About Tessa May Greeting Cards

At its heart, Tessa May Greeting Cards is about connection.

Founded by Lisa, Tessa May was inspired by her beloved Brussels Griffon companion, Tessa May—whose spirit, love, and loyalty continue to influence everything the brand stands for today. Tessa May wasn’t just a pet; she was a reminder to keep showing up, keep giving, and keep spreading kindness.

In a world that moves quickly, a handwritten card has the power to slow things down—to make someone feel seen, loved, and remembered. Whether it’s a simple note of encouragement or a heartfelt message, these small moments can mean everything. That belief is what inspired the beginning of this journey.

Tessa May was built on a love for giving back and helping others. You never truly know when someone needs a kind word, a reminder they matter, or a reason to smile. A handwritten card can do all of that—and more.

What makes Tessa May truly special is its story. The business was born from a deep love of dogs, especially senior dogs who deserve to have their stories told. Today, those stories are brought to life through thoughtfully designed greeting cards, turning real lives into meaningful connections people can share.

Like many small businesses, the journey didn’t happen overnight. For the first six years, Tessa May was built slowly, part-time, while balancing a full-time job. But after the loss of a beloved father, everything changed. It became clear that this dream deserved to be fully pursued.

That decision led to a leap of faith—leaving a steady job, putting everything in storage, and traveling across the country to grow the business one connection at a time. Going door-to-door, building relationships, and pushing through rejection, Tessa May grew to hundreds of retail accounts within just 18 months, eventually landing a major partnership with Daiso Japan.

The journey has been filled with determination, hard work, setbacks, and resilience—but also incredible growth and purpose.

At the center of it all is the inspiration behind the brand: a father who believed deeply in the power of a handwritten note. Growing up, he left messages of encouragement, love, and support—small gestures that made a lasting impact. His belief, unwavering support, and example continue to guide everything Tessa May stands for today.

This business is also made possible by a strong community—friends, family, and customers who have supported every step along the way. Their encouragement has helped shape Tessa May into what it is today.

The mission remains simple:
Help people stay connected. Spread kindness. Make someone smile.

Because sometimes, the smallest gesture—a handwritten card—can make the biggest difference.


Giving Back: The TM Crew Senior Dog Sanctuary

Giving back has always been at the core of Tessa May—and that mission continues through Lisa’s nonprofit, The TM Crew Senior Dog Sanctuary.

Animals Are Our Mission
The TM Crew’s mission is to make sure that every senior dog lives out his/her life to the fullest, surrounded by love until the very end. They will never be alone or neglected, and we will make sure they cross the rainbow bridge with dignity and peace.

Through this work, Lisa continues to honor the lives of senior dogs—ensuring they are loved, cared for, and never forgotten.

Learn more or support the mission: www.thetmcrew.org


At the center of it all is a simple belief:
Kindness matters. Connection matters. And even the smallest gesture—like a handwritten card—can make someone’s day a little brighter.

Website: Tessamay.com
Instagram: @tessamaygreetingcards
Facebook: Tessa May Greeting Cards

Lisa Papple, owner of Tessa May Greeting Cards, sitting on ground with her 3 beloved Brussels Griffons including Tessa May sitting on her