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New Shop - New Blog!

2010-04-28T10:40:00.001-06:00

Love to invite you all over to our new blog! We have opened a new shop!!!

http://www.joandjimmy.blogspot.com

Share Your Best Thanksgiving Story

2009-11-26T20:44:00.005-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Wanted to wish all my American readers a very Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you have a wonderful time with your Family and Friends! I'm inviting you all to share your great thanksgiving stories!! On Monday I'll go through them and the best story will get a set of 10 holiday gift tags for free!!!

I've been very busy with orders and I am finally caught up! I am working on some shop features of some great Etsy sellers! Stay tuned as I hope to have the first one up and running in the next few days!!

And remember...its not too late to order your holiday greeting cards and gift tags!

Talk to you all again soon!!

WEEKEND SALE!!!

2009-11-13T12:27:00.008-07:00

I don't offer FREE SHIPPING very often so if you are planning on ordering Holiday Cards then now is the perfect time! I am offering FREE SHIPPING on ALL holiday sets until midnight MST, Sunday, November 15, 2009!!! This sale includes custom orders so if you are wanting something special, let me know!!!

Here are some of my holiday listings! Check my shop often this weekend as I plan to have a bunch of new listings!

AND.......for my blog followers ONLY, I will include 6 holiday gift tags for FREE with each Holiday Set! How awesome is that!!!! Just make sure you let me know you are a blog follower in the Message to Seller! So spread the word....this is the only free shipping sale I will be offering before the holidays!

NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY WINNER!!!

2009-11-10T13:47:00.004-07:00

Thank you to absolutely everyone who entered my Holiday Giveaway! I'm excited to announce that Susan Schrock of Texas has won the set of Holiday Reindeer Greeting Cards! Stay tuned for future giveaways and if you are interested in having your shop featured and doing a giveaway, I'd love to hear from you!

Holiday Gift Guide Pt 2 For the Decorator in Your Life

2009-10-25T22:19:00.008-06:00

I LOVE finding things to add interest to my home. We purchased our home a year ago and are just now looking in to making it more 'our home'! So this blog post is a bit selfish as it is a gift guide...but I'm looking for me too!!!

My first find comes all the way from Kuala Lumpur and a shop by the name of Blank Canvas Designs! I'm a huge fan of the latest craze of wall decals! It is a VERY cost effective way to add interest to any room! Not very often you can get a piece of wall art for these prices!

The next item I have found would be perfect for the cook in your life! Its a beautiful stoneware piece from a shop in Arizona called Just Mare. Stop by and spend some time going through this shop as there are some fabulous pieces at very affordable prices!

Someone special in your life love to have little nick nacks around the house? Here is an great idea! With people being so concious about the environment, these are a fabulous alternative! Pebbles made of felt and they are so realistic! I love them! Much better for my son to throw on the hardwood floor than the real things! Coming from Seattle, a store called Kneek.

Shopping for the child who has everything and more? Or perhaps just someone who is a true kid at heart! I have loved this artists creations for some time and am excited to share their shop with you! Hailing from Michigan, Two Left Hands Creations are fascinating!

I find glass to be a fantastic medium and I admire those who have been so fortunate to learn the craft! The next shop I am featuring has created the most amazing fused glass pieces! The colors she has blended are beautiful and they would make a fantastic gift for just about anyone! These pieces are created in Oregon in a shop called Margie McNutt

That's it for now! I hope you have all enjoyed my picks for this installment of my holiday gift guide! Love for you to leave your comments and don't forget to enter my latest giveaway!!!

FREE GIVEAWAY!!!

2009-10-21T12:38:00.004-06:00

I'm planning a great giveaway for November! I will be giving away a set of 12 Handmade Holiday Greeting Cards from my shop!!!

Here is a picture of the set you could win!!! Valued at $24 plus FREE SHIPPING!!!

What do you have to do to enter? It's simple....here is a list of various ways you can enter! For each item on the list you complete, you will receive 1 entry!!!

1. Check out my Etsy Shop - Blissful Blooms Paper and tell me which item is your favorite!
2. Sign up for my Monthly Newsletter!
3. Follow me on twitter!
4. Follow my Blog!
4. Become a fan of my facebook page!
5. Twitter about my giveaway!
6. Post my giveaway on your blog!

That's it...that all you have to do! Post your links etc in the comment section and the winner will be announced on December 1st! In the event that there is a tie, the winner will be chosen at random.

Started Your Holiday Shopping Yet?!

2009-10-15T18:04:00.011-06:00

Well, I haven't exactly started to shop yet, but the radar is up and I'm looking! I have 3 gorgeous nieces, a nephew and my beautiful 19 month old boy. I love to spoil them all and one of my big thrills is to find them the cutest clothes! So I thought I'd turn to Etsy and see what I could find in Christmas themed Childrens clothing! So here we go!!!

Although I don't have any newborns I will be buying for this year, I couldn't pass up this little outfit! It comes from Jewelry and Baby Bling by Dara's shop.

I wish I'd seen this last year when my guy was little!

This next little outfit can be found in DressReHERSal's shop! Make sure you take a good look through her entire shop as she has created some real gems!!! I can see both of my little nieces in this outfit!!!

These next outfits speaks 'good times' and 'holiday cheer'! I think they are absolutely adorable and what fashion forward little girl wouldn't want to be seen in these!!! They have been created by 3lpcouture.

The details on this next outfit are so adorable!! I can see my little niece Jada wearing this to her Christmas concert! This outfit comes from mydeepbluec. Make sure you have a good look through this shop cuz there is some really FUNKY stuff!! Love it!

And finally, one outfit I can see my son and his youngest cousin wearing...although I think they would have to trade off regularly!!!! This has been created by TadpolesandTutus! Gotta love that shop name!
So there are a few of the cute childrens clothing for Christmas that I have stumbled upon! I hope you will all have a look through these wonderful artists shops! Leave your comments...and if you have childrens clothing items, leave the link in your comment!! Happy shopping everyone!

October SALE Announcement

2009-09-30T21:39:00.008-06:00

The HOLIDAYS are quickly approaching! I've been very busy this past week adding new listings to my Etsy shop! I invite you to pop on over to my shop and view the new sets and gift tags that I have been adding!

My most recent listing, and one of the funnest I have done in a while is inspired by those famed gals from Sex in the City! I thought these cards would be perfect to send to your girlfriends to get them all primed up for their holiday shopping!! These cards can even be special ordered as invitations, etc! Just let me know if you are interested! Color combinations can be changed!

I have been playing a lot with non traditional holiday colors as well! Probably most evident in my newly listed "Believe" holiday cards. The pinks and blues add a whimsical twist to the season. What do you think?!

But I couldn't let the traditionalist in my stay asleep! Well...perhaps I am still a bit groggy! As many of you know, I love to add silk flowers on my cards. I came up with this card and gave it a very elegant twist! I think it is very well priced and I hope to see it do very well this season!

Along with my cards, I have been busy creating gift tags! They are lots of fun to make and one can never have too many on hand! They are so much more fun than the standard 'ol ones you buy at WalMart! All of my gift tags are available in a multitude of color combinations and sizes! Here are a few of my latest!

So now that I have showed off all my new creations, I'm happy to announce my OCTOBER SALE!!! With each holiday gift card set purchased, you will receive a 6 pack of gift tags with your order! How fantastic is that! So spread the word and the holiday cheer early!!! Remember, I am still taking custom orders!

Talk to you all soon! Leave some comments...i LOVE to hear them!

Introducing GREENIE MARIE

2009-09-28T09:03:00.007-06:00

Hi Everyone! It has been a long time since I have promoted an Etsy shop other than my own! After much searching, I have finally come across the most amazing artist!

I immediately fell in love with her work and I'm pretty sure that you will all feel the same!!! To tempt you in to looking a little closer, Greenie Marie describes her creations as being sprinkled with pink fluff, slight pouts and big dreamy eyes. My collection is of collector quality and designed for the child at heart." Now if that is not enough, I would like to introduce you to Ginger Cupcake. Greenie Marie's favorite items in her shop of late are her Teddy Bears...you'll see why!

Greenie Marie's take on the classic Raggedy Ann and Andy is absolutely adorable! She has recreated them and brought them to life once more! What a treasured gift it would be to present them to that special little girl on Christmas morning along with a story book of the famed duo!

Truly now, who wouldn't want that little guy around! He just commands a smile or two or three! I love him!

So many of us artisans take our inspiration from the environment around us, when I asked Greenie Marie where her inspiration came from, it wasn't surprising to hear her say "daydreams and the simplicity and joy of childhood memories!

Greenie Maria allows each piece to take on its own character, they sort of fall into being in her hands! Fairy Cakes is the most adorable little thing...she is dead on when she describes her as "cutie patootie" Who can help but fall in love with this little girl when her motto is "Fairy cake tastes so sweet, in fact it's all she'll have to eat"!

Greenie Marie's own interpretation of the classic Raggedy Ann and Andy is adorable! She has recreated this famous duo with her own twist and has brought them back to life once again! What little girl wouldn't love to receive these two little beauties on Christmas morning with a copy of a Raggedy Ann & Andy book!

Greenie Marie's diversity is ever present in her Spotted Wood Owl! This little guy is so cute, he makes you just want to squeeze him and cuddle!

"Spotted Wood Owl, flying low at night, Oh how I love it when you take flight!"

As so many of us often get caught up in the 'extras' associated with our craft, Greenie Marie has kept things true to her heart! When I asked her what was the most difficult thing about being an artisan, she simple stated "at this time I really don’t feel any, I only create because I love it, and as long as I am true to that, than everything else is gravy so to speak."

Greenie Marie is quite new to Etsy and she is very much enjoying the flexibility and sense of community that it provides!

I truly hope you will take the time to look through her shop, leave some comments and even order your very own special 'creature'! It would be so gratifying to own something in which you knew such love went in to its creation!

Thank you Greenie Marie for bringing your craft to us!

New Season New Look!!!

2009-09-15T21:13:00.008-06:00

Hi Everyone!!!! Yes, I'm guilty...its been a bit too long since I last blogged! I've been super busy with a number of things both personally and professionally! My darling husband is home from work and I am truly loving being a wife!!!

I've spent the past week or so revamping the look of my

Etsy shop - Blissful Blooms Paper

Soooo...without further adieu, here is my new logo!!!

I am very happy with the way things turned out and to celebrate.....I'm having a SALE!!!! From now until the end of September, I am offering 15% off all of my Holiday Greeting Card Sets! This also includes custom orders!!!! So all you early birds out there...here's your opportunity to save some cash!!! I'm hoping to add at least one new set every day so check back often! I would also love to create your own unique set!

Below are a few of my newest listings!

THE Wedding

2009-08-31T21:05:00.027-06:00

Wow...September 1st already! After taking most of the summer off, I am now ready to gear up for the fall/winter season! But first things first! The Wedding! Jimmy and I FINALLY tied the knot on Saturday, July 18! It was an absolutely perfect day

....the weather was HOT and the sun shone brightly all day!!!

We were married at my Parent's ranch in Central Alberta near a small town called Raven!

As so many of you have expressed an interest in seein

g pictures from the wedding, I thought I would share a few from our special day!

The next few pictures are of the handsome groomsmen th

at stood up for my Jimmy. Thankfully the boys waited until after the wedding to start the cocktails! At least that is what I was told!

And now for the shots of My girls! First off, my wonderful niece Maddi who was the perfect Junior Bridesmaid! She was so excited for this day! I think it was because she was able to wear the same dress as her Mom!

And now for Maddi's Mom, my older sister Nikole!

And Robin, my Maid of Honor, Best Friend and Younger Sister!

And now, My Flower Girls, Raegan & Jada, Robin's Daughters. The nerves got to Jada but she made it down the aisle and I was so very proud of her!

And now, our son Rodney Fisher who was our Ring Bearer!

And next, the love of my life....Jimmy!! Yup, I married myself a Cowboy!

And now, a very special moment for me, my Father walking me down the aisle! We only had one mishap! My dad said something funny (and to this day we can't remember what) and I let out a laughing snort as I began my walk down the aisle...yup, goes down as one of my most embarrassing moments!

So there you have it! The wedding party at its best! Then it was all downhill from there as the drinks flower freely! Everyone had an amazing time and I'd like to share with you some fun candid shots!

Here we are walking down the aisle after the ceremony! Surprised by rose petals grown and picked from a dear family friend!

Ahhh...the ceremony is over...please let me have a nice cold beverage! I started small...

...and finished big!!!!

And one of my favorite shots of the day - my precious little boy and I share a special moment!

Things got a bit more rowdy once the wedding party was on its own!!!

And here I am, in the dress I dreamed of! A perfect day!

And finally, here we are as Mr. & Mrs.!

I hope you have enjoyed the pictures of our wedding! Love to hear your comments!

2009-07-02T08:09:00.005-06:00

Hi Everyone!

It has been a while since I blogged as life has taken over! It is now ONLY 17 days until our Wedding! Plans are in full gear and coming together as planned! No glitches...yet!!! Well...other than my mom finding out that she has to have surgery 4 days before the wedding! She broke her foot 2 months ago and the doctor misdiagnosed the break so she now has to have the main bone in her foot rebroken! OUCH! But she's a trooper and she'll do just fine! Love ya Mom!

With the wedding so near and so much going on, I will not be posting many new blogs as some of you may have noticed! I did however want to show off my new creations to you all! These will probably be my last creations until after the wedding is over so I hope you all enjoy them...and better yet, decide that you have a special someone that would enjoy them as well!!!

So here they are, the continuation of my wedding inspired blooms! Enjoy and keep in touch everyone!!!!

I love this card! Pretty in Pink! The white blooms have been adorned with tiny rhinestone centers and shimmers beautifully in the sunlight!!

Purple polka dots and blooms! Again, tiny rhinestones adorn the blooms! A perfect card for just about any occasion!

The perfect Bouquet of Flowers! Each and every bloom on this card is adorned with a rhinestone! The colors burst from the front of this card! I've framed the bouquet with a pale yellow satin ribbon! Ohhhhh how i wish the pictures did these cards justice!

So there they are everyone! I so enjoy creating these cards and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

I shall be in touch very soon...when I become a 'Mrs.'!!!! Ohhhh so exciting!!!!

Be Happy and Be Safe Everyone!

Joanne

I've Been Tagged!

2009-07-02T07:08:00.004-06:00

I've been tagged by Alison from the UK and her blog is AMI Designs!

What is your current obsession?
My wedding! Which is now only 16 days away! July 18! Everything I do is focused around it!

What is your weirdest obsession?
Hmmmm....

What are you wearing today?
Capri pants and a summery striped sleeveless top.

What's for dinner?
Thats up to my best gal Cher! Heading to her house for dinner!

What is your favourite book?
Lady of Hay by Barbara Erskine - its a gooder!!

What's the last thing you bought?
My little boys tuxedo for the wedding! Stay tuned for pics of him - absolutely adorable!

What are you listening to right now?
My future stepson is watching the sports highlights on tv....something about the free agent deadline in the NHL!

What is your favourite ice-cream flavour?
Chocolate Peanut Butter of course!!!

What do you think of the person who tagged you?
Alison has a fantastic blog and the jewelry she creates is beautiful!

If you could have house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you like it to be?
I would love to live in the Maritimes - East coast of Canada!

If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go?
Tuscany, Italy

Which language do you want to learn?
Spanish - and I think it should replace French in the schools!

Who do you want to meet right now?
The love of my life, Jimmy, who is away at work for 12 days!

What is your favourite colour?
Green...green....green!

What is your favourite piece of clothing in your own wardrobe?
Should I say my wedding dress?! lol...nope...jeans...anything denim!

What is your favourite magazine?
I'm Canadian...would have to be Canadian Living!

If you had a $100 now, what would you spend it on?
New shoes! I LOVE shoes!

What is you favourite time of the day?
Early morning while everyone is still sleeping!

Do you admire anyone's style?
No one in particular! Those that know what they look fabulous in and can break the normal barriers.....stylishly!!!!

Describe your personal style?
Casual - I'm a mom!

What are you going to do after this?
Pack the suitcases - heading to Calgary for 4 days!

What are your favourite movies?
Ummm....proudly....the Sound of Music! Cuz I get to sing REAL loud and I actually know the worlds to every song!!!

What is your favourite fruit?
Apples! Gala to be specific!

What inspires you?
My family!

What music do you like this week?
Anything that is suitable for a wedding cuz I still haven't sorted out all that!

What is your dream job?
Interior Designer

What is stopping you?
The list is much tooooo long!

If you could change something in the world to make it better place what would that be?
Make everyone much more accepting of one anothers beliefs and ideas!

What is your favourite animal?
My dog Sammy - a pure bred in his own mind!

What is your all time favorite song?
The Power of Love - Jennifer Rush

Here are the Eight people I'm tagging!

Audrey at Audrey's Country Crafts
Penny at Doodles and Dreams
Brooke at Jackaroo Love
New York Memos
Dayzee at Dayzee Love Designs
Rhone at Rose Ridge Creations
Krystal at Carvel Country Soapworks
Karen at Mystic Wind

The rules:
1. Respond and rework; answer the questions on your blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your own invention, add one more question of your own.
2. Tag eight other people.

Bye Bye Ikea!

2009-06-16T19:12:00.014-06:00

If you are like me, you like to change things up in your house once in awhile! And I have found the perfect way to do that! What better way to give your room a new look than with some original photography! Again, I searched through Etsy and have found a wonderful artist named Michelle Campbell-Zurek and she is the heart and soul of Urban Junkies Photography.

Originally from the East Coast of the United States, Michelle now calls Los Angeles, California home. For as long as she can remember, she has been infatuated with imagery and art. After college, Michelle spend a few years in an unfullfilling career which left her feeling incomplete as an artisit. Returning to her true love, she has been able to find herself and be more at peace. She attributes this to her fascination of freezing time and holding on to a memory.

Michelle's main influence is her environment and states that Los Angeles has to be one of her biggest sources of inspiration. With the mixing of cultures, the vibrancy and the chaos of the town, it is truly the perfect muse! Secondly, Michelle credits passionate artists like Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Camille Claudel, and Remedios Varo as major influences. These artists have motivated her to become a better photographer and painter.

As an artisan and owner of her own busines, Michelles biggest challenge is finding enough time in the day to learn more about art and finding more time to create new pieces. Well, I think it is safe to say that most of us are in the same boat! Discovering new and unique ways of marketing her shop is also a challenge that she faces. Charitable Donations are one way that Michelle has found as a way to 'give back'. I don't know about the rest of you, but knowing that a portion of my money is going to a charity is a HUGE bonus when I'm buying art! Way to go Michelle!

Michelle is also a huge lover of music and if she could sell any one of her items to anyone, she would want it to go to one of her favorite artists! A good choice I think! Michelle's favorite piece in her shop is a photograph called Transmutation. It holds a very special, personal meaning to her! It is beautiful!

So all of this said, please go and visit Michelle's shop and give the rooms in your house a facelift! Get rid of those Ikea prints that EVERYONE has hanging on their walls!

Thank you so much Michelle for allowing us a glimpse of your work and I wish you the very best success!

If you have read this blog, then please leave your comments! Love to read them!

I'm heading to the beautiful Kootney's in British Columbia on Thursday for 5 days! You can all look forward to hearing of our camping adventures next week!

Be Happy and Be Safe!

Joanne

Flowers on the Brain!

2009-06-13T07:55:00.005-06:00

I spent the entire day yesterday shopping for flowers for our wedding in July! With the exception of Jimmy's boutonniere and my bouquet, we will be putting the flowers together ourselves. That will be 2 bridesmaids, 1 junior bridesmaid, 2 flower girls, 7 boutonnieres, 5 corsages and 5 miscellaneous bouquets. I hope we are up for the challenge! We have purchased all of those flowers from Costco and if you are in the market for flowers...that is where to go!!!

I'm pretty sure I spend the night dreaming of flowers last night! So as soon as I woke up this morning I headed down to my studio and began to create! I'm excited to show you all what I came up with!

The first, and probably my favorite are the pink blossums on a bright plaid background. This card has so many possible uses, wether it be for birthday, anniversary, wedding, shower, graduation or just because!

With flowers still on the brain, I moved on to my second creation. Inspired by the flowers from my own wedding, I took some silk flower petals from a bouquet of hydrangea and put together this beautiful birthday card!

And finally, as my time for working was quickly running out, i poured everything I had in to creating this finally piece de resistance! I love this card not only for the abundance of blooms but the slight shimmer the paper has. Today We Celebrate You! This card pretty much sums up any occassion where you will need something special!

All of these cards are available online in my Etsy shop. If you have a favorite flower and would like a custom card made, please contact me through my shop any time and I would love to create something for you!

There you have it! My early Saturday morning creations! The sun is shining brightly in Bentley, Alberta, Canada this morning and I hope it is shining where you are too! Enjoy your weekend everyone, be safe and be happy!

Joanne

2nd Annual Etsy Yart Sale

2009-06-10T11:43:00.011-06:00

It's that time again! The Etsy Yart sale begins today!!!! What is a Yart sale you ask? The term Yart is an artistic spin on the traditional yard sale: Art + Yard Sale = Yart! The sale runs June 10th through June 14, 2009.

Many Etsy shops have slashed prices in their shops as well as offering FREE SHIPPING! This is a fantastic time to do some early Christmas Shopping or better yet...buy yourself a little trinket or two or three!

I have scoured Etsy and have found some absolutely fantastic bargains and want to share some of them with you! But hey!!!! Don't stop looking where I did...search for your own bargains and post your comments on my blog so we can all shop!!!

Blissful Blooms Paper is offering FREE SHIPPING on ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING in my shop! In addition, if you purchase two items, you will get the third item (lowest price) at 1/2 price!!!! Doesn't get much better than that!

To start you all off, here is my latest listing and I think it is beautiful!

Now...here are some of the best deals I have found during my search! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!!!

First off is Brackett Fine Art and Jewelry! If you are a first time buyer from this shop then now is the time to get a fabulous deal!!! All 1st time customers will receive 25% off any single item in the jewelry section! The discount will only be applied to regular prices items.

There is also a special Yart Section in the shop where items have been reduced by 20%

Here is my favorite from this shop!!!

OK...I know a lot of you who read my blog are HUGE dog lovers and have ones of your own! I stumbled upon Love Barklee, which caters to the canine crowd! Kutja, Sammy, Sadie, Micka and every other dog out there would LOVE LOVE LOVE to curl up under a tree in this luxurious pad! And its available in different colors!!!

During the Yart sale, LoveBarklee is offering 10% of Regular Priced Merchandise and they are offering FREE SHIPPING! Don't wait! Get your pooch his summer time chaise!

At Adoreneko's shop, items have been drastically reduced for the Yart Sale! She has very cute felt items in her shop that are great for the scrapbooker's out there! My favorite item in her Sale would definitly be the Mushrooms!

I am a HUGE fan of felting! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! PenFelt is a shop dedicated to the art of felting and I'm in love! She has a HUGE selection of price reductions in her shop and is offering FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING!!!!!

My favorite item in her Yart section has to be this wonderful spring scarf! Don't stop at her sale section though...keep on looking!!!

Allright all you bath Lovers! Here's a shop for you!!! Bath Buddies is offering 15% off of all items in their Yart Section! While your pup is snoozing on his new bed, you could be soaking in the tub with one of Bath Buddies great scented bath bombs!

Here is my favorite!!!

And of course, I couldn't leave the little ones out! Babynme has the cutest little shop and the most adorable finger puppets! She is offering 10% off her entire shop and FREE SHIPPING on orders over $25!!!

I'm in love with these little finger puppets!!

So there you go everyone! I've got you all started...now GO SHOP! SUPPORT THE HANDCRAFTED INDUSTRY and BUY HANDMADE!!!

And remember....Buy 3 items from my shop and get the 3rd item 1/2 price and FREE SHIPPING!!!!

When Life Takes Over

2009-06-07T21:09:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone!

Just touching base to let you all know that I'm still around and have been incredibly busy!!! Was away all weekend tending to my Grandmothers belongings as she is 94 and has moved in to a seniors lodge.

Home for the night...all my myself! Grandma and Grandpa were kind enough to let my little guy spend the night so mommy could come home and cut the lawn! Heading back over to their place tomorrow to work on wedding stuff!!!

I promise to post something much more exciting very soon! I'm thinking of doing a giveaway! So keep checking back!!!!!!!

Cheers to you all! Be happy and be safe!!!!!!

Joanne

Dum Dum De Dummmmm.....

2009-06-03T09:43:00.013-06:00

June already! Hard to believe isn't it! With my wedding exactly 6 weeks away, I decided to try a little humor today with some fun wedding facts and trivia! I've also been busy creating wedding cards for the upcoming wedding season! Hope you enjoy the read and as always, feel free to provide your comments and antidotes!

Did you know that the longest engagement lasted for 67 years!!!! It took Octavio Guillen and Adriana Martinez that long before they finally tied the knot! They were each 15 years old when they were engaged and that made them 82 when they married! Don't EVERY complain about your length of engagement! :)

This cute Wedding Card inspired by my own wedding invitations that I made. I fell in love with the white lace cut out paper that I stumbled upon. This pair is available in any background and accent color! Perfect for coordinating with the brides wedding colors!

Are you engaged or married? Where do you fit in with this statistic? 74% of brides get a diamond engagement ring. Of those, 60% are included in the selection process, while three percent actually pick the ring. My engagement ring is a diamond solitaire, i was included in the selection process however I let Jimmy make the final decision...and he made the perfect one! What month are you getting married in? Or were you married in? I'm July...hmmmmmmmm.....

Love is definitely in the air this time of year! I absolutely LOVE the colors I used in this card! Again, this card is available in any color combination and I would love to create one for you! This card is not only great for weddings, but also anniversaries, birthdays, engagements or JUST BECAUSE!!

"Married when the year is new, he'll be loving, kind and true;
When February birds do mate, you wed nor dread your fate;
If you wed when March winds blow, joy and sorrow both you'll know;
Marry in April when you can, joy for Maiden and for Man;
Marry in the month of May, and you'll surely rue the day;
Marry when June roses grow, over land and sea you will go;
Those who in July do wed, must labor for their daily bred;
Whoever wed in August be, many a change is sure to see;
Marry in September's shrine, your living will be rich and fine;
If in October you do marry, love
will come but riches tarry;
If you wed in bleak November, only joys will come, remember;
When December snows fall fast, marry and true love will last".

Traditional and elegant! The wedding bells are make a resurgence! Friends tying the knot soon? Attach this pretty card to your parcel and give them an original card they can cherish for years to come! Available in all colors!

The tradition of tying cans to the back of the newlywed's ve hicle originated long ago when items which would produce noise were tied to the back of the couple's carriage to scare away evil spirits!

So there you have it! A few fun facts and trivia about weddings! I also hope you have enjoyed my wedding cards! Check out my shop to see other variations and please remember...I LOVE to create custom items and if interested please contact me any time!!!

I LOVE Bling!

2009-06-01T22:57:00.010-06:00

As many of you already know, I'm always searching for great shops from Etsy to feature in my blog! Tonight I found a wonderful shop and I have fallen in love with her work! I wish Christmas was everyday!

I would like to introduce you all to Caroline, who is the sole creator behind CHenry. Caroline hails from New York City and has studied her craft in India, Indonesia and most recently, NYC. The above pictured ring is breathtaking It is one of Caroline's favorite and is a custom order piece. It is an 18kt gold, rose cut pink sapphire. Stunning I think!

Caroline's inspiration is drawn from many different elements in her life. She has always had a love of metals and color is also a key factor in her work. Years ago, she envisioned herself as a painter and sculptor and she now has turned her craft into a different version of that.
She is motivated by simple things like a beautiful flower or more complex things like an amazing building that I might see here in the city. Having traveled extensively during her life, some of her deepest inspirations have come from those experiences. Those experiences are something that never leave.

As an artisan, one of Caroline's biggest challenges is not to be destracted by hard times, either financially or emotionally in these difficult times. She claims that it has been more difficult these days to keep everything flowing well. However the love she has for her work keeps her going and she says " and there has to be a full blown disaster to keep me from that !!!!LOL"

Like many of us, marketing is the chore we would all rather forget about! Caroline admits that she fall short on the marketing skills !!! She is a busy lady - a Grandmother and jewelry designer! Caroline confessed that she couldn't even turn a computer on two years ago so she is just now learning how to navigate the internet. She has traveled the world a few times and will now learn her way around the world online!

Caroline has just celebrated her one year anniversary on Etsy and I found her in the forums - her very first time being there! Aren't we all lucky to have found her! Caroline wanted to add "I am really glad that I discovered Etsy and the community that surrounds it. It has opened up a whole new world for me. I have had a lot of fun this past year and without a doubt have learned an amazing amount of new things."

And we Thank You Caroline for bringing your wonderful creativity to us! I hope you all enjoy her work as much as I do! My fiance and I love her shop so much that we are discussing wedding bands with Caroline!

Ever Been To Alberta?

2009-05-29T21:21:00.013-06:00

My fiance Jimmy, our son Rodney and I have just returned from our first big camping trip of the season! We had a fabulous time! We had been itching to get out to the mountains for months and we finally found the time!

We headed straight west from our home in Bentley, Alberta for approximately 150 miles to a small town called Nordegg. Nordegg is an old coal mining town in west central Alberta. After we had a 'little' peak at the town we head back East for approximately 6 miles to where we found our camping spot.

Saunders Creek is also an old mining town that was completly abandoned in the late 1950's after the mine closed. All that is left of the town is a monument, a fresh water spring and ghosts if you believe in such :)

After setting up camp, we decided to go and explore the area! We were the only people around for miles and miles and it was an almost eerie feeling as we learned the history of our new temporary home! The little guy definitely enjoyed exploring the great outdoors!

The late afternoon of our second day, we were startled by the dog barking! We were deep in to grizzly bear country so we were always alert! Thank goodness it was not a bear but to our surprise, a cowboy on his horse was riding up over the hill! And much to our joy, Rodney had his first ride on a horse and he loved it!

Rodney spend a lot of time sitting on the horse but then he discovered that one of the cowboys was carrying one of his favorite things! So he hopped off the horse, grabbed their cell phone and off to pasture him and his new buddy went!!

After having a few 'wet ones' with our new found friends, we were invited to their ranch for their annual Cattle Drive! What excitement! They were taking 250 head of cattle across the North Saskachewan River and another 10 miles in to the mountains where they would be put to pasture until October when they would all return! This was a spectacular experience and if ANY of you ever have the chance to witness a cattle drive....we Highly Recommend it!!!!!

So there you have it! Our first big camping adventure of the season! We are so very fortunate to have been on this adventure! Not many people can say they have been on a horse and even fewer can say they have witnessed a Cattle Drive in the beautiful mountains of Alberta!!!

Introducing Cindy and Mindy!

2009-05-24T20:23:00.008-06:00

I am so excited to introduce you all to Jean, the creator and illustrator behind Cindy and Mindy! I have absolutely fallen in love with her illustrations and to give you a little insight into Cindy and Mindy and how they came to be, following is a brief profile on Jean and the 'birth' of Cindy and Mindy!

Cindy and Mindy grew from a love of drawing and childhood longings to be a book illustrator. Drawing from a very young age, Jean watched her sister and her mothering love of her beloved bear, Mindy.

Jean on the other hand was more of a tomboy. Not having a 'motherly' bone in her body. She was more interested in playing baseball, fishing, building things, and hanging out with the guys. Girls were boring, and too prissy for her. And while her sister was having tea parties with her bear and stuffed animals, Jean would sit for hours under her favorite Dogwood tree and draw and paint.

For many years Jean has been creating illustrations for her friends and family, but it wasn't until recently after drawing a family portrait for a friend at church, that someone suggested that she research Etsy and consider opening a shop. It all seemed a little intimidating, but with little risk. The second thing was....what would she draw? Once Jean started to seriously consider the idea, she looked through her many drawings and decided to just keep her subjects simple. With that thought, Cindy and Mindy immediately came to mind, and thus Cindy and Mindy @ Etsy came to be.

Cindy is a sweet little girl that is a blend of both her sister and herself (Jean). She has unusually long legs and unkempt braids. At times, one of them may not even be a braid. All frazzled and stringy. She is usually sporting Mary Janes, and her favorite colors are red, blue and green. She is both a little 'prissy' and a little 'tomboyish'. . .but NEVER without her bear Mindy. And Cindy will be introducing some of her friends as well, along he way.
Jean finds her inspiration in many places! Not necessarily in the way of images but perhaps in what someone says, or something that just strikes her as funny. She thinks her inspiration also consists of always doing something different Expect the unexpected!!! To do the unexpected. That's probably her biggest inspiration - or perhaps more of an aspiration.

As an Artisan, Jean's biggest challenge is taking photos! Join the club!!!! For some people that is just something minor, but for her, it is a HUGE deal. The artwork is easy for her, only because she doesn't think in terms of what people will purchase, she simply illustrates what she likes! And I think her recipe is working fabulously!!!
What is Jean's most cherished item? The above illustration! She sums it up with "the most cherished item in my shop is "Mirror Image". My very first drawing when I started Cindy & Mindy. It's a blend of my sisters 'girlie' side (with the dress and bear) and my attitude of sticking out the tongue."

Cindy and Mindy have only been on Etsy for a little over a month! Jean has not ventured too far into marketing. She is just getting into the marketing. She has done work for neighbors, family, friends and people at her church, however, those have all been custom orders. It gets the word out, but as far as Etsy, she is still working on that. Hopefully my blog will bring more exposure for her!
I asked Jean who she would most like to purchase her work? Her response "Well, there are many artists that are 'gone' that I admire, and would love to have had purchase one of my illustrations, but if I had to choose just one, it would be Mary Engelbreit. I have always loved her work. I guess it's because of her, that I don't like to draw what I consider 'boring.' Yes, I'd love to have her purchase one of my illustrations."

So there you have it everyone! Please take a few moments and have a look through Jean's shop! She really does wonderful work and I am sooo looking forward to seeing more of her 'boy' work so I can hopefully put some on my little guy's wall! Cindy and Mindy

Honest Scrap Award!

2009-05-21T21:38:00.009-06:00

I have been awarded the Honest Scrap Award by Alison at AMIdesigns - thanks you so much Alison - such a surprise!!!!

There are a few requirements to accepting the Honest Scrap Award and they are as follows:

1) I must thank the person who gave me the award and list their blog and link it

Alison, from AMI Designs presented me with the award and she is from the United Kingdom! Thanks goodness for the internet!!! Alison's blog is http://amidesignsjewellery.blogspot.com and I encourage you all to check it out! Its a good one!

2) I must list 10 honest things about myself (yikes..ok...here i go!)

1. I truly dislike have to get up in the morning.
2. I wish I could work on my Etsy shop ALL the time!
3. I could live on chocolate peanut butter ice cream!
4. I am not a big fan of being criticized!
5. I am 150% head over heels in love with my fiance.
6. Each and every day I am so very thankful that I have a healthy baby boy.
7. I despise paying bills.
8. I'd rather spend my life travelling with my family.
9. I spend too much of my time pleasing others.
10. I think there is way too much hoopla given to weddings!

3) I must put a copy of The Honest Scrap Logo on my blog which I have proudly done!

4) I must select at least 7 other worthy bloggers & list their links so here they are!

Invites by Jen
Sweet Cuddle Cakes
Karisma Heart Savannah
Bramble Berry Lane
Kathleen Moreland
Pigtail Paper Trails
Chelstatstic

- I must notify the bloggers of the award and hopefully they will follow the above three requirements also. And I have done that as well by posting a comment on each of their respective blogs!

So, I humbly accept my first award!!! :) Such fun!!

Shameless Self Promotion

2009-05-18T16:07:00.009-06:00

If you are a business owner of any kind you are probably guilty of it! We all are! Self promotion is the cheapest way to get your product out there! Its also a lot of hard work!

My Etsy shop, Blissful Blooms Paper has been open for about 3 months now and I have spent more hours than I care to log on promoting my shop! But I have to tell you, each and every sale has been worth all of the hard work! Can you put a price on your time? Yes, I suppose you can but I only do that when I am pricing the pieces I create.

So YES, that is what I am doing here! SHAMELESS SELF PROMOTION! I have recently featured a few Etsy shops that were kind enough to provide me with ideas and suggestions on their shops so I thought I would answer my own questions!

My shop, Blissful Blooms Paper specializes in unique, one of a kind greeting cards. I use a variety of materials when creating my items - from unique papers, ribbons, stamps, shells, beads, glitter etc! The more unique the materials, the more excited I get! This cheerful card was creating using quality cardstock and brightly colored satin ribbon. It truly makes me smile each time i see it! Click on the picture and it will take to you the listing!

My inspiration comes from everything around me! With spring finally arriving (although you wouldn't know it with the 4 inches of snow we got today) I am inspired by the new buds on the trees, the tulips popping out of the ground and of course, all of the birds returning from their winters in the south! I also get a lot of my inspiration from other Artisans! The new Kawaii rage inspired me to create this card which almost has a cartoon like flair.

Being an Artisan has been very challenging! I think the biggest challenge I face is getting my product and product name 'out there'! The paper goods industry has proven to be a VERY competitive industry! I've had to come up with unique and interesting ways to promote my shop!

When I ship items to buyers, I include a fridge magnet that includes a little thank you and my shop name. I also like tp package my cards in a way that makes the buyer feel as though I REALLY do care about the item they have purchase...because I REALLY DO!!! I also hand out business cards to pretty much everyone I talk. Friends and Family have also proved to be huge promoters for my shop! I post a LOT on the Etsy Promotion forums and have has GREAT success there!

I also include coupons for repeat buyers in their packages! Many of them have told me they are saving them up for the Christmas Season!!

I'm currently promoting a BNS (Buy 'n' Stay) thread which allows people to promote their shop by purchasing an item from the existing list. Once they have purchased an item, their shop is added to the list! It is proving to be a big hit! Had 2 sales as a direct result of the thread in the first day!

If you are interested in joining in, check it out here!

I'd like to show you all one of my most cherished items that I have listed in my shop! The colors and tranquility of this card just shines through! It truly is my favorite! It is perfect for a friend who needs a little encouragement, perhaps a get well card and even a sympathy card. And it is a SUPER deal!

So there you have it everyone! A little introduction to my shop!!! I'd love for you all to come visit and find something special! I offer FREE SHIPPING on EVERYTHING in my shop! FATHER'S DAY is coming and I am accepting CUSTOM ORDERS! Don't wait too long!!!!

Happy Blogging!
Joanne

CHICKSCRATCH

2009-05-14T20:21:00.009-06:00

I thought the name of this shop was most fitting as so many of you helped me to identify the mystery plant in my garden on my previous post! Chicks and Hens!!

I found Chickscratch on Etsy and am so excited to introduce Beth to you all!! Hailing from sunny San Diego California, all products in Beth's shop are vegan and paraben-free! What initially attracted me to her shop was her Lily of the Valley Soy Massage Candle. One of my favorite little flowers!

Beth's most cherished item in her shop is the lemongrass eucalyptus massage candle. It was the first one she formulated and the very first sale she had! She has a strong following of faithful users . Beth suggests using it on aching muscles at night after a bath or whenever you are feeling congested. Each time one sells it makes Beth smile! She thinks everyone should have one!

Living in Central Canada, I am envious that Beth lives in sunny Southern California! Living across the street from a 1,200 acre park and she exclaims that something is always blooming there! She enjoys taking walks just to breathe in the eucalyptus, plumeria and jasmine that constantly perfume the air. It's simple - Beth wasn't to capture just a little of that San Diego sunshine and send it all over the world!

As an artisan, Beth finds that her biggest challenge is staying positive. "When sales are slow, it's hard to keep creating and believing that people really love my products.", Beth says. To keep herself upbeat and motivated, she takes new pictures, improves her product descriptions and loves to play around with her fragrance oils until she feels energized again!

As an independant artisan, creative marketing is key to success! Beth has utilized some very unique ways to promote Chickscratch. With every massage candle order, she includes matchbooks imprinted with her shop name and logo. She also gives spa baskets to her co-workers on their birthdays, etc. which gives them a chance to sample her product line.

Who is the one person that Beth wants to purchase her products? Her boyfriend! "Not that I would take his money, of course. He's very supportive of my shop, but he hates "smell things" and never gets super excited about a new product or scent. I'd love to finally create something that he loved so much, that he'd be willing to pay me for!"

So there is your introduction to Chickscratch!!!! Please visit her shop and try out some of her things!

Happy Long Weekend to all my Canadian Followers!

Joanne

Gardening with a 14 Month Old!

2009-05-12T19:25:00.009-06:00

Have you ever done it? Gardened with a 14 month old?! Well I have and I am so happy that Daddy will be home next week to help us finish up! My son, Rodney Fisher and I started to plant our gardens in our new home we purchase last September! Mommy had a lesson in patience and the little man had a lesson in exploration!

It always amazes me just how quick he gets around! We moved from one broken plant to another in lightning speed! With that accomplished, it was off to the rock garden where he figured the rocks looked much better on the sidewalk!

Very eager to help he was! I could hear the wheels turning in his little head..."you put the dirt in the pot mommy and I'll take it out!" Ohhhhh such fun...really...it truly was!

We both managed to stay relatively clean too! That darned rubber boot just won't stay on that foot! Ah well...the mud will wash off, the memories will last forever!

Now Rodney and I just have one question for all of you!!!! What the heck is this plant called!!! Rodney's Daddy says its called a hemorrhoid plant?! :)Well, we've cleaned up! Everything is growing beautifully...although they are calling for snow tomorrow!!!!! Rodney is ready for his next adventure!!!

SHE'S SASSY

2009-05-11T08:22:00.016-06:00

Recipe for A SASSY SHADE

An array of fun and colorful textiles or unique finds (old and new)
Tossed with an armful of imagination and charm
Add a dash of trim
Sprinkle with a passion for detail
Handle and combine cheefully
Put on top of a lamp base and indulge!

Sound simple? I think not! Kristi, the creator behind Sassy Shades is creating the most beautiful and unique lampshades that I have seen in some time! I met Kristi on Etsy.com in the Promotion Forums and was in shock and awe when I realized that she is still waiting for her first sale!

After talking with Kristi, I admire her cheerful and positive attitude towards life and her shop! So here we go! Introducing Sassy Shades!!!!

Kristi sums up her shop in one word - SASSY!! Sassy shades is a custom decorative lampshade shop! She incorporates and eclectic mix of various textiles and trims! Her shop is brim full with a beautiful assortment of unique pieces that will enhance the ambiance of any room in your home! Each shade in her shop has been made by hand from her own NOT so secret recipe!

Kristi gets her inspiration from the encouragement of people all around her! Also an outdoor enthusiast, she is inspired by so many items in our environment. The little birds at the feeder, working in the garden, walking to the beach etc! Kristi says that just being outside inspires every inch of her and the ideas just flow through! True inspiration comes from a HAPPY HEART!

As an artisan, the biggest challenge that Kristi faces with SASSY SHADES is finding the right market for her product. She is currently working on a number of ideas in an effort to attract different niches but finds that the initial challenge is seeking out the buyers!

Like most Artisans, Kristi has cherished items that she has created! When asked which was her most cherished, she had a hard time deciding! Of course she's made shades that she has absolutely fallen in love with and all for completely different reasons! As I asked her to choose....she has picked her first listing every that she put on Etsy! It is a lampshade made from a vintage tablecloth. She fell in love with the incredibly vibrant colors when she placed it on the lamp and lit it up....took her breath away!

As with all business owners marketing a unique product, we all struggle to create unique ways to promote our businesses. As Sassy Shades is a fairly new start up business, Kristi is working on getting the word out about her business. A catchy name and logo is one of the most important and unique ways to start advertising your business says Kristi. If it's "Sassy" enough, people are going to ask about it! Her vehicle has been advertising her family restaurant for years with a personalized license plate. She claims this is another unique and inexpensive way to promote - although she is hoping to change her custom plate to her new shop very soon! She is waiting on a custom order of stickers and plans to stick them on everything and everywhere!

The bottom line is that you want people to be curious enought to check you out or ask... says Kristi!

My last question to Kristi was who she would most like to have purchase a shade from her shop! "Boy oh Boy...its hard to name one person I would love to sell to! I would be grateful to sell to anyone! I am hoping that if someone stops by my shop and doesn't see what they are looking for then they will ask! The sky is the limit! Of course a visit from Martha Stewart wouldn't hurt business at all!!!"

So there you have it folks! Welcome to Kristi's shop Sassy Shades!
I'd like to thank Kristi for providing all the information on her shop and wish her every success with her shop! Her items are beautiful, unique - one of a kind!!! So pass her shop on to your friends and family! Let's get her that first sale!!!!!

The Wedding!!! Aghhhhhhh!!!

2009-05-08T17:23:00.009-06:00

JULY 18, 2009!!! That is the day that has been set! The day that I will marry the man I love! We have been together almost three years and have so much love to show for it!! We created the most amazing little boy, Rodney Fisher who turned one on March 21, 2009! We bought our first home in September and are so fortunate to enjoy the things we love!

No one every really knows how much work goes in to a wedding! I have been planning this day since I was a little girl! But when you are 7 or 8 years old...you have NOOOO idea what it takes to put the dream day together!

But alas...things are finally starting to come together! The photographer was secured on Monday, the invitations went out on Tuesday, my mom and I shopped and purchased her wedding outfit on Thursday and today, our dear family friend Bernice who is creating our wedding cake called to discuss the details! Ohh I am soo excited!!!

I'm excited to show you all my wedding invitations and my bridal party attire! My side of the bridal party will consister of my younger sister Robin who is my Maid of Honor, my older sister Nikole, my bridesmaid, her daughter Maddison - Junior Bridesmaid and Robin's daughters Jada (4 years old) and Raegan (2 years old) will be the Flower Girls! And of course, my little baby boy will be the Ring Bearer and he will wear a tux and cowboy hat just like his daddy!

So here we go! My invitations, which were created by me with the help of my Sister Robin and my mom! They were so much work but have turned out beautifully!

, And here is my DRESS!!!...which HOPEFULLY will arrive by the end of the month!!!

And here are the Maid of Honor, Bridesmaid and Junior Bridesmaid Dresses...

And, finally, the flower girls....My talented mother has so very graciously sewn the most beautiful dresses ever! The are a lavender, white and pale navy blue plaid and ohhh so cute!

Don't Get Caught Without Again!

2009-05-05T20:41:00.007-06:00

I've made it to my second posting! Yay for me!! Many of you may know me from the Forums on Etsy. I love to hang out there and its a great way to promote your shop, get to know people and discover great things!

During a recent posting, I had a friend suggest to me that I should put together packs of Birthday Cards. I've thought of doing this for a long time but was unsure how to market or promote them. I've took the leap and have listed my first birthday set!

There really is nothing worse than not having a birthday card on hand when you need it! Why pay the big bucks in the card stores for a mass produced card when you can have a one of a kind creation that has received love and attention to its every detail!

I'd also like to announce that I would love to create some custom packages for you! As a special promotion to my blog followers I am offering sets of 6 - 5.5 x 4 inch cards for the price of 5! Thats $17.50us for 6 cards and I will ship to you for free! Definitely a good deal! If you would like to place a custom order, please email me at Blissful Blooms Paper.

So here are the individual cards that are included in my first Birthday set! I hope you all enjoy them!

I'm very excited about my next post! I'm going to be doing a feature on Etsy Artists who create Home Decor items for the home! If you are one of them, please contact me!!

Happy Blogging Everyone!

Joanne

2009-05-04T19:18:00.009-06:00

Ahhhh, Spring has finally arrived in Bentley! After a long, very long winter, the grass has begun to turn green and there are buds on the trees! With the arrival of spring, I have finally got my head around the blogging world!

I hope you will follow along with me! I have big plans for my blog and my Etsy shops over the next few months! Its going to be a busy few months as I am getting married in July so you will get to follow along with those plans as well!

Not only do I intend to create some exposure for my shops Blissful Blooms Paper and Little Fish Couture , I am also excited to highlight some of my favorite Artisans that I have discovered over the past few months! As my followers increase, I will be offering giveaways and prizes from both of my shops!!

All that being said, I hope you will enjoy reading my blog and I welcome your comments! Looking forward to meeting you!

So good bye winter - Hello Spring! This latest listing in my Etsy shop was inspired by spring!