24 Nov 2025

Fresh starts

Stoats & Weasels Stand: S89
Lisa Bamford
Fresh starts
One of the new sobriety cards by Stoats & Weasels

Celebrating divorcees and the sober-curious with humour, colour and heart

Brighton-based designer Lisa Bamford, the playful mind behind Stoats & Weasels, is starting 2026 with two new greeting card ranges that celebrate new beginnings in true Stoats & Weasels style; bold, humorous and full of optimism.

First up is the Freedom divorce range (8 designs), a witty and supportive take on what’s often seen as just an ending. Inspired by the so-called “Divorce Day” (the first working Monday in January), when many couples decide to call it quits after the holidays, this collection takes a lighter view of a difficult moment. Rather than doom and gloom, these designs bring a touch of humour and encouragement to moving on. Think “congratulations on getting your life back” energy, with colourful designs that celebrate freedom, resilience and fresh starts.

Alongside it comes Cheers to You, a collection (of 12 designs) that raises a glass to Dry January and the growing sober-curious movement. These cards swap pints for positivity, with punchy typography and phrases like “0% booze, 100% fun” and “cheers to ginger beers” – perfect for anyone marking a sober-versary, cutting down, or embracing the low-and-no trend.

Recent YouGov research shows that over a third of UK drinkers now regularly choose low- or no-alcohol options, with younger adults leading the way, proof that staying sober is something to celebrate, not apologise for or hide.

“I wanted to create cards that reflect how people really live now,” says Lisa. “Not every celebration needs champagne, and not every breakup needs tissues. Sometimes life just calls for a card that says ‘good for you’. They’re light-hearted but thoughtful and are all about moving forward. Being a non-drinker myself, I can honestly say I have far more fun staying sober. And on the divorce front, I’m still happily married, so the husband doesn’t need to panic!”

Officially launching at Top Drawer in S/S2026, both ranges will be available to retailers from November 2025, in time for January’s fresh-start occasions. As always, Stoats & Weasels cards are designed and printed in the UK, FSC-certified, and paired with the brand’s signature sunny yellow envelopes. Each card is A6, printed on a beautifully smooth, matt recycled stock from GF Smith.

About Stoats & Weasels

Stoats & Weasels combines playful design, bold colour and a refusal-to-grow-up sense of fun in over 300humorous and design-led cards for all occasions. Stocked by indie shops and major retailers alike, Lisa Bamford’s designs are proudly created in Brighton, UK.

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