Moxie brings noteworthy cards and gifts to West Seattle

One would think finding a greeting card is a no-brainer. But when you care enough to send your personal best, it becomes a chore. Drugstore cards are generally sappy, saccharine or silly. Mall stores have the same old same old. That's why I was thrilled to find Moxie Papergoods & Gifts, a recently opened shop in West Seattle that offers a wide array of modern cards, especially beautifully printed letter press cards.

Owners Kimberly Lin and Jodie Marr had a clear aesthetic in mind when opening their shop in a khaki-colored vintage building made of concrete block. They wanted the open, square space and merchandise to reflect simple, clean design and contemporary use of color. One wall displays dozens of styles of colorful sheet wrapping paper and the opposite wall has orderly rows of single cards. Gifts, stationery and more wrap are displayed on simple, white tables and shelves. There's a refreshing absence of giant floral cards that read "To Mother and Father from Their Daughter."

Lin and Marr have selected lines you won't find everywhere. Card lines include the minimalist but cheerful letter press cards by Snow & Graham, Little Oranges, and Egg Press. Local card selections include Nora Spangler's Noteriety Press designs. Her letter press cards, birth announcements and thank you notes are cute, but elegant. Paper Pye's made in Seattle hand-beaded cards have sweet and whimsical images for all occasions. Lumen and Vigo note cards from Europe have graphic prints and modern designs. They also do custom wedding invitations, birth announcements, "Just Moved" cards and personalized stationery.

Everything you need for wrapping pretty presents is here including Midori ribbon and gift bags. You'll even find gifts such as adorable onesies, Dani bath and body products, and candles. Granted, you can't buy your toothpaste, snack crackers and cough drops here like at other card carriers, but that's a minor drawback.

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