Former Town & Country editor Marcie Pantzer brings wit and charm to handwritten notes with her brand Dear Annabelle, named for her daughter. An entrepreneur with a well-stocked stationery drawer and plenty of tricks for the perfect dinner party, Marcie shares her letter-writing tips and her Chairish picks.
SHOP MARCIE PANTZER’S CHAIRISH FAVORITES >>>
How would you describe your style and the ethos behind Dear Anabelle? What is it that you love about sending paper letters and notes in our digital world?
My personal style is traditional with a twist—I definitely lean a little fancy and love any excuse to dress up. That sensibility carries over into Dear Annabelle. Our products are meant to feel elevated and beautiful, but always with a touch of character and wit. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and humor is at the heart of everything we do.
There’s nothing more timeless than a handwritten note. Unlike a text or email, a note can be tucked into a drawer or a keepsake box and rediscovered years later. There’s real magic in holding something someone took the time to write—seeing their handwriting, reliving a moment, remembering a person. Especially when it’s someone who’s no longer with us, those notes become little treasures. I still get such joy when beautiful mail shows up in my own mailbox. In this increasingly digital world, I believe that tangible, thoughtfully designed paper, notes, invitations, and gift tags stand out more than ever.
You’ve created a lot of collections for entertaining: place cards, place card holders, cocktail napkins, and (of course) invitations. Any tips for using these things to host a great party?
I absolutely love to entertain and it’s even more fun when you have beautiful pieces to play with. Of course, the most important ingredient for any great party is the guest list. But after that, it’s all about the little touches that make the night feel special. A cheeky cocktail napkin, a place card with elegant calligraphy set in a chic holder, fresh florals, and a fabulous scent in the room—these are the details that create a memorable experience.
When I entertain, I think about all the senses. Of course, sight—so everything looks beautiful—and style, but also sound and scent. What music is playing? Does the space smell warm and inviting? Then there’s touch—the weight of a proper highball glass, the texture of a luxe linen napkin. I also love to plan a surprise element to keep things playful and unexpected. It might be bingo cards hidden under the plates, a spontaneous game of F*ck, Marry, Kill between courses, silly masks or party hats served with dessert, or a late-night DJ moment to turn the dinner into a dance party. It’s those unexpected details that make a party unforgettable.
What’s on your desk at work right now, and what do you recommend stocking a stationery kit or home office with?
Right now, my desk is covered in Dear Annabelle prototypes, products, and inspiration images—it’s a beautiful mess. I use simple white Poppin desk accessories as a clean foundation, but I love mixing in more personal, elegant touches like small Tiffany silver trays and the Buccellati flower dishes that I collect. I also have a soft spot for pretty gold paper clips—Studio Carta makes some lovely ones in little jar—and of course, my pencil cup is full of Dear Annabelle felt tip pens. Much like a well-stocked bar, I believe in having a well-stocked stationery stash so you’re always ready to dash a note or a thank-you. Every desk should have a mix: something formal like personalized notecards, something more casual like monogram cards, and plenty of all-purpose options for birthdays, congrats, or just-because moments. And don’t forget to include something witty or unexpected, like our Naughty notecards or Caviar Dreams cards. Most importantly, a well-rounded stationery collection should cover the full spectrum: from sending love during tough times to cheering someone on during the fabulous ones.
How do you like to use vintage in your work? Does it inspire your designs, or do you like to mix it into your home?
In my work, vintage is mostly a source of inspiration. I love collecting old stamps, notecards, invitations, and other paper ephemera to use as references. When we were designing our Lady Luck playing cards, I dove into vintage card sets to spark ideas for both the packaging and the illustrations. There’s so much charm and detail in older designs, they have a soul that’s hard to replicate.
At home, I love mixing vintage with new pieces. A bit of patina or wear gives a room texture and warmth—it balances out anything that feels too perfect or polished.
Name 3 trends / products / or styles you LOVE and 3 you HATE.
Love:
1. Art Nouveau lettering
Hate:
1. Overly minimalist interiors
2. Lucite furniture
3. Napkin rings
I love Art Nouveau lettering—it reminds me of the Paris Métro signs and has such a cool, vintage vibe with just the right touch of romance.
ON CHAIRISH & VINTAGE PIECES
What do you find most compelling about Chairish?
I love Chairish because the site has a true sense of discovery. It feels like wandering through the chicest flea market, where every scroll uncovers something special, often something I didn’t even know I needed. There’s magic in finding those one-of-a-kind pieces that instantly spark inspiration.
How does sustainability factor into your design choices?
Sustainability is always top of mind. We do our best to create products that are thoughtfully made and as gentle on the environment as possible.
A FEW DESIGN FAVORITES
Favorite way to create a statement-making moment?
I think vignettes are key. Even the smallest, most intentional grouping of objects, a perfectly edited mix, can make a big impact. Whether it’s a tray on a coffee table, a stack of books with a favorite object on top, or a mini moment on a console, those little curated corners can totally steal the show.
Favorite paint (or paper) color?
Paper – Lessebo in Amazon.
Favorite piece of decor in your home?
My Aldo Tura Tiered Lacquered Goatskin Cocktail Table with hidden mirrored dry bar.
Favorite style icon?
Jackie Kennedy.
Design destination every creative should visit at least once?
Barragán houses in Mexico City.
A FEW LIFESTYLE FAVORITES
Favorite historic place to visit?
Hôtel de La Marine in Paris.
Favorite host (or thank you) gift?
Dear Annabelle cocktail napkins.
Favorite vacation destination?
Anywhere in Italy, but especially Capri.
Favorite flower?
It’s impossible to choose just one—I truly love flowers. A few of my favorites are anemones, dahlias, peonies, fringe tulips, and ranunculus.
Favorite entertaining essential?
A beautiful silver tray—it’s endlessly versatile. I use it to serve cocktails, pass hors d’oeuvres, or anchor a chic crudités spread. It adds instant elegance to whatever you’re serving.
Lead Image: Design by Dear Annabelle | Photography by MJ Kroeger.
