The story of Once Upon a Tuesday, a UK-based stationery brand, is a remarkable journey of creativity, sustainability, and innovation. Founded by Michele Ferron during the first lockdown of 2020, the brand has quickly established itself as a leading name in eco-friendly stationery. This article explores the inspiring journey from the initial concept to the creation of Once Upon a Tuesday’s beloved products.
The Birth of an Idea
The idea for Once Upon a Tuesday emerged from a combination of necessity and creativity. During the lockdown, Michele Ferron found herself seeking a way to stay organized amidst the chaos. She began designing calendars and planners as a personal project, aiming to bring a touch of beauty and order to her daily life. These designs quickly gained attention, leading Michele to realize there was a market for stylish, functional, and sustainable stationery.
Naming the Brand
The name “Once Upon a Tuesday” has a charming origin. It was inspired by a conversation Michele had with her six-year-old daughter, Flora. While discussing stories and fairy tales, Flora questioned why they always started with “Once upon a time” instead of something more relatable, like “Once upon a Tuesday.” This whimsical conversation led to the brand name, symbolizing the blend of practicality and enchantment that defines their products.
Designing with Purpose
Once the concept was established, the next step was to design products that were not only beautiful but also eco-friendly. Michele’s vision was to create stationery that people would love to use, without compromising on sustainability.
Product Development
Each product begins with a design process focused on aesthetics and functionality. Michele’s background in design played a crucial role in developing unique, trend-led products. From calendars and planners to notebooks and journals, every item is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The designs feature vibrant colors, modern patterns, and practical layouts that cater to various organizational needs.
Sustainable Materials
A core principle of Once Upon a Tuesday is the use of sustainable materials. All products are printed on 100% recycled paper, significantly reducing the environmental impact. This choice not only supports recycling industries but also ensures that the products are free from harmful chemicals typically used in conventional paper production.
Ethical Production
Producing stationery in an ethical manner is as important as the design itself. Once Upon a Tuesday is committed to maintaining high ethical standards throughout the production process.
Local Sourcing and Production
To minimize their carbon footprint, the brand partners with local printers and suppliers in the UK. This approach not only supports local businesses but also ensures that production processes are closely monitored for quality and sustainability. Keeping production local also aligns with the brand’s commitment to reducing transportation emissions and promoting local economies.
Minimal Packaging
Sustainability extends to the packaging as well. Once Upon a Tuesday uses minimal packaging made from recycled and recyclable materials. This thoughtful approach minimizes waste while ensuring that products reach customers in perfect condition. The packaging is designed to be as eco-friendly as possible, without compromising on the excitement of unboxing a beautifully crafted item.
Certification and Recognition
In recognition of their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, Once Upon a Tuesday has achieved B Corporation certification. This prestigious certification is awarded to companies that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. It underscores the brand’s dedication to using business as a force for good.
Community and Social Impact
Beyond their products, Once Upon a Tuesday actively engages in supporting social causes. The brand is vocal about its support for movements like Black Lives Matter and strives to promote equality and community well-being. This commitment to social justice is reflected in their business practices and community initiatives, further solidifying their role as a responsible and ethical brand
