Theresa's Table: A Curated Shopping Experience at Open to Being

Step into our cozy Arlington studio + shop for a “slow shopping” experience where you can discover the artistry of letterpress stationery, shop ceramic treasures and organic tea, and mingle with makers and fellow guests who value local maker businesses and good company.

December’s table highlights Gretchen Mull Ceramics and Jessica Eason of Rough Seas Productions. Gretchen Mull's work caught my eye because her elegant, minimal vessels are a lovely match for my greeting cards and journals. Rough Seas’ organic herbal teas grown right here in Arlington are ones I enjoy when working in my studio. Her seasonal and wellness offerings make excellent winter holiday gifts. Open to Being's letterpress cards, handmade notebooks, limited edition prints, and stationery sets will all be available, and we also carry Blackwing Pencil for gifting to artists and writers. Why not combine a journal, tea, and a mug for a lovely self-care gift package?

Exclusively for Early Access guests ($10 tickets, 11am-1pm), Rough Seas Productions will offer $10 off their “Just Add Water Holiday Boxes” and a $25 pick two special.

Everything in the shop this month represents the finest in thoughtful giving, ideal for those who appreciate quality, intention, and the care that goes into every handmade work of art. Celebrate art, artists, and woman-owned businesses when you shop this season. In our vibrant space, you can visit with the makers as you get creative in combining gifts from each maker. We’ll help you curate the perfect gift box!

Early Access, 11-1, $10

• Exclusive access to handmade treasures in a limited-capacity setting
• Complimentary morning treats
• Shopping specials

About Theresa's Table events

Theresa's Table brings together stationery lovers and creative entrepreneurs at Open to Being's letterpress studio + shop in Arlington. These curated events showcase fine paper goods, luxury writing tools, and handcrafted accessories.

Founder Theresa Esterlund curates each gathering around our central communal table, featuring select local creative entrepreneurs and exceptional handcrafted goods. Our bright, welcoming space creates an atmosphere where shoppers and makers can connect through genuine conversation.

About Open to Being®

Open to Being is an artisanal brand offering elegant, handcrafted stationery for the heart and soul. Our fine paper goods, from premium greeting cards and journals to art prints and custom letterpress work, are minimal yet exquisite. Beautifully-rendered, heartfelt messages are designed with care to foster authentic and meaningful connection. We believe in the power of artfully-crafted words to honor, celebrate, and embrace life's journeys with joy, acceptance, and compassion.

Founder Theresa Esterlund opened a letterpress studio + shop in Arlington Ridge neighborhood of Arlington, VA in April 2025. This working studio includes a boutique retail destination open for special shopping events and showcasing Open to Being products as well as a curated collection of handcrafted goods from local makers. A highlight of the studio is our 1910 treadle-operated Chandler & Price platen letterpress.

2025 Theresa's Table Dates:

September 20

October 25

November 22

December 6

Host or Publisher Open to Being