As we begin to celebrate our centennial, we want to showcase the customers who have helped support us throughout the years with a Customer of the Month showcase, a series dedicated to recognizing longtime Paper Mart customers and their stories.
Today we’re sharing our conversation with Tammy Dulla, the founder and creator of Ink & Innuendos. In case you haven’t heard of them already, Ink & Innuendos is a SoCal-based business that produces engraved and embossed goods. Jump into Tammy’s story here!
A Little Bit About Ink & Innuendos
I’d just like to take a moment to let you know that we love your calligraphy and engravings. Your posts definitely help brighten up our everyday feed!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and the Ink & Innuendo story. How did you get inspired to start?
I am Tammy, founder and creator of Ink & Innuendos. I am a professional calligrapher and engraver based in Downtown Anaheim. I’ve been married for 5 years this year, and raise a beautiful white Bengal, Koba.
Side note: Before her, I was never a cat person, but now she’s my favorite thing.
I was first inspired by fellow calligraphy artists on social media, about 5 years ago. I’ve always enjoyed drawing and lettering, and really wasn’t aware there was an industry out there specifically for that skillset.
It all started with a ballpoint pen and teaching myself basic techniques in hopes to have it all down for my own wedding day-of details. It was within those few months leading up to my wedding that brides were reaching out to me to create their special day-of details. I thought to myself “Wow, people actually like my work and want to pay for it!” It’s a strange feeling, but to see and hear the joy my work brings others, there’s nothing like it.
Since then, I have taken on every challenge to bring my client’s visions to life on whatever medium they desired. It wasn’t until I left my corporate job in 2019, that I truly invested in my side hustle to make it my full time business.
Very cool! I think we can relate, but on a different level. While we don’t usually create the specialty boxes that we sell, we work very hard in sourcing and stocking a wide variety of packaging for every need or instance. So whenever we see or hear of anybody who has used our product to help bring people joy, it’s definitely a validating experience.
In terms of items that you’ve personalized, Do you have any favorite creations that you wanted to share with us?
Over the last couple years, I have played with various avenues to see what work I am actually proud to produce and what captivates my clients. My absolute favorite creations are my engraving work. Elegant and luxurious, but also no room to mess up! I think that is why I find the most joy once I complete an engraving project.
As you know, we’re celebrating our 100th year as a family-owned business and we couldn’t have done it without your support throughout the years. What are your thoughts on the importance of shopping family owned and local?
Shopping family-owned and local is much more than the product itself. To support your community, and hardworking individuals that pour their heart and soul into every day – that hits home to me. Not just because I run a small business, but my family used to own a Chinese restaurant in New York.
When you support family-owned, you literally help put food on their tables, and become a lifeline for them. It’s about genuine connection that builds trust and loyalty, not just dollar signs. Now more than ever, family-owned and small businesses need the love and support, which is one of the many reasons I admire Paper Mart.
Ink & Innuendos + Paper Mart
How did you hear about us and what keeps you coming back?
My sister, Michelle (@michellesbakedcreations), actually referred me to Paper Mart! She runs her own small business making French macarons, at least until the pandemic hit. She always uses Paper Mart supplies for her packaging so when I decided to really invest in my business, Paper Mart was the obvious choice for my supply needs.
From quality and inventory of products, to the amazing service I receive whenever I do a Will Call pickup, Paper Mart makes the experience super easy. The inventory of product options supports all sizes, shapes, and colors, making it super easy to color coordinate and cater to my needs. That is what kept me coming back for the last two years, and why I continue to support and recommend Paper Mart.
When someone is willing to spend their hard earned money on commissioning me for a project, I want to make sure that not only is my work flawless, but the entirety of the product. That starts with packaging and the little details. Packaging is so essential to the overall look and feel of a product, and I know I can always count on Paper Mart to elevate my products.
What are your favorite Paper Mart products and why do you love them?
It all started with satin ribbons and kraft bags – there are so many choices and all at incredible pricing! I then expanded to kraft boxes, crinkle paper, and much more. I’ve ordered a ton of different supplies so it’s hard to scale down my favorite.
I definitely love the cellophane bags and rolls! The roll options are perfect for custom wrapping any size giftables, from ring dishes to bottles of wine. No matter what products I purchase, I always find consistent quality, and they always provide that extra flair for my packaging. You can call it the cherry on top!
Shop Tammy’s Favorites
Paper Mart Supports Turning Your Side Hustle Into A Full-Time Business
From your first set of hand-lettered postcards to your millionth set of hand-embossed anniversary glassware, we support you! We want you to know that we’re always here to help you and your business with quality supplies for your business and professional packaging advice. From cello bags to help keep your handmade items impeccable to boxes and labels for shipping, we’ve got your business covered.
These images are courtesy of Ink & Innuendos. If you want to check out Tammy’s luxury lettering, follow the official Ink & Innuendos social media (Instagram) and website!
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