In a world where sustainability and aesthetics often seem at odds, Once Upon a Tuesday has successfully bridged the gap by offering stylish stationery products that are also eco-friendly. Founded during the first lockdown of 2020 by Michele Ferron, this UK-based startup has swiftly become a beacon of innovation in the stationery industry. This article explores how Once Upon a Tuesday combines style and sustainability, setting new standards for ethical business practices.
The Birth of a Sustainable Vision
The inception of Once Upon a Tuesday was driven by a desire to create beautiful, functional stationery that didn’t compromise on environmental values. Michele Ferron, the founder, saw an opportunity to design products that not only helped people organize their lives but also made a positive impact on the planet. From the outset, the brand committed to using 100% recycled paper for all its products, ensuring that every item was both stylish and sustainable.
Organic Beginnings
During the pandemic, Michele began creating calendars as a creative outlet and to manage her own busy life. The unique designs quickly caught the attention of others, leading to the launch of Once Upon a Tuesday. The name itself, inspired by a conversation with her daughter, reflects the brand’s ethos of questioning the status quo and making everyday items more special and meaningful.
Stylish Products with a Purpose
Once Upon a Tuesday offers a wide range of stationery products, each thoughtfully designed to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. Their collection includes:
Calendars and Planners
The brand’s flagship products are its calendars and planners. These are available in various formats, including annual, academic, and updated versions, catering to different organizational needs. The designs are modern and trend-led, making them a stylish addition to any workspace or home.
Notebooks and Journals
Once Upon a Tuesday’s notebooks and journals are equally impressive, featuring lay-flat designs and vibrant, contemporary covers. Like the calendars, these are printed on recycled paper, ensuring that users can enjoy high-quality stationery without contributing to environmental degradation.
Free Downloadable Resources
In addition to physical products, Once Upon a Tuesday offers free downloadable resources, such as holiday planners and office charts. These resources complement their stationery line, providing additional tools for organization and planning.
Commitment to Sustainability
What sets Once Upon a Tuesday apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. The brand adheres to several key principles to minimize its environmental impact:
Recycled Materials
All products are made from 100% recycled paper, significantly reducing the need for virgin materials and the associated environmental footprint. This practice helps conserve natural resources and supports recycling industries.
Minimal and Eco-Friendly Packaging
The company uses minimal packaging, which is also recycled and recyclable. This approach not only reduces waste but also aligns with the brand’s aesthetic of clean, simple design.
Local Production
Once Upon a Tuesday supports local economies by partnering with printers and suppliers within the UK. This not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also ensures high-quality production standards and ethical labor practices.
Ethical Business Practices
As a certified B Corporation, Once Upon a Tuesday meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification underscores the brand’s dedication to doing business in a way that benefits people and the planet. The company is also an accredited living wage employer, ensuring fair treatment and compensation for its employees.
Community Engagement and Equality
The brand is actively engaged in supporting social justice causes, such as the Black Lives Matter movement. Michele Ferron’s commitment to equality and community well-being is reflected in the company’s policies and initiatives, further solidifying its role as a responsible and ethical business
