Shop Localista: Truly Yours Delivers the Write Stuff

It's been said that the pen is mightier than the sword, but it would seem that Generation Text could use an emailed reminder or two on the topic. Technology has replaced the sincere sentiment of handheld ink with handheld devices, and the signature style of long-hand letters has suffered as a result.

Luckily, the art of the handwritten note is coming back. In fact, the sumptuous luxury of personalized stationery is something Jean Zucker, owner of Truly Yours on Baker Street, is seeing as a growing trend. "The younger set sees it as exotic," she said. "The older timers never gave up the tradition, but it's wonderful to see a new generation embrace the simple pleasures of choosing, using and receiving personalized stationery."

Far from an archaic skill set, Zucker sees stationery and its use as something that can help one make their mark amidst the hustle and bustle of high-tech gadgetry. "Sending a hand-written note is something that actually sets one a part," she explained. "It's a great way to stand out from the crowd- when sending a 'thank you', invitation or follow-up to a job interview."

"Not only does it make an impressive impact," she continued, "it conveys an evolved, respectful and gracious awareness that's a bit lacking in the frantic pace of today's world."

Truly Yours has been in business for nearly forty years and happily at home on Baker Street for most of that time.  Zucker has amassed a vast assortment of meticulously organized stationery, card stock and related accessories to satiate most any budget or taste. From opulent Vera Wang and classic Cranes to whimsical, witty and kid-friendly cards, the store's shelves are lined with choices suited to tastefully convey every one of life's occasions, emotions, tribulations and celebrations. Elegant ink and embossed address stamps sit side by side with noteworthy notepads.

Maplewood-born and raised, Zucker attended Tuscan Elementary, Maplewood Junior High and Columbia High and feels a strong connection with the town and its residents. Pairing young note writing novices with their first personalized stationery is something that Zucker still particularly delights in after all these years. "It's always a pleasure to help someone express themselves," she said. "Plus, stationery lets one experiment with trying on new personalities."

Unlike clothing or accessories, Zucker expressed, people don't walk around sharing stationery with the world-- just the people with whom they really want to communicate. Now that's a great take on signature style!

Truly Yours is offering Patch readers a truly great Shop Localista deal of the week: just mention this Patch article and Jean will graciously take a walloping 50% off imprinting personalized stationery (name and in-store stock only). Offer is good Friday, August 27^th through Thursday, September 2^nd.

Truly Yours: 96 Baker St, Maplewood, NJ 07040 | 973-763-3838.

Hours: Tues - Fri, 10am - 5pm; Sat, 10am - 4pm; Sun, Mon, closed. Closed Saturdays during the summer.