A favorite paper shop on Granville Island

A paper shop worthy of stationery addicts

I recently found myself on Granville Island in Vancouver, British Colombia. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I loved it! There were many highlights, but none compared to stepping into Paper-Ya; a paper shop worthy of stationery addicts everywhere.

Thirty years and going strong

Almost thirty years ago, Denise Carson Wilde and Sharyn Yuen, both artists, opened the doors to what has become known as an iconic stationery store in this very hipster, trendy district on the water.

A kid in a candy store experience

When I walked in the store, I was overwhelmed with all that was before me. It was as though I couldn’t even function or decide which way to turn first.

Of course, that didn’t last long as I poked about in every nook and cranny, and then toured it all over again (it was around this point that the kids made their exit).

Who said paper is dead?

It was a Saturday afternoon and the store was bustling with people and activity. It was crowded, hardly space to turn around in.

So many treasures; journals, a magnificent collection of specialty papers, wax seals, calendars, an amazing range of everything needed in the world of calligraphy, pens and inks, and much more that attracted the masses.

Celebration of paper

As I chatted with some of the staff, who were completely amazing and more than willing to share their enthusiasm for the store, it became clear to me that this was more than just a business.

Paper-Ya is about the celebration of all things paper. And clearly it still resonates with people, even after nearly thirty years.

Do you have a favorite paper store?

Let me know and I will include in my “Shops of Note” collection.

P.S.  You will be interested to note my girls spent a fair bit of time themselves in the store, made a few purchases too, but they couldn’t compete with their mama who could spend an eternity in such a place.