Olfactory Therapy
Minimalists will find plenty to love about the hand-poured soy wax candles ($32-$34) from Wick & Paper. Graphic designer Do Young Ahn’s hand-sketched labels are nearly as pretty as scents ranging from fresh coffee or lavender-sage to Appalachian Mountains, a bright blend of lemon peel and cypress. “I like to simplify complex concepts into clean and simple designs that celebrate everyday life,” she says. Her online shop also sells colorful enamel pins and D.C. cherry blossom totes.
Lasting Impressions
Theresa Esterlund’s letterpress wall art is meant to cultivate connections. “I want to help people slow down and relate more deeply with themselves, the present moment and each other,” says the former manager of gallery interpretation for the Smithsonian’s Freer and Sackler galleries. Now the owner of Open to Being studio turns out limited-edition prints ($25-$75) on ink-washed paper, recycled maps and vintage book pages, as well as tactile greeting cards, hand-bound notebooks and upcycled bookmarks. She also hosts classes and workshops at her Arlington studio.
Little Victories
Arlington illustrator Virginia Strobach’s bilingual greeting cards and prints ($5-$30) find delight in the little things. “I believe nothing is too small to celebrate—especially the moments that make life feel big,” says the owner of Amiga Hormiga Studio, which means “ant friend” in Spanish. “I like to create work that cheers people on.” Her made-to-order cards center on food, friendship and community, featuring positive affirmations (“Your best is good enough”) as well as bright patterns and feel-good messages for birthdays and holidays.
Personal Touch
Dreaming of a wedding invitation as unique as your big day? Express your singular style with bespoke stationery from the Dandelion Patch in McLean. You provide the Pinterest board, color swatches or venue photos, and “I’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to create a truly one-of-a-kind design,” says owner and graphic designer Jill Eitelberg. Suites ($12-$50) start at 25 pieces and typically include invitations, envelopes and RSVP cards, with the option to incorporate hand-drawn calligraphy and original watercolor illustrations (pet portraits are a particular favorite). And yes, she offers personalized greeting cards and event invitations, too.