This month's Shop Girl Focus featured retailer is Sheryl of Stationery Station in Highland Park, Illinois. Sheryl was inspired to open a card shop of her own when a store she had ordered "Thank You" cards from failed to provide her, and others, with the customer service and efficiency they deserved. Sheryl and her team has obviously hit on a winning formula. She's been in business for over 32 years! Stationery Station was also one of Bella Ink's first customers five years ago this coming January.
So Sheryl...
Q: Do you think, due to the current economy, that stationery purchases will veer more towards gift items and less towards invitations as some people believe?
A: No, parties will continue but without going to extremes... less frill, more clean, sharp, and often letter-pressed looks.
Q: What would you like to see that hasn't been done, or done well, in the world of stationery?
A: Custom stationery priced under $100.00 for teens, and gifts with sharp, modern looks, of course!
Q: Where do you get your window inspirations?
A: The news, the season, new merchandise...
(Photos courtesy of: RubensFoto)
Q: Besides the stationery shows, where do you like to scout out new products?
A: In trade magazines, and at art fairs. I like designs inspired by the fabric industry.
Q: What snacks do you like to stash behind the register?
A: Hershey kisses, Voges Chocolates and cocoa from Starbucks (50 yards away). Chocolate disappears quickly!
Q: Living or passed on, who would you invited to your party?
A: My husband, the quintessential dancer!
Q: Stay in or go out this New Year's Eve?
A: A casual restaurant with old friends and then back to someone's house.
Q: How long before you break a New Year's resolution?
A: I rarely make one, so I don't risk breaking it!
Q: Fashionably late is...
A: Not all all to a formal event, and between 10-30 minutes to a more casual party.
Q: What one talent do you wish you had?
A: To be able to carry a tune.
Q: What's your favorite vacation spot?
A: I love to travel to far away places with my best and oldest friends.
Q: What is your worst shopping habit?
A: Buying as I see... but not always the items I should have bought.
Q: Do you have a favorite holiday tradition?
A: Using glitter and crystals to decorate at home and in the shop window.
Q: Do you wrap the present yourself or have it wrapped at the store where the gift was purchased?
A: Myself, but at my shop where we stock loads of gorgeous ribbons!
Q: What would the name of your autobiography be?
A: Vitality!
Thank you for your participation, Sheryl! You can find Stationery Station at:
610 Central Ave.
Highland Park, IL 60035
P: 847-432-3044
W: http://stationerystation.com/