Photo Courtesy of Vivre
I heard it a few weeks ago, but did not want to believe it until it was confirmed. Then I read about it in the New York Times. Mrs. Strong, founded in 1929, has closed. Their fine, handmade writing paper represented a genteel, elegant way of living, entertaining and communicating. The demise of a great American brand like this says something about the times we are living in. Nannette Brown, a style icon of mine, purchased the company several years ago, injecting a youthful, au courant style into the signature red and brown packaging, design selection, icons, candles and gifts. Her freshening of the brand attracted a new customer, and it was easy to believe there would always be a loyal following, willing to spend more than usual to leave a lasting impression. A splurge for some, a necessity for others, handmade quality products like this seem to be a dying breed. Brown tried to find a buyer for the company she revived, to no avail. Is there a company out there that will swoop in and save Strong?
If there is no turnaround in sight, take your custom plates to the following brands: The Printery in Oyster Bay, Dempsey and Carroll, and Smythson of Bond Street.