Sponsor Spotlight: Chaotic & Collected Stationery

I’m a pretty big fan of putting your own original stamp on everything — you know, that unique way of putting your own spin on things and showing off your creativity. It makes you stand out, and, well, Jess Downey is someone who definitely stands out…in the best ways possible!! She’s the creative force behind Chaotic & Collected Stationery, a shop full of cards, party decor and party kits. After planning her wedding, Downey found herself inspired to up her design game. Read on for the inside scoop on the history of her shop, her design tips and how to plan the perfect party! xoxo

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Tell me about your shop. What’s the inspiration behind its launch?
Chaotic & Collected Stationery is an online shop featuring cute ‘lil paper goods — cards, drink stirrers, confetti, garland, party kits, creative gift bags and goody & favor bags. Every item in the shop is specially created and handmade by me. I’ve always been a crafty gal and after planning (and DIYing!) my wedding, I decided I wanted to start making and selling my creations. My first plan was to do wedding items, but the more I started to plan, the more I found myself thinking of so many fun stationery-type items. And so one day, while standing on a NYC subway platform with my husband, I decided to run with the stationery idea.

When did you become interested in stationery and design?
I’ve always been crafty and creative, but after doing so many things for my wedding (programs, invitation enclosures, drink stirrers, table cards, etc.), I really started to get into creating those types of items. And as I created more things, more ideas started to come to my mind.

What are you top 3 tips for design?
*Create/design things that really speak to you. My best items are those that I really enjoy making.
*Research and read articles. There are always new things popping up.
*Give yourself time to free create.

What ingredients make for the perfect party in your opinion?
Good food, awesome people and fun party decor.

What is your favorite piece in your shop and why?
My favorite piece — that’s really hard to answer. I think if I had to pick today, I would choose my fall colored leaves party kit. I love fall, and I think the kit represents everything I love about fall.