My name is Kalyn Johnson Chandler and among other things, I’m the founder and creative director of Effie’s Paper. People often ask,”Who is Kalyn?” because my name is not associated with the company. I’m a lawyer turned fashion stylist turned stationer/graphic designer (and sous chef to my husband when he lets me in the kitchen!). My weaknesses are diamonds, pretty stationery, Hermes scarves, sequins and metallics. I love a little touch of glam! And, I love to laugh (little secret-everyone looks better when they smile).
Who’s Effie? Effie was my maternal grandmother. My company is named after my maternal grandmother, Mrs. Effie Hayes, who believed that a woman should always carry a hanky, wear the perfect shade of red lipstick and be able to write a wicked thank you note.
This advice has served me well, I know my grandmother would be proud. I've been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Post, Essence magazine, HGTV and Apartment Therapy. I'm delighted to share that Effie's Paper has also been featured on The TODAY Show. And my entrepreneurial spirit has been captured in the best selling books, "Clever Girl Finance: Ditch Debt, Save Money & Build Real Wealth" and "Kick Some Glass: 10 Ways Women Succeed At Work On Their Own Terms".
I live in New York City but take frequent trips to Miami; wanderlust is my middle name. I'm obsessed with lattes, beguiled by just about anything sparkly and I am all about super cute cheeky and motivational desk and travel accessories. And, although I was born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit, I’m a New Yorker at heart. I’m all about female empowerment and I’m guessing you must be too since you found your way to our little corner of the internet. Welcome!
Click here for a peek of life "behind the scenes" at Effie's Paper.
To learn a bit more about me, check out my blog: Stylishly Yours, Kalyn.
P.S.
If you read The BAP Handbook: The Official Guide to The Black American Princess, yes that was me. I'm one of the 4 co-authors. Small world, right?