In the world of holiday decorations, one group of dynamic Black women has taken the lead in transforming the landscape. J’aaron Merchant, Jasmine Hudson, and Madia Willis, founders of The Black Paper Party, noticed a gap in the market when it came to authentic and diverse holiday representations. Fueled by their backgrounds in retail and illustration, they embarked on a journey to bring their vision to life, creating a brand that celebrates Black families during the festive season.
Birth of the Black Paper Party
The journey began with a simple but profound question: Why should the imagery on gift wrapping paper always look the same? The trio set out to introduce more Black representation into the beautiful tapestry of holiday imagery, with a commitment to inclusivity and authenticity. From award-winning illustrations to premium wrapping paper, gift bags, ornaments, greeting cards, and decor, each piece embodies the spirit of diversity.
A Labor of Love
The Black Paper Party team takes pride in crafting products that resonate with their customers, helping them create holiday memories filled with joy and a true sense of belonging. Heartwarming stories from customers reveal the impact of seeing themselves reflected in the designs, making the effort a labor of love with a meaningful reward.
Expanding the Black Paper Party Collection
The Black Paper Party collection has evolved to include an array of offerings beyond wrapping paper and gift bags. From 24-karat gold-plated keepsake ornaments to stylish holiday cards, gift tags, stickers, and home decor goods featuring Black families, Santas, angels, and humorously dubbed “gnomies,” the brand has become synonymous with spreading joy and inclusivity.
Exciting New Additions
In addition to their established designs, Black Paper Party is set to launch new additions in 2023, including holiday ceramics for stunning table-top pieces, unique holiday stockings for a festive mantle, and metallic gift wrap with foil designs to elevate the gift-giving experience.
The Soul Christmas Collection
A highlight of 2023 is the introduction of the Soul Christmas collection, paying homage to the 70s era with stylish designs featuring a retro twist. This collection adds a new dimension to Black Paper Party’s commitment to representing and celebrating the rich tapestry of Black culture.
Exclusive Retail Partnerships
Black Paper Party has forged exclusive partnerships with major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Macy’s, Dollar General, CVS, and Family Dollar. These collaborations bring the brand’s unique holiday offerings to a wider audience.
Walmart’s exclusive “Home for the Holidays” collection embraces the traditional spirit of Christmas, alongside a new Home Fragrance collection featuring scents familiar to festive Black homes. Target features the “Mudcloth Christmas” collection, showcasing African-inspired prints on gift bags and wrap. Macy’s offers Black Paper Party wraps and bags for spreading holiday cheer. Dollar General introduces Family Pajamas and a new paper partyware line, reflecting the Diaspora. CVS nationwide carries Black Paper Party’s gift bags and wrap for a festive touch in 2023.
Black Paper Party has not only revolutionized holiday decorations but has also become a symbol of joy, inclusivity, and representation. As the brand continues to grow and expand its reach, it is poised to make a lasting impact on the way we celebrate and decorate during the most special moments of the year. Black Paper Party is more than a brand; it’s a movement towards a more diverse and inclusive holiday season.
Entrepreneur, auteur, raconteur. Rob Merlino is a blogger and writer who enjoys the Shark Tank TV show and Hot Dogs. A father of five who freelances in a variety of publications, Rob has a stable of websites including Shark Tank Blog, Hot Dog Stories, Rob Merlino.com and more.
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