cup of co ee, or a drink after work. The event will start at 10am, hosted in the bar/reception area at The Winchester Hotel.

£10 a ticket, which includes a drink.

Book your spot at www.gca.cards/product/gca-local-winchester-18th-june-2024.

Live and unleashed!

It’s PG Live time. We catch up with exhibitors at the show to find out what’s on o er and what they love about this annual event on the greetings industry calendar…

Exhibitor comment

What do you enjoy about the show?

I love the chance to connect in person with both customers, fellow publishers and licensors at PG Live. It’s also incredibly rewarding to witness the creativity and dedication evident in the stand designs and the new card and wrap collections that everyone brings.

Any tips for newbie visitors?

For newcomers, I recommend taking a systematic approach to exploring the aisles - start at one end and make your way to the other to ensure you see everything. As for dining, the area has some great spots; don’t miss the local cafés just a short walk from the venue for a quick and tasty bite.

What’s your most memorable story/experience from previous shows?

Our stand tends to be a hit thanks to the costume characters - we’ve hosted everyone from Bluey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to the PAW Patrol team. This year, we’re excited to have some more characters return to our stand, which promises to be a lot of fun.

What one product or range should greeting card shops check out at the show?

It’s di cult to choose just one, as all our new ranges have something unique to o er. Our teams put a tremendous amount of e ort into each collection, striving to present amazing designs that really stand out.

Claire Bates, Danilo

Exhibitor comment

What do you enjoy about the show?

We love to exhibit at PG Live, it’s by far our favourite show! The atmosphere is amazing, and the people so friendly; our cardy friend group grows each time we go. It’s great to share news and tips and help each other out.

For us it’s a chance to catch up with our friends in the trade and link up with customers old and new at the show that’s purely greeting cards, where everyone is on the same page.

Any tips for newbie visitors?

For any newbies, I’d say to speak to as many people as possible… it’s a chance to soak up as much knowledge as you can and connect with new customers.

Tracey Collison, Ginger Betty

What: PG Live When: June 4-5

Where: Business Design Centre, London Web: www.progressivegreetingslive.com

Diverse designs

The Art File is launching more than 100 new designs at PG Live. From new collections to extensions of its bestselling card ranges, there’s a hugely diverse selection of designs to see across cards, gift wrap and stationery items.

A notable new card collection is Zig Zag Zoo, an adorable children’s range containing 12 designs. Every card features a pair of adorable geometric animals in pastel colours, with six designs available as age cards too.

Another new card collection that has been extremely well received this year is The Bigger Picture. This photographic charity collection contains 21 stunning images of animals and landscapes from across the world. It aims to bring light to the importance of climate change, with 10% of the revenue from the sale of this card range being donated to Cool Earth Action.

Among these brilliant new collections, The Art File is pleased to launch more than 70 new designs to its everyday and occasion range, paired with brand-new tote bags and notebooks to its stationery collections.

PG Live will be the first time to view and experience all these gorgeous new products.

If you’d like to browse The Art File collections before the show, head to The Art File website to request a trade brochure.

Capybaras to kitsch cats

Earlybird has unveiled an irresistible array of new designs that have captured the hearts of its customers.

Earlier this year, the publishing business, which has its own shop in Stoke Newington, north London, witnessed an unprecedented surge in sales following the introduction of the expanded Buddy and Betty collection. Boasting more than 40 distinctive designs, this range encompasses everything from capybaras to raccoons, along with an assortment of vibrant dogs and kitsch cats. Complemented by gift wrap and thank you packs, the collection has become a staple favourite among its customers.

Dom Early, the co-founder and creative director behind Earlybird, attributes the overwhelming popularity of the range to its eclectic mix of animals, rich colours, and stunning illustrations: “There’s a mix of elements in each design that just makes me feel happy. It’s no wonder our customers have been drawn to them,” says Dom.

In response to escalating demand, Earlybird is set to unveil new additions to the range at PG Live, where it will proudly showcase its commitment to sustainability by printing on 100% recycled textured board. “I can’t wait to hear what our customers think to these latest designs; I think they’re truly exceptional. I especially love the new animal rainbow gift wrap,” adds Dom.

Seven years ago, Dom, took a bold step by introducing a line of mini card designs. Despite their unconventional size for the time, they swiftly gained popularity, catching the attention of prominent stores such as Postmark, Scribbler, and Paperchase.

The inspiration behind these mini cards originated from a customer request at

the shop. A member of an NCT group sought small age cards at a cheaper price point. This ignited the idea that eventually became a cornerstone of Earlybird’s offerings.

Today, Earlybird boasts more than 100 designs, ranging from relations to birthdays and special occasions, all of which consistently perform well in sales.

Acknowledging the current economic situation, Earlybird believes it’s the perfect time to provide more affordable options without compromising on quality. Dom’s latest venture involves the creation of 18 vibrant neon mini cards, emphasising fun sentiments and playful designs. These new designs feature spot UV and embossed elements which have been so popular in the other neon ranges.

Laura Darrington says: ‘’As we celebrate the milestone of our 20th year anniversary in business, PG Live has always been a staple in our yearly calendar of must-do’s. The opportunity to meet and network with industry peers is invaluable.

‘’Any new publishers should celebrate the creative surroundings that the Business Design Centre in Islington provides, because compared to the NECit’s paradise!

‘’We owe PG Live a lot, especially as it has

Laura Darrington Design Stand 417

www.lauradarrington.com

Something for the boys More Lost Plots found…

provided the gateway to meet and work with many overseas buyers, attracted by the lure of London.’’

In celebration of its 20th year in operation, Laura Darrington Design is o ering a 20% discount on any order over £350 placed at the show.

Its latest masculine range, The Honcho Collection, is a contemporary selection of designs that really bucks the trend of what a ‘man’s card’ looks like.

Be sure to get along to Stand 417 to see them in all their glory.

Cath Tate has more than 50 new card designs across bestselling and new card ranges.

The latest expansion to the popular Lost Plots collection showcases eye-catching new cards set to debut at PG Live. Each design, by artist Lisa Robson, features hand-drawn lettering reminiscent of the 70s, and a vibrant colour palette from the era. Along with new greeting cards in this range, Cath Tate has added three new notebooks to the Lost Plots notebooks collection, after the success of the notebooks since their launch in Spring 2024.

Cath Tate also has new designs in the best-selling and awardwinning humour ranges, Pina Coladas, Photocaptions, Life is Rosie, Champagnes, and new celebs joining the Modern Icons range in the Spice Girls, Taylor Swift, Beyonce. Plus new additions to quirky humour range Betiobca, launched in January 2024.

Apart from an abundance of new humour cards, Cath Tate presents fresh number cards as part of the Birthday Blocks range, along with bold and fabulously foiled additions to the HotFoils range.

Cath Tate Cards Stand 307

0208 671 2166 | orders@cathtatecards.com www.cathtatecards.com

t h e PICT UR E

Inspired by the lovely rural setting of its West Berkshire Studio, this new range by Paper Shed Design contains beautifully illustrated designs featuring farm animals. Soft whimsical designs in a range of birthdays and blanks.

Then it’s time to party! This fun new kids age card range by Paper Shed Design features some of its most popular illustrations, but with a fun new colour palette of bold pastels. Available in kids ages one to 12. Adult ages 18 – 60 coming soon!

Finally, the best things come in small packages! Little moments by Paper Shed Design - A little message can mean so much… These tiny little cards have space on the back to write your own special message and are small enough to be kept close in either a purse, wallet or pocket. Just a little reminder that someone cares. There are 24 designs – available individually or as a complete package with counter display.

ST AND 417

Licensed to hug

Peter Rabbit, Paddington, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh and the new Harry Potter Wizarding World collections are just some of the best-selling licensed ranges that Rainbow Designs will be showcasing at PG Live. Perfect for enhancing the o erings of greeting card retailers, Rainbow’s prestigious collections of much loved classic characters make wonderful gifts for celebrated occasions of babies, children and the big kid in us all!

Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit and his sister Flopsy Bunny are the stars of Rainbow’s ever-popular Once Upon a Time collection that features My First Soft Toys, Comfort Blankets, Ring Rattles and Gift Sets. These adorable baby-soft lines make beautiful gifts that are perfect for welcoming a newborn as well as Baby Shower and Christening presents.

The much-loved Winnie the Pooh is a popular choice for new parents when it comes to nursery décor and toys for their newborns, and so Rainbow’s Disney’s Hundred Acre Wood Winnie the Pooh collection of soft toys and nursery essentials featuring Winnie the Pooh and his friends Eeyore, Tigger and Piglet are a very popular gifting choice.

Also on display at PG Live will be the exciting new Harry Potter Wizarding World infant range, which will be available this autumn, and Rainbow’s best-selling Paddington ranges, that make a perfect gift for Paddington fans of all ages, ahead of the eagerly awaited third movie this autumn.

sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

lovely!

This year’s PG Live will see more than 40 new card designs, from the award-winning Message in a Bottle to the fabulous Blossom laser cut range. The Message in a Bottle range has 20 new designs, look out for the new colour options! Blossom, the laser cut range, also has 20 new designs with new Birthday, Make a Wish and Together Forever themes to mention just a few.

In addition, Alljoy Design will be showing its fantastic Christmas collection with lots of new designs; look out for the spinner offers.

Wrap stars at PG Live

Kali and Jemima are so excited for PG Live in June… find them on stand 107! Expect to see a kaleidoscope of colours, luxurious textures and their latest and loveliest designs. Keep an eye out for the launch of their new animal occasions cards, multicultural kids’ cards and some gorgeous new wrapping paper designs! They can’t wait to see you there! Kali Stileman Publishing Stand 107 01305 848899

info@kalistileman.co.uk www.kalistileman.co.uk

Join the team on Stand 321 and share in the fun and elegance of Alljoy Design.

Design

Creative collaboration

UK Greetings has exciting new stories to share! From age positivity, showcasing a collaboration with a unique creator, to new RHS designs using the world’s most beautiful botanic artworks. It will also be showcasing its new eco collection - ‘evergreen’ cards, gift bags and roll wrap. Also come and see its brand new collection, the designs capture every sentiment and occasion with unparalleled creativity.

UK Greetings Stand 400

Simply the beast!

The Comedy Card Company is excited to launch its new Beastie range at PG Live. Pastel colours, daft humour, the odd mouse (or other creature) make up this range, which hopes to raise a smile. Come and see these and other nonsense at the show.

Comedy Card Company

Just Two good

Holy Mackerel is back at PG Live with ranges and designs that are making their very first tradeshow outing.

Kicking o with We Two from artist Ailsa Black, and showcasing her stunning watercolour designs, vibrant and contemporary this is Holy Mackerel’s first occasions range to feature Ailsa’s work. Look out for beautiful birthday, thank you and sympathy cards, all celebrating the beauty of British wildlife. Next up is a new range stitched by textile artist (and Holy Mackerel director) Sarah Hopkins. These 17 x 12cm cards are printed from Sarah’s original appliqué designs; they’re bright and fun and the range is set to grow and grow.

Rosie Brooks has created a beautiful collection of gay and lesbian numbered anniversary cards, from 1st (paper) to 15th (crystal) and then all the big milestones after that. They’re warm, witty, and the perfect way to mark that special occasion. And of course it wouldn’t be a trade show without lots of new designs from bestselling artist Erica Sturla – watch out for her anniversary cards for grandchildren and their partners, and two gorgeous new anniversary designs for son and son-in-law and daughter and daughter-in-law.

A helping hand

Cinnamon Aitch began life making its cards by hand, and the hand-finished elements are still an integral part of the designs Stand 231

Although recently Cinnamon Aitch has expanded its ranges of printed cards, the company is still proud to be one of the few greeting card producers to create beautiful card ranges that are finished by hand.

The hand-finished element has always been an integral element to the business, which dates back 24 years to the first card ranges Cinnamon Aitch created, which were all completely hand made and incorporated stitch. Although the imagery and processes have moved on over the years, designing with additional hand-applied elements remains paramount, offers a point of difference and keeps them ahead of the game.

This is beautifully illustrated by the recently launched ranges, Hodge Podge and Monty and Pip. Hodge Podge retains a very handmade feel throughout, with collaged artwork and even the lettering is cut and pasted before printing. In addition to this, each design has an aperture that has an actual thread drawn across (nodding back to the company’s earlier designs) and is finished with an eclectic mix of gems, buttons and little wooden beads.

Monty and Pi is another hand-finished range that punctuates a frenzy of colour and pattern with die cut tags that are applied by hand with a nickel rivet. Contemporary and joyful is the feel, which includes a smattering of bespoke wooden shapes hand-applied onto the tag.

Currently the most popular of the hand-finished ranges that the company produces is Primrose Hill.

This is a sensitive, hand-painted range, which evolved from the firm favourite hand-finished Piccadilly ranges. The introduction of a delicate palette with on-trend imagery has proved a winning formula and sees the range grow to 93 in total this summer. Each design is carefully hand finished with little gems and flowers adding an understated sparkle, delicately enhancing each illustration. The new additions see extensions to age captions as well as introducing relations to the range. A flurry of beautiful open birthday designs and occasions complete the newness.

Quality is key, so all cards continue to be printed on heavyweight, textured FSC board and made entirely in the UK. If it’s added value, an elegant sprinkle of sparkle or just something very special with a point of difference that you’re looking for, then look no further!

Cinnamon Aitch is exhibiting at PG Live where it will have all its latest newness alongside beautiful handmade eco soaps, lip balms and other stationery loveliness.

Finishing touch

When you’re looking for something just that little bit special, hand-finished cards are the perfect choice

Good wood…

Ginger Betty is excited to launch its new Doodle Wood range at PG Live this year – combining little doodled illustrations with tiny printed wooden characters added. All elements are sourced and printed in the UK. This contemporary range also features beautifully debossed details. There are 12 designs in the collection – each supplied with a kraft brown envelope.

Ginger Betty

01706 557285

hello@gingerbetty.co.uk www.gingerbetty.co.uk

Blue Skies thinking

Folding on form

The Art File’s collection of Form cards has been a firm customer favourite for years. Every design in the Form range contains a stunning 3D picture, made up of intricately cut and layered card. These cards are created by the talented Elod Beregszaszi, one of the leading fold designers across the world, and hand-folded for an elegant finish.

The Art File o ers Perspex plinths for easy displaying of these cards, along with purpose-built 24 pocket spinners, which show o these cards perfectly. Visit The Art File at PG Live, Stand 200, to experience the full collection of 36 cards in person.

The Art File

sales@theartfile.com | www.theartfiletrade.com

With each and every card hand-finished at its premises in Nottingham, Rachel Ellen Designs has an exceptionally skilled and experienced team that allows the company’s designers free rein when it comes to creating special ranges. Blue Skies is a good example.

The range covers life’s most important occasions and reasons for heartfelt messages, and what can enhance that more than a card that’s been designed, made, chosen and sent with extra love and thought.

The hand-painted artwork is printed onto quality board before being embossed and having a special jewel applied by hand.

There are numerous other ranges that benefit from the company’s ability to pretty much do anything, with many of its best-selling children’s ranges standing out from the crowd thanks to their hand-finished element.

Rachel Ellen Designs

0115 970 0321 | sales@rachelellen.co.uk | www.rachelellen.co.uk

The first card I painted for Ginger Betty was a hedgehog, with a balloon and ladybird; it just felt natural, and it came easily. I’d worked for several larger publishers previously, creating various characters and ranges. I’d always dreamed of creating and publishing my own cards, and the Owl’s Nest range came straight from the heart – it’s a piece of me!

I paint the designs in watercolour and find using paints physically really helps to capture feelings and expression in the illustrations. The board we print on is very similar to the watercolour paper used, so it feels authentic, and makes them feel like each one is a little original artwork. We also added a small debossed leaf, which has become our signature, and a part of our logo.

Initially, we exhibited at PG Live in 2018 in the Springboard area, taking along three distinctively different small ranges, as market research. This paid off, and Owl’s Nest was the definite winner for us, which at the time consisted of just 12 designs.

Straight from the heart

Ginger Betty’s Tracy Colliston talks about the first card that began the Owl’s Nest range, and what has happened since then…

Next…

After the initial cards were produced, we had other work alongside growing our business organically, culminating in my husband Pete and myself taking full-time roles in 2022 – a big decision, but the right one, and we absolutely love what we do!

We continue to grow our ranges, and also now offer coordinating stationery products.

”We continue to grow our ranges, and also now offer coordinating stationery products”

Proudest moments…

Winning the ‘Best Cute’ range at the Henries in 2021 – it was just the best feeling! For my designs to be recognised and appreciated was fabulous.

Following on from my License This competition win, I had another proud moment when my dream of having my own books published became a reality. Boxer Books contracted me to write and illustrate four children’s books. It was a ‘pinch me’ moment when I actually saw them stocked in my local Waterstones bookshop.

What’s important to us…

Our style is distinctive in that it’s cute with a modern edge, bridging a gap that appeals to both the traditional and the more contemporary retailer, and both young and old, making it really versatile. We aim to convey feelings in a gentle manner; not too ‘gushy’ but just the right level to create an emotion that connects with people. The delicate illustrations and thoughtful words make a lovely combination; it’s more than just a card, you’re buying into a feeling.

Simply adorable!

Cutest cuddles

Retailer comment

Our bestselling cute cards are: Barley Bear range from IC&G (right). The actual Barley Bear soft toy is a great gift to go alongside these very cute cards.

Noel Tatt’s range of blank square cute/funny animals are very popular. These can be used for a range of occasions and would brighten anyone’s day. Our range would not be complete without the ever-popular Carte Blanche’s Me to You range.

The new and updated designs in these cards have given them a new lease of life.

Liz Kanabar Ace Cards, Wetherby, West Yorkshire

Rainbow Designs has over 50 years’ experience in delivering the highestquality, adorable licensed character plush toys. From the prestigious Paddington, Peter Rabbit and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, to the modern-day classics of Guess How Much I Love You, Elmer, and the new Harry Potter Wizarding World collection, Rainbow has a cuddly toy for all ages, to make sure those special hugs are there when needed.

Paddington makes a heartfelt gift for any fan of the nation’s favourite bear. Rainbow’s Classic Paddington and Paddington for Baby collections are full of the highest-quality soft toys and nursery essentials, offering a gift for all ages. And with the eagerly-awaited third Paddington movie hitting the big screens this autumn, retailers really will not want to miss out on these bestselling lines.

Joining the Rainbow collection this autumn is the enchanting and adorable Harry Potter Wizarding World range. This magical new collection features the characters Harry Potter, Hedwig and Dobby, in formats that include My First Soft Toys, Rattles, Comforters and Activity Toys, with more exciting additions planned for 2025. The exciting new range makes a perfect gift for all fans who want to share their love of the Wizarding World with their new arrivals.

In addition, Rainbow’s Peter Rabbit, Guess How Much I Love You and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh and Lion King ranges make perfect complementary lines for greeting card retailers to offer.

Rainbow Designs

01329 277300 | sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Plush sales up 900%

Arts and crafts retailer Hobbycraft has seen online sales of plush and cuddly toys rise sharply over the past two weeks, due, it says, to the growing community of young adults rediscovering the wonder of collecting them.

The retailer has seen online sales of its Super Soft Tiger Plush Toy increase by 900% and the Crayola Sew Your Own Mini Plush Characters 4 Pack rise by 500% over the past two weeks versus the previous period. Furthermore, the Tiger Soft Toy has since sold out online, testament to its popularity with customers.

According to Circana, which tracks consumer behaviour, plush toys were a top three sales driver for the toy industry last year, with 11% growth.

Childhood memories

Nothing sells a greeting card like nostalgia! Down Memory Lane, the award-winning range, which has been top of the industry league table for nearly 15 years now, only goes to prove this.

So Cherry Orchard is stirring in a whole heap of nostalgia to the mix with the new range Moments of Wonder.

The cutest little characters with such ‘ahhhh’ appeal have been created by an awardwinning artist, and Cherry Orchard’s creative studio has sprinkled fairy dust to create this stunningly beautiful range. These cards evoke emotions of childhood memories gone by.

Moments of Wonder spans a wide range of relations, relation ages and baby titles.

Cherry Orchard 01684 295500 | info@cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk www.cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk

Puppies and kittens - oh my!

Jonny Javelin has just added 11 extremely cute birthday cards to its ever-popular Velvet range. These designs feature the cutest kittens and puppies in bright, eye-catching surroundings. Initially they have released these adorable images in Open birthdays in Code 60 with an RRP of £1.99 all available now. There’s not one that doesn’t make you go awwwww – Jonny is confident they will appeal to our nation of pet lovers.

The Jonny Javelin Card Company 01423 563740 | info@jonnyjavelin.co.uk

Zig Zag Zoo - aah!

The Art File introduces a new children’s card collection called Zig Zag Zoo at PG Live. This adorable collection contains 12 designs, with six designs available as age cards too. Every card features a playful pair of adorable geometric animals in pastel colours.

Among these new collections, The Art File was extremely proud that its Bear collection won Best Cute Range at the Henries Awards in 2023. The Bear collection, created by Robert Reader, has been a firm customer favourite for years now, and The Art File has introduced six new designs to the collection this year.

There’s a number of cute card ranges in The Art File collections, including Cat Walk, a playful cat card collection, Toby The Dog, a heart-tugging series of cards, and much more. Visit The Art File at Stand 200 at PG Live. The Art File

At Ginger Betty, it’s all about cute! This year the company has added 50 new designs to its Owl’s Nest range, as well as developing two new cute ranges to be launched at PG Live this year. Ginger Betty 01706 557285 | hello@gingerbetty.co.uk www.gingerbetty.co.uk

There’s cuteness overload at Kali Stileman Publishing! Following the success of its popular birthday multicultural cards, the team has brought out even more. New members of the gang include a birthday boy, superhero girly and even a boy riding a dinosaur. Available in square and mini card form. Kali Stileman 01305 848899 | info@kalistileman.co.uk

www.kalistileman.co.uk

Too cute to resist! Cards with a serious dose of adorableness with ranges for every age including Pusheen, Moomin and Snoopy.

Hypa

0151 662 0400 richard@hypa.com www.hypa.com

Colourful characters

Known best for its bright, colourful and fun designs for children, if there’s one word that best describes many of the ranges from Rachel Ellen it’s cute, and this is achieved in no small part by the wonderful array of characters that feature so widely. Be they human, animal, an insect or something simply made up, each one is unmistakably Rachel Ellen and full of personality, imagination and wonderful detail.

Over the years, these character-based ranges have always proven to be among the bestsellers and it’s no wonder why, you just can’t not love them! It’s the same story with the company’s extensive range of stationery and gifting with characters of all sorts featuring strongly across the bestselling designs, and lending themselves to products such as plush, book characters and much more – even Rachel’s clouds are cute!

Rachel Ellen Designs 0115 970 0321 | sales@rachelellen.co.uk | www.rachelellen.co.uk

Pick me up,

Paper Shed Design will be launching lots of fabulously cute new designs in its new everyday catalogue at this year’s PG Live.

Alongside the launch of its super cute new Buttercup Farm range there are new designs to popular ranges Absolutely Barking, By the Seashore and The Bear the Hare & the Mouse.

Paper Shed Design 0118 9744283 | info@papersheddesign.com

Cuteness available online direct

Out of the Blue Direct has recently launched its Out of the Blue Direct online website, which allows retailers to order direct from the manufacturer. Although many of the companies’ brands are available from leading wholesale/ distributors, you can now purchase direct with a choice of thousands of products. And if it’s cute cards you’re looking for look no further!

Eloquence is a premium range of cards with amazing cute characters incorporating superb premium quality board, embossed foil and full colour inserts available in C50 & C75. Claytons Friends & Family is part of the eco Into the Green brand, available to buy via the Out of the Blue Direct website. A family of lovable characters designed in individual styles that we can all relate to. Modelled in clay and capturing the unique personality of each family member, enhanced with bright colourful designs to complement the caption. Each card has a fluted foil finish, eco glitter and full colour inside, available in many captions on C50 & C75.

Out of the Blue Studios direct@outofthebluestudios.co.uk www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk

Give your head a wobble!

Alljoy Design is launching 11 new designs this year featuring adorable animals, a baby monster and dinosaur all with a wobbly head and googly eyes. These cards are perfect for kids of all ages and o er fun with their moving ‘wobbly’ heads. In addition to the cute animals there’s also a range of ages from one to eight featuring unicorns, pirates, mermaids and more cute animals.

These cheerful cards will bring a smile to the whole family. You can write your message on the back too.

Alljoy Design info@alljoydesign.com www.alljoydesign.com

It’s the thought that counts

With Thinking of You Week coming up this September, now’s a great time to re-evaluate your stock of cards that can be sent to ‘deliver a smile’

Send a card, deliver a smile

That’s the premise of the GCA’s Thinking of You Week, which takes place from September 16 this year.

Floral thoughts

Kali Stileman Publishing has a lovely latest ‘thinking of you’ card to add to its sentimental category. This gorgeous greeting card features colourful flora and lovely lettering against a soft turquoise background. The perfect card to let someone know they’re in your thoughts!

Kali Stileman

01305 848899 | info@kalistileman.co.uk www.kalistileman.co.uk

Top 10 art

The Art File Thinking Of You collection includes 10 beautiful designs, each conveying a thoughtful and important message.

With designs from the stunning Sara Miller London, Toby The Dog and the award-winning Natural Phenomenon collection, there’s something for everyone looking for a thoughtful card.

The Art File was thrilled to add new designs to this collection this year. Visit The Art File at PG Live, Stand 200, to experience the full collections in person.

The Art File sales@theartfile.com www.theartfiletrade.com

On reflection

A few years ago, Out of the Blue Studios launched a new range called Reflective Thoughts – Show you Care, which includes 48 SKUs of sympathy, thinking of you, get well, sending a hug, and blanks, to increase the demand in the market of people to ‘show they care’, which is captured in the sending of a greeting card.

With the few years we have had with Covid the company says it has seen a massive increase in sales of thinking of you and blanks, so it has also introduced a Thank you for caring for me card along with the Sending a Hug cards that have been successful with people wanting to express their appreciation and show support.

All cards are available from wholesale/distributors or available to buy from www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk

Out of the Blue Studios direct@outofthebluestudios.co.uk | www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk

Caring cards

After birthday, thinking of you and sympathy cards are far and away Laura Darrington’s bestselling designs.

Demand definitely peaked during lockdown, but four years on and this caption has never really waned, Laura says.

Mental health is, understandably, far more to the fore these days - so anything to reassure and sympathise with a loved one is a sentiment the publisher fully supports.

The male demographic is an area of greeting card design that the company has really focused on in the past five years, and the team is always mindful to create thinking of you designs with a masculine perspective.

The Utopia, Bloom and Aurora designs all contain thinking of you designs new for 2024. Find them at PG Live, stand 417.

Laura Darrington Design www.lauradarrington.com

Small wonders

The best things come in small packages! Little moments by Paper Shed Design - A little message can mean so much...These tiny little cards have space on the back to write your own special message and are small enough to be kept close in either a purse, wallet or pocket. Just a little reminder that someone cares. There are 24 designs – available individually or as a complete package with counter display.

Paper Shed Design

01189 744283 info@papersheddesign.com

Paper hugs

Ginger Betty has a wide offering of thoughtful, thinking of you captions, and the publisher has added many more over the past year or so. It’s a time when people need more emotional support, and a card is the perfect way to tell someone you’re thinking of them; it’s tactile and a visual reminder that lasts much longer than a text message - it’s a paper hug.

Ginger Betty is launching a newlook range of thoughtful cards at PG Live, featuring pencil sketched scenes with touches of gold foil –which are perfect for the Thinking of You send.

Ginger Betty 01706 557285

hello@gingerbetty.co.uk www.gingerbetty.co.uk

All about the words

Holy Mackerel’s Vinegar & Brown Paper range of cards is all about keeping in touch and letting people know you’re there for them.

The range is designed by Andy Poplar. An award-winning advertising creative, Andy decided to escape the rat race and follow his passion for artisan glass etching after experiencing anxiety and depression.

Combining his artisan skills with a love of word play, Andy creates amazing one-off pieces using vintage glassware from apothecary bottles to old speedometers. He photographs his work and Holy Mackerel creates greeting cards from his beautiful images.

“It really is all about the words, Andy has such a knack for the

phrases that will resonate and make a connection,” says Holy Mackerel director Katie Meeke. “His pieces don’t skirt around the fact that things aren’t always going well for people, they acknowledge it and they offer support and care. We love the jelly mould that says Everyone has a little wobble now and then, and the tape measure with Loved Beyond Measure etched on it. For many of us it’s hard to find the words to say what we feel, but Andy’s cards are a great place to start.’’

To find out more head over to the website where you can find more than 70 designs in this warm and witty collection, or meet the Holy Mackerel team at PG Live stand 217.

Master the impulse

Impulse buys are the perfect way to increase basket spend. Pop these little extras near the till to encourage last-minute purchases

space

Ginger Betty’s keepsake cards and wooden plaques are a good impulse buy. Quite often the CDUs are placed close to the till area, where they always do best. With the small price points they’re a great pick-up, and often customers will buy several. Ginger Betty is also excited to be launching its Owl’s Nest printed wooden bookmarks at PG Live this year! Beautifully printed in the UK on ethically sourced fsc 1.5mm birch plywood, there are 12 designs to choose from.

Ginger Betty 01706 557285

hello@gingerbetty.co.uk www.gingerbetty.co.uk

In the bag…

This year The Art File has launched a new collection of tote bags with seven stunning designs. Made with recycled cotton, sturdy handles and a handy internal pocket, these bags are made to last and are perfect for those looking for something beautiful to carry everyday items and shopping in. The Art File is thrilled to add three new designs to this popular range, launching at PG Live.

See all 10 designs on display at Stand 200. The Art File sales@theartfile.com www.theartfiletrade.com

On the button…

Hypa’s eye-catching 32mm button badges and mini cards come in a delightful countertop display, featuring stunning well-known artworks with its ART-ickles range to pop culture favourites such as The Beatles, Mi y, and Moomin.

Hypa 0151 662 0400 richard@hypa.com www.hypa.com

Blooming marvellous…

Letterbox Love director Kerry Bilson says: ‘’We are so delighted to see our Seeded Card & Bracelets flying out across the UK for this year’s Spring/Summer season. One thing we consider ourselves to be very good at, is listening to feedback from our customers and acting quickly, which is why we overhauled our Seeded Card & Bracelet designs last year and have introduced a much more compact greeting card style gift in the seeded collection, with a tidier stand and more choice for our customers. Plant the card and treasure the bracelet, whether you’re gifting in tribute or to remember a milestone, these special seeded sentiments make the perfect gift, and we are so proud of them!’’

Letterbox Love

01773 475760

kerry@letterbox-love.co.uk

Mini marvels

Holy Mackerel’s Small Fry mini cards range are as cute as a button! Designed by Scotland-based artist Ailsa Black (This is Iris Licensing), each card is inspired by the wildlife Ailsa sees on her walks every day.

These pocket-sized treasures are more than just cards; they’re tokens of a ection, ready to brighten someone’s day. Whether it’s a spontaneous thank you or a quick note of encouragement, these mini cards are designed to make an impact.

With a keen eye for detail and an innate understanding of what tugs at the heartstrings, each design is a testament to Ailsa’s creativity. Whether you’re drawn to her whimsical animals or playful patterns, there’s something for everyone!

Magic moments

Paper Shed Design is launching its new everyday catalogue at PG Live 2024. Bursting with lots of new loveliness! Little Moments Keepsake cards, Notecard packs, Notepads, Keyrings and Fridge magnets... exciting! With lots of new display options too including CDU and spinner packages.

Paper Shed Design 01189 744283

UK made and blank inside, these gorgeous mini-cards are a cute 10cm square with 12 di erent designs to choose from, and they come cello-wrapped with an envelope. You can browse the collection at PG Live Stand 217. Holy Mackerel 01395 578571 | sales@holy-mackerel.co.uk www.holy-mackerel.co.uk

With till-side impulse buys ideally needing to be relatively small, easy to display, low cost, eye-catching and desirable, Rachel Ellen Designs has a number of products that fit the bill perfectly.

Immediately becoming a bestseller and supplied in a compact CDU are these gorgeous glitter pens. Large and very tactile, they have silver glitter suspended in water behind a clear barrel decorated with bright and colourful illustrations. The glitter moves up and down as you tilt the pen and once you’ve picked one up – you can’t put it down!

With 24 pens in each CDU across three gorgeous designs, they are a surefire winner and similar products include six colour pens, gel pens, pop-up pencils and six colour stacking highlighter pens. For more information search for GLITMERCH on the website.

Rachel Ellen Designs 0115 970 0321

sales@rachelellen.co.uk www.rachelellen.co.uk

Diary of a sales agent

Richard Pass celebrates both a big birthday and the importance of independent

businesses…

Recently I celebrated a big birthday - you know the ones with a zero at the end - and we took the opportunity to have a few days away in Northumberland. Fortunately the weather was kind, cold and sometimes wet, but the sun definitely came out. As you can see from the photos. We stayed in a fabulous cottage in a small coastal village called Embleton. For those of you not familiar with the area, check it out, it’s seriously fab!

A small village with a locally owned hotel, two locally owned pubs [highly recommend the Greys… food and drink both superb], a locally owned deli and post o ce, a locally owned garage and general store plus a golf club that’s happy to serve locals and nonmembers alike.

My point? Locally owned, independent businesses that all work very hard to supply the local community and the tourists who throng to the area. These independent businesses are the lifeblood of communities up and down the country and whether they sell cards, gifts or local beer they should be celebrated. Large cities, small villages, it doesn’t really matter, the independent retailer is key to the future and we should encourage everyone to shop local.

Don’t get me wrong, there is a place for the internet [many small independent businesses thrive with this] and big business gives choice to the consumer and jobs to many. But the independent will always be the way forward.

While away, I had a phone call from Amanda Fergusson, CEO at the Greeting Card Association,

asking if I would take part in a Zoom event in July. I totally support this fantastic association and the opportunity to Zoom alongside the legend that is Rose Trow and the added bonus of it being led by James Mace at the Art File made it impossible to say no. The Greeting Card Association works tirelessly to help all areas of the card industry, if you’re not familiar with them take a look at the website.

Card publishers are constantly adding new designs or products, both to diversify but also to aid retailers. One area that seems to be very popular is the stationery market. Every shop I visit has a multiple choice of notebooks. From the pocket-sized, design-led notebooks from the likes of Ginger Betty and Dandelion Stationery to the hard backed [and still design-led] A5 notebooks from The Art File and Ohh Deer these o er everyone a way to keep notes of their day. For me a notebook is an essential; yes I can use Notes on my iPhone but it just doesn’t have the same satisfaction. Plus, I still tend to forget things jotted down on a phone - write it on a piece of paper from a notebook and it stays lodged in the old braincells. And I like the sensation of writing, as do lots and lots of other people judging by the number of notebooks sold.

Of course, not every publisher wants to diversify in this way so the route to business is the option of new designs and ranges. Natural Partners, which specialises in art images from a variety of artists, is a dab hand at this.

Some card publishers are so busy designing new

Richard Pass is a sales agent (STL Agency), who covers the North of England except where listed below. The companies he currently represents are: Alljoy Design, The Art File [NW only], Dandelion Stationery, Ginger Betty [Yorks & NE only], Ohh Deer, Redback Cards [Yorks & NE only], Two Little Monkeys and Flametree Publishing Contact: 07790 844342 or richard.pass@yahoo.co.uk

cards and ranges I seriously don’t know how they have time to eat! Alljoy Design, fresh from launching a new catalogue in January, has already announced more than 50 new cards, plus there’s a new card range and lots of new designs coming for Harrogate Home and Gift (July 21-25).

If you don’t visit many trade shows but you want to find new companies or products, treat yourself to a fabulous day in Harrogate in July. I might be biased but as the most northerly trade show [in England] it is my favourite.

Alljoy Design Embleton

Embleton

Alljoy Design

RETAS FINALIST

25 years beside the sea

Jayne Chapman, owner of Spirals, Brightlingsea, a coastal town in Essex, talks to Greetings

Today after the shop was named in the list of finalists

for this year’s RETAs awards

Igot into greeting card retail several years before I took my own shop. My parents had a newsagents for over 50 years until we lost Dad. I worked with him for several years and the greeting cards department was always my job.

I took on my own shop just over 25 years ago - we celebrated our anniversary last September. Spirals was on the market and we had heard that one of our wholesalers was interested in trying to get the lease. The previous owners had run the business down so I met with the landlord, who agreed to give me a

new lease. The early days were a bit of a struggle but after five years I asked if he would sell me the premises, which he agreed to, and I suppose the rest is history!

My parents’ shop was at one end of the High Street and mine was at the other end. It worked really well and we each supplied and supported each other. My Dad died nine years ago and we sold the family newsagents a couple of years later.

Spirals is approximately 18 metres long by 7 metres wide with large windows either side of the doorway.

I tend to source stock from my reps; many of them have been visiting me for several years and understand what Brightlingsea needs. You have to be going to Brightlingsea to come here as it is a one-road-in-and-out town. But we have a large summer visitor population thanks to the popularity of sailing here.

I have a local artist who produces beautiful cards, especially boat and seaside themes, which are always popular with visitors. I also try to stock good old-fashioned things like sticks of rock, bucket and spades and crabbing lines.

I have to be able to cover all criteria and price, and price increases have a ected all of us, but some direct cards are now building into their ranges a wholesale selection, which is helpful, and the

Jayne Chapman, next to Batman, with sta , celebrating the shop’s 25th anniversary

fastest-selling new cards are from the UK Greetings wholesale range. I find they o er good prices and excellent product.

When it comes to getting the word out there about the shop, I do find that word of mouth works the best but I will advertise in local newspapers and on social media.

As far as being eco-friendly goes, I have tried to limit the amount of plastic covering on cards and find the use of recycled paper and recyclable cards are on the increase.

I think the most enjoyable part of my job is meeting people, many of whom I have grown up with, and reminiscing with some of the older population. They comment that they have enjoyed “our little chat” and catch-up. I hope they feel we have made time for them. I also love to hear them have a little giggle at our humorous cards. My sta and customers become friends and there is always some laughter in the shop.

I suppose the least favourable part of my job is the paperwork, I would rather be chatting, meeting and serving people.

And

nally…

I would rather have a nice card with nice words than a present. Words mean and say so much more.

Diary of a card shop

Rebekah Mudie at North Cardi ’s Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts

lets us behind the scenes as the shop gets ready to undertake a transformation…

Shop life is currently bonkers busy here at Daisy Daisy Beautiful Cards & Gifts! We’re about to embark on a full shop refurbishment, something which has been on the cards (ha ha!) for well over a year. We’re very excited and somewhat stressed, (in a good way), that finally we’re able to make the ‘improvements’ in our shop.

Our lovely little community shop here in North Cardi is full of old-fashioned charm but it’s very congested for people and the stock doesn’t flow well due to the layout. Our fixtures, which we inherited when we purchased Daisy Daisy, are bulky and falling apart. The carpet is old and stained and our internal surroundings are generally tired,

needing some new life and TLC.

The biggest elements of the project will be the removal of an internal wall and replacement of our ceiling – for which it’s taken a long time to get the plans drawn up, and find a reputable builder who’s available and not going to charge an absolute arm and a leg. As I write this, the builders will descend

‘‘With our o er of 50% discount the customers are understandably piling into Daisy Daisy to grab some amazing bargains. I can honestly say we have been busier than we are at Christmas time!’’

Bestsellers that will be back on our shelves after the refit:

Great British Card Company & Ling Design

Rosie Made a Thing

Paperlink

Caroline Gardner

The Art File

Johnny Javelin

IC&G

Cinnamon Aitch

Welsh cards by several Welsh suppliers

Jellycat

POM

Half Moon Bay

And lots more…..

on us in about 10 days’ time - arghh! The shop will be closed for around four weeks while the work is carried out and we redisplay stock. That’s if all goes smoothly - everything crossed!

This week we are in the thick of a big Clearance Sale of our fabulous cards and gifts. With our o er of 50% discount the customers are understandably piling into Daisy Daisy to grab some amazing bargains. I can honestly say we have been busier than we are at Christmas time. This way our stock levels will be reduced, and we will have less to pack away and store, as the shop will need to be totally empty while the work is done. Personally, I have been a bit of a headless chicken recently both at the shop and behind the scenes working all hours – choosing new card and gift fixtures, new lighting, flooring and paint colours. What an exciting and fortunate time for us to be in a position to do this refurb (as a little independent business).

I’m also very nervous about the project. It’s quite overwhelming, particularly the card planning side of things and the financial outlay. We started

with a budget and figure in mind of the spend, however this seems to be spiralling, which I guess is actually the norm! I’m most anxious about the customers approving of the end result and liking what we’ve done to Daisy Daisy. I really don’t want to lose the shop’s homely charm and atmosphere or lose any lovely regulars who think we’ve spoilt the shop. People can be change-averse, but newness can also draw in new people so I’m aiming to keep positive and trust my decisions.

I know the staff are positively excited about our new environment and of course they are one of the biggest reasons why Daisy Daisy is so welcoming. We have also reassured our customers that we won’t be changing our fabulous stock and will continue to sell our carefully selected cards and gifts that they love. Of course, we will be bringing in some new ranges alongside our current bestsellers.

Aside from our refurbishment at Daisy Daisy, I’m really hoping to find time to visit some more trade fairs and look at new ideas, designs and ranges. I attended Spring Fair at The NEC in February for a flying visit to take part in Gift of The Year as a judge. I really enjoyed being part of the judging panel, choosing and voting for my favourite gifts - some of which I sell at Daisy Daisy of course.

If time allows, I’m hoping to travel to London to PG Live as it will be my first time attending, and as a RETAS finalist last year I have a nice voucher to spend. Which reminds me, congratulations to those who made it to the RETAS finals this year. I was thrilled to receive this recognition and delighted to attend the sumptuous ceremony in London as a treat for all our hard work.

Please do wish us luck with everything (and hopefully I will still be sane in June when the shop refurb is complete). You can see the before photos here and the After photos will be shared soon - watch this space!

‘‘I attended Spring Fair at The NEC in February for a flying visit to take part in Gift of The Year as a judge. I really enjoyed choosing and voting for my favourite gifts’’

New suppliers I hope to be working with:

Bexy Boo

Toasted Crumpet

Nico Cards

Michael Whitefoot Photography

Katie Loxton

Hollie Tree Silver

Joma Jewellery

Plus more I’m discovering….

House of CaRds

Double delights

Ryan Shoobridge, owner of Gemini Greetings in Heathfield and House of Cards in Battle, East Sussex, talks to Greetings Today following his RETAS nomination

Can you tell us a little about how you got into greeting card retail?

By chance really, I had worked in gift retail some years before and had always wanted to work for myself - then the House of Cards shop came up for sale as a going concern. After enquiring about the business and applying for a loan, the sale went through within three months from the date I first found out about it, so it just sort of happened before I knew it! Then similarly with Gemini Greetings a few years later; the previous owners

Congratulations on your RETAS nomination for Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer – Home Counties & South East. What do you think makes your shop stand out from others? I always try to find new ranges so that there is something fresh in for regular customers. There are always some lines that we stock year in year out as they just seem to sell, but other ranges I tend to stock and then run through and change for something different, even if I then later go back to a range I have had previously. It just

‘’We’re lucky that there is a good local customer base in each town that really does support the independents’’

were looking to retire and I enquired about the shop and it just all fell into place. Both shops had good customer bases already and I felt that I could change them to improve and build on them.

And can you tell us a little about the shops?

Both shops are on traditional high streets in small but fairly busy towns and are average sizes - not too big that they are hard to keep looking full but not too small that you can’t keep a good range of stock! Battle is a tourist town with it being the site of the Battle of Hastings, 1066, and Heathfield is lucky to have free parking so footfall in both areas is still quite good. Although it has been up and down generally as different factors such as all the banks closing does make a big difference. We’re lucky that there is a good local customer base in each town that really does support the independents.

keeps things interesting for the customers, both with greeting cards and gifts.

How do you source products?

Mostly online now, and I am lucky I have some great agents who come to see me that often take on new companies with ranges that are new and popular. I often look at supplier websites for what is new and also go through magazines such as Greetings Today for ideas.

What is your selection criteria?

I tend to go by what I like; when I look at things I ask myself is it something I would like to receive or I would like to give? If the answer is yes then it’s generally something I will stock. Then it’s about quality and price; I often rely on a second opinion from the ladies who work for me as they have discerning eyes!

How is trading for you at the moment?

Generally it’s okay, it does seem quite up and down from one week to the next but it evens out. We did find after Covid that everyone fell back in love with local shopping and we were really busy, but it has declined a little with the cost-of-living issues. But in my experience it goes in these cycles so I just hope that things will improve again given time.

What’s your demographic like?

It’s fairly diverse with lots of younger families in with children, but more predominantly middle-aged and older generations as they often seem to have more time to shop. The older customers like the customer service that we are able to offer as an independent. They know they can come in and there will be someone there to ask to help them find exactly what they are looking for.

How do you get word out there?

Sometimes I will do local advertising at peak times such as running up to Christmas, but not very often. I’m lucky as we do seem to find word of mouth gets new people coming in. Other than that I use Facebook to update and remind our followers of special occasions coming up and new things that have come in.

Have you seen the average cost of your products go up - and if so how have you dealt with it?

The cost price of products has gone up a lot in the past few years and it does feel like a constant battle to try to offer things at prices that don’t seem expensive. There are some suppliers I have stopped using just because the prices have gone up so much and I’m aware that regular customers will notice the increase. Instead, I’ve made the decision to run things through and replace with new ranges so that customers won’t see something that they bought a year ago at a much higher price, but rather new items with a new price point altogether. What do you like most about your job?

The buying is the fun part for me; looking at new ranges and getting them in the shops and seeing when things sell well and getting customers’ feedback on them. Also, the social side of seeing

all the regular customers and getting to know them, having a chat and hearing about what special occasions they have coming up.

And what is your least favourite aspect? There isn’t anything I really dislike, but ordering the Christmas cards for the coming year is always a bit of a headache! I’m always relieved when I’ve got all of those orders done and can put it to the back of my mind until the stock arrives later in the year.

Do customers ask for eco-friendly product? Is this something you try to stock?

‘’I try to take advantage of promotions when suppliers offer them to keep prices down’’

It’s not something customers actively ask for but I think they have come to expect it more now and they do notice it. I’m lucky that most of my suppliers have gradually introduced more and more ecofriendly products so it’s been a natural progression that more and more of the stock has become produced using more natural products or using recyclable materials and packaging.

What brands have been particularly popular with your customers?

IC&G and Nigel Quiney are two of my most popular brands with customers. The quality and price is good and they just seem to get the designs right. And Paperlink for humour ranges are very popular. What challenges have you faced over the past few months and how have you dealt with them?

The main challenge has really been keeping prices attractive and not seeming like we are much more expensive than the bigger shops. I try to take advantage of promotions when suppliers offer them to keep prices down. The running costs of having a physical shop have gone up a lot too, so I’ve switched credit card terminal providers and broadband providers

RETAS FinAliST

etc where I can to try to get better rates, just to try to keep things as affordable as I can. It is a hassle to change things like that but it’s important to keep an eye on those costs, so it’s just something you have to do!

How are you feeling about the next few months and the longer term?

I feel that at the moment we just have to keep going and not try to overthink it, and hope that longer-term things will become easier on the consumers’ pockets generally so that they have that bit more disposable income. Then they can get back to enjoying shopping rather than thinking about how much they are spending.

If you could choose the cards people sent you - which would you choose to receive for Christmas or your birthday or any other special occasion?

I’d probably have to say Five Dollar Shake. They really are beautiful cards and although they are at the higher end of the price range they have something special about them that is unique.