Sherry is a fellow Pea and she posted on our daily blogger thread that she created a mini album using the MIX & MATCH 6×9 ALBUM by SIMPLE STORIES. I had to go check it out and, boy, did I fall in love with it.
With Sherry’s permission, HERE is a link to her amazing beach album and here is the title page to tease you … and make sure you go check the whole thing out!
Isn’t it gorgeous?!?! I love the subtle colors and how, with her use of embellishments and stamps, she made the neutral backgrounds so beach-y. Like she says, the pages start out gorgeous so they don’t really need a lot. There is something about that color scheme ~ beige, brown, and turquoise ~ that just makes my heart sing.
If you would like a Mix & Match Album of your own, please click HERE. The album and page protectors are in the Mix & Match Album section; additional 6×9 pages like Sherry used are listed under each of the Collections.
You can order from my website and it will be shipped directly to you from the Memory Works home office in Utah within 1-2 business days. Or e-mail me and I can place the order for you: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com. I take Paypal or check and can ship to US residents only.
Thanks Sherry for letting me share your gorgeous project!
Every season, Memory Works adds to a section on my website called “Trend Essentials.” These are up-to-the-moment products that are provided in limited quantity. They are HOT and once the items are gone, they’re gone.
They are not a part of our regular catalog but only appear on the website. The offerings for Summer Trend Essentials are:
Fancy Pants “Time for Spring”
Bo Bunny “Little Miss”, “Camp-a-Lot”, and “Hello Sunshine”
My Minds Eye “On the Sunny Side” and “Nostalgia”
Echo Park “So Happy Together”
Carta Bella “Beautiful Moments”
Crate Paper “Little Bo Peep” and “Little Boy Blue”
and my personal faves …
Basic Grey “Paper Cottage” and “Clippings”
I’ve just shared the papers here but we have embellishments for all the lines ~ from stickers to brads to even wood shapes ;)
HERE they are in .pdf catalog form. HERE they are on my website. You can place an order straight from there, I’ll send you a Paypal invoice, and once cleared it will ship to you from our Utah home office in 1-2 business days.
Please let me know if you have questions or I can help with placing an order: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
Which of the above “trendy” lines is your favorite?
About a month ago, I placed an order for some scrapbook supplies from an online shop. I had bought from them before and had a great experience. The prices are good, they get the new releases quite quickly, and sometimes carry things that I can’t get with my consultant discount from MEMORY WORKS. Super cool, right?
So I ordered a bunch of things from the October Afternoon “9 TO 5” LINE including 12×12 papers, Mini Market stickers, 2 rolls of washi tape, etc. I also purchased a set of SUMMER FRESH 6×8 insert pages {MW was out of stock at the time}.
My shipment arrived in a timely manner and I was scrap happy, although I was so busy with work and family stuff at the time, I barely had time to glance at it all much less sniff all the paper …. erm, verify that I got everything I ordered.
AHEM.
So fast forward to last weekend. I was straightening up my desk, putting away a bunch of scrap crap … errr … scrappy goodness, and I came across the package with my order. Finally! Time to sniff my papers! I mean, LOOK at all my goodies. For shits and giggles, I looked at the packing sheet and compared it to what I received.
Lo and behold, something didn’t match up. Instead of the LABEL STICKERS that I ordered …
Don’t get me wrong: Those Word Stickers are sure cute. But, you know, um … that’s not what I paid for. Not what I chose. For one thing, I won’t even use those book tab thingee stickers. And I wanted the journaling space provided by the, uh, ya know, label stickers that I ordered.
Then again, why am I complaining? Not only did they replace the Label stickers with the comparably-priced Word Stickers, but I got a “free” pack of Journal Cards too. So doesn’t that more than make up for everything?
I’m not going to make an issue of it. One could say if I cared so much, why would I take over a month to figure out the discrepancy? And is it really worth the time/energy it takes to call or write the company, return or exchange or wait for the Label Stickers (which I assume they were out of) to come in, etc.? Nope, not worth it to me.
But this is the second time this has happened to me in about the last year (and I’d say I order something online about twice a month, if you include my monthly SUPER SKETCH CLUB kit). The other time it was from one of the huge online vendors. In that case, they really screwed me. An item I ordered was “out of stock” (funny how it was IN stock when I placed my order) so not only did they just ship it to me without the item (you know, the one I was REALLY looking forward to and the main reason I placed the order in the first place?).
But by deleting that item, it took me below the “$50 and free shipping” threshhold. So I received only my secondary item AND got charged for full shipping which was not an amount I would’ve agreed to pay for shipping. Grrr! I e-mailed them to express my pissed-off-edness but didn’t pursue it beyond that. I did learn not to order from them again unless I’m willing to risk this little cancellation and replacement dance they do.
And now I don’t trust this second vendor and will question ordering from them again. Wouldn’t it have been better for their sake if they had taken the time to write or call me and say, “Hey, we’re out of this, can we give you that, or would you rather have a Paypal refund?” And then I would continue my loyalty to them as a very happy customer. Now, not so much.
So this has me wondering how common a practice this is in the scrapbook industry. What’s been your experience with online shopping? Have you had items you ordered and paid for – substituted, canceled, or otherwise arrive not as you expected? Did you make an issue of it or just let it ride?
Would love to hear your experiences … Please leave the company name out of it if you can/thanks!
I wanted to let you know about some changes that will be going on around here in Scrapbook Obsession Land. To put in plainly:
– I am now allowing advertising and affiliate links on the Scrapbook Obsession Blog
If you’re just a Bullet Point Girl, you’re good. You can go read all your other blogs now. You’ve got the gist of it … bwahahaha! If you’re like me and have to know all the deets of new things and changes, then please get comfy and stick around for a little bit. Well, okay, a lotta’ bit … it’s LONG.
Let’s begin with some history. I started this blog (back before it was self-hosted, the address was www.scrapbookobsession.wordpress.com) in January 2007. I can’t believe it but that’s almost 5 1/2 years ago! On the ABOUT ME page, here is the explanation ~ written years ago and it still holds true ~ about why I love having this blog:
I am obsessed with scrapbooking and I know you are too! I think about it, talk about it, and do it any chance I get. I love to shop as much as I love to crop. My blog has: product reviews, show reviews, scrapbook organization, my shopping finds, and just general scrapbook topics. There are so many scrap blogs out there where the author journals about their life and shares their pages. I wanted my blog to be a little different. Hope you enjoy!
I started and have continued this blog all these years because I’m – you guessed it – scrapbook obsessed! I still love everything scrapbooking, talking about it, thinking about it, and writing about it. What has changed in recent years is, as you know, the economy. I’ve gone through some work changes over that time as well, from part-time to full-time to freelancing, from working from home to working in an office with a commute, etc.
Unfortunately, I’m not one of those lucky mommy bloggers who doesn’t have to work and can devote all the time I want to writing (even though I’d love to be, and am SO envious of those in that position). Disclaimer: Please don’t think I’m saying that being a full-time SAHM is easy ‘cuz I’m most certainly not. I run a home, cherish a marriage, raise kids, volunteer, AND work full-time. I know how hard it is, believe me! So basically it comes down to writing the blog or housework. I decided to let the housework go.
I’m also not one of those lucky ones with enough expendable income to pay others to design my blog and make it all purdy and interactive and slammin’ awesome. Sometimes when I make a little dough from my MEMORY WORKS consultant gig, I’ll put a little bit towards the maintenance or updating of this blog (e.g., paying for my own domain, buying premium themes, purchasing spam protection, etc.).
If you’re a longtime reader, you know that I’ve been posting a lot less than I used to. It’s not that I don’t want to write … I do! I still keep up with the industry, I know what new products are coming out, I hear the scrapbook gossip, and I have opinions, gurlll! I *want* to be able to write and share and laugh with you about it all.
But let’s get real: In this economy, the “fluff” parts of life have to take a back seat to the “real” parts a lot of the time. If I have a choice between booking a transcribing job or writing a blog post, guess which one I have to pick? I don’t like doing quickie posts for the most part, so I need at least an hour or two to sit down and do research, write a post, edit/download photos, include links, etc. Although in the interest of posting more often, I’m going to have to get over my long-post-itis and write shorter posts sometimes … hope ya’ don’t mind.
Anyway, writing a scrapbook blog takes longer than you’d think :) It’s a time commitment, for sure. {Okay, here’s a depressing thought: If I added up all the time I’ve spent over the last 5 years writing these 879 posts, I could’ve been running a Fortune 500 company by now – ha!}
As I’ve looked for ways to make money working from home (which I feel I’ve been called to do), I’ve been learning a lot about this idea of “monetizing your blog,”, which in my case would be making small amounts of money if you click on a scrapbook-related ad on my site or even more if you then make a purchase.
Anyway, it just seems like a logical next step for me. I’ve spent over 5 years writing for free – gratis – nada. I’ve linked up hundreds of companies and exposed customers to their products. I’ve enabled and help sell their items anyway (with not one word of thanks from any of them, btw). So if I can continue to write about the hobby-love of my life {{SCRAPBOOKING}} and make a little bit of money doing it, why shouldn’t I? And if it’s a successful thing, then scrapbook blogging just bumped up in my list of priorities right? I mean, if I can spend an hour blogging and it ends up having a better financial return than, say, an hour of cutting coupons than it’s a win-win, right?
And that’s all I’m hoping for – a few dollars here and there. I don’t have any delusions that I’ll get rich from this (even though I see so many bloggers of ALL kinds doing just that and it makes me SOOOO jealous! Srsly, there are people making 6 and 7 figures from this shizzle. LOL). But if putting some (what I hope are) not-annoying ads on this well-established blog can generate a little bit of income, I’m going to give it a try. I may fall flat on my face but I’m always one who likes to TRY so at least I can say I did, ya’ know?
Here’s what I need from you: Let me know what you think about the changes as they come along and be BRUTALLY honest, okay? {Okay, here is where I get mushy…}. In the 5+ years I’ve been writing this blog, I’ve been amazed, touched, and humbled that people like you actually take time out of your busy day to read it. I’m so very grateful for the support you’ve always given me by way of a Comment, a hit, a laugh, a link, a subscription – I love it all!
I’ve “met” so many wonderful scrapbookers because of this blog and I don’t want that to EVER stop. So one of my main goals with these changes is to *not* alienate you, piss you off, drive you away, make you hate me, or make you laugh at me (well, okay, feel free to laugh at me as you always have).
Here’s my fear: As this “monetizing your blog” trend has slowly made it’s way through Scrapbook World*, I’ve heard the comments on scrapbook message boards that go like this: “I used to love that blog and read it every day but now it just seems like one big ad” and “That used to be a wonderful blog but I’m tired of them always trying to sell me something.”
*Here are some examples of monetized scrapbook blogs that I personally read (not to bag on them, just to illustrate what I’m talking about): BECKY HIGGINS, ALI EDWARDS, HEIDI SWAPP, and LAIN EHMANN.
So bottom line: If these changes end up with me losing readers and friends, than they are so outta’ here. I’m not willing to trade a little dough for the friendship, loyalty, and fellowship you’ve given me for almost 5 years and I hope will continue to. So. Not. Worth it.
But if you do end up liking the changes {or at least not minding them awfully much}, then I will be in scrapblog heaven. My hope is that I pick products, classes, etc. that you actually want to hear about. I hope you find them helpful or at least provide some scrappy eye candy.
So stay in touch with me. Give me your feedback. Laugh at me, not with me, I don’t care :) If at any point, you’re throwing up your hands and walking away from me for good, leave me a nasty parting comment so I know what’s up in the hizzy. You can also e-mail me any ol’ time: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com. If you don’t tell me, how will I know, ya’ know? I’m not a frickin’ mind reader.
Oh yeah, in case you’re wondering, the dripping sarcasm will continue ;)
I’m not gonna’ turn all corporate and proper on you. I’m going to continue being my brutally honest self and tell you what I really think about things. For instance, I could’ve just starting sneaking in affiliate links without explanation … but I gotta’ be real witchoo. My comments will be honest – good or bad. Always have, always will. That’s probably the totally wrong thing to do from a business perspective but whatever. Screw ’em.
And I won’t sell you down the river. I’ll be posting a Disclaimer and/or Affiliate page that explains all this, but basically I won’t lie just to sell something. If I think something’s crap, I’ll still tell you. And if I think it’s the best thing since sliced … erm, patterned paper … I’ll tell you that, too.
So that’s what’s going on as of now. There may be other changes – mostly to format, I hope, because honestly I don’t like the way this blog looks right now. But me learning how to fix things the way I want them is painfully slow … like watching Stickles dry. If you come to visit my blog and it looks all wonky, please forgive :) I’m about as talented a blog designer as Lady Gaga is shy. There WILL be hiccups and goofy shizzle. {For instance, I’ve been playing with the clickable 2peas links in my right sidebar recently to make sure they work}. But I’ll do my best to fix things and welcome (like you wouldn’t BELIEVE!) input and criticism.
Sooooo … clear as mud? GREAT! Thanks for reading and please tell me what you think!
We had such a huge run on these when they were first released earlier this month, that they disappeared from our website too quickly … waaaahh!!
But the Simple Stories “Mix and Match” 6×8 albums are back in stock ~ yippee!
We are so excited to let everyone know that the Simple Stories Mix and Match albums are now back in stock! This 6×8 Kraft chipboard D-ring album is absolutely beautiful…and super strong and sturdy so you can load your memories inside! It features a wonderful linen spine with decorative book plate label on the spine, and ultra thick chipboard with a Kraft cardstock covering (no naked grey chipboard here), so you can leave as is for quick and easy crafting or decorate to your heart’s desire! It also includes tons of goodies inside so you can create a one-of-a-kind keepsake, including album pages, chipboard dividers and a variety of 6×8 divided page protectors! Be sure to place your order today!
But I’m seriously serious … if you would like to order one {or more …. why not?} of these albums, they’re still very hot so I would do it soon. Many have been waiting for them to come back in stock and I imagine they won’t last long.
You can order from my website HERE. Just place your order like any other online shopping. I’ll send you a Paypal invoice and your order will ship straight to you from our home office in Utah within 1-2 business days. Couldn’t be easier :)
Please let me know if you have any questions ~ about Mix and Match or any of our other amazing items ~ at scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
Just in time for National Scrapbook Day … ;) My latest order from MEMORY WORKS arrived!!!
I didn’t get to scrap today; too busy doing other stuff … but I did open each and every package and look through it all. My own personal NSD celebration.
It was duh-VOOOOOOOON!
There may or may not have been paper sniffing involved. I can’t really say ;)
Hope you had a wonderful National Scrapbook Day and were able to get your scrap on!
One of the reasons I was MISSING MY BLOG so much, was that while it was down, something momentous and exciting happened.
The long-awaited new line “SUMMER FRESH” by Simple Stories came out!!
{What? You thought I was gonna’ say that KYLE CHANDLER showed up at my door? Because he did, but this NEW RELEASE is way-hay-hay more exciting that that, silly!}
One super cool thing is that we @ MEMORY WORKS ~ with each Simple Stories line ~ sell a pack of matching textured cardstock by American Crafts. I mean, you ain’t gonna’ get that at Kmart, know what I’m sayin’?
Alright, enough jabberin’ girl. HERE is where you’ll find Simple Stories “Summer Fresh” on my website. You can order it online today, pay with Paypal, and have it shipped straight to you from our Utah home office in 1-2 business days. You can’t beat that with a stick.
Well, I mean, I suppose you could, but what would be the point of that? I swear you people boggle my mind sometimes.
I ordered the fullllll collection 2 days ago and, according to my tracking, the man in the brown truck should be delivering it to me tomorrow (Friday). Would it be bad if I tackled him? Yeah, you’re right … I shouldn’t. “Just take a deep breath, Erika. Let the man walk up the driveway. Patience … patience … count to 20 by 10s if you need to.”
Got any “Summer Fresh” or Simple Stories questions? Just “E” me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
Wow, that’s a long title! But I wanted to make sure you didn’t pass over this post in your reader, girlie. There’s some really great deals here.
Here’s my favorite: Simple Stories “100 Days of Summer NSD Value Pack” for $12.50 {retail value $20}. This line is my all-time favorite of the 13 Simple Stories lines {although when I see the new line “SUMMER FRESH” in person, it just may bonk down to #2, hee}. The colors are soooo warm and sunny. They go with all your summer photos. Not to mention if you love the 4×6 transparencies, this is the cheapest way to get them. They’re normally exclusive to the Collection Packs which run over $20.
Simple Stories “Life Documented NSD Value Pack” for $5.00 is next {retail value $8.00}. This was the first ever Simple Stories line and it made history. Actually, it was this lines’ huge success that enabled Memory Works to go forward with SS and make it a long-term line. So I think we all owe Life Documented a huge thank you :) It’s great for Project 365-type scrapbooks or just your everyday layouts. The banner papers are my favorites. If you missed the line the first time round, or you loved it and would like some papers, this is your deal!
Now we have Simple Stories “Destinations NSD Value Pack” for $12.50 {retail value $20}. This is another of my faves. What I love about this line – well, so many things – but because of the primary colors mixed with black accents, it is a PERFECT match for scrapbooking Disney photos. To me, so much of the Disney stuff is too bright and flashy but this is more subtle while still getting the colors right. It looks fabulous with other vacation layouts as well, and many of the papers/elements can be used on everyday pages.
Simple Stories “Elementary NSD Value Pack” for $10.00 {retail value $18.00}. Here’s another example where Simple Stories gets the colors just right. Have you ever wanted to do a School Days album for your kids? This is the perfect way to get it done quickly and beautifully. All the journaling cards, elements, and papers make it easy. I used this line to do a School Days album for myself. My photos from “way back then” (ha) are a little bit dull or have flatter colors than today’s photos, so this line went perfectly with that. I had tried it with other lines and it never looked right because the contrast was too great. What a great value … almost half the retail cost.
Have you seen the Simple Stories lines in person? These photos just don’t do them justice, do you agree? If you order them, you won’t be sorry. They are to die for in real life. So maybe this National Scrapbook Day, you’re going to a crop and need some projects you can work on. Try one or more of these kits and I guarantee you’ll have a fun and productive day. And you truly can’t beat these prices. Get ’em before they sell out!
There are 4 more National Scrapbook Day specials at Memory Works. I’ll try to post about them soon but if you want to take a peek, they’re right HERE. They’re from another brand you know and love.
If you’re leery to order from a consultant like me … well, don’t be! It’s just like shopping online anywhere -> load cart and check-out with your goods, lady! I’ll send you a Paypal invoice (or send you my address to mail a check) and your order will be shipped from Utah straight to your house within 1-2 business days. I don’t spam you with a bunch of e-mail or anything. You only wanna’ order one time, it’s hunky with me!
Hit me with your questions or if I can place the order for you: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com. Thank you!
Wow, what a great way to start the day. Opened my e-mail and saw the consultant alert that Simple Stories (my favorite scrapbooking line EVER!) is releasing another new line soon … EEE! And not only that, it’s going to be another one of my favorites of all their lines so far (this release makes lucky 13).
Oh, what was that? Did you say “Quit jabbering and show us some pictures, mama”? Alright already! Here ya’ go …
*All images courtesy of the amazing and inspiring SIMPLE STORIES BLOG. Go there by 4/13/12 and leave a comment on THIS entry for a chance to win THE ENTIRE COLLECTION of Simple Stories “Summer Fresh.” None of that “Tweet, link, and Facebook us” nonsense. Just a straightforward “leave a comment and you might win.” Fabs.
As always, if you plan to purchase anything from this line, I would be honored if you’d do so through my Memory Works WEBSITE. If you subscribe to my blog (just enter your e-mail address there at the upper right), you’ll get an e-mail every time I post … including when I post that “Summer Fresh” is available ~ it’s expected later this month!
Then you can haul your tookie over to my website and place an order. Once payment has cleared, it will ship straight to you within 1-2 business days. And you’re gonna’ want this one right quick … summer is just around the corner :)
I’m the proud owner of Sketches for Scrapbooking, Volumes 1-7. I like to pull the books apart and sort the sketches into binders by number of photos per sketch. I keep a binder on my desk at all times in a cookbook holder (landscape side) so it’s super easy to flip through. Then when I’m ready to scrap, I grab a stack of photos and head to that section of my binder. Luvs it.
What I think of as the “Allison” way of scrapbooking is exactly the way I’ve always scrapped – mostly 2-page layouts, lots of photos, and great journaling. But the thing is … Allison and her group do it oh-so-much mo’ betta’ than I ever could. So I basically just scrapbook following their sketches now, LOL. I mean, cut out the middle man right?
Scrapbook Generation also has several MONTHLY KITS. I’ve drooled over the layouts from these kits for, gosh, it must be 2 years or so by now. I don’t get any other kits and have always chosen to spend my scrappy budget on the cool new things that come onto my MEMORY WORKS SITE.
But after much hemming and hawing (I swear, I actually went “Hemmmm!” And then I went “Haaawww!” Kid you not). And much chewing on the inside of my mouth in deep thought … I decided that 2012 is the year that THE SUPER SKETCH CLUB WILL BE MINE!
Ahem! Erm, I mean … I will finally join the SUPER SKETCH CLUB. And I did. And my first kit (the MARCH one) came today. I had to take the kids somewhere straight after the post office and, okay, I admit it: I kind of sped a teensy bit in my car to get there sooner so I could open the stinkin’ kit!
When we got there and I let them off, I sat in the car and opened it. For the record, it was packaged very nicely in a flattened box and then a big plastic ziplock-y type bag. The invoice was on top, then the first sketch, with all the papers and cardstock to make the first 3 layouts. Then the other sketches and papers organized perfectly.
They post photos of the layouts every month on their blog so if there’s a kit you don’t care for, you can just send it to me. Or I mean, cancel it for that month. What-EVER!
Here are the March layouts from the blog:
So you get 5 double-page layouts (and there will be nice leftovers you can make cards from if you like) for only $26.99 including shipping. Amazing.
Is it too soon to declare that I’m in love?!?!? I mean, we just met and all but – sometimes you just KNOW, right? Yeah, I KNOW.
So then I looked out my car windows to make sure no one was looking and … well, you know what I did next because you have the same sickness I do.
I took a deep breath and smelled all that paper.
Don’t look at me like that! You know you would’ve done the same thing. Don’t pretend you’re all better than me, all holier-than-thou, “ooh, I would never inhale paper sitting in a car alone, ew!” Because you know you would.
So I got a little sidetracked there but I just wanted to tell you that I totally recommend the Super Sketch Club from Scrapbook Generations. You should sign up. Today.
HERE are the Memory Works catalog pages that show images as well and describe what’s included with each item and prices.
With these amazing little albums, you can use the basic pages and divided photo page protectors to make an album on any subject under the sun. Then take it a step further and incorporate the 6×8 album pages from the 3 new Simple Stories lines ~ one at a time or mix and match them.
The memorabilia pockets come in 4 sizes, 3 of which can be used in the 6×8 album … the fact that there are also 12×12 memorabilia pockets just makes me think … BONUS!! You can use those in your regular scrapbooks, hang them on your scraproom wall for storage, or maybe even bind them into an album.
I just placed an order for a Simple Stories 6×8 album and every single one of the accessories and memorabilia pockets. I can’t wait until they get there and when they do I’ll post pics.
We do have limited quantities at this point, so if you don’t want to miss out out, PLEASE place your order quickly RIGHT HERE on my Memory Works website*.
So what do you think? Do you like these new Simple Stories products? What projects can you see making with them? For instance, I’m going to use my first one for a trip we just took to Spring Training (baseball) in Arizona. I think the colors from Documented and Awesome especially will work great with all the baseball photos. I plan to use some Fabulous pages for all the pics we took at the pool (turquoise water in every pic … should be a great match!). I can tuck receipts and ticket stubs in the pockets, showcase all my fun photos in the divided page protectors, and journal about our trip in all the great spaces provided on the insert pages.
Shizzle! The UPS man canNOT get here fast enough. For rizzle. I can’t wait I can’t wait I can’t wait!!
*Don’t let shopping with a scrapbook consultant scare you. I promise I won’t pressure you to join my monthly stamping club or scare you into thinking only MY items are archival safe and all others will ruin your photos for generations to come ;) Ordering through me is very similar to doing any other online shopping. You go to my website, put what you like in a shopping cart, and check out. I’ll get an e-mail as soon as you place your order -> will send you a Paypal invoice. Once your payment is received, I’ll process your order and it’ll ship from Home Office in Utah in 1-2 business days. See? WAY-hey-hey easier than flocking and you’ve tried that, right?
The Bad News is that I got busy and didn’t ever get organized to take pre-orders on the new SIMPLE STORIES releases from CHA like I said I would. {“BAD CONSULTANT!! Twenty lashes with a deco ruler and no late night scrapping for you!”}
But the Good News is that those lines are … JUST RELEASED AND AVAILABLE NOW!!
Woot, woot!
If you want to help a sista’ out and order it from me, HERE is where ya’ do it. It’s easy … just like any other online shopping. You put stuff in your cart, submit the order, I send you a Paypal invoice (or will take checks), and once payment is cleared, it ships straight to you from our Utah home office within 1-2 business days (although when they get busy with new releases, it can sometimes take an extra day).
SIMPLE STORIES Fabulous “Sweet” paper {Sorry, I can’t isolate just the “Sweet” paper; please scroll down a bit}.
Here are my observations:
~ Both papers do have a similar overall design with with a circular doily-type pattern.
~ Both make use of softer or “shabby” color schemes.
~ Both are multi-colored, as opposed to one solid color (I’m referring just to the “A” sides)
~ Eclectic has 2 sizes of the “doilies” while Sweet uses multiple sizes (I count 6)
~ Eclectic is in a very set pattern while Sweet is more random.
Obviously, I’m biased because I’m a 5-year consultant with MEMORY WORKS who produces the Simple Stories lines. So my opinion doesn’t matter much … but I’ll give it to ya’ anyway ;)
I do think the 2 papers are alike and I can see why the similarity caught the commenter’s eye. If I had first seen the Cosmo Cricket paper and then saw the Simple Stories paper, I probably would’ve thought “Wow, ‘Sweet’ reminds me of a paper I’ve seen before.”
But overall I don’t see Sweet as a “ripoff” or “exact copy” of Eclectic. They are definitely similar … no denying that. But I don’t know how you would use a circular, doily-type design and not have it look similar to Eclectic. There are only so many ways you can arrange circles on a 12×12 canvas.
The colors are different enough to give a different overall feel; from Eclectic I get “shabby, vintage, warm” and from Sweet I get “girly, Spring, happy.” Besides, DOILIES ARE KINDA’ HOT right now ;)
So … what do you think: Copycat or coincidence?
**P.S.: I do find it pretty funny that the Cosmo Cricket line that Eclectic comes from is called “Odds N Ends” … because that’s very similar to the name of a NEW SIMPLE STORIES LINE … which is “Odds & Ends”. :) :)
Over on the SIMPLE STORIES BLOG, they’ve revealed their third new line for CHA later this month!! It’s all all boy line called “AWESOME.”
Note: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog.
Again, they’ve got these “awesome” 6×8 pages that will fit into THIS new journal/scrapbook; it was introduced on Monday. You can mix and match all the new lines in it: so far, we’re talkin’ “FABULOUS” and “Awesome.” Maybe more later this week … I hope!
These are my favorite stamps – the license plates are classic!
Hey, I hope you’re entering the daily contests on the Simple Stories blog. You can win an entire set of a new collection just for entering a comment. Memory Works totally RAWKS. I’ve been a CONSULTANT with them for almost 5 years now. HERE is my website.
I’ll be taking pre-orders on all these new lines, which are due out in March. More details to follow on that … My understanding is they’re due out in March 2012 so we have a little time :)
After yesterday’s reveal of “Fabulous” ~ a more girly, feminine, spring, bright, pretty line ~ I was very glad to see this more boyish one. I love that it uses boy-friendly colors but it’s not the traditional primary blue/red/yellow. There are so many elements that can be used on other layouts, too. I’m picturing Fall, sports, travel, teen, etc. I can even see some toddler pages, with some of the fun sayings like “Are you looking for trouble?” I love their take on the banner flags, too.
What do you think of “Awesome,” Simple Stories’ new line for boys?
Well, YESTERDAY’S REVEAL was certainly a big hit. Everyone seems to love the new Simple Stories line of a 6×8 personalized scrapbooking/journal line, along with memorabilia pockets up to 12×12 size.
Now it’s time for Memory Works and Simple Stories big reveal #2 of CHA …. Introducing “Fabulous”!!!
NOTE: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog
The Simple Basics Designer Cardstock is one of my favorite elements of the “Fabulous” line. I love the pretty, simple prints AND the ledger sides, too. How will a girl choose???
These “Fabulous” Journal Pages will go with the 6×8 journal products revealed YESTERDAY. Is that cool or what? My mind is spinning with the creative possibilities of mixing and matching these journal pages from all the new Simple Stories lines into the 6×8 journals! Oh my gosh, talk about personalizing your journal/scrapbook!
Okay, that’s the whole line ~ what do you think? I’m loving the whole thing. Often “girl” lines are just pink-pink-pink, and it really limits what you can use the lines for. One thing I like about “Fabulous” is that it has a variety of colors and designs that can be used for other layouts – for instance, All About Me, spring, summer, swimming, birthday, etc.
On the message board for MEMORY WORKS consultants, we’ve gathered suggestions for future Simple Stories lines at least twice before. “Boy” and “girl” collections always come up, so I know many will be happy there’s now a girl line for Simple Stories.
I hope it means that a Boy line is next. I can’t wait for tomorrow’s reveal!!
It’s going to be an exciting week for Memory Works! I’ve been a CONSULTANT with this company for almost 4 years and love new Simple Stories releases. Every single line has been something that I’ve loved and I can tell this week will be no exception.
NOTE: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog.
It’s a whole new system within the Simple Stories framework and design concept: 6×8 elements that you can make a personalized mini album with or use the elements in your 12×12 albums. It’s like a combination SMASH BOOK, PROJECT LIFE, and SIMPLE STORIES all put into one.
{Sorry the blog looks a bit wonky but I figured you’d want to see BIG pictures of it!}
I love this whole concept and can’t wait to get my hot little hands on it! The stated release date is March 2012. If ya’ll let me know you’re interested, I’ll do pre-orders again. That way, when the items are released, you’ll already be paid in full and I can submit your order the minute everything goes on sale … which is a good thing, as the new Simple Stories have been known to sell out quickly on their initial run.
What are your thoughts so far? Are you curious what else Simple Stories by Memory Works has in store this week? If you see anything you want to pre-order, leave me some comments so I can get to planning :)
Yeah, I’m biased but you gotta’ admit MEMORY WORKS is going to have some slammin’ deals during their Black Friday Blowout Event. ***Everything below applies to Thursday 11/24/11 and Friday 11/25/11***
HERE is my Memory Works website if I can help you order. THIS is a link to the special section of Memory Works called “Black Friday Specials”. I’m always available for questions, too. No, I mean ALWAYS … 24/7 … 365 … even the Thanksgiving holiday, sista. ‘Cuz I know how seriously you take your scrapbook shopping.
We have that in common, you and I ;)
I’m picking up the THICKERS deal for sure. {10 packs for only $20!!!} Yes, I have 4 zillion Thickers but why wouldn’t I buy more when they’re only $2 per pack AND I get a free SIMPLE STORIES gift with purchase? It’s a no brainer, people. Actually with my consultant discount, they’re only going to cost me $1.60 per pack or 68% off, hollah!!!
Other deals:
~ MY MINDS EYE “Lost and Found” mega pack (32 double-sided sheets with assorted embellishments), a $65 value for only $20
~ My Minds Eye “O Christmas Tree” paper pad (54 cardstock glitter sheets), a $20 value for only $14
~ ALL Memory Works “Trend Essentials” are 20% off (these are ‘latest and greatest’ products you can find HERE)
~Select Memory Works Express kits for 50% off (these are the monthly kits and are packed with goodies; you can see them HERE)
*Please note that if you’re clicking the above Memory Works links any time OTHER THAN Thanksgiving Thursday {11/24/11} and Black Friday {11/25/11}, the pages aren’t going to reflect the special deals ~ thanks, mwuh mwuh!
Okay, now tell me what you’re looking for on this fine Black Friday and what other great deals you’ve seen out there.
Yay! Memory Works now has “Year.o.graphy” by Simple Stories in stock!! Hoop and holler!
From Memory Works:
We are thrilled to announce that Simple Stories NEW Year.o.graphy collection is now available for purchase! This new edition to the best selling Life Documented series has all new designs, perfectly coordinated colors and fun new additions!
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Fabulous New Options – 6 all-new Simple Basics cardstock designs to coordinate with the delicious color palette and yummy vintage office prints – plus an all new calendar sticker sheet perfect for creating your own calendar album or project!
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Fresh New Designs – Super cute new icons, designs and patterns with that aged, distressed hand-made layered look to coordinate perfectly with the original Life Documented collection, but still lend a fresh, stylish look to your year-in-review albums, layouts and projects.
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Fun New Ideas – All new signature elements, flash cards and sticker designs with a touch of vintage whimsy to help you to celebrate the seasons of your life….each month of the year!
Above is just a mere sample of the goodness. You can read and see more on my other POST.
HERE on my website you can see the entire line … AND you can place your order with me. I take Paypal and will process your order promptly. Simple Stories “Year.o.graphy” will be in your hot scrappy hands before you know it!
If you have any questions about placing an order, please contact me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
You can see the whole line on the Simple Stories blog HERE.
OMG ~ I am loving all those Designer Cardstocks! Actually, hate to say but I’ll have to buy this entire collection. It coordinates perfectly with the original “Life Documented” line and I still have some of it … hollah! And just like “Life Documented,” the new line “Year.o.Graphy” is going to be perfect for Project 365/Project Life type scrapbooking, don’t you think?
Yes, you can buy Simple Stories “Year.o.Graphy” from online retailers … but why wouldn’t you order it straight from the friendly MEMORY WORKS CONSULTANT right here in front of you?
I’m going to keep a blog diary as I go along for the next 3 days.
I was up early today … anxious to get started! I even dreamt about organizing my room, lol. I had to do some paperwork first but it’s 10 am and I’m off and running. I’m going to move stuff mostly to the dining room next door.
Things that are going to take some time to go through before they come back into my space will go to the garage (my memorabilia and some old photos are a huge mess right now, for one thing). I’m hoping most of what I put in the dining room can be back in the scrap room by the end of today. I hate leaving a mess in other parts of the house but we’ll see …
Here’s what I’ve accomplished so far:
– Folded up boxes from recent purchases of printer, laptop, and foot pedal (for my transcription business). This printer is giving me fits and I might return it so the box is in the garage for now. Other boxes to the recycle as I’m happy with my laptop and pedal.
– Found 2 new baskets for my {extensive, embarrassing, but oh so loved} Thickers collection. One basket had my “recently purchased/inspiration stuff” that I keep on my desk. Now that’s all sitting in a pile on my desk. Must find another home for it. Well, better yet, by the end of the 3 days, all that stuff will be put away and I’ll have an empty basket other than a few things I want to use soon. The basket that my Thickers were in also included all my other letter stickers, sorted by color in manila folders, standing up in the basket. Now that basket is 1/2 empty and, since I don’t see myself buying many more non-Thickers letters in the future, I should probably downsize that storage and free up the large basket for something else. The good thing is I have lots of empty baskets and bins to choose from :)
MY EMBARRASSING THICKERS COLLECTION(there are also faux-Thickers in there by Miss Elizabeth’s from the Dollar Tree)
MY SAD “OTHER THAN THICKERS” LETTER STICKERS (Yes, I used to have almost all of those Thicker packs jammed in this basket, too. Yike)
– Put my Heidi Swapp paper folder back together and on the shelf. I took it to a recent crop, so all the papers were pulled out and a mess.
– Also from the recent crop, my crop bags were strewn everywhere. I had managed to get them unpacked but not put away. I collapse the smaller bags down into the huge one for storage. So, got that done.
– For now, I’m going to take all office-related stuff to the guest room. That’s a whole NOTHER issue! Taming the paper tiger. I need to get a handle on that for sure. But for today, I’m only going to worry about the scrapbook portion of the room.
– Took a big bin of MEMORY WORKS stock and catalogs to the dining room. There’s not much I can do about this bin. It’s big but it’s organized and necessary. Same goes for a tote full of MW stock. My MW things have always just sat on the floor. I wish there was somewhere I could put them away. Maybe as the room progresses, I’ll find some free space. Hey, a girl can dream.
BIN OF MEMORY WORKS STOCK
Okay, I’ll check in again later today with a progress report! I’ll post some photos then, too.
ETA 8/10/11 10:45 pm: Added photos that go with this post :)
