When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Paper Source
Why Paper Source is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Paper Source is a renowned American stationery and gift retailer headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, offering a vibrant and curated collection of fine and artisanal papers, custom invitations and announcements, personalized stationery, greeting cards, gift wrap, paper craft kits, party supplies, and unique gifts. Founded in 1983 by Susan Lindstrom after an inspiring trip to Japan, Paper Source has grown to over 165 stores nationwide, combining a passion for refined paper arts with a commitment to inspiring creativity among its customers. The retailer is known not only for its broad product range but also for fostering a creative community through in-store workshops and events that encourage customers to engage in paper crafting and personalized celebrations. With a focus on quality and innovation, Paper Source creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting friends, exploring creative projects, or finding thoughtful gifts for all occasions. The Chicago-based headquarters supports nationwide operations with a culture that blends design passion and retail expertise, ensuring brand consistency and an engaging customer experience both in stores and online.
Here's what people think of Paper Source
As of recent, Paper Source holds a 4.5-star rating based on 76 reviews.
Customer reviews of Paper Source consistently highlight the store's wide selection of exquisite stationery and craft supplies, emphasizing the quality and uniqueness of their paper products. Positive reviews often mention the helpfulness of staff, the enjoyable in-store experience, and the inspiring workshops that help customers explore their creativity. Shoppers appreciate the personalized service, especially when ordering custom invitations and announcements, and many cite the products as perfect for thoughtful gifts and celebrations. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to instances of high pricing compared to competitors and occasional inventory shortages at certain locations. Some customers noted delays or issues with online order fulfillment. However, these concerns are generally outweighed by the store’s positive attributes. In conclusion, the overall customer sentiment portrays Paper Source as a beloved destination for stationery enthusiasts and creatives who value quality, inspiration, and personalized service, making it a great place to meet up with friends and share a passion for paper arts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maria
Have a gift or stationery need? How can you not stock up at Paper Source?! The wrap sheets, and the new stone wrapping papers, are incredible!!
Jillian Mochnick
They have a nice selection of cards, envelopes, wrapping paper and little gifts. I went in to the store to ask about custom printing for my wedding. The associate was not knowledgeable about the services they offer and just told me to look at their website, and wasn’t friendly in providing any support. It’d be nice if the staff was trained on how to support customers with these type of inquiries. I’ll be looking elsewhere.
Amanda Lovecraft
I went looking for red wrapping paper, yellow wrapping paper, and baby blue bows for a Winnie the Pooh themed baby shower. They did not have red wrapping paper, yellow wrapping paper, or baby blue bows. The people working there were very nice and the manager explained that because they are owned by Barnes & Noble corporate, they get whatever wrapping paper corporate sends them. Manager said they actually often request plain wrapping paper in different colors, but corporate doesn't meet their requests and they just don't have it in stock regularly. I thought that was a little odd for a wrapping paper specialty store.
Alex Zer0
The store was really clean and the staff was super nice. But the store wasn't super well organized, so I felt that it was hard to find things. There was no one section for things like "cards" or "holiday" there were main sections with lots of random other end caps and displays for objects that should be where the signs to look for them are. The pricing was also not competitive and the huge gift displays made walking around properly socially distanced difficult.
Mark
I went in to get a planner/journal combo and they had exactly what I wanted. They also have a huge card selection. The cards are fairly unique and you won't get any of the same quality from a grocery store. I'm not that much of an artist but they have tons of cool stuff that would make a great gift for an artist.
How to reach Paper Source
None
Website: None
Why Paper Source may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Paper Source with your friends?
Gathering friends and family at Paper Source offers a unique experience that transcends the typical retail visit, making it an exceptional choice for group meetups. The warm, boutique-like atmosphere invites guests to explore creativity together, inspiring shared moments of artistic discovery and celebration. Unlike conventional stores, Paper Source specializes in a vast array of exquisite papers, custom invitations, gift wrap, and craft supplies designed to spark imagination and meaningful interaction. The space encourages not just shopping but participation in creative projects, turning a simple outing into a memorable event filled with teamwork, learning, and personal expression. With its welcoming staff and well-curated selection, it’s an ideal place for friends to bond over hands-on activities like crafting workshops or collaborative design sessions, ensuring that every visit is lively and engaging. Whether planning an upcoming event or simply looking to enjoy quality time, Paper Source provides an inviting environment where connections can be deepened through artfulness and shared creativity.
What activities can you do at Paper Source that make it ideal for group meetups?
Paper Source hosts a variety of activities perfect for entertaining groups by fueling creativity and collaboration. A primary draw is their in-store workshops which cover a broad spectrum of crafting techniques such as card making, scrapbooking, and journaling. These workshops encourage participation from all skill levels, making them accessible and enjoyable for groups seeking a fun, hands-on experience. Besides structured classes, the store offers DIY craft kits that groups can explore together at the store or take home for ongoing projects, allowing the creative fun to extend beyond the visit. Celebrating special occasions? Paper Source’s custom invitations and stationery services provide a unique group activity as friends can co-design personalized event invitations, bringing everyone’s ideas together in a tangible keepsake. Moreover, the extensive assortment of fine papers, colorful gift wraps, and embellishments invites group members to craft personalized gifts or decorative items, enhancing the engagement through shared creativity. This combination of workshops, supplies, and personalized services makes Paper Source not just a store but a creative hub perfect for meaningful, social gatherings.
How does the setting at Paper Source enhance group experiences?
The ambiance at Paper Source significantly amplifies the group experience by combining an intimate boutique feel with an inspiring, artful environment. The store is thoughtfully designed with vibrant displays of luxury papers and carefully arranged crafting materials, creating an atmosphere that naturally sparks creativity in social settings. The staff plays a crucial role by offering knowledgeable guidance and personalized assistance, ensuring that each visitor, whether novice or expert, feels comfortable exploring new techniques and products. This supportive environment enables groups to experiment and learn together, promoting excitement and mutual encouragement. Additionally, many locations provide ample space for group activities and workshops, which facilitates interaction and collaboration without crowding, adding to the comfort and enjoyment of the gathering. The aesthetic beauty of the store itself also energizes groups by surrounding them with color, texture, and design, all of which contribute positively to group dynamics and the overall quality of the meetup.
What kinds of personalized services make Paper Source stand out for special events?
One of Paper Source’s standout features for group meetups is its comprehensive offering of personalized services, which adds special value for those organizing or celebrating milestone events. The store excels at custom invitations and announcements, perfect for occasions such as weddings, birthdays, or baby showers. Groups can work collaboratively on designs, choosing from exclusive, proprietary patterns and colors that reflect the spirit of the event. Beyond invitations, Paper Source offers customization for stationery, gift wrap, and embossers that can be tailored with names, dates, or unique motifs, allowing the group to elevate their celebrations with elegant, thoughtful details. These personalized options encourage active participation from all group members as they contribute creative ideas, fostering a deeper connection with the event and each other. Because Paper Source streamlines the process with expert assistance, it makes planning and crafting for special occasions both efficient and enjoyable, providing a valued sense of accomplishment for the whole group.
What makes Paper Source a great choice compared to other meetup venues?
Paper Source offers a combination of creative immersion and retail convenience that is rare among typical meetup venues. Unlike restaurants or entertainment centers where the primary activity is consuming food or watching performances, Paper Source provides an interactive environment where groups create together, resulting in tangible outcomes like handmade cards or personalized gifts. This active participation promotes bonding through teamwork, creativity, and shared learning. The variety of supplies and workshop options means groups have flexible choices to tailor their experience based on interests and skill levels, making it inclusive for various ages and personalities. Additionally, Paper Source’s boutique ambiance and warm customer service create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation and engagement rather than passive attendance. Importantly, the store’s carefully curated selection of high-quality paper goods and craft supplies inspires artistic expression, setting a tone of thoughtful celebration and meaningful connection that many other venues cannot replicate. This unique mix makes Paper Source not just a place to visit but a destination for memorable, enriching social interactions.
How can Paper Source accommodate different group sizes and interests?
Paper Source is highly adaptable in accommodating groups of varying sizes and interests, thanks to its spacious layouts and diverse activity options. For smaller groups, personalized workshops offer an intimate setting where each member receives focused attention, allowing for detailed guidance and a relaxed pace. Larger groups can take advantage of open crafting areas where they can spread out and collaborate on bigger projects like event planning or themed gift creation. The store’s versatile crafting kits also cater to different interests, from scrapbooking and journaling to card making and party décor, providing choices that suit a broad range of tastes and artistic skills. Paper Source staff work closely with groups to customize experiences that match their unique goals, whether it’s a casual get-together or an organized celebration. This flexibility ensures that every member can engage meaningfully, keeping the event lively and inclusive regardless of group dynamics or creative preferences.
What role do Paper Source’s products play in enhancing meetup experiences?
The products at Paper Source play a central role in enriching group meetups by offering premium materials that inspire creativity and provide a tactile, sensory experience. Its extensive inventory ranges from textured fine papers, vibrant envelopes, and specialty card stocks to unique gift wrap and embellishments that are virtually unmatched in aesthetic quality. These products invite experimentation and personalization, giving groups the tools to create one-of-a-kind cards, invitations, or decor items that reflect their combined creativity. Paper Source also stocks carefully curated art supplies and craft kits, allowing participants to embark on projects with everything they need at hand, which eliminates the hassle of gathering materials and facilitates spontaneous crafting. The distinctive color palettes and exclusive designs spark fresh ideas and make the outcomes more impressive and satisfying. By providing access to such exceptional materials, Paper Source transforms ordinary meetups into inspiring creative sessions with meaningful, visually beautiful results that guests can cherish or gift.
Why are the workshops at Paper Source a highlight for visitors?
Workshops are a cornerstone of the Paper Source experience, offering visitors much more than simple shopping excursions. These carefully crafted sessions provide structured learning opportunities where groups can develop new skills, try different crafting methods, and complete beautiful projects together. Workshops cover diverse topics such as greeting card assembly, calligraphy, junk journaling, and seasonal crafts, ensuring there’s something to excite every creative interest. The social aspect of workshops encourages interaction and conversation, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared accomplishment as participants encourage and learn from one another. Led by experienced instructors, these sessions are designed to be accessible for beginners but also engaging enough for seasoned crafters, creating an inclusive atmosphere. The hands-on nature of workshops makes them an ideal group activity since participants leave not only with handmade creations but also with new skills and memories, making workshops an ongoing draw for repeat visits and social gatherings.
How accessible is Paper Source for hosting group events?
Paper Source is well-equipped to host group events with thoughtful accommodations that enhance accessibility and convenience. Most locations are situated in shopping centers or malls with ample parking and easy transit options, which simplifies travel logistics for groups coming from different areas. Store hours are typically generous, allowing flexibility in scheduling events on evenings or weekends to fit group availability. The physical layout is designed to provide open spaces conducive to group gathering without feeling cramped, and the staff is trained to assist groups with setup, materials, and guidance during activities. Paper Source also offers private event possibilities at some locations, giving groups dedicated space and tailored support for parties or corporate team-building sessions. These factors combine to create a welcoming, user-friendly environment that is sensitive to group needs, ensuring that the entire experience is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
How does Paper Source inspire continued creativity beyond the meetup?
Paper Source’s influence extends well beyond the immediate meetup by encouraging all guests to continue their creative journeys at home. The store offers numerous take-home kits and supplies that empower groups to pursue individual or collaborative projects after the visit. Paper Source’s staff often provides personalized recommendations and resources, from online tutorials to seasonal project ideas, to inspire ongoing imagination. Many customers find that the skills learned during workshops translate into lasting hobbies like journaling or card making, nurturing long-term creative habits. Additionally, Paper Source’s curated selection of stationery and personalized items fosters connection through handwritten notes and gift-giving traditions that strengthen relationships. By cultivating a supportive creative community and providing tools that invite repeated engagement, Paper Source ensures that the inspiration sparked during group meetups continues to grow, maintaining the social bonds formed and encouraging continual self-expression.
What sets Paper Source’s customer service apart for groups?
Customer service at Paper Source is distinguished by attentiveness, expertise, and a genuine passion for fostering creativity, all of which are especially valuable for groups. Store associates are known for their friendly, patient approach and their willingness to help customers explore craft projects and select the ideal materials. For groups, this means personalized assistance tailored to diverse skill levels and interests, helping everyone from beginners to experienced crafters feel confident and supported. Staff members often offer creative suggestions and troubleshooting tips during workshops or drop-in visits, which encourages participants to experiment without hesitation. This high level of engagement ensures that group visits run smoothly and that everyone leaves satisfied with their creations and experience. The consistent quality of service promotes repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth, making Paper Source a trusted venue for meaningful, enjoyable social gatherings centered around creativity.