I’ve just returned from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and what a gem I found tucked away in the charming village of Wellfleet . . . “Jules Besch, Stationer.” Oh, this little slice of heaven is a writer’s delight! I have rarely found a stationer worth mentioning, let alone one at all in this country (although I believe they are much more common in Europe), and when I saw this subtly elegant sign,

I practically beat the door down in my haste to get inside. It was a superb gallery in itself, stocked full of beautiful writing paper, unique and classy cards, tasteful and classic bookplates, as well as inkwells and bookends, and this gorgeously artistic display of journals.

Even the details on the bag for your purchases is detailed and elegant.

To this reader and writer, wandering about the store wide-eyed, caressing the letterpressed beauties, and selecting a journal from the muted rainbow display of colors was the equivalent of a luxurious lavender spa bath.

I spoke to the proprietor, Michael Tuck, a bit about the shop’s history.  Michael owns, stocks, and runs this treasure, and has done so for the past 18 years. It is his pride and joy and that shows, as the shop enjoys a dedicated customer base. This out-of-the-way shop, charmingly housed in a  beautifully preserved Victorian home,  attracts many enthusiastic visitors. Michael was outgoing and extraordinarily helpful, and seemed to enjoy engaging with his clients. He spoke with me for quite some time, despite the customer in line behind me (who also seemed to enjoy the chatter). He knows his products, has an impeccable sense of color and style, and I can’t think of any store that rivals the elegance of Jules Besch Stationer.

Address: 15 Bank St, Wellfleet, MA 02667, Phone:508-349-1231 (no website yet). I see that one other blogger has posted about this store: http://chezsven.blogspot.com/2010/11/stationary-done-right-welflleets-jules.html

Disclaimer: I found this store on my own during a family vacation. I am promoting it because I love it!