About the Brand
About
Aya Paper Co. is a greeting card and gift company founded by SaVonne Anderson, designed to fill the gap in an industry that has long overlooked authentic representation. As an industry disruptor, Aya Paper Co. is celebrated for creating products that reflect the real-life experiences and values of the Black millennial community, with cards and gifts that go beyond generic sentiments to offer something personal and meaningful. In just five years, Aya has redefined how people celebrate life’s milestones, with a focus on creating authentic connections through its thoughtful and relatable designs.
Aya Paper Co. has garnered attention for its fresh, culturally relevant approach to greeting cards and gifts. Founder SaVonne Anderson has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, Black Enterprise, and Refinery29 for her unique vision and leadership, and she was recognized as a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow in 2024. Under her leadership, the brand has gained nationwide success, being sold in hundreds of retailers including Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Whole Foods. Aya Paper Co. continues to stand out for its design excellence, compelling storytelling, and its ability to connect with customers on a deeper level, making it a brand that’s impossible to ignore.
Founding Story
Aya Paper Co. was born out of SaVonne Anderson’s desire to create something that was missing in the world: greeting cards that authentically reflected the Black experience. As a Newark native and Fordham University graduate, SaVonne always had a passion for design, working as the first in-house designer at a contemporary Black art museum in NYC since the 1980s. However, during her time in the creative world, she realized there was a significant lack of diversity in the stationery industry. After struggling to find cards that represented her culture and community, she had an “ah-ha” moment and decided to fill that gap herself. That spark of inspiration became the foundation of Aya Paper Co., a brand that would go on to disrupt the industry by offering authentic, relatable products for Black millennials.
In 2020, SaVonne transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship to focus on building Aya Paper Co., a decision that has since been validated by the brand’s rapid growth and recognition. What began as a personal mission has transformed into a nationally acclaimed company, with products sold in major retailers and features in prominent media outlets. SaVonne’s vision to elevate representation in an industry that had long overlooked diverse voices continues to drive the brand forward. Today, Aya Paper Co. is known for its unique ability to blend design excellence with authentic storytelling, creating products that resonate deeply with its audience.
Team & Experts
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SaVonne Anderson, a Newark native and Fordham University graduate, began her career at a contemporary Black art museum in NYC, becoming its first in-house designer since the 80s. In 2020, she transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship as the CEO of Aya Paper Co, a nationally recognized greeting card and gift company. Her unique approach, bridging sustainability, business, and design, has earned her features in Forbes, Black Enterprise, Refinery 29, and other prominent outlets.
Under Anderson's leadership, Aya Paper Co has gained widespread acclaim, with products featured in hundreds of retailers nationwide, including Nordstrom, Macy's, Whole Foods, and Kohls. The brand has been highlighted in Allure, Time, CNN, Parade, Architectural Digest, and many more. Anderson's commitment to celebrating Black joy is evident in Aya Paper Co's artistic imagery and authentic messages, addressing the underrepresentation of people of color in the greeting card industry. In addition to her entrepreneurial success, Anderson actively contributes to the education and empowerment of emerging creatives and entrepreneurs, further solidifying her impact on the landscape of Black entrepreneurship.
Press Coverage
COSMOPOLITAN
Apr 22, 2023
22 Best Gifts for Photographers, Whether They’re Pros or Just Getting Started
The article from Cosmopolitan provides a selection of gift ideas aimed at photographers. These gifts range from practical photography equipment and accessories to inspirational items that can help boost a photographer's creativity.
Aya Paper Co is included in the list, specifically for their manifestation journal, which is highlighted as gift idea number 19. The journal is noted for its eco-friendly and stylish design, making it a thoughtful present for photographers who are not only focused on honing their craft but also on setting and achieving personal and creative goals. The manifestation journal can serve as a tool for photographers to plan, reflect on, and manifest their creative visions and ambitions, providing a space to outline goals and inspire new projects.
NBC NEW YORK
Apr 21, 2021
It's Easy Being Green
The NBC New York segment discusses eco-friendly products, featuring Aya Paper Co. as a prominent black-owned business. The segment highlights the company's range of stationery products, all made from 100% recycled materials. This focus on sustainability underscores Aya Paper Co.'s commitment to environmentally responsible practices while promoting a greener lifestyle.
BUZZFEED
Feb 3, 2021
36 Things To Rid You Of Your Organizational Woes
The BuzzFeed article features Aya Paper Co. as part of a curated selection of organizational products, specifically highlighting the brand's intention journal. Aya Paper Co. merges style with sustainability, offering eco-friendly stationery that enhances productivity. The article emphasizes how the intention journal, along with other products, reflects the brand's commitment to environmentally conscious materials, making it an ideal choice for those looking to organize their lives while being eco-friendly.
FORBES
Jul 30, 2020
3 Entrepreneurs Share Advice That Can Help You Reset Amidst Covid-19
The Forbes article shares insights from three entrepreneurs on overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including SaVonne Anderson of Aya Paper Co. Anderson emphasizes the significance of connecting with your audience during difficult times and in situations where physical interactions are impossible.
ALLURE
Jul 26, 2020
The Black-Owned Fashion and Lifestyle Brands You Need to Be Following
The Allure article highlights prominent Black-owned brands across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle sectors, encouraging diversity and inclusion. Aya Paper Co, positioned at number 2, stands out for its eco-friendly stationery and lifestyle products that merge sustainability with aesthetics. Its inclusion alongside influential brands like Telfar and The Honey Pot Co underscores its impactful contribution to the industry, promoting sustainable and stylish consumer choices.
E! NEWS
Dec 13, 2019
Adrienne Banfield-Norris aka Gammy's Gift Guide 2019
The article from E! News features Adrienne Banfield-Norris, also known as Gammy, sharing her 2019 holiday gift guide. Known for her wisdom on "Red Table Talk," she also has a knack for selecting thoughtful gifts. Her guide includes a variety of presents, such as a gift set for coffee enthusiast Will Smith, vegan foodie items for her grandchildren Willow and Jaden Smith, and unique fashion pieces.
One of her recommended gifts is Aya Paper Co’s "You Are So Strong" greeting card. Adrienne appreciates these cards for their uplifting affirmations that she likes to send to close friends, especially when they need encouragement. She also values their environmental friendliness, as they are printed on 100% post-consumer waste recycled paper and are chlorine-free.
Locations
Headquarters
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Aya Paper Co. Headquarters
Asset Library
Editorial-ready assets. All images cleared for press use with credit.
