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
