trend: calling cards

"Who was it that said--in the Victorian era probably, and a man of course--'The only mechanical tool needed by a woman is a hair pin?' He might have added that with a hair pin and a visiting card, she is ready to meet most emergencies."-Etiquette by Emily Post

 

calling card (also known as visiting card) (noun) a personal card that was common amongst the aristocracy of Europe and the U.S. As part of French and English etiquette, the elite would deliver this card inscribed with his or her name on it to one's home and request a visit. The appearance of the cards ranged from the ornately engraved to plain. It's modern cousin--the business card.

Sure the elaborate Victorian era rules regarding the calling card have relaxed into 'Hey text me!' Yet it looks like the old fashioned social networking tool has made its comeback. Call it the original Facebook. Confused? Aren't we just talking about Daddy's business cards? Not exactly. As Crane & Co describes on their website, these colorful, bold, design filled personal cards are "the perfect personal introduction for those occasions when a business card is too business-like." 

Printed with one's name, contact info and a personal logo, these cards are popular among playdate-seeking moms, retirees, college students, yuppies and barhopping bachelors. So popular, according to Time magazine ("The Return of the calling card"), Peter Hopkins of Crane & Co, says "Is it technology fatigue? A colorful way of branding yourself? We're not sure but the demand is clear. They are our fastest growing item." So fast, in fact, the article states sales of these cards at Crane & Co have doubled in the last two years.

I witnessed the trend myself at my high school reunion. From SAHMs (that's "stay at home moms" for those who have not yet attended a reunion) to entrepreneurs, they all had their chic and fancy calling cards ready to distribute. And they worked. Stodgy business cards work for exactly that--business. But the inviting canary yellow calling card with its fun, whimsical font that I found in my wallet from the reunion did make me want to call my old friend from middle school.

The fun comes in designing or finding a card that reflects your personality. Stationary stores have some templates ready with designs ranging from corvettes to flowers, bold to subtle. Or if you are feeling creative, try designing your own with software like Microsoft Publisher. Take it into your local Kinko's and you'll be handing them out in no time.

See you later business cards. There's a new card in town...and she's much prettier.

Inspiration and more info:
The return of the calling card
Crane & Co personal calling cards
Papyrus custom printing

Image source: pinkrickshaw

-SD

Comments

[Leigh]

I thought you had me pegged at SAHM, then I got to "canary yellow card" and really had a laugh! :) Call me anytime. Love your blog, btw. I'm a big cupcake fan too!