Archive for the ‘Designer Bios’ Category

Designer: Sally Ball Sharp of Sharp & Sally Design

On May 6, 2010   /   Designer Bios, Sharp and Sally   /   Leave a comment
Sally Sharp of Sharp & Sally

We’re so excited to introduce you to Sally Sharp, designer of Sharp & Sally. She designs with a modern take on classic looks…and we love it! We also love Sharp & Sally’s great color palettes! If you’re going to attend NSS be sure to stop by our booth and take a look at Sharp & Sally’s fabulous designs! Next week we’ll be featuring a sneak peek of SAS products here on the English Paper blog so be sure to check back next week! 

Where are you from? And where do you currently live? 
I grew up in Jacksonville, Florida and I live there now too–we’ve been back a year and a half. 

How would you describe your design style? 
Classic but fresh… Not your mother’s version of traditional playful combinations of patterns, but always sophisticated. Sometimes over the top mix of patterns and colors 

What inspires your design? 
Usually textiles–both home and fashion. I could see a tiny glimpse of a garment in Vogue or a set decoration in an Anthropologie catalog. I was a prop-stylist before I started doing stationery, so I am very aware of catalog and magazine sets. The process is so artistic and innovative. If you really look at, for example, the Pottery Barn catalog: the level of thought that goes into the little details–the tabletop props are usually ripe with visual stimulation. 

What is your design process? To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer? 
I look at everything I can get my hands on and then I draw a lot, sketch out ideas on notebook paper. I write a lot of lists of what I want to cover, content-wise… but then I start playing on the computer and it becomes an organic, creative process. I think it is fun to look back a few seasons later at the ideas I had sketched out and the ideas torn out of magazines… it is usually what I wanted content-wise, but not what I thought it would be. 

I was just on a girls’ weekend and had brought a bunch of old stuff to sort through on the plane–to see if there were any great ideas from years back that I had not had time to produce.. I was working one morning before everyone woke up and they were very curious… they could see the point of origin from some of my old designs and see what I ended up with in the catalog. It was a kick to share that–it is usually such a personal journey. My husband doesn’t ask–though he did just laugh at a design I did and said, that looks very Athleta-esque… and it was! 

How did you begin your path in graphic design? 
I was a painting major in college and my advisor gave me great advice–learn graphic design. You’ll always be able to support yourself! So I went to Parson’s School of Design in NYC after college and took design all day/every day for a few months. While I was there someone from Martha Stewart called one of my professors and asked for a recommendation and I got my first job. 

How did your interest in paper goods evolve? 
I worked in the interior design world–magazines and catalogs. But when I got married, my husband lived in Chicago at the time. There was an opportunity there in a stationery dept. of a big publisher. I started designing stationery, seasonal products and photo albums for Target, Walmart and other big market stores. It was a completely different take on design and really fun to illustrate. 
How long have you been in the design field? 
Funny–does prom memorabelia and fraternity/sorority t-shirt designs count? I did yearbook in high school… I’ve always loved every form of art and design. 

What is your favorite of your designs that English Paper Company carries? 
Hmmm… there is a lot of new stuff. I think my favorite will be the new holiday album stuff (but maybe my favorite is what I just finished and I just finished it this weekend.) 

Does the look and feel of SAS designs translate into your home  decor or fashion style? 
The sophistication, yes–the color palette, no! My house is pretty neutral, with pops of orange. My clothes are usually black. My mom bought my daughter a zebra print dress because she said it reminded her of one of my note cards. I cringe every time she wears it (she LOVES it, of course!) 

Is there a design trend your loving right now?
I’m not as trend driven… I just like what I like. BUT, I love wallpaper being back. I love wall-paper! I frame it and hang it in my house. Maybe that is a lost career opportunity for me! 

What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods? 
That one day you can be channeling high-society, debutante vibe and the next, Dr. Suess… and it is all viable and worthy. Everything has an audience! 




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Designer: Sophie Askew of Askew Design

On April 26, 2010   /   Askew Designs, Designer Bios, Product Sneak Peek   /   Leave a comment

Sophie Askew of Askew Design
Let us introduce you to Sophie Askew, the designer for Askew Design. Her design style is vibrant and eclectic. Each of one her designs are filled with eye catching patterns and color palettes. Sophie balances modern and elegant style in her designs so well. 

We’re thrilled to pieces that Askew Design is part of the English Paper Company. We could go on and on about our love for Askew Designs but we’ll stop and let you get to learn a little bit about Sophie and what inspires her design.
Where are you from? And where currently do you live?
Today I call New York home, but I was born and bred in Memphis, Tennessee.  I got to New York via a pretty circuitous path through Colorado Springs, Sydney (Australia), Denver, Seattle and Atlanta. 
How would you describe your design style?
Very eclectic-  I love to mix traditional elegance with modern sleekness. Most of my work incorporates bright colors and bold patterns, infused with delicate graphics — the visual “icing” on the card.
What inspires your design
As clichéd as it may sound, the constant stream of excitement and energy that permeates life in New York City never disappoints me as a muse.  I find I get ideas from any number of things — restaurant menus, Indie rock posters plastered on subway walls, old typographic graphics on historical buildings, I could go on forever!
What is your design process? To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer?
I firmly believe that the more design you see, the more you can evolve your own style.  I love interior design — the patterns, textures and textiles and the endless combinations you can create.  I read shelter magazines avidly — in another life I might have been an interior designer.  I had the privilege of working at Conde Nast and fashion editorials have formed a lot of the characters I use in my designs.  A beautifully art directed editorial spread can serve as a phenomenal snapshot for a card design.
How did you begin your path in graphic design?
Since I was a child, I’ve always loved to paint and draw, and I come from an artistic family.  I lost touch with this side of myself for a while until my best friend pointed out that I needed to  play to my strengths and do what I love.  Soon I found myself at the perfect spot to reengage my creative side: The Portfolio Center in Atlanta.  As soon as I entered there, I felt that I was back home.
How did your interest in paper goods evolve?
I started making simple cards and invitations for friends and over time, I found that they were asking me to do things for them, rather than my offering! Funnily enough, while in Memphis visiting my family recently, my grandmother brought out cards that she had saved that I had made and sent to her many moons ago. I guess it’s always been in the blood!
How long have you been in the design field?
8 years
What is your favorite of your designs that the English Paper Company carries?
to be released: celebrate (champagne bottle popping) and cameos
from last collection: aqua fork and spoon/ pink royalty
Does the look and feel of Askew designs translate into your home decor or fashion style?
Yes and yes- to a point where my friends tease me. In fashion, I love vibrant colors and feminine designs.  Rarely will you find me in all black — it seems like such a waste to me  when there are so many amazing colors to be worn!  And I firmly believe no room or outfit is complete without the right mix of accessories — like the delicate graphics that accessorize my work.
Is there a design trend your loving right now? 
I’m really loving creating vector-based designs from watercolor backgrounds. It’s a new design direction for me— make sure to look for how it translates on paper with my future collections.
What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods?
Making people smile when they open an envelope. There’s no better payback.

Askew favorites:

Be sure to check back later in the week for an Askew album sneak peek!

Visit the Askew Design website
Be sure to visit Sophie’s blog: Nugget Cantina
Visit the English Paper website to view a list of our retailers
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Designer: Meredith Clark of French Blue Designs

On April 20, 2010   /   Designer Bios   /   Leave a comment
Meredith Clark of French Blue Designs
Let us introduce you to the newest addition to the English Paper Company family! French Blue Designs, created and designed by Meredith Clark. The designs of French Blue are classic yet Meredith has added her fresh and colorful touch to her oh so fun designs! We’re so excited to have acquired this successful brand that Meredith has built. We thought a little Q&A was the best way to learn more about Meredith’s design style and where she finds her inspiration.
Where are you from? And where do you currently live? 
I live in Dallas, in the same neighborhood I grew up in. My husband also grew up in University Park and both of our parents still live here. It is such a blessing for us and our children to have their grandparents just blocks away! And how funny is this…our little boy started kindergarten this past fall at the same elementary school that my husband went to, and actually has the same teacher! 
How would you describe your design style? 
My design style is classic/traditional, but invigorated with a fresh, crisp feel. I love mixing the old with the new, the ornate with the simple…like vintage engravings combined with bold stripes or polka dots. 
What inspires your design? 
Anything and everything inspires me, especially travels. An entire collection was inspired by the turquoise waters, pink ochre buildings and pucci print dresses all over St. Tropez. I was so visually overloaded. My creative juices were constantly flowing and my sketch book was full of new designs by the end the trip! I am also inspired by the latest trends in clothing and interior design. I love Tory Burch’s graphic prints and fabulous colors and Kelly Wearstler’s bold, glamorous rooms. When I do see an interesting color combination or pattern, the process of translating it into a design for French Blue immediately begins in my head. 
What is your design process? To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer? 
I am always sketching out things. When I see something that sparks an idea, I quickly sketch it down in my notebook or whatever is handy at the time. I’ve come across receipts in my purse with an idea scribbled on it! When a design deadline is looming, I head to my computer, tune the ipod to Sting, Coldplay, Elton John or Norah Jones, and start flipping through those sketches. Music helps me get in that creative zone. My art teacher in high school always had great music playing during class, and it helped to keep me from thinking about an upcoming exam in my next class and to just focus on whatever I was painting or drawing. 
How did you begin your path in graphic design? 
I have had a passion for art and an eye for design for as long as I can remember. It’s just always been a natural extension of me. 
How did your interest in paper goods evolve? 
While working in the public relations industry after college, I designed wedding invitations, party invitations and Christmas cards for friends, family and local organizations during my free time. The majority of my designs were hand-painted and while I loved each stroke of the brush, the all-nighters to complete those projects as business grew were difficult. An owner of a small retail invitation company came across one of my invitations. They were interested in expanding their business with a wholesale line and approached me about developing a line based on my designs. The first collection was introduced in 2002 and launched French Blue Original Designs into stationery stores nationwide! 
How long have you been in the design field? 
Formally…8 years! 
What is your favorite of your designs that English Paper Company carries? 
Oh, now that’s hard! I really only design things that I would buy, so do like them all…and I hope you do, too! But if I have to name a favorite design, I’d have to say the Simple Band photo cards for Holiday with the matching wreath and ornament stickers. I love the simplicity and the bright colors! 
Does the look and feel of French Blue designs translate into your home decor or fashion style? 
Our home, like French Blue, is traditional, but with a fresh, crisp feel. The walls throughout are painted a neutral color, leaving things like our collection of blue and white porcelain in our living room to provide the pop of color. I am inspired by all things around me, which includes our home. The interlocking, ornate Cs embroidered on our headboard was the inspiration behind some interesting patterns I created using letters. 
Is there a design trend your loving right now?
Still loving ruffles and lace, grey, black and white as well as pantone’s key colors for 2010…turquoise, coral and pink champagne! 
What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods? 
I love that I am able to tap into a God-given talent each and every day. Having the ability to do something that I love while still being very involved in the lives of my two precious children is a blessing and I’m very thankful for it! 
Sneak Peek at French Blue Holiday Favorites:

Follow French Blue on Facebook and Twitter
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Designer: Emily McCarthy of Twist

On April 14, 2010   /   Designer Bios   /   1 Comment
Emily McCarthy- Designer for Twist


Emily McCarthy, designer of Twist, designs the most energetic and colorful invitations and holiday cards. Her use of bold patterns and playful color palettes are nothing but cheerful and happy, who wouldn’t want to receive one of Twist’s invitations for holiday cards?! Let us introduce you to Emily, the designer of Twist.
Where are you from? And where do you currently live? 
I’m from Dallas, Georgia, a small town northwest of Atlanta. I currently live in the coastal and charming city of Savannah, Georgia after marrying my college sweetheart, who was born and raised here.

How would you describe your design style?
I would describe my design style as bright, bold and modern with a pinch of southern charm and whimsy. Staying true to myself as a designer and to not be compromised by outside influences is important to me. I tend to like what I like, no matter what anyone else thinks.

What inspires your design? 
Sometimes the smallest things in life are inspiration to me: the lattice work that I notice while driving past a house, the aqua color of my grandparent’s vintage trunk or even the ironwork on a fence walking in downtown Savannah. I’m also inspired by home decor and trends, interior designers and architecture. I think that since I’m also a photographer, it helps me with composition and layout.

What is your design process? 
To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer? When I think about a new design, I have to wait for it to come to me. It may be immediately when I’m talking with a client or it may come in a few days after I’ve thought about it a little. No matter what, I have the exact image of what I want in my head, then I get straight to work on the computer. Sometimes the first vision I have is perfect, or I might try another option once I see it on the screen. Most often, it’s my first instinct that wins in the end.

How did you begin your path in graphic design?
I grew up painting and drawing under the instruction of my grandmother, Lillian, who was an artist and musician. Art was always a hobby of mine, whether I was entering contests at school or playing with my fashion design game where I would draw the mannequins and accessorize them with gowns and blouses. Because my focus was on music, I wasn’t able to fit art into my schedule until my junior year of high school. Of course I fell in love with the different mediums like watercolor and charcoal. It was at this point that I decided I wanted to be some kind of artist when I grew up. Once I got to college, I immediately jumped into my art courses and very quickly chose photography as a focus. It wasn’t until my junior year of college (do you see a trend?) that I took a required course in graphic design. Come to find out, it came very easily to me and I aced my first project. I started to think about career choices and how I should have a back up plan. I talked to my professor and we decided majoring in both concentrations would be the best decision. I crammed my schedule with typography, layout and photo editing and graduated on time with a degree in both photography and graphic design. 

How did your interest in paper goods evolve?
I started working part-time at a stationery and invitation shop in college. I loved the concept of invitations and how special stationery could be for each person. I think I officially fell in love with the paper industry after my trip to market with the store owner. I was overwhelmed with the amount of creativity and passion for paper! It was in the same trip that I met Whitney English Kolb herself! After college, I accepted a job with a small-scale invitation and stationery company in Atlanta. I worked there for about a year learning the ropes of owning a paper company, production and sales. I needed a bigger challenge and found that at Swoozie’s. I began working in the stores in 2005 and ended my experience earlier this year as Senior Designer. It was time to design for myself and for my clients full-time. Now, with the help of English Paper Company, I bring you Twist Paper!
How long have you been in the design field? 
9 years
What is your favorite of your designs that the English Paper Company carries?
I love the invitations that are a spin on home decor and color trends like the Around the House navy+green Invitation and also the rooftop Stock the Bar Shower! The Around the House was inspired by a local bride and groom who were planning to decorate in those exact colors! The rooftop Stock the Bar Shower was originally done for my friend’s stock the bar shower in Manhattan. I think it has the essence of rooftop sophistication or backyard bash under the stars. I also love my upcoming holiday designs! From peppermint cocktails to chivari chairs set at a dinner table, I just loved the direction we went with holiday soiree and holiday cards!

Does the look and feel of Twist designs translate into your home decor or fashion style? 
Of course! I love the use of neutrals with bright pops of color and bold graphics! I absolutely love Kelly Whearstler, Jonathan Adler and Trina Turk as interior design inspirations! I love mixing vintage pieces with modern accents like metallics and funky patterns. I love clean white and tend to gravitate towards 2 color basic bold patterns. My other favorites include seagrass furniture and rugs, burlap drapes, my collection of vintage milk glass, fabulous coffee table books, black and white photography and custom slipcovers!

Is there a design trend your loving right now? 
I’m loving the colors in fashion right now (nudes, greys, blush pinks!), statement necklaces – my favorite is my new kate spade garden splendor!), loving red combined with turquoise and aqua for in the home, vintage glam and metallic accents

What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods?
Helping a customer’s vision come to life! I love when a customer approaches me with the most outlandish theme for their event or wedding. It’s always a challenge to bring all of the individual elements together for one cohesive look. I always love seeing their reaction to the final product!

T-3301107 Around the House

 T-330125 Rooftop Stock the Bar
 
TH-520347 Peppermint Cocktails
TH-520346 Holiday Chivari Chair Setting






Check out Emily’s  inspiring design blog!
Visit our website for a list of retailers!

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Designer: Heather Manor of Oh, How Lovely

On April 6, 2010   /   Designer Bios   /   Leave a comment
      

 Let us introduce you to Heather of Oh, How Lovely. As we debuted Oh, How Lovely on March 29, it is one of the newest additions to English Paper Company.   

Let me just say that Heather’s designs will fully satisfy the photo lovers heart in many ways. Oh, How Lovely’s specialty is photo cards for all occasions: birthdays, baby, holiday and everyday.  Heather describes her design as, “My designs are integrated around the picture because, for me, the picture is the most important part of the design and should be the key player.” But, Oh, How Lovely isn’t just limited to photo cards. They also offer photo note cards and photo gift stickers.

Where are you from? And where do you currently live?

I was born in Clearwater, FL where I lived until my parents decided to move up to Nashville, Tn when I was 12 years old. That was such a hard move at such an awkward age! 
Now, I live in the small town of Burns, TN – about 35 minutes west of Nashville, with my husband and 2 children. My town is so small that we do not even have a stop light, just a 4-way stop right after the ballfield where my kids spend the majority of their time. When we got a dollar store a few months ago, we thought we were in heaven!
How would you describe your design style?
Well, this was a tough one! I tend to be a bit eclectic and try to offer a little something for all tastes. I’m not overly modern or retro by any means, and I guess my style lends itself to being more ‘cutesy’ with fun, unexpected little twists often thrown into the design. If polka dots make it into my design, I am a happy camper. 
I also really like for things to be ‘just so’; a place for everything and everything in it’s place kind of deal. I can not stand, for example, to have a picture that isn’t anchored to some part of the design. My designs are integrated around the picture because, for me, the picture is the most important part of the design and should be the key player. 
What inspires your design?
I spend a lot of time looking at party blogs {hostess with the mostess is a fav!} as well as the pottery barn catalog. Usually the teen one, but sometimes I fancy the regular pottery barn catalog too. Surely I’m not the only one who drools over the pottery barn catalogs?!
What is your design process? To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer?
The very first step is the photo. I decide where the photo will go, and how many there will be. If I am editing the photo for the customer, I also spend a bit of time doing this as well. I think it is important to make sure your picture is really the main focus of the card, and photo editing plays a major part in this.  
For the design, sometimes a design will just hit me and I know exactly what I want and how I want it. This is the best thing ever when it happens … but it doesn’t always!
Most of the time, I will start with a color board and decide on the colors I want to use most often in the collection. I do not really limit myself to these colors, but I do try and stay within variations of these colors. I like for everything to be matchy-matchy and not just thrown together haplessly. Uniformed, that’s the word I’m looking for. 
I also plan out my patterns {i.e. polka dots!} and if I need to make any elements, I do that before the designing process too. 
Once I do those things, from there I just kind of wing it. I spend a lot of time doing ‘trial and error’ on each design, moving things around, testing different placements. I’m somewhat of a perfectionist, and if something is just the least little bit off, I have to figure it out until it works. Admittedly, I have a whole folder on my computer dedicated to designs I just wasn’t sure about. Not really the rejects, but ones that I might revisit at a later date with fresh eyes. Some of these designs have turned into my best sellers once I perfect them!
How did you begin your path in graphic design?
I had just graduated nursing school, and really needed to get a job {in nursing of course!}. But my heart wasn’t in it. My kids were young {2 and 5} and my husband traveled a lot. It was hard to be a semi-single parent working full time out of the house, and not something that I really wanted to partake in. So, I stalled. And in the mean time, I started playing around on … get this … paint shop pro. It really was love at first pixel. I knew I was on to something, but being a nursing major is much different than being a business major, so I really didn’t know where to start. Somehow though, it just all sort of unfolded for me and I kept stumbling on to the right path. Of course during this, I invested in photoshop {at the time, it was cs as cs2 was just being released! Now, I have upgraded to cs3 with cs4 on my wish list}. Because I knew I wanted to work with photographs in addition to graphics, photoshop was the best fit for me. Learning Illustrator is the equavilant to driving stick shift for me; I know I should do it, but automatic is really working out for me. 
I owned a successful photo card company for almost 5 years, and it was during this time that I really honed in on my craft and it just sort of became part of me. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else than this, it’s as defining to me as my kids are. 
How did your interest in paper goods evolve?
It was such a natural extension of myself, that I really don’t know how or when it all kind of came full circle. When you are passionate about something, it tends to become an obsession. 
How long have you been in the design field?
since 2005. 
What is your favorite of your designs that The Whitney English Company carries?
Oh this is like choosing your favorite kid. You love them all equally. 
But if you are twisting my arm, I am rather partial to the ‘Swiss’ design from the birth announcement collection. I love how soft and understated it is. 
Does the look and feel of Oh How Lovely designs translate into your home decor or fashion style?
Maybe a little. My favorite color is brown; I own more brown clothes than anything. But I am pretty vanilla when it comes to my wardrobe … plain, with not a lot of accessories. Maybe just one small peice that completes the look. I’m not a loud person, and I prefer to kind of stand back rather than be front and center. 
In that respect, my designs are nothing like my fashion style. 
For my home, it is interesting to point out that my only ‘artworks’ hanging on my walls are big, huge pictures of my kids. So even in my house, I like for the photos to take center stage and be shown off. 
Is there a design trend your loving right now? 
Of course! Polka dots! For me, that will always be a staple. I just adore polka dots. I am also a really big fan of cableknit. 
What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods?
The actual designing part is pretty cool. But what gets me excited is knowing how many people my designs will make smile. In just a small way, something I created will brighten someone’s day, and that makes me happy. It pushes me to make every design be the best that it can be.

Favorites from Oh, How Lovely

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Designer: Lori Dunbar of Citrus + Clover

On March 29, 2010   /   citrus+clover, Designer Bios   /   5 Comments
Let us introduce you to Lori Dunbar of Citrus + Clover. Her designs are some of the new additions to the English Paper Company. Her design style is modern, clean and fresh while still including playful pops of color. Citrus + Clover brings a large amount of new product to the English Paper Company including: adoption announcements, magnets, book plates & a great selection of embroidery inspired designs in nearly every kind of product offered.

In order for you to get to know our wonderfully talented designers, we’ve put together a Q&A to learn more about them and what inspires their designs.     



Where are you from? And where do you currently live?
i grew up in an old school house out in the country in south eastern wisconsin. we spent many hours playing in the woods behind our home and had free run of the countryside. at 12 years old we moved to another country home in a nearby town, where my parents still live. after college by husband an i spent 5 years in minneapolis before moving back to south eastern wisconsin. we now live in sheboygan wisconsin, just 3 blocks from lovely lake michigan. on windy days we can hear the waves crashing from our open windows.

How would you describe your design style?
citrus + clover designs are all based on very clean, modern design aesthetics. the idea is for the customer’s photos to be center stage while, at the same time, being surrounded by beautiful design.

What inspires your design?
this is always one of the toughest questions. it’s impossible to specify something in particular that inspires me. honestly, everything around me inspires me on a daily basis. something as simple as a crack in the sidewalk that forms a nice shape, to fabric, nature, or vintage patterns. really, design inspiration comes from everywhere.

What is your design process? To elaborate, In what way do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer?
i’m a jump-right-in-and-design kinda gal. i’ve never been a big sketcher. i think design school took all the sketching out of me! in general i think that i do a lot of “sketching” in my head and by the time i hit the computer i have a good idea of what direction i want to go.

How did you begin your path in graphic design?
i always knew that i wanted to be an artist of some sort. honetly, i never remember wanting to be anything else. luckily for me, my very small high school had a series of pretty amazing graphic design classes where we learned everything from prepress to screen printing. it was really valuable in making my final decision of which direction i wanted to head in design school. i had a big head start over those who were entering college as freshmen since i had already been introduced to things like illustrator and photoshop. when i graduated i worked at a couple design firms in minneapolis before moving on to start my own stationery company.

How did your interest in paper goods evolve?
making the invitations for my wedding was really the turning point for me. it really solidified my love for paper and my true design style/direction. it made me realize that designing for other people/businesses was not really my passion.

How long have you been in the design field?i graduated with my design degree in 1999. from there, i worked for design firms while starting and growing my business to the point that i could go full-time. i officially started my business in the fall of 2001 but didn’t quit my day job until january of 2004.

What is your favorite of your designs that The Whitney English Company carries?
wow, that’s like asking which of your children is your favorite! it’s always tough to choose, but i’d have to say that my whole magnet memento announcement line is something new to the industry and, i hope, stands out as such.

Does the look and feel of Citrus + Clover designs translate into your home decor or fashion style?
i’d have to say yes and no. yes in that i really like clean, modern, simple design. i feel most comfortable in non-cluttered and straight forward spaces and wardrobes. with that said, i really have a love affair with everything vintage which isn’t really translated into my stationery design.

Is there a design trend you’re loving right now? 
as i mentioned in my previous answer, i’m really, really into vintage. i love the mix of new modern pieces and vintage pieces in the same room or wardrobe. the juxtaposition is something i strive for in my home and everything around me.

What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods?
i’d have to say my absolute favorite part is that i work for myself, doing what i love. it also allows me a flexible schedule to be with my 2 boys.

Be sure to visit Citrus + Clover’s blog: Paisley Wallpaper

Visit our website to view a list of our retailers


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Designer: Sara Hicks Malone

On March 17, 2010   /   Designer Bios, Hicks Paper Goods   /   2 Comments

We have so many creative and talented designers for The English Paper Company. Over the next few weeks we’re going to be introducing them to you. Behind the scenes, our designers work incredibly hard to design the best possible stationery for the English Paper Company. So, we thought it would be fun to finally put a face with their fabulous designs! 

Sara Hicks Malone- Hicks Paper Goods


Where are you from? And where do you currently live?

I was born in Winter Park, Florida. I lived in WP until I was three, then moved to Macon, GA, then Myrtle Beach, SC, then back to WP where I graduated high school. I’ve also lived in Winston-Salem, NC; Atlanta, GA; Washington, DC; New York, NY; and now Nashville, TN. I’m pretty settled here!

How would you describe your design style?

For my paper goods- bright, graphic, fun.

What inspires your design?

I suppose it varies from collection to collection. Currently, I find a lot of inspiration from being a mom and writing the Party Perfect blog. Since I don’t feel like I ‘get out much’ these days with a 2 year old and 4 month old at home, the blogosphere has provided a lot of inspiration. I’ve been so sad to see many inspirational magazines disappear the past couple of years. I really, really miss their presence (RIP- Domino, House & Garden, Gourmet, Cookie- among others).

What is your design process? To elaborate, in what ways do you go about getting your ideas out and onto the computer?
I don’t know that I have a set process- again, it varies depending on a variety of factors in my life. Some days I feel like I’m flying by the seat of my pants and other days I really take time to ‘meditate’ about ideas. Sketchbooks are a great way for me to work through something, but some days I just go straight to the computer.

How did you begin your path in graphic design?
I was always interested in design from a very young age. I think I was discouraged from pursuing anything in the field since it was not seen as a ‘sustainable’ career (i.e., a career in which I could support myself). I had a ‘aha!’ moment in college when I took a graphic design course. From there I went to graduate school for graphic design, then moved to New York to work in the field. I ended up working for Martha Stewart which was a full-circle moment for me. I had gone to see her do a ‘gold leaf’ lecture when I was in 7th grade.


How did your interest in paper goods evolve?
I feel like my story is the same as many others. I started creating things for myself and others, began to get more requests, and eventually launched HPG. I try to evolve the look in each collection, while staying true to the original essence of the brand.

How long have you been in the design field?
I graduated from graphic design school in 1999, worked in NYC until 2003, and in Nashville until now. 10 years? that seems like a long time!

What is your favorite of your designs that The English Paper Company carries?
Hmmm….right now I’m favoring my invitations with a ‘stitched’ border, like the birthday cow or princess ballerina.





Does the look and feel of Hicks’ designs translate into your home decor or fashion style?
It depends. I’ve been having a bright moment in my home for the past couple of years (which is in keeping with HPG)…but now I’m starting to feel the muted and natural color palette a bit more. I surround myself with great colors for my work and blog, and am starting to think it would be nice to have more of a respite at home. But currently-yes- I have a bright pink sofa, so the HPG line is definitely reflective of my current at-home style.
Is there a design trend you’re loving right now?
I’m averse to the word ‘trend’ for some reason, since I really like timeless things. However- there are definitely things that have been long-term trends that I can never get enough of- silhouettes, birds, stripes and dots- to name a few. I’m loving the Amy Atlas inspired tables I’m seeing everywhere.
What is your absolute favorite part about designing paper goods?
What’s not to love!? The fact that I get to say I design paper goods for a living is an absolute dream come true. I don’t feel like I could be any luckier.
Be sure to visit Sara’s creative and inspiring blog: Party Perfect

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