This article is a bit different to usual because it's a guest blog! The following post has been the written by the wonderful Jennie from Olive and Mabel, and once you're done readying this you can take a peak at the post I've written over on her website. It's a juicy inside look at my process behind designing a new collection. Okay, onto the article now!
Hey, my names Jennie and I run an online independent stationery store called Olive & Mabel.
I stock a bunch of independent stationery brands on my website, fun fact Lately Studio was actually one of the first 7 brands that I launched with. You can still find some Lately products on my website, alongside 70+ other indie brands!
I’ve always loved stationery, and I know its a cliche to say but it’s true! I mean who doesn’t love a fresh notebook or pen. And don’t get me started on Washi tape, although I know it’s not everyones favourite, but it sure is mine.
One thing I haven’t always been super into, but have recently found a love for is journaling. I’ve read a bunch of stuff about how journaling can benefit everyone in different ways, but I never actually put it into practice. However, I came across a “style” of journaling that works for me, and I think it’s a great way for other people to get into journaling. If your Insta feed is anything like mine, it’s full of picture perfect journal spreads, with the most perfect sticker placement and handwriting. Whilst I find it super inspiring to see such gorgeous spreads, it also made getting into journaling all the more daunting.
Now, rather than feeling the pressure to journal everyday and write about my thoughts and feelings, I write as and when I want to, and wanting to is the main point here. As soon as you feel “forced” to do something, you won’t want to do it. Which is why if I get the urge to journal, I will. If you were to flick through my journal, you’d would notice HUGE weekly gaps between each page This is because I don’t have the time to journal everyday, and that’s okay! Sometimes I’m inspired by a new washi tape or sticker sheet, or I’ve spent the day doing something I enjoy and I want to write about it. A lot of people think journaling has to be meaningful but in reality, it can be anything you want it to be.
I find journaling to be a great creative outlet, and a great way to use items in my stationery collection. There’s no point in hoarding onto those super cute sticker sheets forever, so why not create a journal spread with them. And don’t worry if you feel like you have nothing to write about, you could simply write about the washi tapes or stickers you’ve used on that page, and why you like/chose to use them. Or if you’re a lover of all things independent business like me, why not dedicate a page to items from some of your fave businesses?
I hope my little creative journaling ramble inspires you to journal on your own terms, and to not overthink journaling as a whole. It’s the perfect hobby to fit around your day to day life :)
