Launched in late 2010, smilegram paper® by Plaids and Polka Dots is setting the standard for high-quality stationery for children made using recycled materials! A peek into Carey Grund’s business shows us that this cause is near and dear to her heart!
An Interview with Carey Grund of Plaids and Polka Dots, maker of smilegram paper®
Tell us about your eco-inspired company!
My daughter’s love for art and fine appreciation for a handwritten note was the inspiration for smilegram paper®. I paired my daughter’s one-of-a-kind artwork with high quality, recycled materials and created a product that is fun for kids and also works to teach them the importance of handwritten notes.
Smilegram paper’s® mission is to help children turn creative thoughts into handwritten words. I have always believed in teaching my children the importance of a handwritten thank you note from a very early age, so it is my goal to provide parents with a tool to allow their children to express their ever creative mind. Because our stationery is designed with a child’s hand drawn artwork, the graphics are kid-friendly, bright and cheerful. It is also the only boutique style stationery that offers lined paper for guided handwriting. Smilegram paper® makes writing a handwritten note fun and easy.
How do you choose to go green in your own life?
We recycle at our home; everything from plastic to paper. Recently, my daughter made recycle bins to keep our items organized.
Guilty green pleasure?
I pride myself on building a company that is green and environmentally-friendly. All of our fine stationery is high quality 70 lb. stock with a soft matte finish. We use recycled materials in the production of all of our products. Being a green company is very important to me as it is good for our environment and teaches our children to be conservative and to recycle.
Can you offer any encouraging words for those with a small sustainable business?
Continue to believe in yourself! Do good for your customers, your business, your community and most importantly, your family. Make smart and sound business decisions while having fun. Be sure to wake up every morning doing something that you love.
