Paper Skyscraper
Paper Skyscraper is one of our favorite shops. Notice that there is no in Charlotte, in North Carolina, or other geographic association. It is simply one of our favorite places. When EZ and I first met, we were constantly exploring and taking photographs, mostly around our neighborhood because that was most convenient for evenings after work. It was on one of those after-work adventures that we first experienced the tranquility and romance of Paper Skyscraper.
Having exhausted the offerings of South End proper, we ventured towards Dilworth one evening, and decided to check out the unique looking store on East Boulevard between Thai Taste and Euclid Avenue. We had no idea that it would swallow us up in its eclectic mix of gifts, cards, and reading materials. Their website calls the store, “5000 square feet of curated books, cards, and gifts,” and I think the distinction of curation highlights the fact that they have a rotating stock of purposely selected cards, gifts, and book. We often spend an hour browsing and laughing together before we leave with the one card we needed.
It originally began as a small book store selling architecture and art books, but as you can see, Paper Skyscraper grew over the years. Now you can find everything from specialty soaps and housewares to cheeky cards congratulating someone on their eventual success.
We really enjoy their card selection, and unlike the grocery or pharmacy, I always manage to find a perfect card for everything from college graduation to confirmation to making my beautiful wife smile on a random Tuesday. I have gained a reputation for buying gifts for EZ when we visit together, and sneaking them home to surprise her later. While they definitely have all ranges of humor covered, I appreciate their large selection of cards with no writing on the inside. Some things are best said using your own words.
Recently, I came across these cards by Kristen Henderson that are letterpressed right here in South End. I always like to support local businesses, and buying these cards at Paper Skyscraper lets me support two at once!
One of the great things about visiting the shop is the wonderful people who work there. Everyone is always nice and very helpful, but our favorite person behind the counter is actually not a person. I was so happy to find Paper Skyscraper’s star employee hanging out on the counter when I stopped for holiday cards.
In summary, if you have not been to Paper Skyscraper, you need to visit. They have everything you need from scrapbooking to cooking, and it is definitely one the most peaceful and entertaining shopping experiences around.
