Jo Sorrell, owner of Cardies in Stevenage old town is not just enthusiastic about engaging in activities involving the local community, invariably she is a driving force behind them, her cheery ‘can do’ attitude, creative gusto and PR support from her ‘Ponks’ (an ever changing number of rescue Labradors) earning huge loyalty from the local crowd.
Here, she shares some of the best sellers in her store, which is a retailing beacon on the Hertfordshire town.
Everyday:
Pizazz from Nigel Quiney Publications
Down Memory Lane from Cherry Orchard Publishing
“Both of these ranges were popular during full lockdown and still are!”
Art:
National Trust from Woodmansterne Publications
Art collection from Tracks
“Both have such lovely designs.”
Humour:
Rosie Made A Thing, Dandelion Stationery and Redback.
“They are all just great!”
Adult ages:
Wendy Jones-Blackett
“These really score on key milestones, such as ‘Wife on 50th’, ‘Daughter on 40th birthday’ etc.
Belly Button Designs
“People like to have something a bit special for their loved ones’ landmark birthdays; even more so at the moment.
Contemporary relations:
Porcelain Breeze from Molly Mae
“A good selection of relation cards that are harder to find, such as ‘little brother’ or ‘big sister’.”
Thinking of You/support:
Gin and Frolics from Rosie Made A Thing
Words of Wisdom from Dandelion Stationery
“Both publishers are in touch with the general mood of the nation, something that was evident during lockdown and now going forward into ‘the new normal’.”
Children’s:
Tiddly Widdlies from Kali Stileman
Quentin Blake from Woodmansterne Publications
Fluff from Tracks
“These three ranges are all great for kids sends.”
Male:
Tracks
“The photographic designs are easy choices, particularly for the designs featuring cars, bikes, golf, football, gardening, beer and countryside scenes.”
Ancillary:
Bracelets from Life Charms
“Easy pick-ups for gifts and to treat yourself.”
Plush from Jellycat
Luxe Hotchpotch (landmark age mugs, glasses and tinned candles) from Widdop & Co
Top: Some of The Ponks that are very much part of the Cardies’ team.
