Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanne Monroe.
Hi Joanne, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My custom invitation business began at home in 1995 as a side gig while working full time in public relations. Starting with creations for family and friends, my customer base grew and along with that, so did my dream to open a brick and mortar. I envisioned a warm and welcoming space where people could browse amongst lovely stationery, beautiful handmade papers from around the world, books and journals, greeting cards, and more. When the development of “Village West” – as it was known at the time – began to take shape in Claremont around 2006, I saw the opportunity to bring my dream to fruition in my hometown. As such, Cloud Nine opened in October 2007.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Cloud Nine opened at the start of the recession in 2007, which made growing the business more challenging. Two location changes were made over these last 18 years, with each space smaller than the last. And then of course there was Covid! I managed to keep the store “open” during that time, working with customers via Zoom, phone calls, and by email, It was slow building back momentum (and again now with our uncertain political climate), but I’m starting to see positive change.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am the sole proprietor of Cloud Nine – part invitation design studio, part stationery retail store – located at the Old School House (formerly Griswold’s) in Claremont. Established in 2007, this October marks 18 years of out-of-the-box creativity, volumes of experience and always excellent customer service. I’ve had the honor and privilege to design thousands of invitations, not just for individualscouples, and families, but for others including businesses, colleges and universities, non-profits, hospitals, and the entertainment industry.
In today’s world, anyone can create an invitation online, whether it’s with an unknown face or by an impersonal app. But there is no heart and soul behind this technology. In the Old School House, I keep “old school” artistry and intimacy at the forefront of every customer experience. Here, customers can touch and feel product; see, not visualize true colors; and work closely with me to finesse the design of their dreams.
Custom designs are inspired through a personalized process. There is the “get to know you” time to learn your wishes, wants and needs. This is an important piece of the process because invitations are not just about design and presentation, they should evoke a sense of who you are and set the tone for your special day or occasion. Customers are guided through the process from start to finish, with expert advice on wording, the rules of proper social etiquette, timelines, and so much more.
I believe in the right to choose who you love and remain committed to happily serving an inclusive and diverse community. Cloud Nine is woman-owned and operated.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I wouldn’t say that I’m lucky or unlucky, but I do manage to get back on my feet when things get difficult. I attribute this to providing the utmost in excellent customer service. I have the great fortune of maintaining wonderful relationships with my customers, and have formed some beautiful friendships with people I’ve met while creating invitations for their special events. Of course that’s not luck, but I am honored that people put their trust and belief in me with important milestone occasions in their lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cloudninepaper.com (currently undergoing a complete makeover)
- Instagram: @cloud_nine_paper
- Facebook: facebook/cloudninepaperie
- Yelp: https://yelp.com/biz/cloud-nine-claremont
