Papyrus

Profile

All that glitters is gold (and silver) at this national chain, where the proprietors recognize that shiny gift wrapping—with ribbon and a sequined card—is as important as the gift itself. The Manhattan locations definitely stock goods with more pizzazz than the greeting card aisle at Duane Reade. Shelves are lined with bejeweled birthday cards, floral-patterned stationery, and hand-made felt gift bags. A custom printing service lets you personalize pink tiara-and-wand little girl birthday announcements and bodice-shaped bridal shower invites. For wedding invitations, Papyrus stocks pricey brands Crane and Co. and William Arthur alongside the more economical Carlson Craft and mid-range Checkerboard. (If you're a bride in a rush, they’ll print up your form-letter thank you notes, too.) And just for good measure, Papyrus also carries some items—hand lotion, Rachel Ray cookbooks, and colorful “toothpick candles”—you might consider as a gift to go with all that wrapping. — Candace Taylor

Key Departments

Invitations

Specializing in high-quality custom printing and engraving, these bustling shops sell traditional invitations from a variety of stationers, including Crane & Co., William Arthur, and Checkerboard (from $100 for 25 printed invitations).