Meet the Brand: Graphic Anthology

Genesis Duncan started Graphic Anthology in 2010 with just a few prints that she hoped would uplift and inspire others. 10 years later, Graphic Anthology is a full stationery filled with colorful cards, pencils and notepads. We talked to Genesis to learn more about how she got started in the stationery world, what inspires her and what she loves about owning her own business!

One of the best ways to understand a brand is by learning more about the maker and how they got their start in the industry. What is your background in and how did you get started in the stationery biz?

I have a background in graphic design and branding. I fell into stationery unintentionally. I was caring for a sick relative in hospice and was looking for a creative outlet to channel my stress and emotions. I started designing these inspirational prints that reflected a lot of the words I was telling myself. I put a few on Etsy and soon people were requesting other products, including greeting cards. So I just said yes to everything, and before you knew it, I was designing all these things!

Where do you draw inspiration for new designs and products?

Pretty much everywhere. I love to travel, so many times it's from that. I might also see something on a neighborhood walk that piques my interest. Or conversations with friends and family. My mind is usually racing a mile a minute, so there's always something bumping around up there.

What are a few of your personal favorites from your collection? What are some bestsellers?

My personal favorites are the cards in Spanish. Especially the Papel Picado Cumpleaños and Papel Picado Felicidades cards. I'm just jamming on Spanish cards right now. The Papel Picado Cumpleaños card is a bestseller, too!  The Birthday Bubbly, Rainbow Birthday (in both English & Spanish), Vintage Text Message, and Tequila is Terrible cards are all strong sellers year-round.

What is the best part of owning your own business?

I love so many things about having my own business, but I think my favorite is probably knowing that I am helping people express themselves. Personally, I struggle to articulate my feelings. I am not a person who finds it easy to be visible with my emotions, so it brings me immense joy and satisfaction that my cards are helping people share feelings like love, friendship, gratitude, and sympathy. These connections are important!

What kind of items do you hope to make in the future?

More stickers! I'll admit, I wasn't team sticker in the beginning. I had no idea how much people would love them, but my first few were such a success, I want to do more. I'd also like to return to textiles, maybe kitchen towels. And if I could be totally pie in the sky, ceramics! 

I saw that you try to keep your products sustainable//earth friendly. Can you please tell me a little more about that?

Sure. I mean, being a consumer-goods company, there will be waste, so we try to mitigate that where we can: we print in small batches so we aren't stuck with inventory that isn't selling or inventory with errors. Most of our printers are in the Pacific Northwest (where we are) or USA only, so our products aren't having to travel far. We choose FSC certified and recycled papers for our products. Recently, we rolled out a plastic-free shipping option on our website to test consumer response and it's been phenomenal. So many people are opting in, that we're making the switch to ship all retail orders plastic-free by the end of the year. Fingers crossed we can eventually find a way to do this for wholesale too! We still have some work to do.

What advice would you give to someone just starting in the stationery industry?

Three things: First, just put your authentic self and work out there. I think so many people spend time looking at what everyone else is doing instead of focusing on what their style is. Make it sincere and cohesive and you'll find your audience! Second, you absolutely can start small and learn as you go. Don't be afraid to begin. Finally, for the most part, stationery people are great people. You'll be in good company. Enjoy it!

How are you staying sane during this time of staying inside?

I'm lucky that I have a backyard, so I've been doing the whole urban farmer thing. I've been reading a ton and doing little DIY projects, like finally making my own kombucha. There is a quarantine photo floating around of me in overalls and a straw hat, which my friends and family think is hilarious. Lol. Overall though, I'm just trying to enjoy the quieter time. How often have I wished for more time? Now I have it, so I'm trying to be present and make it

Come See Us At NYNOW

NYNOW

By Hayley Burns

We have been quite busy planning and organizing for NYNOW, a wholesale trade show featuring the newest in design focused products for home, lifestyle, and gifts. With access to hundreds of exhibitors, visitors (in the thousands) are given the opportunity to peruse endless exhibits ranging from personal care to fashion and home.

We are  happy to announce that we will be representing eleven amazing made in the US + handmade brands this season. With the show coming up we want to introduce you to these awesome brands and their fantastic products! Come see them all in person at booth #7253.

Allie Biddle Stationary

Based in Knoxville, TN, Allie Biddle Stationary first started as a therapeutic hobby for Allie, a designer and artist, and quickly became a small, yet mighty brand. With emphasis on the creation of high quality, precious gifts and desk ware, Allie draws much of her inspiration from environmental mindfulness and human interaction. Incorporating Texan landscapes, a mix of patterns, and beautiful line work, Allie creates pieces that are sure to leave an warm impression upon whomever they are gifted or whatever space they will fill.

Amber E. Lea Porcelain Jewelry

Drawing inspiration from the colors of the high New Mexican desert, the simplicity of mid-century design, and the desire to create products that support an active lifestyle, Amber E Lea is a Southern-based brand that seamlessly blends contemporary vision and ceramic tradition. Artist and designer behind Amber E Lea, Amber, drew upon her passion to combine a love of fine art with fashion in both an innovative and ethical way. Offering a line of wonderfully beautiful and unique pieces, Amber E Lea brings art into the hustle and bustle of modern life. Check out her products here!

Bell Mountain Naturals Soap + Apothecary

Founded with a belief in the power of nature, Bell Mountain Naturals created a line of products that are simply uncomplicated and pure. Blending ingredients that will both complement and benefit your skin, each product strives to create and enjoyable, straightforward, and effective skincare experience. Excluding the use of palm, fillers, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, dyes, and artificial fragrances, Bell Mountain creates products using only ethically sourced and sustainably harvested ingredients. Truly a brand of its word, Bell Mountain provides you with products that will make you feel great about yourself and your footprint.

Claws Out Nail Polish

Although Claws Out is as they say, “just a nail polish company,” each bottle of lacquer paints a much larger and more impactful story. Founded upon feminist ideals, Claws Out is a line of polishes that will make you look and feel good. Each polish coordinates with a different cause and non-profit that receives a portion of the proceeds. Free of harmful chemicals and fish scales, the line has a commitment to ethically sourced ingredients. This women- owned business will undoubtedly empower you while your purchases empowers others.

Native Bear Paper, Gifts + Vibes 

Founded in 2012, Native Bear creates every product with the intuitive human in mind; one who is creative, spiritually inquisitive, and requires beauty in order to thrive in the modern world. After much evolution, founder, Leela Hoehn, finally found the “Native Bear vibe” drawn from 1970s nostalgia, the fluidity of psyche rock poster art, earthiness, and a touch of magic. With products ranging from stationery, notebooks, planners, and home accessories, Native Bear can spread its vibe into any environment in a number of ways.

Neva Opet Leather Purses + Accessories

Founded on the belief of simplicity of design and excellent craftsmanship, Neva Opet is a line of small-batch, handcrafted bags and accessories. Curating an overall aesthetic which emphasizes subdued colors, shapes, and minimalism, owner and designer, Rachael, creates pieces designed to grow in character with age and wear. Drawing inspiration from family and a love of art history, Neva Opet is a brand with deep meaning that hopes to create products that create meaning for you.

One Story Jewelry

With a commitment to the creation of handmade and ethically sourced products, One Story strives to create pieces that are contemporary, with a nod to a minimalist design and a little bit of whimsy.  Featuring minimal shapes, lines, and silhouettes to emphasize the un-simplistic nature of each and every customer.  

Saavie Studio Wood Home Goods, Gifts + Good Vibes

Designed and handmade in Denton, Texas, Saavie Studios aims to celebrate nature, and the spaces that people share through goods that spread happiness and boost confidence with modern, energy-filled designs.  Offering a wide range of geometric, wooden air plants hangers and home furnishings, the brand strives to simplistically add life to homes. 

Stone Harvest Metal Jewelry + Gifts

Inspired by the shores of the Pacific, Stone Harvest is a small, handcrafted jewelry label which creates, manufactures, and retails etched brass, copper and silver jewelry and home furnishings. Etched with finely rendered drawings, pieces show imagery inspired by sacred geometry and nature.

Wanderluxe Design

With emphasis upon the creation of craft adornment for modern sanctuary and human form, Wanderluxe has created a collection that joins a minimalist aesthetic with the rooted practice of bodily and spatial adornment. Handcrafted in Providence, RI, Wanderluxe creates pieces designed to enhance all spaces.

Zoet Bathlatier Candles + Apothecary

Handcrafted in Malvern, Pennsylvania, Zoet Bathlatier is an artisan candle and apothecary line with inspiration rooted in nature and culture.  Committed to creating natural products, free of harsh preservatives and chemicals, Zoet Bathlatier desires to provide you with a sense of renewal and well-being within every product. 

We so excited to represent these brands and, hopefully, connect with many more! If you have any questions regarding these brands (and more), feel free to contact us! We hope to see you there!

Summer 2018 Gift Guide

By Hayley Burns

Summer 2018 is on the horizon and as always, this ushers in the season of bridal showers, weddings, and parties galore, which means people are constantly shopping for the perfect gifts for each occasion. Well, look no further because here we have a few fresh items from great brands that will surely leave an impression.

One Story Earrings

Bold and gold.  Keep that in mind while searching for your newest pair of summer statement earrings.  One Story has a collection of simple pieces that will blend seamlessly with current trends.  And if you’re keen on color, they have a range of colorful gold and resin pieces that might suit your taste.

The Good Hippie Body Care

The Good Hippie carries a range of natural, small-batch products made with fresh, therapeutic-grade ingredients designed to nourish the body.  Whether you’re searching for an exfoliant, a serum, or a scented mist for your home, the Good Hippie undoubtedly has it.

Kelly + Jones Perfumes

Any perfume enthusiast understands the impact of a new scent, especially in the heat of the summer.  Kelly + Jones offers earthy scents, fresh scents, and scents that pair with your favorite wine.

Truck and Barter

While many of us love the aroma of candles and home scents, the rather harmful ingredients in most candles drive us away.  Truck and Barter offers long lasting candles that are hand poured, 100% natural soy, and free of unnatural chemicals and scents.  The brand also offers an array of diffusers that are composed of natural ingredients and bold scents. Check out Zoet Bathlatier and Hawk + Hatchet for other ethically made candles!

Claws Out Nail Polish

Any great polish can improve the mood.  Claws Out offers some beautiful shades that will make you look and feel good.  Their vegan polishes are great for a summer pedicure + a portion of each purchase is donated to charity. These polishes are free of harmful chemical and, each color coordinates with a different cause!

Allie Biddle Stationery and Bourne Paper Co. Cards

It’s officially wedding season! And while that means open bars galore, it also means you’ve got to outdo yourself with a gift and card.  Look no further because we’ve got the perfect cards for the occasion. These brands offer handmade cards with simple designs that’ll be sure to please.  

Behind the Scenes: Savannah Hayes

I know that you have a background in design. How did you get started in this industry and move into making your own line of home décor?

My first job in the design industry was for Kelly Wearstler. Talk about a killer gig! I split my time working for her interior design team and her product development team. I quickly fell in love with the world of pattern and surface design & my boss suggested I look at the Textile graduate program at FIT.

That sounds like an amazing job! What is the best interior design tip that you have learned along the way?

Buy everything in sets of 2! I love symmetry & balance when I design.

What kinds of things inspire your work and the patterns hat you create?

I love geometry and find endless inspiration in architecture and in my surroundings. I love to travel and become immersed in new cultures. I also find myself sourcing color palettes from urban environments.

I definitely see the influence of geometry and architecture in your designs!  Speaking of which, what are some of your favorite pieces form your collection of work?

The Vienna Indigo pillow & Milas Smoke throw!

I have always found that the designer behind each brand that I work with has the best ideas on how to style their product. When you are decorating a room, how do you like to set up your pillows and blankets?

My favorite pillows to style are the oversized square and oversized lumbar pillows. I like two square pillows on the bed or one long pillow. For the sofa, I mix and match sizes and different degrees of scale. Our throw blankets are a great chunky weight that can work well folded neatly or draped over an armchair. 

What kind of products can we expect to see from you in the future?

I'm working on expanding our tabletop collection to include linen table runners, napkins & placemats!

Your patterns are super intricate—what does your design process look like?

Every design starts by hand using a combination of India ink, brushes, gouache, block prints, and cut paper. From there I scan the design into the computer and work on layering various textures and applying color.

How do you decide what items to add to your collection?

As a surface designer, I am always open to new ways to bring pattern into the home. I have a long list of products I'd love to do one day, but ultimately it really comes down to finding the right production team that will be a great fit with our design studio.

What is the best part about running your own business? What kind of brands or people inspire you?

Setting my own hours! My husband works odd hours, so to be able to match my work life with his has been able to afford us some really incredible (and random!) weekday afternoon dates.

I draw inspiration from design entrepreneurs. Women doing their own thing & embarking on the madness that is starting your own business also inspires me. Instagram has been a powerful tool to connect like-minded designers, and I draw a lot of strength and creative inspiration from these women.

What is the best business advice that you gotten and would want to pass on to others?

Just show up—everyday. This is paraphrased from the incredible artistic handbook "Steal Like An Artist" by Austin Kleon. I read his work when I was getting up the nerve to quit my day job. And then I reread it. And reread it. This little tidbit really stuck with me. When you're working in a creative space, sometimes the unknown and the utterly blank slate can be intimidating enough that you just shy away and avoid your studio all together. This advice, to just show up, really became my mantra. Each day I'd wake up and say, "today there may be a lot of unknowns, but all you have to do is go to the studio and the turn on the computer". That's it. Before I knew it, ten hours would have flown by.