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Team Lisa Bearnson: Update on My Direct Selling of “Anthology”

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on January 26, 2016January 27, 2016

Time for a Team Lisa Update

Like I talked about here, I haven’t been very active since I joined Youngevity as a direct seller of Lisa Bearnson’s new product line called “Anthology.”

As with any new venture, there have definitely been some bumps in the road as the HUGE company of Youngevity – which sells everything from supplements to pet products to jewelry – has been figuring out how to incorporate Lisa’s new brand into theirs.

The Youngevity umbrella already included paper scrapbooking products (Our Memories for Life, kind of like Creative Memories) and digital scrapbooking and gifts (Heritage Makers). With Lisa’s new brand, they’ve done a great job with:

– Creating fun new products with a wide appeal
– Showing how involved Lisa Bearnson is in the company
– Having rewards that incentivize consultants to be successful
– Providing resources to consultants, like our MyAnthology websites

I’ve seen a lot of women having a lot of success with “Anthology” and it’s been awesome to watch.

And then there’s me: the least pushy, most shy direct seller who ever lived, LOL.

It’s Not Easy Being Green

When it comes to Youngevity, Anthology, and Team Lisa, I’m kind of an odd duck (or frog?). I don’t have any interest (at least currently) in holding in-person parties, hitting up my IRL scrapbook friends, nor selling products other than Lisa’s. My intention from the beginning was ONLY to sell Anthology products and ONLY to sell online.

Unfortunately for me, the way things are currently set up, it’s pretty difficult to do so. For one thing, Youngevity isn’t a “party plan” company like Close to My Heart or Young Living (although we DO sell essential oils, heh). So consultants have to be creative in finding ways to offer their hostesses some type of reward for hosting parties, which usually involves spending their own money or credits.

The current focus of Youngevity, and therefore Anthology, is to build a team and get individual customers to purchase; that’s how you make an income. Since I’m not able to do in-person events and I’m not pushy and I’m pretty shy, you can see why I’m such a raging success at this, LOL.

I’ve been a little frustrated with the ability to share product images on my blog, link directly to products in my own Anthology shop, etc. Well, I won’t bore you with all the details but here’s my point: Change is a’comin’ and I couldn’t be happier. Because I DO want to be a success with this and find a way to make it work for me. (Let me make it clear that I don’t blame Youngevity/Team Lisa for ANY of this. They’re incredible! Like I said, it’s just a matter of making things work for my situation).

Hope on the Horizon

But now I’m feeling really hopeful. The amazing team at, erm, Team Lisa have been instrumental in creating a new program for many of the lines Youngevity sells, not just Anthology. It’s called “Youngevity Social Selling”.

This is from their recent press release:

This pilot program will enjoy a full scale launch at our upcoming Leadership Summit that we are building up to. During the Summit, which will held April 14-15, in Anaheim, CA, participants will be able to hold social events in any of Youngevity’s product categories and combine any products they choose. The second phase of this program will be designed to provide virtual events allowing distributors to hold social gatherings via their smart phones, tablets or computers.

Long story short, not only are hostess rewards now available but there will be avenues to hold online parties!! There will also be more resources like product graphics for social media and blogging use.

I think things are meant to be rolling pretty well with it by this Spring or Summer. For now, I’m kind of sitting back, watching and learning, seeing if there are any kinks to be worked out before I try my hand at Social Selling. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this unfolds and hope it means great things for my Anthology business! The best part will be … VIRTUAL PAR-TAYS!! Reaching out to your own peeps on Facebook, Twitter, and Periscope, for example. How cool is that?

*Image courtesy of Youngevity Social Selling

And if I do go back to holding crops or retreats, I can designate a hostess for each event – and SHE gets rewards for any products I sell during the event. Win-win, baby!

If you happen to be interested in more details, THIS video has a great explanation of Social Selling and it’s great advantages. {On the off-chance that you’d like to join Team Lisa and sell Anthology, please e-mail me first so we can get you signed up under my ID – thanks!}

If You’ve Read This Far, You Deserve Some Eye Candy

Since we’re talking about Anthology, here are some sneaks of the 3 new items releasing on 02-01-16:

Page Kits

Stamp Kit

Paper Kit

And here are some of the wonderful basics and past kits that are on a huge sale right now:

12×12 “leather” 12×12 album, 50% off, only $17.50
These are just like the WRMK albums; the only difference is the shape of the spine label :)

30-pack of textured cardstock, 50% off, only $8.05
Similar to American Crafts textured cardstock

December 2015 stamp set, 50% off, only $12

See all sale items on my site HERE.

The Future’s So Bright …

So I just wanted to give an update on how Team Lisa has been going for me and share my excitement for the future. Thanks for listening to my “biz talk.” :D

Memory Works Project Life scrapbook blogs scrapbook classes scrapbook consultant scrapbook organization scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

8 Things I Learned in December

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on December 15, 2015December 15, 2015

My brain is fried right now. This is what December does to me. In the interest of getting a blog post up, I’m going to share 8 things I’ve learned this month – some are scrappy, some are not.

I learned that putting twinkle lights all around your house makes every gray day and every cold night better.

While doing my scrapbook organization class, I had to go through my Project Life, MAMBI, Simple Stories, etc. 3×4 and 4×6 cards and I have “too many.” I mean, jeez, FOUR shoeboxes. It’s insane, right?

But I learned that I DON’T CARE. I let go of some duplicates where I had 3 or 4 of each card and instead kept 1 or 2. But beyond that, I’m not getting rid of any more. They’re not hurting anyone. I’m not hurting anyone. They bring me joy. The money has already been spent. And I’ll use most – okay, a lot – of them someday. So there.

I learned that I’m a sucker for any online sappy video there is. Apparently, I love to cry because I do it a lot. The one where the people in the British shopping mall run up and give gifts to random people got me today. Sniff.

I’ve learned that looking at other people’s planners and lists (#ListersGottaList) on a constant rotation can make you feel very inadequate and like you’re not good enough to do your own version.

While organizing my stamps, I decided to purge a bunch of them, including ones I used to share at crops during my Memory Works Consultant days. To get my name and phone number off of them, I learned that rubbing alcohol does the trick!

From the terminal cancer of a fellow scrapper and the sudden death by brain aneurysm of a 48-year-old friend, I learned – once again – that life is very short and very precious. I’ve tried to be continually kind to myself when things don’t go as I want them to.

I learned that Michaels has really cute Christmas doilies and snowflakes.

I learned that tickets for Adele’s US tour go on sale this Thursday!

And how is December treating you?

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook classes scrapbook consultant scrapbook organization scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Scrapbook Obsession Update: Facebook Page and Group, Team Lisa, and My First Class?!?!

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on November 15, 2015November 11, 2015

Heyo scrappy! Remember in THIS post when I alluded that there may be another announcement coming? Well, it’s time. And now there’s a spoiler in the post title but I’m not ready to talk about that yet so you have to keep waiting :P

Facebook Page and Group

First, I wanted to update you on the new Scrapbook Obsession Page and Group that I talked about HERE. They both got off to a somewhat slow start – as things associated with me are wont to do – bwahahaha! I’m thinking me in the morning before cawfee, any form of exercise, that kind of thing.

The Facebook Page was pretty depressing at first, I tell ya’. I’d post something and it would say “1 person reached” or “3 people reached” even though the Page Likes were growing steadily (thanks to you guys, since the only place I mentioned the new page was here on the blog).

But that’s Facebook’s new algorithm; you can Like a page all you want but if you don’t regularly interact with it, the posts won’t show up in your feed. They want people like me who are desperate for approval from strangers to pay for boosting, ads, etc. ;)

Well, the joke’s on Mr. Zuckerberg because a. I’m cheap, and 2. I prefer to beg my online scrappy friends to “LIKE” me (please Like me!) before I’ll stoop to the level of paying for affection.

So I hung in there, begged my friends to give me some love, and the reach of the SBO Facebook Page has improved already! Take that, Marky Mark!! I even have one post that says “145 people reached.” Of course, it’s a post about one of my scrapbooking hauls. Now I know how to get your attention, you little minxes!

As for the Secret Facebook Group – well, it’s a SECRET so I can’t tell you. DUH.

J/K … J/K

Not only has the Scrapbook Obsession Facebook Group grown to 58 lovely members in just a few weeks, it has also caused my Scrapbook Obsession Free Newsletter list to grow from 140 to 164 in that same timeframe. ‘Cuz you have to sign up for the newsletter to get an invitation to the Secret Group. Hmmm, who’s crafty little idea was that??

See, there’s usually a method to my madness. Not always but usually. Sometimes I’m just a hot mess and have no farklin’ idea what I’m doing. Yeah, wow, I’d have to say that’s mostly when I’m cooking. So you’re safe – unless you come over for brunch. { That’s so silly! Why would you come over to my house for brunch??!! Because MIMOSAS! }.

Team Lisa aka “Anthology” by Lisa Bearnson

Since I joined on as a consultant for this line in the Spring, it’s been a good experience. The umbrella company – Youngevity – is wonderful to work with. They gave me my own pretty website to sell Anthology products and they provide great support and training. I’m still trying to figure out how that all fits in with Scrapbook Obsession.

I don’t want to over-post about it but in keeping it pretty “low pro”, I haven’t sold very much. Honestly, I thought people would be more excited to buy the products and find me when seeking information. While I do get blog hits from those searches, they aren’t translating to orders. No one asks questions. No one is begging to be a consultant even though you can get started for only $25. I bought 10 catalog/idea books and have sold 1 :( [ETA 11/15/15: Make that 2! Thanks Shari and Laura].

And that’s okay. I’ve never been a pushy salesperson type and apparently that hasn’t changed. If I choose to be more aggressive about it down the road, I have ways to promote Anthology that won’t negatively impact this blog – because I don’t want to dilute what Scrapbook Obsession is. And what is that, exactly?? LOL

My First Class?!?!

Yes, I totally just copied that heading from the post title because it’s midnight and I’m plumb tired. Brain no workee. Too long since above-mentioned coffee consumption.

So anyhoooo … if you’re in the Secret Facebook Group (ahem!), you know that I’ve been contemplating when to do my first online class – about organizing and simplifying your scrapbook space. Here’s where that stands: At this point, I’m thinking of doing an 8-week beta class starting next Monday. Yes, NEXT Monday 11-16-15. Even if it’s just a few of us, I think we can have a blast getting our space all tidied up for some winter-break, staying-warm-inside scrapbooking this winter!

Then I’d start a longer and more thorough version of the same class on or around 01-18-16. I know the holidays are too busy for many people to contemplate attacking their scrapbook space. The new year is a great time for that. With both classes, I’ll be running them live starting on those dates but you can purchase them at any time and jump in. The content will be released weekly and you’ll have access to our chats, photos, forum, Facebook group, etc.

What your scrapbook space will look like after you take my class:

(It actually belongs to Papermint Crafting Studio. I’m being “aspirational” like Martha Stewart. Heh.)

So I’m getting input on all this from the group members and from some scrappy friends. I need to decide, like, PRONTO. Are you in the mood to get started organizing on Monday? If not, how does January sound? I hope you’ll join me . . . more information to follow!

As for Scrapbook Obsession Overall . . .

If you read THIS post, you know that I went to online business school this year and, after blogging since 2007, I’m ready to take Scrapbook Obsession to the next level. Having the newsletter is a big part of that because of how it makes others in the scrapbooking industry view my relationship to YOU (in other words, it’s a great thing, so thank you for signing up!). My blog feed, Bloglovin’ followers, and social media followers are steadily growing.

I’m being contacted by more product sponsors and affiliates which is a nice vote of confidence. It’s challenging to find ones that are a good fit for a scrapbooking blog which is a pretty defined niche. But that’s okay; it’s not really a big part of my plans for Scrapbook Obsession anyway. I still have more awesome ideas than I have time. And I’m still waiting to make enough moolah from this venture to cut back on my day job. Someday, someday . . .

The best part has been the support from my online scrapbook friends like you and I couldn’t be more appreciative. Let’s keep this thing rolling strong and see what 2016 brings. I think it’s gonna’ be an awesome new year!

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook books scrapbook consultant scrapbook magazines scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: Who Wants an “Anthology” Catalog?

Scrapbook Obsession October 24, 2015October 24, 2015

It’s pretty fun working for Youngevity. They do giveaways almost daily on their Facebook page and lots of times all you have to do is Like or Share something.

I Love Free Stuff!

Last week, Michelle Wallach (the founder’s wife) offered up the brand new “Memory Keeping Idea Book Fall/Winter 2015” just for leaving a comment. Luckily, I got in under the wire and this is how I received it!

Not only was it in the pretty gossamer bag but it smelled delicious! I don’t know how she did that, LOL. And there was a cute card that said, “Thanks for your love & support for Youngevity!”

I wish I could post photos of this entire yummy catalog and idea book for you! It has all the fall and winter lines not only for Lisa Bearnson’s new “Anthology” line, but also for Youngevity’s existing scrapbooking lines called “Our Memories for Life” (paper) and “Heritage Makers” (digital).

Youngevity Memory Keeping Idea Book – Fall/Winter 2015

I couldn’t resist showing you all the sneaks into the November “Anthology” kits. I’m just a SQUEEEEE bit excited to see them!

*Note: This was a misprint. It’s actually the NOVEMBER Nifty Gifty kit :)

Aren’t all those layouts cute! I especially love the “HOME” one 2nd from the bottom. In fact, I like what I see so much that I canceled the October kits I had in my auto-ship (going out 10/25) and decided to replenish my Tangy Tangerine multi-vitamins and ASAP weight loss drops THIS month, so I could spend all my auto-ship budget on these November kits NEXT month. October = health, November = SCRAP!!

Other features of this idea book:

– Glossy color photos throughout. It’ll remind you of the good ol’ days of flipping through a scrapbook magazine

– Great ideas for layouts, home decor projects, gift ideas (Christmas is getting close!),etc.

– Clear explanations of how to create Heritage Makers projects, how to place orders, and how to be a consultant*, if that interests you :)

*Make sure to sign up under me (Erika Friday / 101433514) so I receive credit for referring you and you get to be on Team Lisa Bearnson!

WOULD YOU LIKE A COPY OF THE ONLINE or PAPER IDEA BOOK?

You can see it online right HERE!

If you’d like a paper copy of the idea book, I’m selling them.

They cost me $40 for 10 – or $4 each. Postage within the US will be $2-3, so $6-7 per copy. I wish I could afford to send you one for free but I just can’t, at least until my “Anthology” business is selling more.

Would you like one? Just $5 including postage (within continental US). If you then place an order through me (Erika Friday / 101433514) and let me know, I’ll refund your $5 via Paypal. (you have 60 days after your idea book purchase). Sound like a plan?

My Paypal is: erika(at)scrapbookobsession.com

Whether digital or paper, I hope you enjoy the “Youngevity Memory Keeping Idea Book”!

Anthology scrapbooking Project Life scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook organization scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Scrapbook Deals & Steals: All We R Memory Keepers on Sale!

Scrapbook Obsession October 8, 2015October 8, 2015

In case you aren’t on their list, I wanted to make sure you know about a huge WMRK sale going on at Scrapbook.com.

scrapbook.com wrmk sale

Their site says:

All We R Memory Keepers products on sale, ALL THE TIME!. Sale includes Crop-A-Diles, The Cinch, Punch Boards, Sew Easy products, page protectors, punches, albums and all other We R Memory Keepers products. We R has a reputation for making high-quality albums, innovative tools, and beautiful papers. Shop Scrapbook.com and get the lowest prices and largest selection of We R products available.

You can get things at a huge discount, like this:

WRMK Evolution Advanced Die Cutting Tool $95.99 reg. $120

I’m kind of confused about when and what the sale is because on the Evolution page, it says it’s part of a 4-day sale. I clicked the link that said this:

Save 15% to 55% on all We R Memory Keepers products! We R Memory Keepers, a leader in the paper crafting industry, makes high quality tools, beautiful paper collections and much more. All sale prices are visible on the individual product pages. No coupon code is required. Act fast, this 4-day sale ends on Sunday, October 11th at midnight PST.

So everything WMRK is always on sale and certain WRMK items are on special sale through 10-11-15? That’s how I’m taking it.

All I know is, the prices are great! Here’s some more fun stuff I saw (the headings and photos are links to the products):

WRMK Instagram Album Kits $6.89 reg. $23

I don’t Instagram (yet) but know many of you do and what an amazing deal + quick way to get some of those photos off your phone and into an album to share :)

I already have a good organizational system for my Project Life and WRMK page protectors. But that doesn’t stop me from wanting this guy:

WRMK Sleeve Shelves $33.99 reg. $40

I love how those tab thingees stick out and show you which type of page protector it is. I might need 2 of these units. Gulp. But, hey, it’s not that I’d be SPENDING $68. It’s that I’d be SAVING $12. Heh.

So that’s just a few things I saw but go check it out. Tons more stuff.

I’ve heard that WMRK is re-branding or re-packaging their 12×12 albums – which is probably why I can’t find the colors I need anywhere. And that’s fine because I’ll probably start buying my albums from my Anthology site anyway – I like the bookplate better.

But we don’t have the Kiwi color – hope that’s coming soon. Otherwise, I’ll be looking to WRMK’s new model to fulfill that need. I use it for all my yearly family albums.

Okay, happy shopping!

Anthology scrapbooking Project Life scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Team Lisa Bearnson: October “Anthology” Scrapbook Products Now Available!

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on September 30, 2015October 1, 2015

Lisa’s goal was to release new kits on the first of every month and she did it! The October kits are all plugged into my online store and available to you immediately.

The type of kits available each month will vary. There will always be a stamp kit and then the other 2 slots will rotate between a layout kit, a pocket page kit, and paper collection kit. In October 2015, it’s the latter two. Ready to see?

October 2015 Kits – Anthology by Lisa Bearnson

Anthology October 2015 “Better Together” Pocket Kit $49.00

better-together-book-and-contents-1000px(1)

Oh my gosh, “I love you more than bacon, Sundays, and green lights.” ROFL Honestly, when I saw the preview and first photo of this kit, I wasn’t sold. But now with the close-ups and layouts, it’s a must-have! Seeing how photos bring out the colors so well is the clincher for me. Yep, I’ll be getting this one.

As always, I love the little “book” that keeps all the elements together. I often spread out on my bed to do my pocket page scrapping while I watch TV and I also get a lot of pocket page scrapbooking done at my yearly retreat. It’ll be so easy to just grab these little books with everything self-contained. Love it lots.

To see the full listing for the “Better Together” pocket page kit including exact components, please click HERE.

Anthology October 2015 “Christmas Wishes” Paper Collection Kit $42

christmas-wishes-cover-1000px(1)

christmas-wishes-patterned-paper-1000px(1)

Did you see the twine bows on the 3-D “J-O-Y” stickers – oh fer cute! This is such a pretty and playful Christmas scrapbook kit. I like when Christmas lines have more than just red and green; the teal/turquoise and pink make it special. I’m not sure yet if I’m going to order it. I truly have enough Christmas scrapbooking stuff for layouts. I’m thinking about getting it to make Christmas cards and/or December Daily though. Hmm . . .

To see the full listing for the “Christmas Wishes” paper collection kit including components, please click HERE.

Anthology “October 2015 Stamp Sets” Kit $24

One sheet of stamps is fall / Halloween / Thanksgiving and the other is winter / Christmas. Love the images, especially the chipmunk and that mint candy looks like it’d fun to color in, huh? I just realized you can make a jack-o-lantern with these, LOL! There are 2 pumpkins along with 2 sets of triangle eyes and 2 mouths.

To see the full listing for the “October 2015 Stamp Sets” kit including components, please click HERE.

How to Order “Anthology” Products

You can order these kits (or tons of other scrappy things) from my My Anthology site right HERE.

Did you know that you can put any of Lisa’s “Anthology” items on Auto-Ship? For instance, if you love what you’ve seen so far and know that you’ll want all 3 kits each month, you can save yourself the trouble of ordering them every time and just put them on Auto Ship. Or maybe you run through cardstock, ink, albums, and page protectors like crazy. Put ’em on Auto-Ship and you’ll get them automatically every month.

You can change your Auto Ship items at any time. That’s what I do. Last month, the 3 August kits were in my Auto Ship, then for September I got one of Lisa’s kits, the Anthology cutting mat, and some Tangy Tangerine supplements. In October, I know I’ll need some more weight loss drops and at least 2, maybe 3 of these kits. So I’ll just update my Auto-Ship now and I know what day I’ll be charged and when to expect the items (my date is the 25th).

If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to ask. I can be reached here: erika@scrapbookobsession.com or 805-400-3261.

I’m so excited to share these new products with you and hope you love them!

Anthology scrapbooking Project Life scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: It’s Goin’ Down For Real

Scrapbook Obsession September 25, 2015September 25, 2015

Yep, I’m like a little girl I don’t know about to open her birthday presents! Hee heeee . . .

One of the many great ways that Lisa Bearnson is supporting her team (#TeamLisaBearnson) is by providing us with our own “My Anthology” websites. She knows that the experience for YOU, the customer, will be so much better this way. Instead of going to the huge Youngevity website or the Heritage Makers scrapbooking website, you can now go straight to the source to look at Lisa’s “Anthology” scrapbooking products.

Like most direct sales companies, there is a monthly charge to have our own consultant website. But the cool thing is – because I’m at CEO level and I meet the required amount of monthly auto-ship – I get my site for free. Double woot!

So . . . may I take you on a tour?

HERE is MY “My Anthology” website! (www.myanthology.com/shop/efriday)

In the sage green bar near the top, you can see the KITS, BASIC SUPPLIES, and TOOLS.

You can also see ANTHOLOGY DIGITAL. Yes, people, we have cut files to use with your Silhouette and other digital cutters!

anthology digital cut files lisa bearnson

If you’re curious about the other cool products I sell via Youngevity, there’s a link for that, too! In my Youngevity shop (https://erikafriday.youngevity.com/), I have awesome things you might need like mineral make-up, ground coffee and K-cups, weight loss drops (which I’m using daily now; will report back!), pet supplies, all kinds of stuff.

youngevity coffee k cups

essential oils youngevity

youngevity chocolate

Youngevity is known as “the Amazon of direct sales.” It’s a lot of stuff we all buy anyway so why not become a distributor (only $25), buy your “normals”, and make a little dough on the side?

From my new site, you can also see the cool stuff Heritage Makers has going on because it links to THEIR BLOG. HM is the digital scrapbooking, photo books, and photo gifts arm of Youngevity. You’ve heard me say a million times that I’ll never be a digital scrapper. But making a tote bag with all my kids’ sports photos on it doesn’t count, does it? I’m also thinking: Christmas gifts . . . from the heart . . . from someone (me) who doesn’t have time to make 10 mini albums ;) (Cheater, cheater, LOL).

heritage makers ocean photo book summer

There’s a link on my new “My Anthology” website to learn more about Lisa Bearnson and why she started Anthology.

Lastly but not leastly, if you’re thinking about becoming a distributor for Anthology, Heritage Makers, and/or Our Memories for Life, there’s a link for that too. I’d LOVE to have you on my team :)

CEO kit lisa bearnson anthology

So there’s my “My Anthology” site! I’m so stoked! Now I can easily show off our products, take orders, and sign up customers and consultants.

I’m tellin’ you, now it’s goin’ down for real.

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Have Discount Department Stores Become the New Local Scrapbook Stores?

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on September 22, 2015September 23, 2015

So my scrappy friend Janet shared this haul video where scrapper Tasha shared her recent finds from TJ Maxx.

What’s crazy is that the fall and Halloween items that TJ Maxx is carrying – just came out! They include items like: Imaginisce wood buttons and dimensional stickers, Pebbles dimensional stickers, American Crafts Halloween tags and Details gold arrows and camera clips, and Crate Paper “After Dark” sequins, pumpkin Standouts, and Party Favor Bags, Elements spider brads, Pebbles enamel dots and 12×12 pad called “Boo”. Most of the embellishments were $1.99 and the paper pad was $5.99. The Amy Tangerine “Authentic” roller stamp was $2.99.

So that set off a TJ Maxx shopping frenzy and my online scrappy friend Deb found all of this magical scrappy goodness at her TJM and Marshall’s!

from Pebbles “Harvest” line

from Crate Paper “After Dark” line

from American Crafts

from Imaginesce “Give Thanks” line

from Pebbles “Boo!” line

Alison found this at Marshall’s:

Heather got this at Marshall’s

(Cute shoes, huh?)

Not that this will send you off shopping or anything, but hypothetically if you were looking for these things, try everywhere in the store. Sightings have been reported in the stationary aisle, the Fall/Halloween aisle, the checkout aisle, etc. I haven’t had a chance to check my TJ Maxx yet (don’t have Marshall’s) but they don’t usually get much and if they do, it lags behind everyone else.

At the same time we’re cheering about the new stuff and great prices, I’m also hearing reports that some scrapbook stores that ordered the full new lines from American Crafts (who owns all these brands – Pebbles, Crate Paper, etc.) are only receiving bits and pieces. So interesting!

I did notice that Scrapbook.com has much of the Pebbles “Harvest” line, like these enamel dots I’m totally swooning over!

SB.com also has much of the Crate Paper “After Dark” line although several items are either on sale or out of stock.

Are scrapbooking manufacturers selling directly to the big box stores now right out of the gate? Are they giving them preference over local scrapbook stores? Or are the items available for a discount at these big box department stores seconds or damaged somehow? Maybe it’s because these are super seasonal items that have a short shelf life, so to speak, so AC wants to sell them in the most expeditious way. Who knows?

As a kind of side note, I noticed that Lisa Bearnson’s new line “Anthology” (for which I’m a consultant) includes some American Crafts and WRMK items packaged as Anthology – the 12×12 album, the pillow box punch board, and the tropical textured cardstock stack. I’m pretty sure the 6×8 album is re-branded Simple Stories, too.

Overall, it seems the American Crafts umbrella is very diversified and, while I feel badly for scrapbook store owners, I can see the need to do that in today’s scrapbooking industry. I’m not criticizing American Crafts because I don’t know the facts but this just has me wondering: Have discount department stores become the new local scrapbook store? Will we continue to see brand new lines at prices lower than wholesale at these stores? Or will things go back to the normal way of local and online scrapbooking stores having new lines exclusively for a while before the discount stores get them?

Your thoughts?

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: Sneak Peek of My “Anthology” Order

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on August 31, 2015August 31, 2015

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: Update to August “Anthology” Items including Prices!

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on August 22, 2015August 24, 2015

Hi there – The “soft launch” of Lisa Bearnson’s “Anthology” line begins tomorrow (08-25-15)!

I noticed on the Heritage Makers blog that there are some updates including PRICES!! I know a lot of you have been waiting for that. We’re allowed to copy/paste anything Lisa shares into our own blogs and social media so I’m just going to do that below. (This information differs a tiny bit from what I put in my last Anthology post, which I’ve updated). I’ll summarize the prices, etc. at the bottom.

From the Heritage Makers blog:

August Layout Kit

Each month, the Anthology by Lisa Bearnson product line will have a layout or card kit, a stamp kit, and a third kit that will vary from paper and embellishment collections (like the Rosey Posey Collection) to embellishment kits to technique kits and more. For August, we have a layout kit, stamp kit, and collection kit, which are all part of the pre-launch sale event.

USAN570908_Aug_Layout_Kit_800px

Like the CEO Layout Kit, the August Layout Kit (wholesale price: $49) comes in a folder with space on the flaps to record information. This kit creates eight two-page layouts that are packaged in sealed cellophane bags (each layout has its own bag). You’ll find recipe cards with an image of the completed layout and tips for dressing it up a bit. The thing I love about these kits are all the little extras like the chipboard accents, the Baker’s Twine, and the buttons. The kit even includes foam squares to use when adhering pieces you want lifted off the page. Scrapbooking should always be this easy!

Here are a few images of what you can create with this kit.

Aug-LO-Kit-01

Aug-LO-Kit-02

Aug-LO-Kit-03

Aug-LO-Kit-04

Aug-LO-Kit-05

Are you excited to create these layouts? Think of how quickly you can make eight layouts that record your favorite memories!

August Rosey Posey Collection

Rosey Posey Closeup

The Rosey Posey Collection Kit (wholesale price: $42) is a modern romantic collection that includes shades of pink, gold, aqua, cream, white, and navy. The designs vary from bold to elegant, allowing you to create scrapbook pages and other paper crafts for a variety of occasions. I love the layered chipboard accents that add depth to my projects. When you get this kit, let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process of creating. Here are two examples showcasing the Rosey Posey collection.

Rosey-Posey-Paper-01

Are you in love? I know I am.

August Stamp Kit

Aug-2015-stamp-set

I talked earlier about the versatility of designing with acrylic stamps and, as you can see from these samples, the August Stamp Kit (wholesale price $24) will keep you busy creating for quite a while. The August Stamp Kit includes two 4×6 acrylic stamp sets (Hey Foxy and Whoo and When) that are mounted on rigid plastic and come in an envelope with a velcro enclosure for easy storage. When you’re ready to create, remove the stamp from the plastic backing, place it on an acrylic block (sold separately), apply your ink, and stamp. I love that you can stamp the design with one color for a quick and easy design or stamp the design in black and color it with markers, chalk, paint, and other media. These sets include not only images, but sentiments and words to use on cards, tags, and layout titles. Which of these designs do you think you’ll use first?

Acrylic Blocks

USAN900020_Acrylic_Stamp_Blocks_800

When stamping with acrylic stamps, you need a block as a base for you stamp. TheAnthology Acrylic Blocks (wholesale price: $19.60) come in a set of three blocks that are 2″ x 6″, 3″ x 4″, and 2″ x 2.25″ in size. Each block has grid lines to assist you in lining up your stamps on the block and then stamping your design straight on your project. If you get ink on a block, wipe it clean with soap and water and it’s ready to go for the next time.

stamp-on-block

Well, that concludes the look at the products available in the pre-launch sales event. I hope you are as excited as I am about these products. I want you to enjoy the creating experience and spend as much or as little time on each project as you want. I can’t wait to see what you create from these kits! And remember, these 6 items will be available on Tuesday, August 25 at 10 am MT during the pre-launch sales event for existing Youngevity distributors. See you soon!

(end of Heritage Makers blog post)

I Know It’s a Lot to Digest; Here’s a Summary :)

They say “6 items” because, in addition to the 4 below, there are the 2 if you join as a CEO:
Anthology CEO Kit $499
Business Builder Kit $42

Here’s a summary of the 4 items available to ANYONE come Tuesday 8/25:

August Layout Kit $49*
(8) 2-page layouts
with embellishments and foam squares
in cello bags with recipe card

August Collection: Rosey Posey $42*
Paper and embellishments

August Stamp Kit $24*
(2) 4×6 acrylic stamp sets “Hey Foxy” and “Whoo and When”
envelope with velcro closure

Anthology Acrylic Blocks $19.60*
(3) blocks – 2×6″, 3×4″, 2×2.25″
with gridlines and “hand grips” on edges

*These are wholesale prices; to get them, you need to be a Preferred Customer (free), Distributor ($25), or CEO ($499).

What I’m Planning to Buy

On this first go round, I think I’m going to purchase all 3 August items + the acrylic blocks. That comes to $134.60 plus tax and shipping. I have a $100 credit from when I signed up in March as a CEO that I’ve been holding onto – woot!

I’m not a huge stamper but I want to check out the quality of ALL the products and be able to share them with you. I know it can be hard to purchase from a brand new line when you don’t know enough about it. So hopefully I can help with that by sharing photos and my reviews.

To cash in my credits, I have to call customer service. I predict they’re going to be overwhelmed with calls on Tuesday morning so here’s my strategy: The item I want the absolute most is the August Layout Kit; I don’t want to take any chances it sells out before I can get through on the phone. So I’m going to order that online straight from my Youngevity website the second it’s live! Meanwhile, I’ll be calling customer service and will use my credits to order Rosey Posey, the stamp kit, and the acrylic blocks.

Fingers crossed I get everything I want. Wish me luck! If you’d like to place an order, the easiest way is to sign up now as my Preferred Customer, then place your order online Tuesday 8/25 at 10am MT. If you’d like to become a consultant, hit me up: erika(at)scrapbookobsession(dot)com!

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: “Anthology” Release Date – Sign Up Now if Interested

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on August 24, 2015August 21, 2015

I joined “Team Lisa Bearnson” to be a consultant for her new “Anthology” products back in March. It’s been 5 long months waiting for them to actually be released. So forgive my excitement that the time is finally here!

RELEASE DATE: Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at 10am MT

I’m giving you a heads up because – check out the products below and if you’re interested – I really suggest you sign up NOW as a Preferred Customer (free, no obligation). Tuesday is going to be CRAY-CRAY and I don’t want you to miss out. More on that below . . .

Here’s the Latest

Yesterday, we had a conference call with Lisa and our team trainer, Wendy. They shared a bunch of information including photos and details for all the products. Also, we learned how to assist customers in getting those products.

If you’re interested in these products, first please go HERE to the Heritage Makers blog entry from yesterday where a lot of information has been shared. Then please come back and I’ll give you even more.

Here’s the video from that post where Lisa talks about the pre-launch.

Starting Tuesday is the “pre-launch” period so consultants like me can let our customers know about it and help them order, along with ordering products for ourselves.

I have a $100 credit that I’ve been holding since March just so I can shop! And I know a lot of other consultants do as well. So we’re wondering about sell-outs if you’re not quick on the draw Tuesday. Just sayin’.

The “Anthology” Products That Will Be Available Starting 8/25/15

AUGUST 2015 STAMP SETS

AUGUST LAYOUT KIT

CEO KIT

All of the items in the CEO kit are exclusive to the kit; it’s the only way you can get them. The exception is the Youngevity Business Builder Kit (navy blue/green) which consultants can use to make party favors, etc. for their events.

Items Exclusive to the CEO Kit

CEO BAG

The bag accommodates 12×12 page kits and has an inside zippered pouch for smaller items – tools and embellishments. This will be a great bag for consultants to take to events and always have handy in their car to show off Anthology products to potential customers. Should I totally geek out and carry this bag while wearing my Anthology t-shirt? Hee hee . . .

CEO STAMP SETS

CEO LAYOUT KIT

MAKE AND SHAKE CARD KIT

Plus the 2 albums, Lemon Squeezy kit, cardstock, and WRMK punch board.

So, long story short, if you’re not going to become a CEO consultant and order the huge kit, effective 8/25/15 you can order:

August Layout Kit $49*
(8) 2-page layouts
with embellishments and foam squares
in cello bags with recipe card

August Collection: Rosey Posey $42*
Paper and embellishments

August Stamp Kit $24*
(2) 4×6 acrylic stamp sets “Hey Foxy” and “Whoo and When”
envelope with velcro closure

Anthology Acrylic Blocks $19.60*
(3) blocks – 2×6″, 3×4″, 2×2.25″
with gridlines and “hand grips” on edges

They’re first come, first served and when they’re gone, they’re gone.

In the coming months, more items will be added including “staple items” like albums, page protectors, ink pads, cardstock packs, etc. You’ve seen a tease of the albums and cardstock HERE. For now, you can only get the cardstock and albums with the CEO kit – but they’ll be available individually in the future.

Lisa has built great relationships over the years with many scrapbooking companies so we’ll continue to see items like the WMRK punch board (see the CEO kit above) become available.

How to Sign Up as a Preferred Customer

It’s free, there is no obligation, and I won’t bombard you with e-mails or be pressuring in any way :)

Go to my Youngevity website: https://erikafriday.youngevity.com
On the top right, click Join (Customer, or you can be a Distributor for $25)
Enter your information
Voila!

Now you’re ready to make purchases Tuesday when the Lisa Bearnson “Anthology” items become available. If you don’t care for any of the products so far, just stay tuned. There will constantly be new things added each month. That will include digital products to use with Heritage Makers as well as cut files!

I’m sorry, I don’t have pricing info yet – I’m told it will be released Tuesday but if I have it sooner, I’ll share it via email with Preferred Customers (another reason to sign up). Lisa says it’s competitive pricing within the market :) UPDATE: Prices were released 8/23 and have been added above.

To all who’ve signed up as Preferred Customers, Thank You!! I’ll be e-mailing you Monday with a reminder and instructions on how to order on Tuesday morning. So exciting!

Sorry for the long entry & thank for sticking with me and celebrating with me!!

If you have any questions, I have answers, LOL! Just Comment on this post or email me: erika(at)scrapbookobsession(dot)com

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Scrapbook Shopping: Michaels and Target with Some Good News, Bad News

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on August 20, 2015August 20, 2015

I had a great day today, did you?! Just a lot of little things that added up to a very happy total. Love me some days like that.

First, it was Michaels . . .

I haven’t been going to Michaels all the time like I used to – a combination of being too busy and them rarely having anything new I want anyway. I read/watch all these things online about cool stuff but then rarely find them at my store. Sigh.

Today I decided to try anyway and did finally get lucky. I got two Hot Buy pads that I’ve been wanting.

Pink Paislee “Atlas” 12×12 Pad

Sorry, my photos look a little bluish to me – do they to you? I took them in natural light so I’m not sure what happened. Speaking of color, look at the colors in my photo compared to 2 different images from Amazon:

Sheesh, between the 3 of them maybe you can figure out the actual colors, should you be interested in this product, LOL.

So I also got Shimelle “True Stories” 12×12 Pad

Here’s the back:

WOOT! Yeppers, Scrappy was happy. So happy that I paid full price for one of them. I had a 40% off coupon but they weren’t on sale so . . . Since I’m at Mike’s rarely these days, I didn’t want to take the chance the one I waited to buy would be gone before I could get back.

Yeah, I’m a planner ahead-er like that ;)

Speaking of Amazon, they have the Shimelle paper pad for only $13.45 with free shipping. At Michaels it was $19.99 so had I known . . . I could’ve used the coupon on the Atlas pad and gotten the Shimelle online. Oh well. There is something to be said for instant gratification. In my case, I would say, “Instant Gratification, I like you more than almost anything!”

When Duty Calls

While I was at Michaels, I did my good deed for the day. Two beautiful 20-something girls were shopping near me in the scrapping aisles. One of them really wanted a 12×12 scrapbook but commented on the cost, and they were wondering out loud about coupons, then decided (I think) to pass. As I walked near them, I said, “You can pull one up on your phone for 40% off” and they thanked me :)

“Hey, just doin’ my job, ma’am. Scrapbook Obsession’s my name, and enabling is my game.” Then I made the little gun-finger thing and tipped up my imaginary hat. Okay, no, I really didn’t. Because that would’ve been weird. More weirder than giving unsolicited coupon advice to total strangers in Michaels. Heh.

Later, at Target . . .

I’d heard online that Target had some Heidi Swapp scrappy stuff so I jumped in my car, screeched out of my driveway, and . . . erm, I mean, I waited patiently until the next time I had to go to Target ANYWAY. Which just happened to be the next day (today) to replace one of our shower heads that broke. I am not even lying. It really just happened all by itself. Yep.

At Target, I did find these little ditties – some Heidi Swapp rub-ons and enamel hearts {on top of one of my fave papers from my new Shimelle “True Stories”}.

If you slap a heart on something, I’m buying it. {Perhaps a little hearts obsessed, too?} I love the colors – navy, rose, and gold/beige. Well, I’m lying. I don’t like gold and will probably donate those hearts to someone who DOES love gold. Like every other scrapper on the planet EXCEPT me, judging by the gold running rampant in our industry for the past 2 years (but I’m not bitter).

And of course the SWAG rub-on I can use on a layout about all my SWAG from the Scrapbook Expo I went to recently. Or the way I have so much SWAG in the way I conduct myself in daily life. {If you knew me, you’d be laughing super hard right now about how true that is NOT}.

But really, I think I’ll use Atlas, True Stories, and the HS stuff in my “Week in the Life” project – are you doing it? The colors go great with everyday photos and there are some perfect sayings and patterns as well.

So here’s the good news / bad news part . . .

I was chatting up the checker at Target, like I do (except the one guy that scares me). I told her I was so glad to see some scrapbooking stuff there again. Then SHE said that Target is phasing out all scrapbooking AND craft stuff!

To my insta-frown, she quickly replied, “But it’s okay! A lot of it’s online now!” And in my “inside-my-head, don’t-you-dare-say-this-out-loud-Erika” voice, I said, “BUT!! If you purchase scrapbooking products online, you can’t as easily hide them from your husband among the blueberries and sunscreen and stuff! I’m sorry, it’s just not the same as in-store.” Plus there’s that whole instant gratification thing we were just talking about.

She offered me a Red Card and the conversation was over. I don’t know if what she said is true but I felt it was my scrapper’s duty to share this with you. I hope you’re taking it better than I am.

With that, I must now take to my bed. What started out as a fab day has turned somewhat traumatic. Plus it’s after 1am and I have an exciting conference call in the morning. I think we’re finding out the release date for Lisa Bearnson’s “Anthology” !!!

Anthology scrapbooking scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: “Anthology” More Sneaks

Scrapbook Obsession August 2, 2015August 2, 2015

We’re within 2-3 weeks of Anthology’s release, which is Lisa Bearnson’s new line with Youngevity/Heritage Makers.

I posted a couple sneak peeks HERE and will continue to post them periodically, with new ones scheduled to be released each Monday and Thursday until The Big Day.

Here are some collages of sneak peeks:

– The albums and cardstock I posted about before, along with a storage item from the Hangin’ Around card kit.

– More peeks of how kit items will be packaged and you can keep them stored on a bookshelf, if you wish. Regarding the folder, you can see a place to take notes as you work on your project – layout, photos to gather, photo sizes, special notes, etc.

A sneak of a layout kit along with a sketch. Anthology monthly kits will come pre-cut, packaged in a poly bag, and with a storage solution included as the packaging.

– A look at some of the embellishments that will come with kits along with a peek at the Anthology CEO bag (see more about CEO below).

“These cards are from the Hangin’ Around Card Kit, available in September . . . It has supplies to create 20 cards in a variety of styles (with multiples of each style), plus envelopes, foam squares, and more. Plus, many of the embellishments are self-adhesive and the card bases are sturdy like ones you’d buy from a store.”

“The cards in this Make & Shake Card Kit are as fun to make as they are to give! This kit also makes 20 cards in several designs (with multiples of each design) and includes envelopes, foam squares, and more. And just like the Hangin’ Around card kit, you’ll find adhesive-backed embellishments and sturdy card bases.”

“As a side note, this kit is exclusive to the CEO kit so if you want to make and shake, you’ll need to buy the Anthology CEO kit! [That’s the big kit you purchase to be a CEO; it costs $499 but you receive a kit exceeding that in value which you can use for yourself, use as a demo, or re-sell for full retail and make a profit].

. . . Remember, you’re not seeing everything, just a little peek at what you’ll find in these kits. Also, there are limited quantities of each kit, so once they are gone, they likely won’t be ordered again, so make sure you order your favorites as soon as they are available.”

On the conference call I participated in, there was a Q&A panel where it was confirmed that the:
– cardstock is 12×12 (no 8.5 x 11)
– products are acid-free, lignin-free, buffered, and archival safe
– embellishment types will vary from kit to kit
– the kits will all be around the same price point

If you want to follow along on your own, make sure to check out the HERITAGE MAKERS blog and LISA BEARNSON‘s blog. Also, you can subscribe to this blog, join my free newsletter (both in the upper right sidebar), and follow me on TWITTER and PINTEREST.

I think what I’ll do is post on Twitter/Pinterest with the sneaks from Monday 08-03-15, then post them here along with Thursday’s on 08-06-15.

So far, I’m loving the clean look, bright but not too bright colors, and included storage solutions. What are YOUR thoughts on what you’re seeing of “Anthology”?

Anthology scrapbooking Project Life scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites Team Lisa Bearnson

Team Lisa Bearnson: “Anthology” First Sneak Peeks Are Up!

Scrapbook Obsession July 27, 2015July 27, 2015

If you’re a Scrapbook Obsession Newsletter subscriber, you’ve already heard that today is the day for sneak peeks of Lisa Bearnson’s new line called “Anthology.”

Time to See the Sneaks, Y’All

You can check them out HERE – then come right back, please :) I’ll wait patiently.
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Okay, so what do you think so far? Pretty nice start, huh? These are basics we all need in our scrapbooking – luscious textured cardstock in 7 packs with 53 colors including neutrals – and D-ring binders – woot!

lisa bearnson anthology sneak peek cardstock

lisa bearnson anthology sneak peeks albums

K.I.S.S.: Keep It Simple . . . Scrapper

I’m so excited about what I’ve seen so far. I know one of Lisa’s philosophies with her new line is to keep scrapbooking accessible and do-able. These basics go right along with that. Can’t wait to see more – which happens this Thursday 07-30-15 when Lisa reveals her next sneak peek. {How come every single time I type that, I write “sneek peak”??? Whyyyyy???}

Now that you’ve seen a little taste – if you think you’re going to like what Lisa will offer with Anthology, I really encourage you to sign up NOW as my Preferred Customer. Peeps like me will be the only way you can purchase Anthology products, because Lisa has signed an exclusive deal with a huge company called Youngevity. And I’m a rep, yo’.

Wanna’ Know How? It’s Super Easy (Not to Mention FREE)

Being a Preferred Customer is free and you’ll get 30% off retail of everything you purchase. You just sign up here: https://erikafriday.youngevity.com/

In the upper right, click Join, then Customer, and fill in the blanks. Easy peasy!

Note: Under “User name and distributor website URL”, please choose a user name – keeping in mind that if you ever become a Distributor, it’ll be your URL. For example, mine is ErikaFriday and my site is https://erikafriday.youngevity.com. You can choose your full name, your business name, or anything else you like. If you stay a Preferred Customer forever, it functions as your user name.

Also, please ensure it says at the bottom of the form: “You are signing up under Erika Friday (101433514).” That way, you’re enrolled as a Preferred Customer under my account.

Here’s a video showing how to create a Preferred Customer account (just watch the first minute or so).

If you decide later to become a distributor ($25) or a CEO ($500, on sale through 7/31 for $400 – but you still get $500 to spend!) – then you already have this account set up and ready to upgrade. If you always stay a Preferred Customer, that’s awesome! You’ll log into your own site (the one you created above) and place your orders whenever you like.

Here’s a quick video showing how to place orders as a Preferred Customer. (It shows health products in the video but it’ll work exactly the same way for the “Anthology” scrapbooking products).

Questions? Hit me up: erika@scrapbookobsession.com or hit Reply on any of my newsletters.

EARLY REVIEWS?

What are your thoughts on the sneak peeks of the Anthology line? Underwhelmed that they’re just basics? Scrappy happy to see things you know you’ll use? Wondering what could be coming next? Would love to hear what you think so far :)

See you Thursday, if not sooner (and this is where you say, “Not if I see you first!” bwahahahaha!).

scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Scrapbook Obsession: Update 07-03-15

Scrapbook Obsession July 3, 2015July 3, 2015

It’s Friday night of a holiday weekend and, yes, I’m working. Sigh. But I wanted to do a quick update and say HI.

HOLLAH!

So first of all . . . HIIIIIII!!!! I miss you. I hope you’re enjoying your summer and have fun plans for the 4th of July tomorrow (those of you in America). We’re keeping it low key as usual. I think being a 9-1-1 dispatcher all those years kinda’ soured me on going out for July 4th. Lotsa’ baaadd things happen – plus I feel sorry for my doggie, LOL. Fireworks aren’t allowed in most towns around here and, especially with the severe CA drought, we have to be so careful. Do you set off fireworks, go watch a fireworks show, or what?

Where You Been, Guuuurl?

I’m still doing behind the scenes stuff when I have time between working. Everything’s headed in the right direction, even if it doesn’t seem like it when it’s so quiet here, LOL. I’ll give some specifics in a newsletter soon so sign-up if you’re interested (in the top right sidebar). Why not just share everything here on the blog, you might ask? One thing I’m loving about the newsletter is that I can get more personal and share more ‘real life’ details. Because I’m writing directly to you and just you, not to the whole world wide web. Does that make sense?

Team Lisa’s (Un)Official Song: “This is My Fight Song”

One exciting thing is that we’re gearing up big time for Lisa Bearnson’s new line, Anthology, that’s coming out later this summer.

lisa bearnson anthology

It’s getting closer and closer! If you’ve thought about – or want to know about – being a rep for her products, e-mail me, k? (address is below). The way to go BIG TIME with it is to become a CEO like I did. When I signed up in May, it cost me $500 (I’ve already made $100 of that back with very minimal work, btw). Lucky you, until 07-31-15 it’s $100 off – and you get all the same stuff I did! I’m not bitter or anything. I’m happy for you. R-E-A-L-L-Y! But seriously if you decide to do it or are just curious, please contact me. I’ll answer any questions and tell you how to sign up so I get credit and you’re on MY team! I want you to myself, girlie.

Noted: My New E-mail Address

Check it out . . . my new email is: erika@scrapbookobsession.com!

In business school this Spring, one thing I learned is that a biz lady looks more professional if she ditches the gmail address (I’ve always used scrapbookobsession@gmail.com) and gets one related to her domain. ~~Always~~ Sometimes one to follow directions, I did just that :) Now I’m all pro-like and stuff :P

Aw, Time to Go :(

In closing, I just wanted to say thank you to Ashley for becoming the 120th subscriber to the Scrapbook Obsession Free Newsletter! Love hitting those “tens” milestones and welcoming more peeps to the family.

PS:

I can’t leave you without sharing something scrappy so go get your FREE June 2015 printables from Simple Stories RIGHT HERE! Warning – the blog entry they’re a part of deals with loss and is sad so if you’re not feelin’ it right now, just go straight HERE.

Love you, luvs!

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Team Lisa: Want to Hear from Lisa Bearnson Live? TONIGHT

Scrapbook Obsession April 2, 2015April 2, 2015

Wow, what an intense week it’s been! I’m so glad it’s almost Friday – and a very GOOD one it will be at that! (Heh. See what I did there?)

I don’t want to be all “Team Lisa this, Team Lisa that” so I wasn’t going to post about tonight’s conference call with Wendy, the team trainer. The call is geared specifically toward anyone who wants to know more about Team Lisa and the possiblity of buying/selling Lisa Bearnson’s “Anthology” products that come out in late summer 2015.

But I just heard that Lisa Bearnson herself is going to be on the live call – and thought maybe you’d want the opportunity to hear from her yourself. So here are the details in case you’d like to listen:

TONIGHT (Thursday, 04-02-15) Lisa Bearnson will be on a LIVE TEAM LISA Business Opportunity call at 8 pm MT [make sure to adjust for your time zone].

If you’re interested in hearing about her new product line, Anthology, coming late Summer 2015 and how you can be apart of the success with Youngevity, join the call! There are so many people interested and many more to reach so we are trying to get the information out as fast as we can.

Here’s the information about tonight’s call which you can listen to live at 8 pm MT or call in anytime after and listen to it recorded:

TEAM LISA Business Opportunity Call, Thursday, April 2nd 8 pm MT
Call in: 1-712-775-7035 Pin: 370616#
24 Hour Recorded Call (will work after Thursday call)
Call in: 1-712-775-7039 Pin: 370616#

If you’re kinda’ shy like me and don’t want to be LIVE yourself or put on the spot in any way, don’t worry. They talk, we listen. You just dial the first number above, enter the Pin on your keypad, and you’ll be able to hear Wendy and Lisa talking. That’s it. If you’re busy at the time of the call or don’t want to burn your long distance, you can either call the 2nd number later or listen to it online. (I can provide a link if you need it).

You can also contact me if you’re interested in more information. Just leave a Comment below or email me: scrapbookobsession at gmail dot com.

I’ll shut up now.
kbai

Memory Works scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook magazines scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Scrapbook Consultant: Why I Signed Up to Sell Lisa Bearnson’s “Anthology” Line

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on March 29, 2015March 28, 2015

Okay, I’ve calmed down a little bit now and I’m breathing normally again, LOL. Yeah, a tad bit excited yesterday when I posted HERE and a couple other places about my new position. Oh my gosh, you guys, this post ended up being soooooo looooonnnnngggg. You know me, Miss Verbose! But it’s the weekend so I hope you have time to grab a Diet Coke and take a read :)

So my great news is that I’ve joined up as a direct seller under the Youngevity brand as of 03-25-15; my official title is Independent Marketing Director. I want to tell you how it all came about and what it means for me and for this blog. I also want to offer you the opportunity to join me, if you’re so inclined :)

THE HISTORY

As I said HERE, there’s been a lot going on behind the scenes. I’m going to write a post about that this weekend, too. I won’t be giving away any secrets yet but will talk about the “why” of it all.

In the midst of all this – actually ever since Memory Works closed in 2013 – I’ve been missing selling scrapbook supplies, interacting with customers, and making some extra money to fund my scrapbook shopping addiction … erm, habit. However, of the few scrapbook-related direct sales companies remaining that I looked into, none of them blew my dress up, so to speak.

I also looked into having my own online shop, either adding it onto this site or starting an Etsy shop. Which still may happen in some form, some day in the future.

Then out of the blue, I was contacted by a fellow scrapbooker named Kim who asked some questions about Scrapbook Obsession Blog. We got to chatting and she told me that it was still hush-hush but she’d been chosen to be on Lisa Bearnson’s direct selling team for a new venture Lisa was starting with Youngevity/Heritage Makers. This was because Kim had been very successful with Leaving Prints in the past.

Well, you know me, I’ve been a Lisa Bearnson fan since Day One. I read her Creating Keepsakes magazine cover to cover every single month it was published. I took vacation days from work to watch Lisa and David on QVC Scrapbooking, and now I watch her on HSN Scrapbooking. I even had the pleasure of spending a week with her on a scrapbooking cruise in the Mediterranean years ago. The interactions I, my mom, and my friend had with her that week made me an even more loyal fan and admirer. Not only was she extremely kind and caring but a great teacher and patient organizer.

In 2007, I started my own transcribing and virtual assistant business around the same time I started with Memory Works. Becoming a business owner and a consultant only increased my admiration for women like Lisa Bearnson. There are so many moving parts, lots of missed sleep and deadlines and financial worry. She makes it look so easy – which is what I need in a mentor, right? But above all her business success, I’ve always seen that family and faith are her priorities. They’re what inspire her scrapbooking and it’s just another thing I love about Lisa because those are my life priorities, too.

So, all that to say, once my new friend Kim said that Lisa Bearnson was involved in this venture, I said, “I’m in!” even before I knew if I was ALLOWED in, LOL. And when she invited me to be a part of her team – I thought about it, looked into it, talked to DH about it, prayed on it – and said YES PLEASE!

HOW I DECIDED

As I found out, there are 2 options to join. For $10, you can be a Consultant with discounted purchasing for yourself and the ability to sell to others. I would consider it to be the so-called “hobbyist” option. And for only $10 (lifetime!), I can’t see any reason why we ALL wouldn’t join. I love me a no-brainer :) You could easily save $10 on your first order, I’m sure.

The other option is awesome but MUCH harder to decide on because it costs $500 to join at the CEO level. You get $500 in publishing points to spend on custom Heritage Maker products, traditional scrapbooking products, or other Youngevity products – your choice. (Mineral make-up, K-cups, essential oils … ruh roh, I may be in twuble here …). Or you can hold onto those points until late summer 2015 and use them to buy Lisa Bearnson’s “Anthology” products – which is what I’ll probably do.

So $500 a LOT of money to me and, I’m sure, to most people. I actually had that amount set aside from our tax return for something else. But, like I said, I thought and prayed and talked it over with my husband. I didn’t really need much convincing about the huge opportunity here. In the end, I couldn’t NOT sign up. Lisa Bearnson is not only creating new products that I know I and many others will want to buy; I want those for 30% off and I believe they’ll even be available on an auto-ship. Lisa says, “It will be a collection of fresh, fashion-forward designs founded on the principle that quality scrapbooking and memory keeping does not have to be difficult.”

This is all NEW but my understanding is that Lisa will be referring scrapbookers who express interest on her website down to us CEOs and Consultants. Hello?!? That’s amazing! I was curious just HOW popular her website is so I went to Alexa.com. For an example, Scrapbook Obsession Blog shows 951,266 rank in the US. LisaBearnson.com shows rank 365,074. Her bounce rate is 43% whereas mine is 86%. This means that most people come to my site and leave quickly (“the Pinterest effect”, lol) while at hers they stay and read. In other words, Lisa has an engaged audience and that is SO important! It’s what I strive for.

You may hear from Lisa haters once in a while but there are many, many more scrappers who respect her and are interested in what she offers and sells. So I have ZERO doubt that being a downline from her will lead to success. I have a goal to make back my $500 investment by the end of 2015 and I’m confident I’ll do that. (Although technically, it’s not even an investment since I get business supplies AND $500 to spend on products).

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SCRAPBOOK OBSESSION BLOG

Now, don’t let all this scare you away. This is an MLM (multi-level marketing) business and Lordy do I know that some people become MLM’ers and become highly annoying – constantly barraging their family, friends, and acquaintances on Facebook and in person with their latest “amazing offer!” and “great deal!” and “you MUST try this!”.

Don’t worry, this blog won’t become a constant blast of Youngevity / Heritage Makers / Anthology posts. I expect the number of posts to be about the same amount as I did with Memory Works which I don’t think was too bothersome, was it? I always always always try to start blog post titles with the TOPIC so if it’s not your bag, you can keep on movin’, sister! I’ll continue doing that so you can just ignore the posts if they bug you. I’m also planning to start a mailing list specifically for people on my team who join Youngevity under me and those interested but not sure – to share information – but JUST to those who’ve expressed interest. Sound good?

MORE ABOUT THE NEW ADVENTURE

I signed up as a Youngevity CEO just a few days ago and there’s still much to learn. They’re a HUGE company with lots of arms, just 2 of which are scrapbook-related. Here is the structure, as I’ve figured it out so far:

“Youngevity” which is an MLM “mall” or umbrella representing several brands and growing rapidly
“Heritage Makers” (digital scrapbook, home, and business products) and “Our Memories for Life” (paper scrapbook products)
“Anthology” by Lisa Bearnson under the Heritage Makers brand

Here’s the structure of people:
Youngevity – the Wallach family
Co-creator of Heritage Makers and Lisa’s Team Trainer – Wendy McGee
Creator of Anthology and Heritage Makers Brand Ambassador – Lisa Bearnson (eeee! she already has Anthology and Team Lisa links on her site!)

Under Lisa/Wendy, there are 2 downlines and then me :) If you’d like to join in – and I’d absolutely LOVE to have you – you’d be my downline. Just make sure to contact me and to sign up through my website so I get credit and you’re assigned to my team.

Even though I had a little heads up about Lisa Bearnson’s new venture, I had to keep quiet about it online until it was officially announced at the Youngevity conference in California this week. Then it was official and we could jabber about it, as of yesterday! There are 2 private Facebook groups to get up-to-the-minute information, including a new one for Team Lisa Bearnson. If you join up, we’ll get you added to those groups if you’d like.

Here’s the video they showed at the conference along with some photos:

Tip: Have a tissue handy. Sniffle.

That’s Wendy McGee on the left, Lisa Bearnson, and Jana Eubank on the right. Now there’s another name you might recognize from the scrapbooking industry! Check out her amazing resume HERE.

Lisa speaking at the conference

Did you know Rhonda Anderson, co-founder of Creative Memories, is also part of Heritage Makers? Which reminds me – I haven’t even told you much about the products yet! Tons of fun digital stuff that I need to learn about like photo books, business cards, gift items, etc. The current selection of paper scrapbooking products isn’t huge but it has a Creative Memories feel to it including their great albums, page refills, and tools – like my favorite, the Multi-Purpose Tool. I frantically searched for and bought one of these from out of state when CM went out of business because the tip of my original one from 2001 (!) broke – when it was used by someone who shall remain nameless (husband!) to unscrew something. I was afraid to be without one forever. Only $6 with Heritage Makers, whoo hoo!

Logos for Anthology consultants to use; you’ll be seeing these on my blog and social media soon :) They’re so cute. And now the recent redesign of Lisa’s blog makes TOTAL sense! Ohhhhh …..

Well, clearly I should’ve broken this up into about 20 entries because it’s so ding-dang long! Oh well. I want all the information in one place so there ya’ go, ha!

IN SUMMARY (Jeez, finally!)

If you want to join my team (Lisa’s team), the best thing to do is e-mail me. I’ll put you on my mailing list and send you information and links so you can learn more. I want you to feel totally comfortable, whether you’re spending $10 or $500. You can get off the mailing list at any time; just let me know. I’m happy to answer questions 24/7. You can call me, too :) Just leave a voice mail and I’ll call you back.

E-mail: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com
805-400-3261

If you want to check out all the fabu products Youngevity offers – including Heritage Makers & Our Memories for Life – here are some links:

My Youngevity Website

My HeritageMakers site

** Oops! Correction to the signup instructions (03-29-15) **

If you’re ready to sign up, please follow these instructions:

Go to my Youngevity website: https://erikafriday.youngevity.com
Click on “Join” in the upper right-hand corner.
Then click on “Distributor.”
Next, you will see a selection of kits that you can choose from.

To sign up as an Independent Marketing Director (CEO): You may choose from any of the CEO kits. I chose the Heritage Makers CEO kit and received some business materials. I’m saving my points for now.

To sign up as a Preferred Customer: Scroll all the way to the bottom and choose the “New Associate Adventure Pack.” You can upgrade at any time to CEO.

Sorry again for the super duper long post – but you know how I am ;) Hope to hear from you soon!

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Announcement: I’m on “Team Lisa” … As in Lisa Bearnson!!

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on March 28, 2015March 27, 2015

So this is one of the exciting things I’ve been dying to tell you about!!

Go read Lisa’s announcement HERE and come back quick!

I joined Lisa Bearnson’s team and will be privileged to sell her new line of scrapbooking products!

I’ll post more information soon; this is coming to you from my iPhone in the bank parking lot, LOL! I had to tell my peeps who would understand how excited I am!

If YOU have interest in being on Team Lisa, please email or call me ASAP! The sooner you get in, the better ;)

Scrapbookobsessionblog at gmail dot com (ETA: OOPS! There is no ‘blog’ in my email address, just scrapbookobsession at gmail dot com – sorry!)
** If you’ve emailed me, will you please try again? My apologies :)
805-400-3261

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Simple Stories Warehouse Sale

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on October 22, 2014September 9, 2014

Check out THIS fun news article, video, and photos from the Standard Examiner highlighting the Simple Stories brand.

If you don’t have time to read the entire article right now, allow me to highlight this part:

And those interested in Crowell’s products don’t have to walk row by row in a craft store to find them.

They may visit www.simplestories.com or visit the company’s store front where it showcases Simple Stories products as well as products for a few other companies.

Interested consumers may visit the store, located at 640 W. 1100 South, Suite 1 in Business Depot Ogden and easily find the products without having to look through the many selections at larger outlet stores.

Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, the store offers at a quick glance all the creative work Crowell and her now more than a dozen employees do all year long.

Those who want to shop for bargains may attend the company’s warehouse sale next Friday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For information, call the company at 801-737-3242.

Yep, Simple Stories is having a warehouse sale! I don’t recall them having one in the past unless I missed it. Here are the only 2 reasons I won’t be going:

1. I already own most of their lines (eep!).

2. Their warehouse is a 12-hour drive from my house. Why, yes, I *did* Google map it! Just in case, ya’ know ;)

But if you live anywhere near Ogden, Utah, you should totally go!

I’ve met Amber (and her husband, Kevin) and she is TOTALLY as sweet as she looks in that photo! Their whole staff is amazing, too – just the nicest people. I’m so happy for them all.

Congratulations to Simple Stories and here’s to their continued success!

Memory Works scrapbook blogs scrapbook consultant scrapbook shopping scrapbook websites

Simple Stories: Release Dates for New Items from Winter 2014 CHA

Scrapbook ObsessionUpdated on January 23, 2014January 23, 2014

Are you wondering when the new SIMPLE STORIES lines will be out from CHA Winter 2014 earlier this month? Well, never fear! Your courageous Super Scrappy Enabler is here! Yes, I have a cape, gold cuff bracelets, and everything. For reals.

Here are the release dates of the new lines, as per their blog:

{I’ll just put a sample image from each line but you can see a lot more by clicking on the links}.

Mid-February:

4 Simple Sets (Fresh Air, Summer Paradise, Hey Mom, Hey Pop).

Homespun including the Recipe pages and cards.

and Charmed Life.

Mid-March:

6 new Sn@p Sets (Dog, Cat, Wedding, Birthday, Travel, Summer)

new Sn@p products (burlap albums, 6×8 Insta pocket pages, photo crops, photo flips, clear photo stickers, and photo overlays)

and DIY + DIY Boutique

If you click on any of the links above, they will take you to the specific post on the Simple Stories blog where that line was debuted. You can double-check I got the release dates right, LOL. {Sorry, it’s almost midnight as I write this and it’s been a long day . . . even super heroes aren’t perfect}.

Mid-February and Mid-March is when they are ESTIMATED to ship to retailers. Allow a little time for vendors to receive the items and list them in their stores.

Alas, I won’t be selling my beloved Simple Stories products anymore because Memory Works closed at the end of 2013 :( I still love SS products and, while probably not as often, I will continue to post Simple Stories news when I can.

Top 3 on my wish list are:
1. Homespun
2. Hey Pop!
3. Wedding Sn@p Set

What are your Top 3?