I first met Wanda Wen just over 10 years ago. She's one of those people that just have a knack for creating beauty. Back in those days I would haul my samples around in a backpack and travel the country knocking on doors and seeing who I could find to carry my line of cards. When I first traveled to Los Angeles I discovered Soolip Paperie, Wanda's magnificent store on Melrose. She successfully carried R. Nichols for years - but over time we'd lost touch.
So here we are just over 10 years later. Upon moving to LA this past June, I reconnected with Wanda. She has a beautiful new book called "The Art of Gift Wrapping". As we were catching up she mentioned that she had this little extra space at Soolip - and asked me if I would like to set up a mini R. Nichols shop. A little tiny room/nook at the very back that was all mine - well - I was all over it. So I showed up with my paintbrush and fixtures and went to work creating my little world.
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The R. Nichols Nook at Soolip
The end result is The R. Nichols Nook at Soolip. It's an adorable tiny little shop within a shop where you can find nearly the entire R. Nichols collection (including original art pieces as we get closer to the holidays). It is also quite possible that you will find me hanging around too. I am often there working on new designs (especially on Saturdays), meeting shoppers (and occasionally celebrities), chit-chatting - it's become my retail home away from home.
Wanda and her beautiful empire
Wanda's new book
So, If you are in LA, I hope you'll come visit Soolip (8646 Melrose - right across from the Pacific Design Center / open 7 days a week). It would be wonderful to meet you. If you are a "facebook person" please become a fan of R. Nichols and you'll always know what I'm up to and just where I might be (whether it's The R. Nichols Nook at Soolip or The R. Nichols Shop in Orlando.....)!
Hope to see you soon!
Im from the other side of the world (well, Australia). Ive no idea where 3/4 of the places are that you mention. But I love, love, love your work! Its my biggest inspiration for well, everything. Thankyou. Mandy.
So happy to see you are at Soolip! I purchased one of your mugs for my hubs and he loves it! Will you be offering more?
I have a painting sign with your name. Is it possible to find out if You are the Artist?
Talk about serendipity….I was in Soolip today, and just saw your fabulous line of totes! Wondering if you might create a custom bag for me, in a small quantity, to give to clients? Ironically I met you years ago at an event at Gump’s in SF, and have always loved the line, so was very pleased to see it carried here! And kudos for making the move to LA :)