We got a chance to chat with Ellen, founder of Proper Notice. Below she shares her creative journey to custom paper, and what continues to set Proper Notice apart after more than three decades in business.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and how your studio came to be? What was your inspiration?
I am proud to say that Proper Notice is currently in its 32nd year in business and going strong!

I studied Fine Arts and Fashion at FIT as an undergraduate and I went on to live abroad, honing my fashion and textile skills for many years. Upon my return I saw a hole in the marketplace for custom, fine paper products. I fell instantly in love and developed a passion for beautiful, high quality paper products and translated my organizational, fashion-related skills to those of paper. My business has grown into a trusted provider of exquisite stationery, thanks in part to Bella Figura’s incredible inventory, and my commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service.

Q: What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
My clients provide all the reward I need. I have the best job where I get to experience the pure joy and happiness alongside my clients during a momentous period in their lives. Many times, I have the unique opportunity to work with the same family from the creation of their baby announcements all the way through to their weddings! There is no greater joy than pulling out a baby announcement or mitzvah invitation suite during a client’s first wedding suite consultation – it feels wonderful to know that I have become a lifetime partner to most of my clients.

Q: What are your hopes for the future of your business?
As I look to the future, I aspire to continually innovate and expand our design portfolio, incorporating the latest trends and technologies to offer captivating stationery for our clientele. I am always researching new and exciting options in the world of custom paper goods. I attend and join forums created for stationery owners to share ideas and would like to continue creating new and innovative designs for my legacy clientele! My journey is far from over and I am excited about the future of the business. With dedication and creativity and a passion for excellence I strive to continue to provide first rate service to my clients.

Q: Do you have any current trends you’re loving?
Right now, I am loving sculpted embossing, watercolor artwork and die cut shaped pieces. All of these allow clients even greater customization to meet their unique, personal style.

Q: What do you think your clients enjoy most about working with you to create their event stationery?
We are a completely custom company, so every job is unique. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and preferences, offering multiple, personalized consultations to guide them through the process. We turn our client’s visions into reality offering a wide range of customizable options to suit each client’s individual aesthetic. Our clients repeatedly tell us how grateful they are for our guidance and organization. We provide constant client support and provide timelines and on-going reminders for each family so as to ensure nothing is forgotten along the way.

Q: Anything else we should know or that you would like to share?
We provide custom consultation by appointment only out of our design studio located in Jericho, NY. We often work with clients across the globe via Zoom and are happy to ship samples and work long distance if you are not local to our studio. We don’t just stop at invitation suites – we handle all of your “Day Of” needs as well. From cocktail napkins and coasters to escort cards and hotel welcome gifts – we do it all! From elegant, traditional designs to modern, creative layouts, our invites and “Day of” products are crafted with the finest materials to ensure they leave a lasting impression.