Celebrate the magic of childhood with Merrilee Liddiard for Paperless Post
The celebrated dollmaker Merrilee Liddiard, a champion of creative play, has embraced the simple joys of childhood since she was a kid herself, watching her mother cast dolls from porcelain, then sewing tiny clothes to give each their own distinct personality. These days, in addition to crafting her own line of adorable and distinctive dolls, Merrilee is a talented illustrator whose joyful, inventive creations under her Mer Mag brand—including paper cutouts, masks, and inventive arts and crafts—have been embraced by families the world over.
And now, she can add another title to her growing list: Paperless Post design partner. Featuring elements of her beloved artwork and characters, our brand-new collection of Merrilee Liddiard online kids’ birthday and baby shower invitations and greeting cards is a watercolor fantasyland bursting with imagination, discovery, and creative play. Children laugh among toadstools, mythical creatures soar through friendly skies, and enchanted forest friends invite you to share in their adventures. It’s truly a celebration of wonder, whimsy, and the best parts of being little.
In anticipation of her collection’s exciting debut, we chatted with Ms. Liddiard about staying inspired, hosting kids’ parties, and what excites her most about collaborating with Paperless Post.
What excites you most about having your own Paperless Post invitations?
I’ve been a big fan of Paperless Post for a long time, and have used your beautiful invitations for many occasions, so it’s a joy to be able to collaborate! I’m excited about sending out Mer Mag invites now with Paperless Post’s beauty and efficiency. It’s a dream come true!
How did you pick which illustrations to include in the collection?
We chose some of our favorite designs that are sure to bring imagination, playfulness, warmth, and whimsy to your celebrations—all things that are at the heart of the Mer Mag brand.
How do you stay inspired?
Looking to the past, and going out in nature—it’s an endless source of inspiration for me. And I love simple things that evoke imagination, nostalgia, and whimsy. I want to make others feel the wonder and joy I felt as a child.
Tell us about your dream event. What’s the backdrop?
A wild garden or forest with lots of magical places to explore and get lost in!
Who’s got a seat at the table?
My family and close friends.
How do you create the perfect mood?
Have a simple theme, such as a Forest Tea Party, and encourage guests to loosely dress accordingly. That way they show up with a degree of anticipation and are ready for an experience!
What activities are taking place?
I like to leave one aspect of the party unfinished so that my guests have something to create when they get there. Maybe animal masks or party hats, fairy wands or wings, etc. I’d then serve simple fresh food, or my favorite—a delish charcuterie board because kids love finger food. I’d have a few simple games ready to get conversations going or to help channel kids’ engagement and fun. And then I’d be sure to leave a little free time to explore, chat, laugh, and play.
What advice would you give someone who wants to host a kids’ birthday party inspired by your Paperless Post invitations?
- Give a clear, simple theme, and encourage some sort of dress-up along the lines of that theme.
- Set up a station for a creative craft that accents the party’s theme, like dress-up or a vision that is easy and fun for kids and guests to make in one sitting.
- Choose one or two moments to create an atmosphere or a “wow” moment, and then just let go and have fun from there. I’m not about super perfect parties with everything curated to a T. Remember that good vibes will always make a party a success. And know that with kids, there will always be surprises. Plan ahead to just go with it!
Thank you, Merrilee! Shop her full collection of whimsical invitations and cards now.
