This week, we’re so excited to meet our next Joy-maker, Alice. As the founder of Memo Press, a heartfelt independent stationers, her designs are inspired by hand-printing, illustration, calligraphy and the beauty of the human touch.
Joining forces in the studio, Elizabeth's brushstroke watercolours have come together with Alice's playful illustrations to create something truly special. Together they've designed a beautiful new wrapping paper, inspired by two iconic motifs. Elizabeth's new festive bow is reimagined in a trellis motif, beautifully partnered with our Sun Goddess, radiating joy, warmth and light.
Every detail of this collaboration celebrates the thoughtfulness and care we cherish at Elizabeth Scarlett. From each fold to the final flourishes, turning even the smallest gifts into something personal and artful, made to cherish.
As a creative, you’re a natural Joy-maker. What’s a small, thoughtful detail you add to festive gifting or preparations that sparks a little magic?
I truly believe that it's the wrapping that makes something a gift. Something wonderful but modest transforms with beautiful paper and ribbon, and bows are essential. Taking the time to wrap, ribbon and write a note or tag fells far more meaningful, to me, than simply buying something.
Stationery, wrapping and note-writing often have such personal connections - how do you add creativity to these festive rituals?
There's something about how tactile stationery is that feels deeply personal. The act of putting pen to paper is something that resonates even more so at this time of year.
One of my favourite rituals now my children are a little older is to sit down all together for wrapping and card-writing. We'll put a festive film on or listen to Christmas music, and all sit around the kitchen table. It encourages them to send their own cards, and to understand which giving is all about.
What Elizabeth Scarlett design inspires you the most (& why?)
Just one? An almost impossible task, but I would have to say currently the swans have my heart. There's feeling of timelessness to the design with the intricate gold bow, and I'm also a sucker for anything symmetrical. As with the all animals in Elizabeth Scarlett's designs, they're painted with such feeling. Swans in particular remind me of my mother – we spent a lot of time in Richmond when I was little, walking along the river or in the park. She was like a swan, always elegant and calm even whilst juggling a very full plate.
What makes a truly heartfelt gift?
I love buying gifts, and I truly believe they should be meaningful over extravagant (though I might amend this if my husband's asking!). As an ardent planner, I have a note on my phone where I write down ideas throughout the year, and a little cupboard at home where stash things I've found with a particular person in mind. Though when it comes to finding something that feels special at the last minute – something monogrammed is my default.
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Visit the Christmas Gift Shop. The perfect place to start ticking off your list, and discover joyful gifts for everyone this Christmas.
