Sorry for the rant but here’s exactly how it is.
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About Us
Braithwaite Wallets, Inc.; is a men's wallet company that is owned and operated out of Calgary, Alberta in Canada. The company has existed since 2006 and we began selling wallets in March, 2008.
This blog has been created to keep our current and prospective clients up-to-date on the latest news in wallet design and development as well as just to post bits and pieces (articles, music, etc.) that we find appealing and we wish to share with our clients.
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72 Comments
I think there are two phases of the packaging you need to focus on, the exterior of the shipping material, and the wallet’s final packaging.
For protection in transit I would suggest the simple brown padded envelope.**
For the interior I like the idea of a drawstring bag or cloth wrap. This would be a great contrast between the utilitarian padded sleeve and the hand wrapped contents inside. As you are working with a new leather shop, what about a simple small leather tag, with the logo and wallet name burned on it, tied to the final packaging. A cloth bag has a myriad of repurposing benefits, and if you go large enough one can hold a dress shoe in your suitcase. Buy two wallets and you have protection for a pair of shoes while traveling.
** The money saved on the shipping package allows you to be more extravagant with the interior wrapping. Perhaps you can find one that uses recycled materials. If you can’t find one that allows for logo printing, what about making a rubber stamp from your logo and hand applying it to the envelope.
I think the fabric pouch is the way to go although I would make the fastening end using a zipper. You would be able to use it as a change purse.
Hello,
While reviewing traffic and analytics earlier in the week, I came upon a referral link from your site and specifically from Connor’s video post regarding the need to rethink the packaging for your wallets - many thanks to Pearl for the link to WrapNatural!
As I had never heard of Braithwaite Wallets before, I decided to take a look around and I was impressed and inspired by what I found on your site. You see I’ve only just started sewing last year and am self-taught … I did this in order to actualize an idea I had for reusable gift wrap made from fabric.
What I saw and read on your site, about your mission and vision very much resonates with my own personal ambitions and beliefs in how business can and should be done - I also just like you designs.
So, I decided I would work up a few ideas for greener packaging alternatives for your wallets. And after reading through (almost) all of the post comments (there were many), and after considering the what I’ve learned from a year of making fabric wraps (from furoshikis to pouches) - here is a link to several prototypes I’ve made.
http://www.wrapnatural.com/braithwaite-wallets
Please take a look and let me know that you think, these three can easily be reworked with direction from your team.
Regards,
Sharleen Smith
OMG! Sharleen! You are amazing! I sent you an email today so give me a call when you have time.
Hey Connor,
I, too, kept the boxes my wallets came in. I rather liked them. But, I totally see where you’re coming from.
Here’s my thought: since your packing material is 70% post, why not go a little more old fashioned and wrap your wallets in paper, like an old-fashioned parcel, and tie it off with natural twine or jute? All re-usable, or even recyclable, and still in keeping with that hand-made, attention to detail aesthetic that your company is known for.
You can print a logo on the paper, or affix a tag, or what have you. Then, when shipping, you’ve got a much smaller, lighter package to worry about, and so your packing material can offset that, for added security in transit.
Looking forward to the new designs!
Re-useable packaging?…………..for a wallet?…………… Just wrap it in money!
What about an old hardcover book as a box? I’ve seen this done before once its pages are hollowed out a bit; people can put things in and then let it blend into their bookshelf. I could also see it reused on someone’s nightstand filled with “personal” items. It could be a bit pricier than the original cardboard box (which I still have) but I know here in Brooklyn, people leave old books on the stoop free of charge for anyone to take and reuse.
Hi Jeremy,
That’s definitely a unique idea, and I can definitely see the longer term usability of something like this!
Ah, the package. Nice topic.
1) Cloth, drawstring bag - like a spectacle bag.
2) Furoshiki - Japanese style wrap - like a handkerchief.
3) Simple plastic sleeve - Japanese style with nice adhesive closure.
http://www.wrapnatural.com/
LuvP
Thanks Pearl! It’s great to see these comments from customers - you all really do “get” what Connor is aiming to do!
At the time I’m writing this, Jason’s is the most recent post; and I think I agree with him. I can’t remember exactly how my Rapture was packaged, but I think it was wrapped in some fabric. Cloth? And then packaged inside a simple black envelope with a red wax seal. I really, really liked that. If the piece of cloth turns into a quality handkerchief, then I think you’ve got a bang up package. Just slip the box into something more postage ready. Keeps the profile slim, but once its opened up, it retains its class and charm.
Maybe simply packaging the wallet in a recycled paper/organic material sleeve (high gsm rating paper / bamboo leaf stem strip weave, reed weave, hemp weave whatever employs developing economies) that is folded /woven (no adhesives etc) which you unfold / open upon receiving.
The company information printed on the paper that came with the wallet I received and information to confirm i was supporting like minded individuals was very much appreciated. Keep doing this. Also knowing explicit details about the manufacture and material was informative to knowing my purchase was durable with a much longer lifecycle than previous wallet purchases.
As the wallet will also likely post in an outer sleeve (envelope / courier bag) the box although nice is like the one i got with my phone and my watch useless after the point of purchase. Iagree the sooner we wake up to sensless over consumption and reduce our footprint the better to biodegradable products which support developing economies the better. Hope my post is of assistance.
Hi Andrew & Jason
Thanks for your comments! The handkerchief idea has been mentioned at least once before, so it definitely has some appeal to our clients!
I’m not sure if anyone mentioned this already, but an idea I had (besides the wooden box, the drawstring bag, ect.) was a branded handkerchief. Something sleek and simple with your logo at the bottom. I’m not a frequent handkerchief user, I’ll admit, but I think that if my wallet had come simply wrapped in one, it would probably be in my messenger bag right now with all the other odds and ends I never leave at home.
Thanks for being so caring and innovative, I’m really looking forward to the new designs and possibly buying something else that I don’t need, but simply must have regardless.
Cheers!
Jason
Connor,
I have all 4 of my wallet boxes as well - Use them to keep various odds-n-ends in them. Looking forward to seeing the new wallets! Thanks
As a life-long packrat with little hope of reform, I love when a purchase comes in a box or case that can be used again and again. I keep my old wallet in the box that my Vagabond came in, since it’s about the same size, and can be placed upright in my bookcase where I won’t lose it.
I love special packaging. Opening a new purchase is half the fun, in my opinion.
Maybe offer two different packaging choices. A simple slip cover similar to crown royal (I never met a person who discarded a crown royal bag) and a small wooden box or shallow bowl. I would pay extra if you offered a small black lacquered box or bowl where I can store my keys, wallet and cell phone when I come home at the end of the night.
Hi Jonathan!
Yes, that’s definitely something I’m thinking about. We’ve got a lot of clients who are repeat buyers and they don’t necessarily want the ‘gift’ style packaging every time (shout-outs to Gregg and Daniel, here)!
I’m a big fan of lacquer-ware and have been meaning to research how lacquer was made before modern chemistry…
What about a pouch/bag made of the lining material from each wallet. Each run could have a custom bag, which would create interest and excitment before opening, and people would likely keep them, as they could be fitted to the individual wallet? My only concentrate with this would be the pricepoint, but with the uniqueness of your wallets it would be a nice presentation.
I apologize, but my dog ate and destroy the two boxes of my wallet Rapture & Sunrise:)
Hi Jorge! Thank goodness he didn’t get the wallets!
That’s hilarious, Jorge. I had a good laugh when I read that
Well, Interesting topic.. The 8 wallets I received from you, when not being used, are kept in the exact boxes they were shipped in. Yes, this includes the shredded Cardboard as well.. I like them.. As wierd as this may sound, I like the smell of the leather and the cardboard when the box is opened. If you want to make a change, I would look at ones made of tin/aluminum/steel etc with a nice custom Braithwaite design for each wallet. My guess is that it would probably cost more, maybe not, but if it does, I don’t my paying the extra money because your products are awesome and worth it…
Hi Gregg,
Wow, 8 wallets! Good to know that the boxes have such great reusability for you.
One of the considerations we have, like you mentioned, is cost in production, but also in shipping.
Yes I know, I purchased 2 Sunrises, 3 Orpheus and all the others except Cypress, you were already sold out on that one.. My loss..
Gregg,
I’ve really enjoyed having you as a client, ever since that first wallet Orpheus purchase you made for your son. You are so wonderful to talk with and I enjoy how vocal you are.
Thanks so much for your support.
I agree that the box is nice, but I always end up throwing them away. What if the wallet came in a type of pouch? You could use a recycled fabric or even some sort of hemp material. I think pouches tend to be kept and used more. Think about how many Crown Royal bags you’ve found a use for in the past…
Hi Hunter,
Thanks for the suggestion! A recycled or earth friendly material is a great idea, and certainly fits in with Connor’s desire to reduce environmental impact with the packaging.
Hey Hunter,
Thanks for the email on Saturday. I was wondering if it was only Canadians who were making reference to Crown Royal bags but it seems not!
I think your packaging is OK, but you could make a nice cloth holder, or a wooden box that could hold wallet, keys, etc. (nightstand tray). Just a thought.
And a guy who is just getting started in watchmaking (I have no association other than a satisfied customer) has some really good packaging:
http://www.magrette.com/index.php
If you buy their basic watch, it comes in a simple wooden box with a canvas watch roll with a leather tie, or you can spend extra and get a rare (sustainable wood) box that is suitable for display. This guys packaging is first rate. He may be up for a quick discussion if you so desire?
Hi Brent,
Thanks for the link and suggestion! A wooden box could definitely have longer term use.
I second Crystal’s thanks for the Magrette link. Those are amazing. Got me thinking about doing watch straps again. I think I will drop him a line.
I know I love the outdoors, and wouldn’t take a nice wallet out with me when hiking rafting, skiing etc. Might be good to send the wallet in a sleeve that would protect the wallet. Maybe a new twist on the waterproof bag that I have seen for cameras, ID cards etc
Hi Mike,
Your suggestion certainly has merit - extra care should be taken to protect the high quality leather from extreme elements, like water or snow.
Could also do an origami fold-up flat with nice paper, like this:
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/936732/easy_cd_case_no_glue_for_everybody/
Fabric pull-string bag out of the same fabric you do the lining in would be cool and cohesive. Small tag on string with product info/serial nos. (I could do without the serial number stuff…).
I like the idea of a tag on the draw-string bag. Do you think it would get lost?
Tiffany (maybe Cartier, can’t remember) puts things, jewelry especially, in these blue fabric things that fold envelope-like. Even though they put these inside a box as well. Still, I keep the blue fabric thing and through away the box. Not much to use it for except to put the piece back into. A similar wallet-sized fabric piece would be much more useful (drawstring??, sexy??).
Hi Brad,
A fabric pouch in a great material is one of the options Connor is considering for sure. It’s good to see that some of our clients like this option!
Can you mail fabric? Maybe wrap the wallet in a branded t-shirt or pair of boxers.
Hi Dave,
I think this is the most unique suggestion yet! Thank-you!
One thing to keep in mind if you already have a wallet and the box… If these wallets were to become a collectors item in the future it would be to your benefit to also have the box..
Most collectibles have lost value due to lack of original box.. These are limited edition pieces and could become collectible..
Hi Glenn,
Great point on the collector’s item. Do you think having a “proof of authenticity” would suffice?
How about a box that will convert into a holder for the wallet or change that is then stored on the dresser.. this of course has been done before but it gives life to the box.
Or a thick felt type pouch then ship in a flat… or a pouch made from the same material as the lining.. again shipping in a flat…
Although I can’t watch the video (youtube is blocked in China), I can guess what it’s about from the comments posted. I personally think the box was great, but I also bought the wallet as a gift. Had I bought it for myself I probably would have quickly thrown out the box (maybe have a “gift” option on checkout?). I do think that having something to prove the “authenticity” of the wallet is a good idea. I recently bought my wife a Chanel purse and they had a nice credit card style card in the wallet proving that it was real. maybe something to look into?
Hi Jeff,
Good point on proving authenticity, and the gift checkout option definitely has some merit.
For sure, Jeff. I think this would be a great way of addressing the concern that repeat clients don’t necessarily want the ‘uber’ packaging option.
smaller packaging the better. better for environment; cheaper shipping = win
i was thinking the same thing just the other day, cleaning my office. I don’t know what to do with these boxes. I don’t really want them around, to be honest. My wallet doesn’t need a wallet. I want to throw it away, and yet it’s a little too nice to throw away. It has the limited edition # on the cover and all. And yet, its not really useful, and once the initial thrill wore off, its kind of blah. Now, when it first showed up, i was thrilled and excited and it was very sexy, and showed your commitment to detail and excellence, but now, its just a box on my shelf i dont want.
What i think would be nice and low waste, is: wrap the wallet in black paper (crepe paper?), and seal the edge with a gold wax seal emblazoned with your logo.
enclose a 8×11 piece of paper (for easy filing, a small piece of paper becomes clutter) that has a brief description of the wallet, and its number in the edition.
But really, when you send me my next wallet, feel free to just wrap it in a paper towel toss it in a padded mailer, and get it on out to me. I know you care, i don’t need any more flash. But hey, thats just me
Hi Daniel,
We too, love the sexiness of the boxes, but as you identified, they may not be the most practical solution.
I love your suggestion for alternative packaging. Thanks!
I agree with you that the packaging should be slimmer. The packaging should be only a bit wider than the wallet it’s holding in. I’m thinking Apple packaging for iPhones and iPod Touches for example (although those are already quite bigger than the product).
For extra uses, here’s an idea…
Your wallets promote the idea of carrying less is better. This means that when purchasing our first Braithwaite wallet, we’re bound to have to make a decision on which cards we won’t be carrying with us anymore. How about having sorting compartments in the box for the cards we leave at home ? I think that’d be pretty clever. This way, you’re not only telling people to leave all these useless extra cards at home, but you’re also giving them a place where to put them.
At the top of my head, one way of doing this would be to have the lid of the box open like a book cover and it would have lots of slim pockets for cards (just like in wallets).
Also if the wallet does not have a pocket for coins (please please please, have one, for us Europeans), there could be a coin compartment in the box.
In any case, I actually think if the packaging is beautiful and small, customers as a rule won’t throw it away.
Hi Alp,
Thanks for the thought you put into offering your solution. A box as you describe would definitely be reusable!
For sure, Alp. That’s a solid suggestion and one that I think could work with a variety of packaging options.
Yes, pockets for coins are definitely in the works this year
Are you thinking something along the lines of a drawstring dustbag or a leather sleeve? I’m guessing the costs would be substantially more than what you’re doing now, but it fits the bill of something thinner & more likely to be kept around.
Hi Nick,
That’s definitely one of the options that Connor is considering. The costs of the specially made and flown in boxes themselves was high, as Connor mentioned, so there is some room to find a solution that saves on costs for us, our clients, and is reusable!
Hi Connor,
Not a direct answer for you but maybe some inspiration -there is a UK based shoe company (similar to you guys in that they are online only etc.) that package their shoes in a shoe bag with a waterproof lining and a zip pocket inside so it’s re-useable as a washbag or swim bag.
More info here:
http://www.finsforhim.com/delivery.asp (down in the paragraph headed ‘packaging’)
I was impressed with this and intend to use mine so maybe something like a wallet wrapped in a linen pocket-square or something like that?? Something that the Braithwaite buyer identifies with and wants to use again…?
Hi Gylen, thank-you for your suggestion! You’re right on with using a packaging with which the discerning Braithwaite buyer identifies.
I’ll definitely be checking out the link.
Gylen,
Thanks so much for that link! My girlfriend and I were both drooling over those shoes. I have been wanting a pair of loafers for about a year now and those are pretty much exactly what I’m looking for!
Also love the pocket-square idea. Looking into it now.
Hey Connor, I definitely hear you about trying to reduce clutter. That’s why I threw out my two Braithwaite boxes in my last move. I spent some time trying to think of a box-like object that I would actually keep, but to no avail.
However, I did have an interesting idea about other potential packaging that *would* be useful to me. If the wallets came wrapped in some sort of cloth, that would be fantastic. The options range from a classy men’s handkerchief (maybe with embroidered Braithwaite logo? that would go well with your feel…), to a perhaps sturdier microfiber-esque mini-towel (not really ‘classy’, but definitely very useful). You could even go with a fabric pouch (with a drawstring?), that would be easily reusable for holding glasses/sunglasses/etc.
If you’re worried about protecting the wallets with a fabric cover, you could just put the crinkle paper around the wallet before putting it into the pouch/wrapping it with the cloth.
Thank-you for the suggestion, Michael! I love the hankerchief idea myself.
And you’re right, we need to consider a packaging that protects the wallet during shipment.
here is an example of the bag my leica camera came in. I really like the way the logo is embossed into the bag.
http://bayimg.com/haKFoaacH
Hey ampersand,
Thanks for the picture. That makes perfect sense and is definitely along the lines I’m thinking of.
I have to agree that new packaging is in order. I’m also a no-clutter type of person so it would be great to get something that doesn’t feel too wasteful when I do. Iv seen some cool things done with canvas(or other cloth) materials where the product is placed in a cloth bag with a screenprinted logo. I think that would be lightweight and reusuable and very tasteful with the braithewaite symbol on it
Thanks for the suggestion! This option would certainly cut down on the shipping charges as well.
Like Tom I too never throw out a box, I use my Braithwaite box for loose change and other things that end up in my pockets. Something you could try is those tin dvd/cd cases. You would be able to get them in the quantities you require and at very reasonable prices. They are slim, strong and kinda unique (although i think j.fold may use tins for packaging but there ones aren’t hinged). You could then do away with paper labels and get some cool designs engraved directly onto the tin. You may also think about engraving the number and maybe even the customers name on it. People would be less likely to discard something like that.
I just did a quick search and they are readily available online (http://www.american-digital.com/prodsite/category.asp?c=1960) that’s just one of the first search results in google.
Anyway keep up the good work.
Thanks for the link Jarrod! It’s great to hear that you too, are able to get more use out of the boxes.
What goes great with a wallet? A personal wallet valet - someplace to throw your wallet, keys, etc at the end of the day. But it can’t just can’t be a simple box, like you said, it has to be “sexy”…
Yeah, Chihnam. I believe this use of the packaging can work with a variety of options.
Quite off topic, but: try to keep the camera level, please!
I’m still figuring out the video thing. Thanks for the heads up!
I understand your concern, but I’ve actually kept each of the three Braithwaite wallet boxes. I peel the sticker off and use it for storage as they’re quite sturdy.
Anyway, just my two cents.
Looking forward to the new range - I’ve already warned my friends that they’re getting wallets this year
Tom, that’s great. I’m really happy to hear it. I know, for me, I always try to reduce clutter in my life and I sometimes resort to discarding the inessential. Glad to hear you have been able to re-use the boxes!
Thank-you Gerhard for your insight.
We love the look and the feel of the boxes, but as Connor stated in the video - he’s really looking for a solution that is still pleasing, yet is environmentally conscious.
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