Whether you’re looking to congratulate a recent graduate, recognize your favorite teacher or thank a local pastor, Card Frenzy has got you covered—and at a super low price. Think .29 cents.
“Not only is it the price [of our merchandise] but the variety,” says co-owner Michael Perri. “We have every caption and every solution. We even carry ‘congratulations on your driver’s license’ and foreign language cards—all at value prices.”
Card Frenzy opened at Lemont Road 7511 in December. And if you’ve been to the shopping center recently, chances are you’ve taken notice. Located between Frugal Muse Books and Ross, its vibrant colors and signage set it apart from its neighbors.
The store carries more than 4,000 greeting cards that range in price from .29 cents to $2.49. It also carries seasonal gifts, clothes, jewelry and holiday décor.
“We know that when a female shopper shops at a dollar store, it’s not their favorite thing to do. They almost cover themselves while walking into the store. So we wanted to get across the value message but actually make it really great place to shop,” co-owner David Plier says of the concept.
Four locals—two of whom have previously worked for Factory Card Outlet—created the brand two years ago. In 2007, Factory Card Outlet merged with Party City. “Once they eliminated those [card] stores, it left a gap in the marketplace,” says co-owner Pam Matjek.
Members of the business community, local representatives and Card Frenzy staff gathered at the store Wednesday night for a ribbon-cutting event.
“We couldn’t be happier to have you as part of our business community in Darien,” Mayor Kathleen Weaver announced to the group.
With one licensed location already in Countryside, the Darien location is Card Frenzy’s first corporate store. The brand hopes to be national in the next five to seven years.
“This is just the beginning,” said Plier Wednesday night.
Patch Asks: Have you been to Card Frenzy? What do you think of this new edition to the business community?
