Clockwise from top right: Foil Wilderness Gift Tags / Bubbly Cheers Tag Set / Mechanical Wood Pencil / Wine Bottles Invitation / Dessert Birthday Card / Thank You Mix Set / Seaweed Hello Set

A blog is a wonderful way to express yourself to a wide audience, and in my case a valuable tool to represent my brand. While social media, blogging and the internet have done wonders for global communication, there is something so pure, simple and rewarding about receiving a handwritten note. In many ways handwriting is a lost art.

No one is more passionate about the handwritten note than the inspiring and fabulous Wendy Brown of Brown Ink Paper Goods. Brown Ink was created in 2011 as a blog to inspire basic longhand. As she states, “There’s never been a more important time to slow down and remember what handwriting feels like; the excitement of receiving a letter in the mail, the beauty of becoming acquainted with a new friend’s writing, or the current and future gifts received through journaling the now.” To spread her passion for handwriting, Wendy and her husband launched Brown Ink Paper Goods in 2013. This beautiful online boutique features a thoughtfully curated collection of stationary, journals and writing related goods. I swoon over this, these, this and this. With new products being added regularly (see above for my favorites), Brown Ink offers so many beautiful ways to make writing truly joyful.

The power of a handwritten note in this day and age should not be underestimated. I received my first job offer out of college because I was the only applicant to send a hand written thank you after the interview process (true story). Now that I work for myself I impart handwriting into as many facets of Brass Tacks as possible. My calendar and to-do lists are hand written. I write personal notes to clients for birthdays, holidays and thank you’s. On a personal level, I take great joy in sending and receiving a lovely letter-pressed card. According to Brown Ink, “When we look back at our writing, words create our history and individuality. Without question, handwriting gives balance and emotion to our lives.”

So next time you sit down to write that email take pause and consider how much more meaningful your message will be coming from your hand. Handwriting is not just a tool, it’s the creation of a keepsake its recipient may cherish forever.

Clockwise from top left: Stars and Stripes Swag/ Jcrew Bikini / Frilloon / M. Carter Canvas Pouch / Faribault Woolen Mill Throw / Kate Spade Sandals / Stripe Beverage Caddy / Gap Stripe Strappy Dress / Men’s Fedora

The Fourth of July is upon us! Festive flags, patriotic outfits and fireworks abound. Our new home is in one of the most Fourth of July focused spots of all time so this year you’ll find me draped head to toe in nothing but red white and blue. From flirty dresses for the day to a cozy throw for fireworks at night, to a fabulous Frilloon to get you in the spirit- I’ve got you covered for Fourth of July fun finds.

Wherever you’re celebrating, Happy Independence Day, be safe and have fun!!

1 Sugar Paper Card 2 Excelsior Brewing Beer 3 Rifle Paper Card 4 Soul Socks 5 Harry’s Father and Son Shave Set 6 Cuyana Canvas Weekender Bag 7 Leather Catchall

I sometimes feel like dads get the short end of the stick. Unable to experience the feeling of carrying a child to birth, often secondary to mom when a child is seeking comfort, and occasionally less celebrated for their role in nurturing children into beautiful, smart and confident adults (despite the often blurred gender roles in todays modern world). So often it’s mom’s that get the credit, leaving dads very deserving of a day that is all about them! Summer is already flying by which means that Father’s Day has crept up rather quickly. While it’s only three days away, there is still time to get something special for your dad that shows him just how much you love him. If your dad is anything like mine, he already has most everything he wants and needs, leaving a thoughtful card as a simple and great gift. I love this Rifle Paper option sold locally at Brown Ink. Perhaps you’re wanting to treat your hubby to a very special father’s day as a new dad. These canvas Cuyana weekenders are perfect for a weekend getaway and will surely get a ton of use over the years (plus you can easily borrow it for yourself!). I’m so charmed by the Harry’s Father and Son Shave Set, allowing dad to teach their kiddos the art of good grooming. If you’re opting for a more “adult” treat, why not pick up a growler of fabulous local beer to be enjoyed under the summer sun. Or help your dad stock up on awesome socks to brighten his work day by giving him a sock subscription from Soul Socks (a cool company started by a friend of mine!). No matter what fun treats you shower your dad with I hope you have a wonderful summer weekend filled with plenty of quality family time!