Cardtalk, a small shop, in the Lancashire market town of Ramsbottom, has a customer base of loyal locals as well a shoppers from elsewhere who visit.
Everyday: Across The Board from UK Greetings
“The publisher’s collection of ranges is so huge – from contemporary to traditional – you just can’t go wrong!”
Everyday: Pizazz (open birthdays) from Nigel Quiney
“Ladies come in the shop and buy six or more designs at a time, partly because of all the cards’ detailing and finishes for such a good price.”
Humour: Genius from Woodmansterne; Good Things from Redback Cards; Across The Board from Rosie Made A Thing
“All these ranges fly out the door! ‘Genius’ appeals to all the teachers in the area, and the other ranges are just daft and tickle people.”
Photographic: Spring Watch and Countryfile from Abacus
“With the town surrounded by countryside, these nature-inspired designs are popular and are easy sends as blank inside.”
Contemporary: Mimosa from Paperlink
“Simple, pared back foiled words on a nice crisp white board.”
Contemporary: Quicksilver from Wendy Jones-Blackett
“The small size cards are cute and the foil finishes are beautiful and stand out. And the addition of new designs helps keep our racks fresh.”
Traditional: General from Jonny Javelin
“Customers bring handfuls to the counter each time, and some people know the company name and ask specifically for them.”
Traditional: General from IC&G
“The appeal is that there are so many unusual captions – such as ‘Welcome little Nephew’ or ‘A new Baby Brother’.”
Handmade/Hand-Finished: Posy from Amy Louise Design
“Delicate floral designs in pastel colours, recently expanded to cover minor occasions too. They are locally made (by me!) and so the customers know the artist.”