With bittersweet emotions, I am announcing my retirement and the closing of the Paper Merchant. It’s been a wonderful 40 years! 

 My late husband, Steve, and I had the dream of starting a small business. In 1981 we opened in St. Charles and moved our small card store (and rubber chickens) to Geneva in 1990. We have absolutely loved celebrating your most important occasions with you - from picking out that perfect anniversary card, to printing birth announcements, to designing wedding invitations, and everything in between. 

 I will forever be grateful for everyone who made these last 40 years possible. Staff, Customers, Reps, fellow small business owners, and my family. While it's bittersweet to say goodbye to the store, I know I have made many lifelong friendships and we will stay in touch. 

 The Paper Merchant will hold a Retirement Sale Saturday, March 6 - Saturday, March 13.  We will then close for a few days and reopen in the back half of the first floor (Fulton Street entrance) to continue selling any remaining merchandise and fixtures. Dates TBD. Our online store will be disabled until we can update inventory. 

 What’s next for the space? We are pleased to announce Evernia women’s fashion boutique is moving into the front half of the first floor (Third Street entrance). We will announce the second business once finalized. All businesses on the second floor will remain the same.  

What's next for me? I'm looking forward to traveling (once it's safe to do so!), spending time with my son, his wife & my grandkids, helping my daughter decorate her apartment in Chicago, visiting my flight attendant friends, bonding with my adorable new puppy, and so much more. 

 Thank you all for 40 years of kindness, friendship, and celebration! 

Xo, 

Pat Burnham