Member Spotlight - Blue Kite Company

Tell us about your company and/or your products.

Blue Kite Company is a creative services studio in Boston with a community-based focus where I help small businesses, members of school PTOs, youth sports teams, and other volunteer-run organizations with creative projects from graphic design through delivery. As much as I enjoyed helping my clients fulfill their goals, I realized I needed to do something of my own. I began designing a collection of illustrations inspired by nostalgic memories and a love of stationery products and opened Blue Kite Press on Etsy in 2018. Since then, Blue Kite Press has grown into a line of stationery and home goods featuring a bright color palette and nostalgic illustrations that bring joy to everyday moments.

What's your role at your company?

As a small business owner, I do a little bit of everything and then some! While I manage all aspects from design and production to marketing and shipping, I especially enjoy the creative development and collaborative parts the most. 

Why did you become a GCA member and tell us about your GCA experience so far.

I became a GCA member after a very encouraging phone call with Sue Charlier of Leader Paper. She said something about volunteer opportunities and I jumped right in. I'm so grateful to have found this community of paper people for friendship, mentorship, production partners, and more. Volunteering on different committees gives you a behind the scenes peek into so many fascinating aspects of the greeting card industry.

What inspired you to get involved in the greeting card industry?

I've been a card and stationery fan for as long as I can remember. As a graphic designer, I had an aha moment when I realized I could design my own line of cards and paper products.

What's something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know? 

My favorite sightseeing on vacation is browsing the cards and paper products at a local stationery shop, gift store or bookstore. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The resources, programs, and networking opportunities provided through the Greeting Card Association have been essential in helping me grow Blue Kite Press. The industry expertise shared by GCA members and their dedication to supporting fellow card makers has made joining this organization one of my best business decisions.