BANGALORE: Creativity often reinvents the old and innovation is the need of the hour. Even something as plain as paper has been turned into an aesthetic medium of creative expression in Bangalore, with the launch of Templetree Paper Boutique in 2012. Bright hues and charming designs greet you as you walk into this store in Whitefield.
Sonali Maniar, a graphic designer who worked for an MNC abroad, decided to use her creativity to do something with the material she loved handling the best- paper. That's how Templetree began in 2006. After a partnership with Rachana Pallamreddy, a software engineer who was looking for something new, the store kicked off in the city in 2012.
The first venture of its kind in Bangalore, the conceptualisation and design took several years, but the store in Whitefield is now thriving. No wonder, for Templetree offers a unique range of products, right from customised stationery to themed birthday invites and tote bags. They offer several interesting packages too. For instance, for a wedding, there is an integrated colour and design scheme for everything from envelopes and invitations to gift bags. Even wrapping boxes are designed to suit the occasion. "We update our products and bring in a new range every quarter," Rachana says.
The back to school range is bound to find takers too, with charming clipboards and stationery.
"Handmade paper is often thought to be dull," the duo says. "But if you look at our store, you will see that good design and colour choice is all that is needed. Handmade paper can be colourful and beautiful."
"We're working on many unique and customised products. For an upcoming wedding of bankers, we're designing invitations themed on credit cards," Sonali explains.
With business booming, Templetree now accepts online orders as well.