Well if this isn’t just the cutest shop in the world – I don’t know what is! Literati Party is an online shop that carries party goods + books + gifts that celebrate imagination in the everyday and the important chapters in your life! Adorable themes and all-in-one packs will simplify your life all well amplifying your joy. If there’s anything we need in 2020, it’s joy. And Literati Party delivers. Literati Party is run by Andrea St Onge a mom of two, to Harper (10) and Eddie (6). In addtion to her kiddos, she and husband Ed, have four feline children too: Lou, Larry, Gordon, and Oscar. Their full house and full hearts all go into the special little shop.
Tell us what makes Literati Party special.
You won’t find items in my shop that you can find in the big box stores…everything is unique, high quality and selected by me from vendors around the world. For the busy party planning mom (or dad!), I offer fun, themed party boxes on my site or I can customize a party just for you. I also developed a collection of Storybook party boxes that combine themed party goods with a book and a craft or activity that are perfect for small parties, playdates or just a bit of family fun.
What made you start the business?
I am a one-woman shop and have been in business for only about 6 months now. I started Literati Party after the closing of my other party business, Lou & Pepper, last Spring. My inspiration for the new company came from my love of both parties and books. I have a true passion for creating children’s birthday parties. I love coming up with décor ideas and curating the perfect party goods. I have also always loved reading and since having my two kiddos, I have been able to rediscover the fun in children’s books, both old and new. It seemed like a natural fit to combine the two things since popular children’s party themes often mirror the imaginative characters and settings in books. Expect to find swashbuckling pirates, pre-historic pals, friendly woodland critters, under the sea creatures, out of this world explorers, pretty princesses and more in my shop.
How have you had to pivot during the pandemic?
Because my shop is online, I have done fairly well through the pandemic and now things are starting to pick up more with the custom party side of the business too. On slower days, I had the time to come up with new product offerings and research new trends.
What’s up next for Literati Party?
Next for the business is to keep expanding inventory and work on growing my following on social media, especially Pinterest. I am excited about the possibility of a brick and mortar shop in the future and would love to see that happen in 2021.
How can people shop at Literati Party for holiday gifts?
I have some wonderful books and gift items in the shop that would be great for any children on your list. I also have adorable enamel pins, perfect for book lovers. Plus I am always happy to put together custom party boxes filled with cute disposable plates and napkins if you want to give someone the gift of not having to wash the dishes!
How does your family help with the shop?
I like to include my kids in projects like packaging items or picking out new inventory…after all they are my target market. My kids are always willing to help me out blowing up balloons for custom installations or garlands but then I usually lose them to playing with the balloons more than working. My husband is a huge help. Life gets pretty chaotic with kids sports and activities and he has been a huge supporter of my business by taking the kids to do things on the weekends when I have to set-up custom parties.
Any encouragement for finding joy and celebrations during the pandemic?
All in all, I would just like people to remember that celebrations are not cancelled! They may just be at home and with a much smaller crowd, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still make it a party with decorations and fun tableware.
