Thank you Sir Henry Cole

In 1843 a postal worker, Sir Henry Cole, was thinking about how the new Post Office could be relevant for everyday people. So with an artist he designed the very first Christmas card. Proper post is a luxury. I’m not talking about a bill or piece of advertising, but a real letter. It makes sense that Christmas is a time to indulge and take the time to write a card.

In my twenties writing Christmas cards felt like a complete waste of time. Anyone I loved I’d see. That is no longer true. This year, my best friend has moved back to Northern Ireland and another opted out of the London rat race and relocated to Brighton. With a newborn and a toddler, the likelihood of me making it as far as Oxford Street is debatable, let alone getting on a train or aeroplane to see my friends. In a bid to be organised this Christmas I wrote a checklist, please click here to read it. So first thing on my Christmas “to do” list is to buy and write my Christmas cards.

This year, I’ve got cards from new stationary brand Taab London. It’s the work of graphic designer and illustrator Thomasin Arnold-Baker. I like her use of typography mixed with painting and artwork. Her designs are delightfully clean and simple.

Alongside cards for all occasions, TAAB London also does gift wrap and tags. They aren’t specifically Christmas related, which is great as you don’t need to worry about how much to buy. You can mix and match the tags and paper, as they all work well together. All TAAB London products are made in the UK from FSC approved, sustainable sources before being finished by hand in the London studio.

So get out your pen and start spreading some Christmas cheer, and raise a glass to Sir Henry Cole who thought the idea up in the first place.

Last posting date in the UK for 1^st class is Wednesday 21^st December.

Visit Taab London at www.taablondon.com

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