Feminist Greeting Card Store Opens at Portland International Airport

A unique addition to Portland International Airport (PDX) has arrived with the opening of Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card store. This vibrant shop, known for its heartfelt and humorous cards, aims to provide travelers with a refreshing alternative to traditional greeting cards, celebrating the complexities of human emotions and experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Unique Concept: Paper Epiphanies offers feminist-themed greeting cards that reflect authentic human experiences.
• Founder’s Journey: Victoria Venturi started the brand after a personal loss, aiming to create cards that resonate with real-life moments.
• Airport Location: The store is one of the first independent greeting card shops in a U.S. airport, designed to uplift travelers.
• Inclusive Design: The store features a pink aesthetic and collaborates with local artists, enhancing the shopping experience.

The Vision Behind Paper Epiphanies

Founded by Victoria Venturi, Paper Epiphanies began as a response to the lack of genuine and relatable greeting cards in the market. After losing her father in 2013, Venturi was struck by the inadequacy of standard condolence cards, which often failed to capture the essence of the person being honored. This experience inspired her to create cards that reflect the true spectrum of human emotions.

In 2014, Venturi launched her first cards from her apartment, focusing on authenticity and humor. The brand quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of its first brick-and-mortar store in Portland in 2021.

A Feminist Approach to Greeting Cards

Paper Epiphanies stands out in the greeting card industry by prioritizing women’s experiences. Venturi recognized that traditional cards often cater to conventional life milestones, overlooking the diverse paths women take. The store’s offerings include:

• Birthday Cards: Empowering messages that celebrate individuality.
• Sympathy Cards: Honest and sometimes humorous takes on loss.
• Motherhood Cards: Acknowledging the complexities of new motherhood with the “4th Trimester Collection.”

The Little Pink Palace at PDX

The new location at Portland International Airport is affectionately dubbed the “little pink palace.” It features:

• Vibrant Decor: The store is adorned in various shades of pink, creating an inviting atmosphere for travelers.
• Unique Offerings: Beyond cards, customers can find stationery, pens, and other creative supplies, making it a one-stop shop for travelers.
• Local Collaborations: The store showcases art from local artists, adding a community touch to the shopping experience.

Enhancing the Traveler Experience

Venturi’s vision for the store extends beyond selling cards. She aims to create a space that alleviates the stress of travel. The bright colors and upbeat music, featuring artists like Beyoncé and Charli XCX, contribute to a lively environment.

The store also engages with travelers through its “Mail High Club,” collecting and sending out mail, including postcards and letters, which adds a personal touch to the airport experience.

Conclusion

The opening of Paper Epiphanies at Portland International Airport marks a significant step in redefining the greeting card industry. By focusing on authenticity, humor, and the unique experiences of women, the store not only provides travelers with a delightful shopping experience but also fosters a sense of community and connection in the bustling airport environment.

Sources

• Feminist greeting card store Paper Epiphanies is Portland International Airport’s ‘little pink palace’, OregonLive.com.
• Greeting card store Paper Epiphanies opens at Portland International Airport, OregonLive.com.