Check Out This Designer's Must-Have Item to Show Your Sense of Style

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Personalized stationary for Tools of the Trade.

Photo: Rifle Paper Co. / Image Treatment: The Spruce

The world of home decor is vast, and we’re constantly amazed by the designers, creators, and creatives who cross our paths. In an effort to learn more about the innovative eyes behind the scenes, we’ve launched a series that explores the sanity-saving tools, products, and services that keep our favorite designers and decorators focused on the job at hand. Welcome to Tools of the Trade.

As the founder and creative director of both BHDM Design and ARCHIVE by Dan Mazzarini, Dan Mazzarini regularly works across residential and commercial projects. As a result, he has a keen understanding of the importance of putting your best professional front forward... while also showcasing his stellar sense of style.

We recently connected with the renowned designer to ask him about the one must-have item that he uses for every single project. As it turns out, it's something we should all have on hand, for both professional and personal use.

Read on to find out why Mazzarini believes handwritten notes on customized stationery are something we should all prioritize more.

Designer Dan Mazzarini

Adam Macchia

Why is this item so great?

DM: Personalized stationery elevates anyone’s game. It allows you to showcase your personality, design sensibility, and manners. Plus, everyone loves handwritten notes—they feel much more special. 

Rifle Paper Co. Personalized Flat Notes

Rifle Paper Co. Personalized Flat Notes

Rifle Paper Co.

DM: I keep stationery at my office and home desks to use for work and personal notes. I make it a rule to write three notes a week. 

How did you discover this item?

DM: I discovered my stationery through a friend who worked for Crane. The brand had recently relaunched, and I loved the elevated, heritage look—this is not your grandma’s stationery.

Will you use this item in the future?

DM: Writing notes has become a weekly ritual. It's a great way to correspond with people with a more thoughtful response or congratulations compared to texting. 

How has this item made your job easier?

DM: This is not necessarily an easier way to communicate, but the extra sentiment is worthwhile. 

How might someone not in your line of work benefit from this item?

DM: Anyone can benefit from this. You can find nice customized options on Etsy, or just pick up a card at Target to write to a loved one. 

What, if anything, would you change about this item?

DM: Just that we’re still licking envelopes—it would be great to have a sticking feature on the envelope instead,

Are there any care/use tips someone considering this item should know about?

DM: My stationery came in a beautiful box, and I suggest keeping it to protect the corners.