Local Business Spotlight- PAPERKEET!

When in need of suggestions of all sorts, I go straight to The Source-FacebookI know, I bet you are rolling your eyes right now because I called Facebook "The Source", but it is true. I make a point of includingnothing but the most diverse, informed, local and sassy people that I can find in my social network. So, yesterday when I was in need of a LOCAL, INEXPENSIVE and AWESOME stationary supplier, I posted the "Want Ad" on my Facebook Page. Within seconds, my ultra hip friend Aly suggested Paperkeet.

Paperkeet, is located on Morganford in the the Morganford Business District of Tower Grove South (that was a mouthful). I called and discussed some prices (inexpensive for custom) for thank-you cards with the owner, Tori and decided to head on over. The store was nothing short of amazing! Call me silly, but I didn't think she would have so much stuff to look at...and it was all so colorful. There were samples for cocktail parties, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries lining the walls. The designs where whimsical, classic, edgy, pretty, masculine and anything else you never thought paper could convey. Not to mention, she had stuffed owls...I LOVE OWLS, they were a HOOT!

Tori was nothing short of amazing either, not to mention she is a stunning red head (did you hear that guys?). She understood that it was essential for whatever design I picked had to represent me as a person, because in real estate, YOU are your own brand. I can't tell you what a relief that is not to have to explain to someone. If you know me, you would understand that stationary with pretty flowers on it just wasn't going to cut it. She suggested and awesome envelope color too, makes sense because it is the first impression for the message. I can't wait to see my custom designs, and start sending out my wonderful cards! If you are in need of stationary, invites, gift-tags or announcements you should consider heading over there, and supporting local business!

Paperkeet is located at 3237 Morganford Rd. Phone number is 314.773.1117

Tower Grove South- Creating Neighborhood Longevity and Stabilty by Using Diverse Local Businesses as Anchors

Hartford Coffee, where I hold all my business meetings 

Tower Grove South has seen a huge renaissance in the past decade, let's explore part of the "why?". 

Tower Grove South is bounded by Arsenal St. on the north, Chippewa St. on the south, Kingshighway Blvd. on the west, and Grand Blvd. on the east. Within these borders are several unique Mainstreet and Cornerstore destinations, holding the 'hood together like Superglue.


Historically, in this neighborhood you could command a higher price for your home the closer you were to Tower Grove Park & South Grand. Housing prices tended to severely decrease the closer you got to Morganford, due to lack of commercial development at the time. However, in about the last 2-3 years new businesses have arrived in the Morganford Business District, and housing prices in the blocks connected to it are starting to reflect that fact. 

Arsenal faces into Tower Grove Park. Tower Grove Park offers its guest beautifully diverse vegetation, a 3.3 mile strolling path, historic buildings, pavilions, statues, several elaborate gated entrances, a playground, fountains, gazing pond and so much more. Not to mention it plays host to several cultural festivals a year, a seasonal farmer's market and adult team sports leagues. 

S. Grand Business District is a destination for boutique shopping, international cuisine, electric nightlife and yummy treats!

Morganford, In my opinion is still struggling a bit to find its identity and fill its available spaces. However, it is doing much much better than a couple years ago. It now plays host to some boutique shopping, a local food market (yummy), several restaurants and some unique bars.  

Within the neighborhood, you have several delightful destinations that are popular with the locals. Just to list a few...Hartford Coffee, A Walk in the Park, Gustine Market, Black Thorn Pub & Pizza, The Civil Life , Friendly's,  Parkside Cakery and Oak Hill Hardware.

I think what is important to point out about the success of Tower Grove South, is that the neighborhood offers a little something for everyone. The types of businesses are diverse, and they include services that people residing within the neighborhood need. There is a local dog groomer, salon, barber, dry cleaners, grocery stores, gas stations (maybe too may of these), health food store, a spa offering massages, a stationary store, an optometrist...I could go on. The people of the neighborhood patronize these places, sometimes paying a bit more here and there, but the money gets pumped right back into the local economy.