Papyrus

Profile

All that glitters is gold (and silver) at this national chain, where the proprietors recognize that shiny gift wrapping�with ribbon and a sequined card�is as important as the gift itself. The Manhattan locations definitely stock goods with more pizzazz than the greeting card aisle at Duane Reade. Shelves are lined with bejeweled birthday cards, floral-patterned stationery, and hand-made felt gift bags. A custom printing service lets you personalize pink tiara-and-wand little girl birthday announcements and bodice-shaped bridal shower invites. For wedding invitations, Papyrus stocks pricey brands Crane and Co. and William Arthur alongside the more economical Carlson Craft and mid-range Checkerboard. (If you're a bride in a rush, they’ll print up your form-letter thank you notes, too.) And just for good measure, Papyrus also carries some items�hand lotion, Rachel Ray cookbooks, and colorful �toothpick candles��you might consider as a gift to go with all that wrapping. — Candace Taylor