So Suzy Podcast

We're BACK!  Well, sort of, I actually have my snarkleganger filling in for me as I am STILL not 100%.  I can certainly tell you that I miss laughing A LOT.  On today's podcast, I have Chris O'Hearn from the Strong Within Daily Affirmation podcast helping out with a special episode for you.     Today, Chris talks about how to be Strong Within Your Creativity.         SHOW NOTES Being confident In your creativity Moving past comparing ourselves to others You are meant to change your world Share your artistic beauty   Links Referenced  www.strongwithin.com/sosuzy Strong Within Daily Affirmation Podcast Chris O'Hearn Instagram Chris O'Hearn Facebook

Now that Creativation is over, what to do you do now?  How do you process?  Should you follow up with those you met?  How do you move past some of the heart aches?  What do you do with all of the information you obtained, the friends you made, the memories you have and the connections you created?   In today's podcast, we talk about the show, what you should be doing now that life is back to normal and identifying your focus.     SHOW NOTES   "The more you know why you are doing something, then the more you will stay connected and motivated to the thing you pursue." - Chris O'Hearn, Strong Within Podcast, Episode 383: I Focus on the End to Know Where to Begin

We are just a few days away from the Creative Event of the Year!!!  AFCI’s Creativation starts this coming week, where thousands of creative geniuses will descend upon the Phoenix Civic Center in my home town of sunny Arizona for a week long creative fun fest.  Full of learning, new products, friends, laughter and Javi Hours. Plus, yours truly will be speaking at 3 of their education workshops on Thursday and Friday, which I am quite excited about.  If you are going to Creativation this year, you definitely need to let me know so we can plan a fun meet up!  I am already working on Lesley’s Junior Mint Stash and Miss Laura from Crafty Not Shifty is totally hooking me up with Galaxy Hot Chocolate!  I just love my crafty British friends. My favorite part of Creativation is being able to actually hug the incredible people I have interacted with on social media over the years.  It always surprises me that I actually have never MET them, because it feels like we have been friends for ages.  It truly is a surreal experience that I cherish. If you are planning on going to Creativation this year or in the future, there a few things to take into account before going.  Regardless of whether or not you have been before. First things first, WHY are you attending?  Are you going to purchase items for your shop?  Are you hoping to make connections with manufacturers?  Do you want to learn more about the industry and how you can grow your business?  Is this an excuse to hang out with friends?  Are you trying to expand your business by getting your products in front of buyers?  Do you have plans to increase your social media reach and become an influencer within the creative industry? What is your purpose?  What do you hope to get out of the event?  Have you set goals for yourself?  Maybe you are going just so you can experience a Stamp Junkie Javi Hour.  Or you are using Creativation as a hard deadline for your special So Suzy Peacock Tote from Simply Charming Bags. Whatever your reason, know your WHY! The reason your why is so important is to help direct you during the craze of the event.  If you are just there for the sake of going, there is a good chance you will be disappointed and disillusioned.  Which is never fun.  You could also inadvertently cause mayhem to someone else’s trip and that is just not cool. For example, Lesley Oman from Heffy Doodle is flying in from the UK for her very first Heffy Doodle Creativation booth in the hopes that she gets her stamp line in retail shops around the world.  She has spent money on the trip, her booth and her goal is to sell her product.  BUT let’s say that those people who are going just for the socializing, descend upon her booth and spend the entire weekend chit chatting with her.  Lesley’s time is spent socializing with fans, instead of selling her stamps to buyers.  The buyers are frustrated because they can’t purchase items for their shop, Lesley is disappointed because she didn’t make the sales she needed to justify her trip and Heffy Doodle customers do not benefit from their favorite stamps being in local shops. This scenario is a very real one and I have heard the frustration first hand from vendors as well as buyers.  Not to say that the influencers, bloggers, fans and new followers aren’t important, because they are!  They are what helps to drive demand, but there is a time and a place for everyone.  And it’s up to you influencers, to be conscientious and courteous to the vendors and buyers.  If you see someone with a buyer’s badge come up to the booth you are at, be polite and allow them to interact and talk with the people at the vendor booth you are in.  With that being said, there is a time and place for everything and success is there for all.  Which is why knowing your WHY is essential.  I highly recommend taking the next few days and think about your WHY, write it down and think about how you can achieve the goals that come from your why.  This will help you keep your focus and ensure that Creativation is a success for you and your purpose. If you have never been to Creativation, Thursday and Fridays are education days.  It’s going to be a lot of learning, giddiness when you see your favorite crafting celebrity from afar and excitement when you meet your friends for the first time.  This is also the perfect time to set up times to meet, have lunch, coffee, happy hours and dinners.  Just be aware that some people are going to be so busy and absorbing all that Creativation has to offer that it may be hard to nail down a specific time.  So, don’t become frustrated. Saturday, the doors open to the showroom floor and it is INSANE!  Booths are packed, people are everywhere, everyone is trying to spy the latest “hot” item, phones are recording, pictures are being snapped and selfie sticks are out. A lot of vendors will have an opening day show special for buyers.  If you are a buyer, use your Creativation app, plot out the booths you want to hit FIRST. Keep in mind they are going to be jam packed and busy, so plan your most important vendor first.  Go directly to the booth, do not dawdle, just go. If you are there to mingle, socialize and make connections, I suggest you walk the whole floor, look at the booths, see what is going on and stay in background.  Let the vendors and buyers have their moment.  Check out the smaller booths, maybe the lesser known companies, who don’t have people in their spaces.  See what they have to offer, take the pictures, post them on social media.  Help get their message and products out there. By midday, things will start to settle down and this is your time to check out the new products, introduce yourself to your favorite companies, just a quick into.  Keep it short, make your own personal notes of the products, people and companies that interest you for later on in the weekend. Sunday the showroom floor starts to die down a bit, especially in the afternoon.  If you are there to make the connections and see your favorite companies, this is the best time to scoot in their booths, to get the selfies, to say hello.  Check out all of the cool new toys, post pictures on social media, share what you are excited about. Monday, oh my!  This is HEAVEN!  The showroom floor is typically super chill and regardless of your reason for going, THIS is the day your magic will happen. Buyers, take advantage of the quietness to really talk to the vendors, to place your order, to go over marketing ideas with the designers and see what else they may have to help out your shop.  Influencers, go back and reconnect to those companies you are interested in.  Take pictures, post them on social media, tag the company, talk to them about guest designer spots or becoming an ambassador for them. Create a special photo album on your phone for your sample work so you can show them without having to zip past kid and pet photos.  Make sure you take one of their business cards and send them an email to thank them for their time.  If you took a selfie with them, include the photo in the email so they can put a face to the name.  Things are crazy and everyone’s brains go to mush after the event.  Don’t expect them to remember EXACTLY who you are.  Help them out by sending the photo and a recap of what you spoke about. For the social butterflies, you can help everyone out by communicating your excitement.  If you are talking to random people and new-found friends, tell them which companies are your favorite, the booths that are super cool and nifty new products that you saw.  Post those on social media, tag the people and companies.  The more exposure you give the event, vendors and people you meet, the more successful it becomes.  Be the excitement!  Build the enthusiasm!  Share the epic coolness you find! Creativation has so much to offer to so many and it is a wonderful excuse for companies to come together and meet the people who have been on their design teams over the years.  This was definitely my favorite part of going, being able to give Martha Lucia a huge hug, seeing Stephanie Ackerman, being surprised meeting Jenny Johnson, scaring the living daylights out of Kymona Tracey, shopping with Jennifer Loftfield, plotting with Justine Hovey and laughing uncontrollably with Josefine Fourage.  Meeting in person the women who helped build So Suzy Stamps. If you are a stamp company and you are meeting your design team for the first time, make the time to say hi.  Even if it is just for a moment, hug them and tell them how important they are to you and your company.  It may not always be possible, but if you can see about getting together for a group photo.  This may be nearly impossible with everyone’s schedule, but I really wish I had done this in the past.  Let’s face it, this may be one of the rare opportunities a lot of you are in the same room together. Justine Hovey put together a special Facebook Group for people who are attending Creativation this year as a way to find out who all was going and schedule times for people to meet up.   If you are going and would like to join the group, we will have a link in the show notes or you can search for it under Stampers going to AFCI/Creativation.  It’s a great way to find out who is going in your craft circle before the event instead of after!  Plus, it will be the easiest and fastest way to find out where and when Javi hour will be! I was so excited to learn that Miss Dayna is flying in from Hawaii for Creativation and she was asking what to do on her long flight to the mainland and I am going to recommend that all of you take some time this weekend or on your flight to Phoenix, to think about your Why, write down the reason you are going to Creativation, what your goals are for the event, make a list of people who you would like to meet and try to schedule some time with those on your priority list. It's going to be a fun filled time and for those of you going, I can’t wait to see you!! Until next time, this is Suzanne, and you have been listening to the So Suzy Podcast.     Happy Stamping!

Hey everyone!  It’s Suzanne and I want to thank you for joining us for the So Suzy Podcast where we help you build a business out of the hobby you love.  You will also be able to get the show notes and the links we reference by visiting us at SoSuzyPodcast.com    Over the past 6 months or so, I have been listening to the Strong Within Podcast from Chris O’Hearn.  It’s a quick 7 to 11-minute podcast that focuses on, essentially, the power of YOU.  Every day Chris has a Daily Affirmation podcast that 9 out of 10 times totally hits home and leaves me asking a ton of questions and gets my mind going a million miles a minute. One of his podcasts, number 338, I Bring Joy to Whatever I Do, left me thinking about my craft life; making cards, painting galaxies, coloring the latest Kit and Clowder monthly class and the joy it brings…until I think about the picture and posting process.  Getting the right light, posting it in my favorite Facebook Groups or Instagram.  Do I blog about it or just post it? So many times, I make cards at night and the lighting is terrible, so I fret about the lighting and staging.  So many of these thoughts race through my head until I am frustrated, disillusioned and depressed about the whole process. If I blog about it, I should write instructions, leave a list of the items I used and include all of the correct SEO words.  It takes time and we all know how poorly I take photos, so let’s not even broach that touchy subject.  Bottom-line, everything that should be done, sucks the joy out of something I used to do to relax. Making cards has turned into a chore. I see others post their creations and it never fails, just as they get the courage to post, the evil troll comes out of its dark, dank, hate infused hole to spread its hatred for all to read.  Confession?  There are times when I post in the hopes of one such soul sucker will leave a nasty comment on my project, just so I can have the pure pleasure of blasting them into the darkest depths of hell for the pain and suffering they have caused to other crafters.  And yes, I probably have watched John Wick one too many times.  But I digress. After listening to Chris’s podcast, I realized that I stopped making cards out of JOY.  Instead, I was making them out of necessity.  Whether they were for business, blog hops, holiday cards, or for my own ego, it wasn’t always because I WANTED to. I would make a card and then throw it into a drawer.  Not send them out.  There was no purpose, other than to make a card, post it and get a reaction.  A heart, like or comment.  What I wasn’t focused on, was the JOY.  The joy of making it, spending time in my craft room, playing with my stamps and supplies, thinking of the person I would send the latest creation to.  Those thoughts were not at the forefront of my mind and it caused me to lose the happiness I once had.  Which depressed me, here I am surrounded by tens of thousands of dollars in killer stamps and supplies and I was SAD, burnt out and did not have the joy I once had.  And frankly, that was unacceptable. That month’s Kit and Clowder class, I colored the Penguin Christmas scene for Shannon, who absolutely LOVES penguins.  I painted so many galaxies, it was INSANE!  And turned them into bookmarks for friends, family and my mom to give out at Christmas. I started playing with my Art Impressions stamps and made cute little watercolor projects. I painted more galaxies because they put a smile on my face and I created something special for my friend Anne in England. I started to find MY JOY again.  Sometimes I would post something on Instagram and I didn’t worry about the staging, lighting or anything else for that matter.  I posted them because I thought they were cool and I needed to make sure that my mom had proof of life.  I found my memory of why I enjoyed making cards. Chris said in his podcast, “We believe that joy is brought to us in the new things we receive, instead of understanding what we already have is joyful.  So, we wait for that new thing to come, in hopes that it will make us feel better.  We are bored with what we already have, and we get impatient thinking that our lives aren’t what they should be because of the idea that newness brings joy.” Which got me to thinking about all of the stamps and supplies I have and have not even used.  Let’s face it, retail therapy is AMAZING, but how many of you are like me and have stamp sets that you have NEVER used?  We buy them and have grand ideas of using the stamps and making gorgeous cards, but then they arrive and already we are looking at the next PERFECT stamp set, and we must have it.  This reality smacked me full on in the face while I was cleaning my craft room and I found two bags full of unopened and unused supplies.  One bag was from 2 years ago, the other bag was from 6 years ago!!!  I bought stamps and never even pulled them out of the bag!  As I went through my purchases and after I got over my initial disgust with myself, I started to remember why I bought them.  How cool they were and what I could make with them. A part of me was tempted to put them back in the bag and put them away later, but let’s face it, creator first, adult second, right?  So, I pulled out one of the stamps and started playing with it.  Just because.  For no real purpose, except that I wanted to use it.  Which led to going through my other drawers and checking out some of the other stamps in my collection and do you know what?  It was like shopping all over again, except I was doing it in my own house without spending any more money and it was so much fun!  A messy fun, but the smiles just kept coming. My stamps were like a mini photo album of my life.  What I was attracted to, the styles I have had over the years, the memories of why I purchased them and for whom.  I also discovered that I truly love snarky stamps and always have.  I sat for hours laughing at all of the silliness. I had found of my joy.  There were no pictures.  No posts to social media.  It was just me, surrounded by a humongous mess of stamps and a whole lot of happiness. If you have lost your mojo or your joy for creating, take some time for you and find your joy.  Make a card because YOU want to.  Don’t worry about posting it.  Don’t fret about how it measures up to the latest and greatest crafting diva.  Just make it for the joy of creating.  Go through your stamps and supplies, what does your stamping life album look like?  Remember the emotions you had when you made the purchases.  The people you had in mind. Make a card for someone just for the joy of giving.  Don’t worry about what they do with it after they receive it, just know that in that instant when they open their mailbox and see an envelope that is not a bill and open up your card, you gave them the gift of happiness.  A bright spot in their day and life.  Your thoughtfulness and creativity is the joy in their life. Until next time, this is Suzanne, and you have been listening to the So Suzy Podcast.   Happy Stamping!

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Lesley Oman from Heffy Doodle Stamps!  I am so excited to have Lesley on today's show and talk to her about Heffy Doodle AND how she launched her stamp company via a Kickstarter.  Find out more about Heffy Doodle AND the amazing prizes she is giving away this week on today's show!  

Today we have the incredible Justine Hovey on the podcast talking about her annual 12 Days of Christmas celebration, where she provides us with holiday inspiration!  Hear how the 12 Days of Christmas got started, how it evolved and the incredible prizes and cards she is featuring starting TODAY!       SHOW NOTES   12 Day of Christmas   Social Media YouTube Facebook Blog Instagram    

If you are new to card making or are on a tight budget, making your crafting dollar go as far as possible is essential!  Today, I am going to give you some crafty buying secrets on how you can save money and get started building your card making stash.         SHOW NOTES Special Coupon Code and Link for 15% off all items on Gina K Designs for today (10/20/17) only! Use coupon code SOSUZY15   Perfect Starter Kit from Gina K Designs - Sentimental Bouquet Mini Kit       Pick up a MISTI using the 15% off coupon from Gina K Designs       Making the Most of Your Craft Dollar  Garage Sales Craiglist in your area Purchase individual stamps versus sets  Consider ordering Digital Stamps from your favorite companies or on Etsy Buy AMAZING paper - Heavy Weight Card Stock from Gina K Focus on inks that match your style and buy the mini ink pads versus larger ones Gina K Mini Inks - Don't forget to use coupon code! SOSUZY15 The Ton Mini Inks Pick up Memento Tuxedo Black Ink Paper Cutter Foam Vinyl Placemat Scotch 3M Double-Sided Sticky Tape Dimensionals from Stampin' Up Become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator Get Creative For Free and Sale Items Join in on blog hops with contests Participate in blog challenges Join in on contests on Facebook, Blogs, Instagram and YouTube Apply to be on a Design Team Check out Destash Facebook Groups Join your favorite stamp companies Facebook Groups Sign up for your favorite stamp companies newsletters Keep a calendar for sales, free shipping and coupon codes Take advantage of End of Year Clearance Sales Use the 40% off coupons at the big box stores Shop from companies that have free shipping Gina K Designs Blitsy So Suzy Stamps Amazon Where to Go for Inspiration Justine Hovey Kymona Tracey Pinterest Stamp Junkies Facebook Group Stamp TV Instagram  

This week, we have the amazing Bonnie Krebs on the podcast from Art Impressions.  We talk about how she got her start in the crafting industry, her over 8000 images she has designed, the evolution of Art Impressions and how she finds her inspiration!       SHOW NOTES   Stamp Styles TryFolds Watercolor Wobbles Front and Backs Windows to the World Golden Oldies Girlfriends Girlfriend Skin Tones Video       Bonnie's Recommendations Marvy Markers #4 Watercolor Brush Staz-On Ink Palette  Strathmore Cold Press 140lb Canson Cold Press 140lb   Where to Find Art Impressions   Website Facebook YouTube Instagram Blog Classes and Shows   Here is the lady who I love on Instagram!   Her name is Dot and she is incredible!

There has been a lot of heated conversations lately over the ever-growing infestation of knock off craft supplies.  Typically, when someone mentions knock offs in the crafting industry, most people immediately gravitate toward the MISTI copycats and the blatant patent infringements some companies thought were ok to violate to make a quick buck.  Foolishness, my friends, foolishness. However, stamping tools are not the only ones being raped by creatives in the industry.  Stamps, dies and other intellectual property are being stolen, brand names are being stripped from packaging and products are being sold at murderous rates. For those of you who would like to know how to avoid or spot a scam, this podcast is going to help you identify the offending stamps and respond when you THINK a company is out of line.

  Whether you are a business or a consumer, it's time to get your game face on and prepare for the holiday shopping frenzy!  On today's podcast, we not only give you 5 incredible tips on how you can score your favorite items during the releases and sales, but we also have Amit Mathradas from PayPal on the show.  Amit gives us some incredible ideas for not only boosting sales during the holiday season, but how you can maximize the global market as well!         SHOW NOTES   5 Tips to Score Your Favorite Items During Releases and Sales Join the company's FB Group and mailing list to get a heads up on sales, specials, coupons, sneak peek's and pre-launches Set your alarm for release times Get on your computer or sign up for PayPal One Touch to ensure speedy check out Make sure you have an account with the company AND you are logged in Have a PAYPAL ACCOUNT! Amit's Top Tips For businesses, make sure your site is optimized for mobile shopping Have a simply purchase path for your consumers Both businesses AND consumers can take advantage of PayPal's One Touch for speedy check out and higher conversions Make sure, as a business, you have capital set aside for marketing initiatives and inventory Go after international markets during THEIR major holidays, check out PayPal's Global Sellers Program Amit's 1.5 Top Tip for a Successful Holiday Season PLAN!  Have a plan for the holiday season to increase sales Try something new!

Welcome to Day 3 of Snarktoberfest!  Today's guest is Suha Hazboun from Swedish House Crafts.  Not only is Suha the owner of Swedish House Crafts, she is also one of our incredible sponsors for the Snarktoberfest blog hop!   Hear all about Swedish House Crafts, Suha's love for snark AND how she has the lowest shipping rates in the UK!  That's right, my UK friends, Swedish House Crafts is on YOUR side of the world!

Welcome to Day 2 of Snarktoberfest and our interview with Donna Whiteman from The Sisterhood of Snarky Stampers.  Today, we continue with Snarktoberfest and interviewing one of the amazing lovers of snark, a snarky place to share your creations without fear of someone standing on their precious pansy soap boxes on how your card offends their delicate natures. I also threw down the gauntlet and issued a challenge to de-throne Miss Josefine Fouarge and her Snarky Queen Reign!  It's time to overthrow her snarky reign!

Welcome to Snarktoberfest!   *WARNING: Today's podcast has a few bad words that may not be appropriate for little ears or those of you who get easily offended.  Josefine and I talk about some of our favorite snarky sentiments and cards during the podcast, there are no F-bombs, but it may not seen as a family friendly show today.  Funny, but not geared for the little people.  If you get offended, don't complain to me, because I did warn you.  :)   First, thank you so much for your patience during my little hiatus.  I had several huge audiobook deadlines happening in September and I just didn't have time to put together the podcasts for the month.  BUT the podcast is BACK and I have a ton of great surprises in store for you this month.   The second being, Snarktoberfest!  Where the snarky soul sisters unite and create a month of snarky fun.     SHOW NOTES   Snarktoberfest Details When: October 2nd - October 5th  Where: The fun starts on Josefine's blog Bloghop Ends: October 5th Winners Announced: October 6th   Snarktoberfest lasts all month long so please be sure and use #snarktoberfest or #snarktoberfest2017 so we can find your snarky creations!   Sponsors for Snarktoberfest So Suzy Stamps Crackerbox Palace Strawberry Jude Stamps Swedish House Crafts Simply Charming Bags Look!  I made a card too!  You can find all of the details on my blog at All About Suzy.       Stamps Referenced Bitchy Pills - Crackerbox Palace Valentine's Day - So Suzy Stamps Warning Labels - So Suzy Stamps Shank a Bitch - So Suzy Stamps    

Eeeek, I am so excited!  Creativation is just around the corner and the registration for the education program starts next week on September 12 at 11am EST!  Today, we have Keli Bell-Cole from AFCI on the podcast to talk about attending Creativation, the educational classes, key note speaker and so much more!  And Keli is kinda awesome!   PLUS, we try to talk Mark into letting her go to Greendale, WI to check out the Village!  Pretty sure she needs a chaperone...just sayin!   Check out the preview guide to write down your questions before class registration starts!   Registration starts on Tuesday, September 12th at 11am at the Creativation website.   If you have not registered for Creativation yet, head on out and do so!

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Kim Evans from Emerald Creek!  Today, we are going to be talking to Kim about how she got her start in the stamping industry, her unique embossing powders, AFCI Canada (because we love our Canadian sisters!) and a few shout outs to some amazing menfolk in the industry!   PLUS!  Kim has GENEROUSLY offered a $50 prize pack to one lucky listener! OH YA, BABY!       SHOW NOTES   Kim's Favorites   Favorite part of running a business: Math...seriously, she SAID that...out loud!  Oh, and the people! Favorite embossing powder color: Charred Gold and Fractured Ice   Favorite craft item you can't live without: (as if any of us can name JUST one) Heat tool, craft mat, Ranger Emboss It Dabber   Super Secret Product Announcement! ATC Chipboard coming SOON!   Amazing Shout Outs to a Couple of Super Cool Guys   Seth Apter Ted from Stampers Anonymous   Where to Find Kim and AFCI Canada   Emerald Creek Website Emerald Creek Blog Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest   AFCI Canada  Website

**DISCLAIMER**   Skype was not behaving during the recording of our podcast so we had to use Zoom, needless to say, the quality is not as good as normal.  I do apologize and I PROMISE once you get used to the "bubbling abyss ocean sounds", you'll be fine!   It would be an extreme disservice to the crafting community if I did not have the bomdiggityshizznit of all crafters on the show to talk about her incredibly cool method of hosting card classes and retreats.  If you are considering starting a card class outside of the how or you are feeling like you want to branch out and start hosting retreats, this podcast is for you!   Lydia shares some of her million dollar secrets, talks about what it takes to host a successful retreat AND we also talk podcasts and serial killers...ya, we're an eclectic bunch!   SHOW NOTES   Hosting Classes Outside the Home   #1 piece of advice: Frequent a local establishment, find out when their slow times are and approach them with the idea of you teaching an art class during this time.  Don't forget to be kind, courteous and to let them know you will encourage your attendees to purchase food after the class.   Retreats   #1 piece of advice: Attend retreats before hosting your own.  Find out what you like or don't like.     Lydia's Favorites   Favorite technique: Decorating backgrounds - anything inky and messy Favorite retreat snack: Blueberry Scones that are super special Favorite serial killer:  Zodiac...at the moment Favorite podcast: Serial and Undisclosed     Where to Find Out More About Lydia and Understand Blue   Understand Blue     Don't Forget to Share   Do you host classes or retreats? What are some of your favorite million dollar tips? What has been your favorite class or retreat that you have attended?   Share your stories in the comments section!  

Today, we have Teresa DeWitt-Pierce from Whimsical Card Studio on the podcast sharing with us how she built and launched her creative dream of being on a design team.  PLUS, we have a special surprise for her that she had NO CLUE was coming!  Thanks to Justine Hovey and Vicky Briggs from So Suzy Stamps for allowing me to a part of the fun!   SHOW NOTES Teresa's Favorites   Favorite So Suzy Stamps Stamp - Fancy Butterfly Favorite Crafter - Justine Hovey and Jennifer McGuire Favorite Card Design to Make - Interactive   Where to Find Teresa   Blog Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter   Links Reference   So Suzy Sessions How to Be on a Design Team   If you would like to congratulate Teresa on her new Design Team position, please leave her a special note in the comments section!  

This month, we are focusing on different ways to make extra money to support your craft habit.  Last week, we discussed craft fairs and launched our Craft Show 101 online class at SoSuzySessions.com This week, we are going to talk about card classes and how you can make extra money by hosting your own.   SHOW NOTES   If you are wanting to host classes, there are a few things to consider before you go all gang busters and start promoting. Where are you going to hold them? How many people is your ideal number? How many cards are you going to make? What will you charge? Where will you promote? What products will you use? How long will your class be? What type of class will you teach? How much time do you have to prepare? Instructions or no instructions? If you decide to host in your home, keep these things in mind: ALWAYS include if you have pets in your marketing and promo materials.  If you do have pets, the dog goes outside PERIOD.   Same goes for the cat.  Cat goes outside or in a room.   Kids are not allowed at home.  The same goes with your guests, no children. Clean your house and bathroom. Companies with Card Class Programs   Brutus Monore - contact heather (at) brutusmonroe (dot) com  So Suzy Stamps Right at Home Crackerbox Palace   Use the "Contact Us" page for So Suzy Stamps, Right at Home and Crackerbox Palace.   Links Referenced   Craft Show 101 Online Class Card Pricing Calculator Gina K Designs My Sweet Petunia The Ton Stamps Stampin' Up! Catherine Pooler Art Impressions (AI) Lavinia   New Fun Releases   Gina K Designs So Suzy Stamps My Sweet Petunia Concord & 9th CK Designs at Simon Says Stamps   Sponsored By   My Sweet Petunia

We all need more money for crafting supplies and with the holidays fast approaching and new releases pending, new supplies are going to be essential for our well-being and our very existence.  Today, we are going to discuss 10 ways you can finagle some more money to buy the goodies you are dying to get!         SHOW NOTES   10 Ways to Finagle More Money   Sell items on Etsy or eBay Have a garage sale Affiliate links, YouTube or Design Teams Stampin' Up! Craigslist, Facebook Destash, eBay Bundle your stamps to sell vs individually Mystery Boxes >>> Tag @doubleclickconnect on Instagram! Friend Stamp Swap Sell your cards at Craft Shows Host Card Classes Links Referenced   My Sweet Petunia Gina K Designs So Suzy Stamps The Ton Stamps Kit and Clowder    Our Online Classes   How to Be on a Design Team Craft Show 101   Sponsored By   My Sweet Petunia

For those of you who plan to participate in a craft fair this year, today's podcast is all for you!  We are going to discuss: Supplies needed Decorating your booth Promotion for your crafts How to stand apart from the other crafters Type of cards to sell Pricing   Also, we just opened pre-registration for our Craft Show 101 Online Class!       Show Notes   Cash to Have on Hand 30 - $1's 10 - $5's 6 - $10's 2 - $20's   Accepting Credit Cards Options PayPal Here Square   Links Referenced Price. Market. Sell. Your Handmade Cards Pricing Calculator MISTI   Friday's Listener Tip   "Don't compare your work to other's.  Be inspired, motivated and thankful for the opportunity to learn from your crafting peers.  After all, you may inspire others with your style.  Be true to yourself.  Make what you love, not necessarily the new trend."  - Marci Snee            Sponsored By   My Sweet Petunia    

Whether you own an Etsy shop, business, sell your cards at craft fairs or shop online, PayPal is MORE than just a way to collect or spend money.  On today's show, we talk with Jason Smith from PayPal and he gives us the inside scoop on all the ways PayPal can help you AND your business.  From payment solutions, shopping, peace of mind, dolling out funds to your children, working capital for your business and their Business in a Box.       SHOW NOTES   How else does PayPal act as a growth partner for small business?   PayPal Here - Credit Card Reader

Today, we have Vincent Djen, designer, manufacturer and consultant for The Fashion Knowledge Network.  Vincent is going to tell his story of growing up in the fashion industry and sharing with you his secrets on how you can achieve your fashion design dream.  Plus, he gives us the inside scoop of some of the hottest upcoming trends and materials that are coming out!   SHOW NOTES Vincent's Golden Rule of Product Development and Production is to be prepared for Black Swans.  He breaks it down into three parts Test Communicate Be prepared Best advice for Sanaa and others looking to get into the fashion industry Never stop learning; go to shows, read, talk to people, never stop learning Be open-minded Commit 100% Perseverance  FUN FACTS Favorite part of owning your own business - Freedom and thrill of a job well done Favorite fabric - New sustainable materials; TPU, 3D Printing Favorite upcoming trend - Fashion wearable electronics; LED wedding gowns, temperature regulated clothing WHERE TO FIND VINCENT AND THE FASHION KNOWLEDGE NETWORK Website LinkedIn Instagram SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION Website

Three years ago a stamping product was released to the people who followed My Sweet Petunia on Facebook, shortly thereafter, this incredible tool would impact the stamping world like no other.  The MISTI has changed lives, built friendships and revitalized the stamping community.  To celebrate her 3rd birthday, we have a special podcast to talk about some amazing ways you can use your MISTI along with a special from My Sweet Petunia for our listeners!       Show Notes   Where to Find the MISTI My Sweet Petunia - 20% Off the Original MISTI, Grid Pads and Mouse Pads from today through July 23rd for So Suzy Podcast listeners - no coupon required   Links Referenced So Suzy Stamps - Mirror Image Stamp   Concord & 9th - Turnabout Stamp         The Ton Stamps - Thanks Stamp Set   Iliana's MIHM Podcast Interview   Lavinia Stamps         Videos Referenced Justine Hovey              Gina K Designs              Ken's Creations       Uses for the MISTI Basic stamping Accurate stamping Solid and silhouette stamps Aligning and test stamping Embossing after you have stamped Die cut placement Stamping on texture paper Layering stamps Mass production Do It Yourself Backgrounds Gradient or Ombre stamping Masking Repeat stamping Stamping the inside and outside of your cards Using acetate Mirror Image Stamping Turnabout Stamps from Concord & 9th   Listener Tip Today's tip comes from Karen Hightower Finish the inside of your card and always sign the back of the card.  You have put time and effort into creating it, so sign your creation. - Karen Hightower

We are continuing with our July eCommerce Series and when we were putting the series together, I knew there was one person I just had to have on the show so she could share her words of wisdom.  Chloë Thomas, from eCommerce MasterPlan is an author, podcast host, mentor and consultant in the eCommerce world and I had the extreme pleasure of working with her when I owned So Suzy Stamps. Chloë was instrumental in helping us grow our “bricks and clicks” business.  She offered guidance on how to manage our inventory both in the shop and online, gave us amazing advice for how to handle promotions and helped us build a fabulous marketing plan to kick off the new year.  Which, was our most profitable quarter in the past 3 years. Chloë understands that not all industries are alike and not all needs are the same, however, she was able to guide me in the direction MY business needed to go and create my unique eCommerce MasterPlan.   SHOW NOTES In Chloë's book, Your 3 Steps to Successful Online Selling, she talks about the 3 most important things you can do to customize your own eCommerce MasterPlan Identify what sort of eCommerce business you are Establish your core foundation Marketing Biggest challenge and benefit for having a "bricks and clicks" business Challenge: Stock and time Benefits: Online=Convenience; In Store=Experience #1 Online Promotion You Can Do  Free Shipping or Free P&P (Postage and Packaging) It has to get the customer to do what you want as cheaply as possible. -Chloë Thomas Top Advice For Those of You Just Starting Out Find a product that you are interested in along with enough people who are too. - Chloë Thomas Chloë's Favorites Favorite part of what she does for her business - Writing Favorite eCommerce Marketing Method: eMail Marketing Favorite App: Sumo Me Where To Find Chloë eCommerce MasterPlan Special Offer Special Offer For YOU! USE COUPON CODE SUZY when checking out  

I had to have one last guest on the show to go with our Planner Series to talk about Traveler's Notebooks and working with leather products.  Chris Barrett from the AltGuild creates these stunning leather Traveler's Notebooks that I am absolutely IN LOVE with!  Today, we talk about the reasons behind a Traveler's Notebook, working with leather and what goes into the creation of one.       SHOW NOTES   Custom orders are on hold...he said forever, but does that really mean FOR-EV-ER?   Chris's Favorites Favorite Custom Order: Alice in Wonderland cover Favorite Size TN: Tachikoma  Favorite Part of Owning a Business: "Planting a seed and watching it grow." - Chris Barrett, AltGuild   Where to Find Chris Website (Etsy) Facebook Instagram    My Traveler's Notebook   My Old Soul in the A5 size       Dragon Scales Josefine and I May Come to Blows Over       The Cover That Started It All      

I APOLOGIZE FOR THE UPDATE AND ERROR WITH OUR ORIGINAL RECORDING, WE SHOULD BE GOOD TO GO FOR THE FULL EPISODE WITH TRACEY WALLACE FROM BIG COMMERCE. When it comes to starting an online business, selecting the right platform is critical to your business, customers and growth.  Selecting the wrong platform can cause you undue stress, crashed servers and additional costs that are unnecessary.  Today, we talk with Tracey Wallace, Editor in Chief, at BigCommerce to get her insight into what features you should look for in an eCommerce platform, the benefits of moving to a platform outside of Etsy and some of her favorite features.       SHOW NOTES   First Steps When Selecting an eCommerce Platform Put together a list of everything that you need it to do now and where you want to be in the future: Payment Gateways Inventory Shipping Wholesale Accounts Customer Groups for VIP's Robust Servers for High Traffic Syncing with Brick and Mortar shop Physical, Downloadable Products and Services Will It Sync to Infusionsoft, MailChimp, Constant Contact   3 Most Important Features a Business Should Look For Payment Gateways and Fees SEO Included Inventory Management   Benefits of an eCommerce Site vs Etsy Branded to you Retain your customer information so you can build a relationship Total control of your site, services, products and customer communication Not charged by how many items you list on your site   What Sets BigCommerce Apart From the Competition? Can handle large growth eCommerce businesses like ManCrates 60% of all apps needed to run and grow your business are built-in saving you anywhere from $300 - $5000 yearly API is faster, which helps data sync faster Customer Service is TOP NOTCH - available 24/7 for phone support (Personally, I LOVE THEM!)     Why Is It Important to Have an eCommerce Platform That Specializes in High Volume Sales? No need to worry about servers crashing during a release It will have the ability to grow WITH you Allows you to expand your business through wholesale (B2B), custom customer groups (B2C) and you can manage affiliates through an app on your site no high cost services   Switching to BigCommerce In-house migration team that will walk you through switching your products over to BigCommerce     Most Important App or Feature to Include on Website to Maximize Sales Email provider to communicate with customers Thank You for your orders Abandon Carts Review of Products InStock Alerts to let them know when products are back in stock   Tracey's Favorite New Features New Analytics and Insights Buy Buttons               ^^^^^^ How Spiffy Cool is THAT?! You should totally test it out...just sayin!     Where to Find More Information on BigCommerce   Website Blog Features      

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday, where we bring you the stories of the people in the creative industry who have built a business and Made It Happen!  Today, we have Missy Luukkonen from The Little Green Bean.  Missy is one of these amazing women who can take a piece of scrap fabric and turn it into the cutest, most unique items for your home.  Plus, her sewing room is to die for!       SHOW NOTES   Missy's tips for finding balance between maintaining a craft business and having a personal life:   Find your rhythm Build a schedule and stick to it Take a lunch and two 15 minute breaks Remove cell phone from your craft area Use a planner to plan out your day Take the weekend off Missy and her amazing craft room     Fun Facts   Favorite Product - whatever she is working on at the moment Favorite Part of Owning a Business - having days to do what you want Favorite Business Craft Tool - her giant ironing board Favorite Holiday That Inspires Her Cute Birds - Christmas     My Favorite Birds!   Where To Find The Little Green Bean   Website Instagram Etsy Shop

Regardless if you're on a design team, make cards for fun or sell them throughout the year, having a craft room or craft space set up properly can not only have you time, but can help you find success.  In today's episode, we are going to talk about the 10 ways you can set your craft room up for success.       SHOW NOTES 10 Ways to Set Your Craft Room Up for Success Try pre-cutting your card bases Pre-cut your white and ivory 1st and 2nd layers Use your MISTI Keep your most used supplies at your finger tips Pre-make Nuvo Crystal Drops Pre-stamp the images you want to color Invest in a Scan N Cut Keep a card journal Tidy up your work space after every use Organize your supplies   Friday Tip of the Week "Be patient!  Never give up.  The trash can is your last resort.  Keep at a project-it usually turns out differently then you expect and you may even like it more.  And above all, have fun!"    - Victoria Moore-Beall     Sponsor   My Sweet Petunia and the amazing MISTI  

We have Sallyann Ralph from Little Sweet Designs on today's show to talk about the importance of branding for your blog, why she helps small businesses with pre-made templates and shows you how to use programs like InDesign, Photoshop, Canva and more.  Her Brand Bar is a one stop resource to help creativepreneurs stay ahead of the game.     MARKETING RESOURCES, TECH TRAINING & 'DONE-FOR-YOU' TEMPLATES FOR EVERY GIRL BOSS! The Brand Bar is a design-based membership site that meets you exactly where you are in business. We help you design, create and build a brand, PLUS all the marketing graphics that go along with it, so, it feels more like you!         SHOW NOTES   Branding is you.  Your face.  Your Clothes. -Sallyann Ralph   FUN FACTS   Favorite Template: eBooks Favorite eCourse: InDesign Favorite New Service: Shhh, it's a secret, she has 2 new designers coming on board     Where to Find Sallyann   Little Sweet Designs Website Facebook Instagram Etsy Free Resources and Templates Sallyann Ralph Website  

We are doing something a bit different for today's podcast.  We just got back from Junkie Fest in Greendale, WI and I fell so in love with this little village that I had to share a bit of back story and history.  I hope you enjoy the excerpt from the book, Greendale - The Little Village That Could and Did before we talk about our recap from Junkie Fest.        Links Referenced   Village Paper and Ink  Hampton Inn - Franklin, WI Greendale, WI Gina K Designs Stamp Junkies   Sponsored By   My Sweet Petunia

Welcome to our final week of the Planner Series.  I hope you have enjoyed the last several weeks and the guests we have had on the show.  If you missed out on any of the podcasts, you can find them all here.  Also, if you would like to be eligible to win one of the NINE fabulous prizes, please leave us a comment in the show notes by July 6th.  We will be announcing the winners on July 7th!   Today, we have Laurie Huff from Quo Vadis talking about traditional planners, why paper planners are making such a huge come back and how to best utilize the planner that works best for you.         SHOW NOTES   What makes the Quo Vadis Planner so special? Clairefontaine paper Numerous styles, sizes, layouts and colors Refillable with add on inserts For those of us in the Creative industry or who have a lot going on, do you recommend using one or multiple planners? Have a main planner that has all of your deadlines, if it has a date, it goes in your planner Save your creativity on output not on planning What advice would you give to someone who is looking for the perfect planner? Stop looking online Write down what you need it to do for you Keep your schedule; personal and work Keep your families schedule Tasks Goals Record to refer back to Try a layout before you buy it and see if it works for you Don't try to do too much.  You'll feel overwhelmed and underwater. - Laurie Huff   Why do you think paper planners are so popular? Luxurious experience History of your life Paper planners are an experience technology cannot replicate. - Laurie Huff FUN FACTS   Favorite Quo Vadis Planner Style Septanote Trinote     Favorite Planner Cover and color Violet Texas Cover     Favorite pen to use Uni-Ball Jetstream 4 & 1    WHERE TO FIND QUO VADIS   Website Blog Instagram Facebook Shopping for Covers Shopping for Inserts   Laurie's Favorite Clairfontaine Stapled Notebooks   LINKS REFERENCED   Origin of the Planner Time Management Monday Writing Wednesday - Journaling Page Per Day Challenge Textagenda - Laurie used in the Peace Corps Space24 - Light Green Tint: Great for lists and lots of busy-ness!       Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!   Quo Vadis         Paper Clip Planet

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Marcia Francois the Organising Queen!  Today we talk to Marcia about living life intentionally, how to find time to do the things you love and her advice for finding the perfect planner for your lifestyle.     SHOW NOTES Marcia's Main Purpose or Focus - "Inspire people to take action."   Why Marcia thinks people sabotage themselves when it comes to finding time to do things they love - "It's a badge of honor to be busy"   "I have enough time for everything that is important to me." - Marcia Francois Advice for people who are struggling with finding the perfect planner:  "Go with simplicity and you need to know yourself"   Marcia's piece of advice for those of us who are crafters  "Know in advance what you want to do and set up your environment for success." -Marcia Francois Marcia's Favorites Favorite organizing or time management system - Meal Planning Favorite service she offers - Coaching Favorite Pen(s)   Pilot G2 .7mm Pentel EnerGel .7mm About Marcia Blog eBooks - 31 Days of Enough Time Instagram Facebook   Don't forget to use coupon code WELCOME when purchasing any of her eBooks for 20% off!     Marcia and I in Stirling     First night in town and she talked me into eating Indian food!   You will need to follow us on Instagram to see pictures of my nightmare and my progress thus far!

We are headed out to our very first card retreat that I have not hosted!  The Stamp Junkies are descending upon Gina K's, Village Paper & Ink in Wisconsin for a ton of fun, lots of laughs and some major card making.  On today's episode, we talk about getting ready for going to a Retreat, supplies to bring and how I created my amazing lists!       SHOW NOTES What to Bring - Check out our Preparing Your Go Bag podcast for more detailed information   Be Courteous - Use a purse hook to hang your Bunkie Bag from the table so it doesn't take up so much space on the table.     My List     Isn't this just the cutest?  List with the envelope pocket   List is 5" x 2.75" Envelope Pocket is 3" x 4"   Supplies Used   Lavinia Freya's Fairy House Stamp Brutus Monroe Clickable Letter Stamps Gina K CardStock So Suzy Stamp Peacock Plumes Ink Bites         Don't Forget   Next week is our last week for our Planner Series, to be eligible to win one of our 9 fabulous prizes, please head on over and leave a comment on which Planner option is your favorite!     Thanks to Our Sponsors   My Sweet Petunia     Quo Vadis         Paper Clip Planet              

Welcome back to Week 4 of our Planner Series with Jessica Marie Design.  Jessica designs and creates Printable Planners that you can simply download and print or if you need something custom, she can design planner pages that work for you and your needs.  I have been using Jessica for several years and she never fails to wow me with her ability to take what's in my head and make something invaluable for my planning needs.  Plus, she shares with us a few of her planner hacks on how YOU can decide which planner is best for YOUR lifestyle. Special thanks to our sponsors: Quo Vadis and Paper Clip Planet  

It's Made It Happen Monday with Katy Weade co-founder of Blitsy!  Today we talk with Katy on how Blitsy came to life, how to get your products onto their site, secret of something super fabulous coming out soon and where Blitsy is going in the future!

Listening to your followers and customers is an integral part of the success of you, your brand and your business.  Understanding what they want and need will help to garner their loyalty and allow you to grow and continue to to offer value added content and products.  Find out the importance of listening to your customers and followers in today's podcast.     SHOW NOTES   Why You Should Listen "Not listening to your customers is equal to not looking at your fuel gauge before heading off for a road trip."   Case Studies @KreativeKymona Instagram - Did You Know? Series Customers asked she provided Value to the consumer and manufacturer "Not only does Kymona's series benefit her followers, but the companies whose products she was featuring also found value in her Did You Know? series." My Sweet Petunia - MISTI MISTI Mini MISTI Memory MISTI "By listening to her customers, Iliana has made not only a fabulous tool, but better business decisions because of the feedback from her customer."  Paper Clip Planet Quality over Trendy High quality, long lasting signature toppers that will satisfy her customers "Annie chose to listen to her brand and satisfy her customers with their need for quality versus trendy products."  Store Owners Get to the AFCI mid-year buying event in July Get ready for the holiday buying season now Stamp Companies Get your designs ready now for the holidays Launch your holiday stamps in September/October Crafters Know your market, your customer and the theme Think logically   Questions to Ask Yourself What do your customers want? What would they like to know? How will they find, identify and know you? Why do they want what you have? And if they don't...what DO they want? "Sometimes it is about satisfying the customers you have versus finding ones who want what you offer."   Links Referenced Kymona Tracey Justine Hovey My Sweet Petunia/MISTI Paper Clip Planet Price. Market. Sell.  Your Handmade Cards Online Class   Sponsored By My Sweet Petunia   My Sweet Petunia  

Welcome to week 3 of our Planner Series with Audra Bolster from Kindred Stamps.  Today, we are exploring the reasons behind decorating your planner, supplies available and best inks to use.  When I think of decorating a planner, my brain immediately goes to "personal planner" and certainly not one for business.  However, seeing the need for business stamps and direct sales planner stamps, Audra designed several planner stamps to fill that need.  They are great for small businesses, direct sales, Etsy shop owners and so much more. SHOW NOTES Why is decorating your planner so popular right now? It adds uniqueness to your planner and you can add whimsy by stamping and coloring. -Audra Bolster, Kindred Stamps Types of Planner Stamps Kindred Stamps carries Everyday Unicorn Theme Park Vacation Small Business Direct Sales Book Club Care Instructions Kendra's Personal Favorites Best Ink - VersaFine Pigment Ink Favorite Planner - Erin Condren Favorite Planner Stamp Sets - Small Business and Unicorn   What You Need to Get Started Your favorite planner Bag for all of your supplies VersaFine Ink Favorite Pen   Where to Find Kindred Stamps Website Facebook Facebook Group Instagram Thanks to Our Sponsors   Planner Inspiration    

We are continuing with our Planner Series theme in today's Made It Happen Monday podcast with Ashley Shelly Trotier from Ashley Shelly.  Ashley creates some fabulous planners that are designed to help you "create your best days".  Today, we hear the story behind her business, the planners she creates and the products she has coming out in the near future.   SHOW NOTES The Ashley Shelly Planners are created by Ashley Shelly to help people "Create Your Best Days".  Each planner is printed on 80lb bright white paper, perfect for decorating and using all year round, plus she has her special 'Creative Spread" to help you find your focus for the month ahead. She also carries Dot grid notebooks - NEW Budget Planner Notebook Bestie Daily Peace Journal Ashley's Favorites Favorite Pen - Le Pen & PaperMate Ink Joy .7 Favorite Notebook Cover - Ombre Pineapple Favorite Part of Owning a Business - Allows her to create her best days Where to Find Ashley Shelly Website Facebook Instagram

Let's face it, we are busy people.  Life has a tendency to get in the way, responsibilities pile up and time flies by.  What we want to do doesn't always match up with what we have to do, but what if you were able to combine creativity with something you MUST do?   Show Notes If you are short on time available to you, think about your creative flow and crafting habits: Do you need time to gather supplies? Does it take you 30-45 minutes perusing Pinterest for inspiration? Is your craft space needing some major clean up before you start? If you are struggling to find time, think about what would best serve your times and needs: Do you need pops of creativity? Would you prefer large chunks of time to create? Are you constantly on the go and need something portable? Links Referenced Kelly Creates Kelly Creates Facebook Group Rhodia Bullet Journal Bunkie Bag Sponsored By My Sweet Petunia and the MISTI

Welcome to week 2 of our Planner Series!  Today, we are talking with Helen Colebrook from Journal with Purpose and how she uses her Bullet Journal to plan her days.  When I first found Helen on Instagram, I was completely enamored of her simple layout style, the way she combined work with home and her blog post on Using Your Bullet Journal to Get More of the Good Stuff Done.  I have always wanted to use a bullet journal since the first time I saw a picture of my friend, Krys Salvetta using hers.  After my interview with Helen, I am happy to report that I finally bought not one but TEN bullet journals, I am seriously addicted. During our interview with Helen, she takes us through what she loves about using a bullet journal for her planning, how she stays organized, tips and tricks and some of her favorites.   SHOW NOTES The Bullet Journal is referred to as an "analog system for the digital age" by Ryder Carroll, the creator of the Bullet Journal.  According to Helen, she loves its simplicity, because you can use it anyway you want.  If you want to just use it for lists, keeping track of your schedule, using it as an art journal or a combination of all the above, the bullet journal is a true reflection of you. It's peaceful, not a chore. Helen Colebrook - Journal with Purpose Helen's System Check out how Helen uses her Bullet Journal with her Traveler's Notebook. Plus, her fabulous Tip-in card that she uses for her main goals for the week.   Traveling Bullet Journal See the pictures of the Traveling Bullet Journal, the spreads from the people involved and where it is now.  Traveling BuJo Updates You can also search for #thetravelingbujo on instagram.   Helen's Favorites Favorite Pen - Staedtler Multi Pigment Liner Favorite Ways to Decorate - Washi Tape, Planner Stickers and doodling Favorite Use - Gratitude and Memory Pages   Important Tips from Helen Use your last page in your Bujo as a pen test page to make sure it works nicely in your bullet journal.   Recommended Supplies Rhodia Bullet Journal - Heavier paper and allows for more art journaling, watercoloring, Tombow Dual Brush Pens work GREAT!  (Personally, I like the A5 size)   Staedtler Pigment Liners - great for writing, but also for watercoloring and using with Tombows   Links Referenced Using Your Bullet Journal to Get More of the Good Stuff Done Traveling BuJo Ryder Carroll Ninja Traveling   Where to Find Helen and Journal With Purpose Blog Instagram YouTube Pinterest

On last week's podcast, we talked about the importance of planning for the holiday's.  Today, we have Keli Bell-Cole from AFCI talking about their mid-year buying event!  AFCI and SPC have put together an amazing event for those retailers who need to get ready for the 3rd and 4th quarters.  Hear about the Mixed Media Event, how to attend and the benefits of going from Keli.  Find out how I epically failed the first year our shop opened for the holidays.  (It wasn't pretty!)  The Mixed Media Event is an intimate buying opportunity for retailers ONLY.  This is your time to build those relationship with your vendors and distributors.     Show Notes What is the Mixed Media Event? Mid-year buying event for retailers to order their 3rd & 4th quarter supplies for their shops. When is the Mixed Media Event? July 17th - Education July 18th - 20th - Show Floor Salt Palace Convention Center Salt Lake City, UT How do I register? Head on over to AFCI.global and click the registration button.   Mixed Media Event is free for all SPC and AFCI members and $35 for non-members Can your business afford to not be ready for the holidays? Benefits from a Mid-Year Buying Event Keli explains how a mid-year buying event helps retailers with planning and the mindset of getting ready for the the last half of the year.   Third and fourth quarter sales can make or break a business. Keli Bell-Cole, AFCI This is an intimate and exclusive buying event for retailers.  Not only can shop owners purchase inventory for the holiday season, but you can take advantage of the education program and build relationships with your vendors and distributors. Important Links Referenced Hotel Registration - Deadline June 16th! Education Program Register for the Mixed Media Event Become a Member AFCI Contact Information For questions regarding the Mixed Media Event call Keli Bell-Cole - (201) 835-1202 or email her at kbell-cole (at) afci (dot) global Call AFCI directly - (201) 835-1200 

Depending on your needs and motivation, starting your holiday planning now could be instrumental to your success.  It doesn't matter if you are planning your holiday cards, classes, getting items ready for craft fairs, designing stamps for holiday releases or purchasing inventory for your shop.  Proper planning is critical for you, your business and your customers.  In today's show, we go over the critical timelines for stamp companies, shop owners and crafters when it comes to putting together your holiday plan.   Show Notes Stamp Companies Contact your manufacturer now to find out about lead times for manufacturing Submit your Christmas designs to your manufacturer now! Get the stamps to your Design Team and industry influencers no later than the last week of July Release Christmas/Holiday stamps beginning to mid September Shop Owners Attend AFCI's mid-year buying event in July Order your holiday inventory ASAP Create Christmas cards for Christmas Card Classes in September Consider hosting a Craft Fair 101 Class in September Order more MISTI's Post cards for the Christmas Card Class on October 1st Schedule your classes for beginning of November Crafters Work on your plan for the craft fair season; how many cards, the styles and how many fairs you want to attend Start working on your themed cards now Put together a timeline for working on the cards Have all themed cards finished by September Work on Christmas Cards starting in September and October Have all cards finished by mid-October Put finishing touches on booth design Regardless if you are a stamp company, shop owner or card maker, your success boils down to planning. Links Referenced MISTI AFCI Mixed Media Event Price. Market. Sell.  Your Handmade Cards Class Need our help? Our podcast is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the MISTI.

Welcome to the first of our new podcast series!  Every Thursday, we are going to be bringing you a new episode featuring the current month's focus topic and talking to key influencers in the industry. Plus, as an added bonus, we launched our new members only "Focus" Group on Facebook!  We are quite excited about the changes and we hope you enjoy this month's Planner Series! Show Notes Throughout the month, we are going to be discussing the different types of planners and helping you determine which one is best for you and your needs.  Planner styles include: Bullet Journal Decorating Your Planner Printable and Custom Planners Traditional Planners While you listen to each week's episode, answer these 3 questions: What do you need your planner to track for you? How big do you want it? How much time do you have to invest in planning? Planner Giveaways We can't launch our first series without some prizes and our amazing sponsors have been extremely generous in what they are giving away! (3) - Rhodia Black Webnotebook Dot Grid (bullet journals) (3) - Quo Vadis 2017-2018 Scholar Weekly Planners (3) - $15 Gift Certificates to Paper Clip Planet All you need to do is leave a comment in the show notes for our Planner Series on which style of planner works best for you.  Our winners will be announced on our podcast blog, Facebook page, Instagram and Twitter accounts on Saturday, July 1st. Featured Guests Helen Colebrook - Journal with Purpose Audra Bolster - Kindred Stamps Jessica Marie - Jessica Marie Design Laurie Huff - Quo Vadis Sponsors A huge thanks to our sponsors for helping us put the series together!  Be sure and check out their sites and all they have to offer for your personal planning needs!    

Sally Harris from 100 Creatives is participating in #the100dayproject on Instagram and for her 100 days, she decided to create a podcast so she could interview 100 creatives in 100 days.  For someone who has never produced a podcast before, this is an incredible feat and she is ROCKING IT!  Hear about her 100 Day Creative Journey, what she plans on doing after her 100 days are up and what she likes most about her new endeavor.   Show Notes I can't believe that I got to interview: Elise Blaha Cripe - @elisejoy on Instagram   Some of my favourite guests so far:  Augusta of Felt Happens (Episode 10)   Jen Blanco (Episode 16)    These ones are upcoming: - Crystal Moody (Episode 25) - Mary Purdie (Episode 30) and Deandre Purdie (Episode 31) (Coming Soon - June 5 and 6)    I'm really enjoying these podcasts at the moment: Happier with Gretchen Rubin  Side Hustle School with Chris Guillebeau Young House Love Has a Podcast  Sorta Awesome      How to Find Sally and Her 100 Creatives Podcast 100 Creatives website Instagram @100.creatives

There is a happy little place in all our hearts that makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside.  We feel safe.  Possibly mildly confident in our complacency.  No fears of failure.  Just happy contentment.  This is also referred to as stagnant or perhaps you would prefer comfort zone, because it sounds happier.  And truly, finding and having a happy place or comfort zone, can be quite wonderful.  However, if you never leave that place of safety, will you ever grow?  Will you ever find true excitement or happiness? By challenging yourself or taking risks, you push yourself to learn, grow, become more successful and more confident.  Sure, you may find failure along the way, but without failure, do you ever really learn how to become a better you? Show Notes Sometimes our lowliest times bring about our greatest achievements. Stories of Inspiration Referenced Rags to Riches Story of JK Rowling from Business Insider And yes, it is pronounced "Rolling"...I did do my homework.  Check it out here. The story of how the MISTI received her Patent. Teresa DeWitt-Pierce reflection on what she learned from the Mother's Day Blog Hop Links Referenced Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling MISTI by My Sweet Petunia How to Be On a Design Team Online Class   *Your Creative Focus Podcast is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the home of the Most Incredible Stamping Tool Invented (MISTI)

Yesterday, we announced the launch of our new company, Your Creative Focus.  With the selling of So Suzy Stamps, we realized that we had even more to offer the creative industry.  On today's podcast, we talk about what led us to Your Creative Focus, the plans for the future and where we go from here.   Show Notes  So Suzy Podcast is now Your Creative Focus It was becoming quite confusing for our followers to find us online and on social media.  With the sale of So Suzy Stamps, it made sense for us to re-brand our So Suzy entities. This new change will allow us to get back into public speaking, hosting seminars, consulting and webinars. The flow will still stay the same for our podcast, but we will be adding to the lineup: Made it Happen Monday Special Guest Wednesday - For those of you who want to promote a special, release, exciting news or opening of a new business Thursday Monthly Series - Starts in June with our Planner Series! Traditional Friday Show Where to Find Us Social Media Instagram - @YourCreativeFocus Facebook - Your Creative Focus Twitter - @Cr8tive_Focus YouTube - Your Creative Focus Subscribe to Listen iHeart Radio iTunes More Information If you would like more information regarding our new focus, read more on our blog post and on the BigCommerce blog. Sign up for our email Virtual Tour of the new site!  

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Denise Nichols from Simply Charming Everyday! Before we get to our interview, you may be noticing a few changes to our site and brand.  You haven't entered the Twilight Zone, Your Creative Focus is the new So Suzy Podcast and a whole lot more!  Tomorrow, we will be rolling out a special podcast episode explaining all of our changes and the why behind them.  (Which is truly EXCITING, if I do say so myself.)  In the interim, feel free to check out the new site, wander through our pages, see some of the cool features we are going to be rolling out and follow us on our new social media sites. As for right now, what do you say we dive into our latest guest and her story on how she Made It Happen!   Meet Denise Nichols Denise is the owner, maker and designer for Simply Charming Bags.  These hand sewn beauties hold everything from your latest crafting project, to your MISTI collection and so much more.  Since the age of 10, she has been sewing doll clothes, dresses, quilts, Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, Prom dresses and most recently her famous Bunkie Bags and MISTI Zip Pouches.  Hear about how she got her start, the bags she designs and the new products she has lined up for 2017. How a Jar of Spaghetti Sauce Can Inspire a Bunkie Business It has happened to all of us at one time or another, our hands are full, the plastic bags are overloaded with heavy cans and jars and at the worst possible moment, the bottom gives out and your food scatters, rolls and shatters.  Personally, my focus would have been on the fact I had red sauce all of the side of my brand new white car.  However, Denise focused on HOW to make sure it would never happen again. Hear how a spaghetti sauce parking lot massacre inspired the Bunkie Bag! Denise's Favorites Favorite Child...it wasn't my brother, Jake.  =) Favorite Fabric - Cats in a Garden Favorite Bunkie Use - Back porch living Simply Charming Bag Styles Bunkie Bag Junkie Bunkie - Made Exclusively for Stamp Junkies Facebook Group.   Designed by Kim Gausman ZumMallen-Pietruszewki MISTI Zip Bag Mini MISTI Zip Pouch Creativity Tote Equipment Covers Where to Find Simply Charming Everyday Website Blog Facebook Instagram

Being prepared for an emergency situation is so important, especially when that emergency is an impromptu card class or a last minute girls get-a-way weekend.  Which is why having your crafty "go" bag always prepared is essential for your well being! On today's podcast, we discuss what a "go" bag is, what to use for your "go" bag and items to include.  Plus, we discuss the key elements to take into consideration when you are either planning or attending a class or retreat. SPONSORED BY MY SWEET PETUNIA

Whatever habit you create for yourself, it’s up to you to decide you’re worth it and to take the time you need.  Life is too short and there are a ton of fabulous projects to work on, hobbies to learn and art to create. Today's episode is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the amazing MISTI.

Today, we are interviewing Annie Kelly from Stamp AnnieThing.  Annie is one of these amazing women who not only illustrates and designs stamps, but she has all branched out into SVG cutting files and designing fun goodies to go with your planners.  We find out about her different creative ventures, why her Chibi kids have such distinct features and how they get their special names.  PLUS, she is offering (2) $25 Gift Certificates to our listeners.  Find out how you can take one of these home during our interview with Annie.

Since I slammed head first into the Blahs, I figured today would be a great time to move our podcast calendar around and bring forth the episode on losing your creative mojo, because I definitely lost it.  But what I want to know is why.  Why do we hit these creative walls that stop us dead in our tracks?  How can we overcome them?  What can do to find it again?  When do we decide to follow our mojo and go on a mini hiatus?   Today's podcast is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the MISTI.