Hello Blog World!

I am beyond excited to be entering the world of blogging today! For years, countless family and friends have been encouraging me to utilize some of these great online resources, but having a phobia for anything not "PAPER", I continued to procrastinate year after year :). Boy, are they going to be proud of me! I've always told myself that 2010 is going to be different, and this is my start!

Hello! My name is Nikki and I'm the designer behind The Collection Design Studio. Having grown up in a family full of artists and authors, creativity was always in the air. Growing up, I forever remember having two great passions... Paper & Science. While working on my degree in Biology, I remember how I would sprint to my favorite paper store (Elements) across the street from the university after each lecture. I memorized every color and texture of paper sold. Through the eyes of a 'paper-lover', I always compared paper to fabric or a blank canvas- ready to be transformed into a piece of art so amazing. In the Spring of 1996, pages and pages of doodles on lecture notes were finally put on paper, and it was then The Collection was founded. During those early years between studying and designing, I spent several weekends a month showcasing my work at local art shows and fundraising events until I was able to build a large clientele that I am so grateful for. Once graduated, I embraced corporate America :), and worked in the pharmaceutical industry as a clinical researcher for about six years. Three short years after marrying my high school sweetheart and best friend Joe, my third greatest passion was born- my son Micah! I was extremely fortunate to be able to put corporate on hold, and to stay home with Micah and continue my dreams of designing. When people ask me to describe Micah, I always say he's a 3 year old, with an old soul. He's fun, curious and full of thoughtfulness and heart. Being my greatest inspiration in designing, Micah has shown me through his everyday activities, that 'simplicity is beautiful'. Whether it be a rock, a flower or a shell found, he will love each as if they were jewels. So awesome!

With designs that are clean, fun and classic, The Collection Design Studio specializes in all things PAPER::

- Custom invitations and announcements

- Personalized stationery

- Corporate stationery

- Special events programs, menus and escort cards

- Hand-bound books and journals

I believe the greatest part of my job is knowing that I had played a role in helping a client plan an event that will be remembered for a lifetime. Whether it be your wedding invitation, your first baby's birth announcement or a quick handwritten card, I hope my designs will leave a lasting impression.

Thank you to all my family, friends and clients for your endless support throughout the years!

When Micah and I are not playing or designing, you can find us at our other office... THE BEACH. So, please feel free to email us any comments or questions at nikki@thecollectiondesignstudio.com.

Thanks for visiting!