Located in Brighton’s North Laine, Malarkey Cards is one of the city’s best-loved card shops – especially if you’re looking for something that little bit different. We caught up with owner Andy (who also designs many of the store’s marvellous cards) to talk creating cards, the day to day routine and loving North Laine.
Hi Andy! How did you become owner at Malarkey Cards?
I bought the shop from the previous owner 3 years ago. Malarkey has existed for about 20 years now, and has had a reputation for stocking some very special products. I’ve gone away from the novelty aspect as far as gifts are concerned (although there’s still a smattering of silliness), and concentrated on cards as a mainstay. Our card ranges are extensive and we’ve sourced some amazing new ranges. All of which can be seen both online and in our Bond St shop.
As well as stocking cards from other designers, you also create your own in-house – can you tell us a little about the process?
I started as a card designer and was a supplier to the previous owner. When it came time for him to retire I jumped at the chance of buying the business!. I now have my own ranges of greeting cards on sale on the shelves and online. I use a local printer who usually turns my ideas into printed cards within a two or three day turnaround. From silly idea to a product on the shelf can take months of gestation, or just an inspired one day blitz.
Does Brighton/ your North Laine location inspire your designs?
I have an angry seagull card – I sell a lot of these! We can all relate to this particular character!
We can indeed! How would you describe Malarkey’s collection in 3 words?
Original, exclusive and extensive.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Running my own business, fulfilling creative needs, employing brilliant people, getting validating feedback and being in North Laine.
What’s a typical day like for you?
Bike in, coffee on, design/admin/covering lunch breaks/running about like a headless chicken, going home …. ad infinitum.
As well as your striking new circus age range cards, have you got anything else exciting you’d like to tell us about?
We have just launched our brand spanking new website – malarkeycards.com – so people can now buy online too!
Before you go, when you’re not working, what do you enjoy getting up to in Brilliant Brighton?!
Hanging out with my girlfriend and the kids mostly, but when we have time we fund Brighton’s craft beer industry!
Visit Andy and his team at Malarkey and don’t forget to check out their new website too –malarkeycards.com!
Address: 34 Bond Street
Phone: 01273 722437
