FAQ

We want every choice you make with Essential Potential to feel considered and confident. This page gathers the questions we hear most — about our materials, orders, sustainability commitments, and more. If there's something we haven't answered here, our team is always glad to help. Thoughtful service is part of what we make.

Orders & Delivery:

How long does delivery take?

Standard UK delivery takes 2–3 business days. Orders are packed and dispatched within 1–2 business days of being placed. You'll receive a confirmation email as soon as your order is on its way.

Do you ship internationally?

We currently ship within the UK only. We're working on international shipping and hope to offer it soon — sign up to our email list to be the first to know when it becomes available.

Can I track my order?

Yes — once your order has been dispatched you'll receive a confirmation email with your tracking details. If you have any questions about your delivery, please get in touch at hello@essential-potential.co.uk and we'll be happy to help.

What if my order arrives damaged?

We pack every order carefully, but if something arrives damaged please get in touch within 48 hours of delivery. Email us at hello@essential-potential.co.uk with a photo of the damage and your order number, and we'll send a replacement straight away — no fuss.

Products & Quality:

What paper weights and sizes do you offer?

Our current collection includes 100gsm white envelopes (5×7"), 135gsm luxury cream C5 envelopes, kraft C6 envelopes, and blank A6 cards. Our Éccolo journals feature smooth, high-quality lined pages. All products are chosen for their feel, durability, and suitability for handwriting. Full specifications are listed on each product page.

Are your envelopes compatible with standard card sizes?

Yes — our envelopes are sized to fit standard cards perfectly. Our C6 kraft envelopes fit A6 cards, our 5×7" white envelopes fit A5 cards and folded A4 letters, and our C5 cream envelopes fit A5 cards and folded A4 sheets. Our blank A6 cards are designed to slot neatly into C6 envelopes.

Can I request samples before buying?

We don't currently offer a formal sample service, but our packs of 10 are a low-commitment way to try any product before buying in larger quantities. If you have a specific question about a product's feel or finish before purchasing, get in touch — we're always happy to help.

Are products suitable for use with fountain pens / calligraphy?

Our heavier weight papers — particularly the 135gsm luxury cream envelopes and the Éccolo journal pages — perform well with fountain pens and fine-tipped calligraphy pens. Thinner papers (100gsm) may show slight bleed-through with very wet nibs. If you're unsure, our packs of 10 are a great way to test before committing to larger quantities.

Sustainability:

Are your products sustainably sourced?

Sustainability matters to us deeply. Our kraft C6 envelopes are made from recycled paper, and we prioritise suppliers with FSC certification wherever possible. We're continuously reviewing our range to ensure it reflects our commitment to thoughtful, responsible sourcing — and we'll always be transparent about where our products come from.

How is your packaging made?

-Every order from Essential Potential is packed by hand using tissue paper and recyclable mailer bags. We avoid single-use plastic wherever possible. Our insert cards are printed on FSC-certified card stock. We're a small brand and we believe the details matter — including what you find inside the parcel.

Are your envelopes recyclable or compostable?

Our kraft C6 envelopes are made from recycled paper and are fully recyclable. Our white and cream envelopes are also recyclable — simply remove any sticky labels before placing them in your paper recycling. None of our envelopes contain plastic windows.

Customisation

Do you offer personalisation or custom printing?

We don't currently offer personalisation or custom printing, but it's something we're exploring for the future. If you have a specific requirement — for a wedding, event, or business — get in touch at hello@essential-potential.co.uk and we'll do our best to help or point you in the right direction.

Can I order in bulk for weddings or events?

Yes — we're happy to discuss bulk orders for weddings, events, or corporate gifting. Get in touch at hello@essential-potential.co.uk with details of what you need and we'll come back to you with options and pricing.

Returns & Payment

What is your returns policy?

We want you to love what you receive. If for any reason you're not satisfied, you can return unused, unopened items within 14 days of delivery for a full refund. Please email hello@essential-potential.co.uk with your order number to begin a return. Return postage costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item is faulty or incorrect.

Which payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. All payments are processed securely through Shopify Payments.

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

We process orders quickly, but if you need to make a change or cancellation please email hello@essential-potential.co.uk as soon as possible. If your order hasn't been dispatched yet we'll do everything we can to help. Once dispatched, our standard returns policy applies.

Getting the Most from Your Stationery

How should I store my paper and envelopes?

Store your paper and envelopes flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Humidity can cause paper to warp or stick, so avoid storing near windows or in damp rooms. Kept well, quality paper products last for years.

Which ink or pen types work best with your paper?

Our papers work beautifully with ballpoint, rollerball, and fine-tipped felt pens. For fountain pen users, we recommend our heavier weight papers (135gsm and above) for the best results. Brush pens and markers may bleed on lighter weight papers — always test on a spare sheet first.