Today I bring you the brands that made me start it all. What inspires you to write, to make, to keep going? That's a question I get all the time in all the interviews I've done in my time (ok, so something I also have to ask myself because my coach tells me to).
The punniest cards out there.
Sapling press is almost a gold standard in punny cards. If you don't know them be sure to check them out and read everything. I was once given the feedback that my cards as a collection were boring. I figured it was because it was all text. Then that same person represented Sapling press - so, she was able to not be boring. I salute you.
2. ashkahn
I think Ashkan is good at laughing at himself on his instagram. I admire his branding and stationery wit.
3. emily mcdowell
I remember reading that she was given advice when she started her brand that her cards had too many words and to bring it down a notch. Here's to not bringing it down a notch and doing you Ms. McDowell.
4. people ive loved
I love the cards and all the things. The hand drawn images and text are exactly what I'm feeling all the time. #cardgoals
5. mountains vs plains
Someone told me about this brand way back when. I like the rough sketches. I like the sentiments. It's so real. You want to have friends you can give these cards to.
6. old tom foolery
I'm not sure what this brand is up to now, but their footnote line was something that I admired from the start. Each one is funny.
7. sugar paper
So clean and simple that you can't not love it. Their cards are classy (you know, like me). I often think, ah why didn't I think of that.
8. Pretty Alright Goods (formerly The Matt Butler)
The humor is real. Love the gift items that just make me giggle. Check them out.
9. Rifle Paper
This brand is iconic now, but it was starting out when I was starting out and although they are known for their flowery imagery, there's something modern too that I see. This flowery brand has a place in my modern design heart.
10. chez gange
Sassy and witty, this brand makes me laugh and cry. It's all about the copy sometimes and here she hits the mark.
I know I'm leaving out like a million brands and I can only flatter myself to think that I could offend anyone. That said, please do send any brand that you'd add to this list and I'll add it.
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Stay well,
Mariko
