One of the reasons I was MISSING MY BLOG so much, was that while it was down, something momentous and exciting happened.
The long-awaited new line “SUMMER FRESH” by Simple Stories came out!!
{What? You thought I was gonna’ say that KYLE CHANDLER showed up at my door? Because he did, but this NEW RELEASE is way-hay-hay more exciting that that, silly!}
One super cool thing is that we @ MEMORY WORKS ~ with each Simple Stories line ~ sell a pack of matching textured cardstock by American Crafts. I mean, you ain’t gonna’ get that at Kmart, know what I’m sayin’?
Alright, enough jabberin’ girl. HERE is where you’ll find Simple Stories “Summer Fresh” on my website. You can order it online today, pay with Paypal, and have it shipped straight to you from our Utah home office in 1-2 business days. You can’t beat that with a stick.
Well, I mean, I suppose you could, but what would be the point of that? I swear you people boggle my mind sometimes.
I ordered the fullllll collection 2 days ago and, according to my tracking, the man in the brown truck should be delivering it to me tomorrow (Friday). Would it be bad if I tackled him? Yeah, you’re right … I shouldn’t. “Just take a deep breath, Erika. Let the man walk up the driveway. Patience … patience … count to 20 by 10s if you need to.”
Got any “Summer Fresh” or Simple Stories questions? Just “E” me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
Wow, that’s a long title! But I wanted to make sure you didn’t pass over this post in your reader, girlie. There’s some really great deals here.
Here’s my favorite: Simple Stories “100 Days of Summer NSD Value Pack” for $12.50 {retail value $20}. This line is my all-time favorite of the 13 Simple Stories lines {although when I see the new line “SUMMER FRESH” in person, it just may bonk down to #2, hee}. The colors are soooo warm and sunny. They go with all your summer photos. Not to mention if you love the 4×6 transparencies, this is the cheapest way to get them. They’re normally exclusive to the Collection Packs which run over $20.
Simple Stories “Life Documented NSD Value Pack” for $5.00 is next {retail value $8.00}. This was the first ever Simple Stories line and it made history. Actually, it was this lines’ huge success that enabled Memory Works to go forward with SS and make it a long-term line. So I think we all owe Life Documented a huge thank you :) It’s great for Project 365-type scrapbooks or just your everyday layouts. The banner papers are my favorites. If you missed the line the first time round, or you loved it and would like some papers, this is your deal!
Now we have Simple Stories “Destinations NSD Value Pack” for $12.50 {retail value $20}. This is another of my faves. What I love about this line – well, so many things – but because of the primary colors mixed with black accents, it is a PERFECT match for scrapbooking Disney photos. To me, so much of the Disney stuff is too bright and flashy but this is more subtle while still getting the colors right. It looks fabulous with other vacation layouts as well, and many of the papers/elements can be used on everyday pages.
Simple Stories “Elementary NSD Value Pack” for $10.00 {retail value $18.00}. Here’s another example where Simple Stories gets the colors just right. Have you ever wanted to do a School Days album for your kids? This is the perfect way to get it done quickly and beautifully. All the journaling cards, elements, and papers make it easy. I used this line to do a School Days album for myself. My photos from “way back then” (ha) are a little bit dull or have flatter colors than today’s photos, so this line went perfectly with that. I had tried it with other lines and it never looked right because the contrast was too great. What a great value … almost half the retail cost.
Have you seen the Simple Stories lines in person? These photos just don’t do them justice, do you agree? If you order them, you won’t be sorry. They are to die for in real life. So maybe this National Scrapbook Day, you’re going to a crop and need some projects you can work on. Try one or more of these kits and I guarantee you’ll have a fun and productive day. And you truly can’t beat these prices. Get ’em before they sell out!
There are 4 more National Scrapbook Day specials at Memory Works. I’ll try to post about them soon but if you want to take a peek, they’re right HERE. They’re from another brand you know and love.
If you’re leery to order from a consultant like me … well, don’t be! It’s just like shopping online anywhere -> load cart and check-out with your goods, lady! I’ll send you a Paypal invoice (or send you my address to mail a check) and your order will be shipped from Utah straight to your house within 1-2 business days. I don’t spam you with a bunch of e-mail or anything. You only wanna’ order one time, it’s hunky with me!
Hit me with your questions or if I can place the order for you: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com. Thank you!
Wow, what a great way to start the day. Opened my e-mail and saw the consultant alert that Simple Stories (my favorite scrapbooking line EVER!) is releasing another new line soon … EEE! And not only that, it’s going to be another one of my favorites of all their lines so far (this release makes lucky 13).
Oh, what was that? Did you say “Quit jabbering and show us some pictures, mama”? Alright already! Here ya’ go …
*All images courtesy of the amazing and inspiring SIMPLE STORIES BLOG. Go there by 4/13/12 and leave a comment on THIS entry for a chance to win THE ENTIRE COLLECTION of Simple Stories “Summer Fresh.” None of that “Tweet, link, and Facebook us” nonsense. Just a straightforward “leave a comment and you might win.” Fabs.
As always, if you plan to purchase anything from this line, I would be honored if you’d do so through my Memory Works WEBSITE. If you subscribe to my blog (just enter your e-mail address there at the upper right), you’ll get an e-mail every time I post … including when I post that “Summer Fresh” is available ~ it’s expected later this month!
Then you can haul your tookie over to my website and place an order. Once payment has cleared, it will ship straight to you within 1-2 business days. And you’re gonna’ want this one right quick … summer is just around the corner :)
I’m the proud owner of Sketches for Scrapbooking, Volumes 1-7. I like to pull the books apart and sort the sketches into binders by number of photos per sketch. I keep a binder on my desk at all times in a cookbook holder (landscape side) so it’s super easy to flip through. Then when I’m ready to scrap, I grab a stack of photos and head to that section of my binder. Luvs it.
What I think of as the “Allison” way of scrapbooking is exactly the way I’ve always scrapped – mostly 2-page layouts, lots of photos, and great journaling. But the thing is … Allison and her group do it oh-so-much mo’ betta’ than I ever could. So I basically just scrapbook following their sketches now, LOL. I mean, cut out the middle man right?
Scrapbook Generation also has several MONTHLY KITS. I’ve drooled over the layouts from these kits for, gosh, it must be 2 years or so by now. I don’t get any other kits and have always chosen to spend my scrappy budget on the cool new things that come onto my MEMORY WORKS SITE.
But after much hemming and hawing (I swear, I actually went “Hemmmm!” And then I went “Haaawww!” Kid you not). And much chewing on the inside of my mouth in deep thought … I decided that 2012 is the year that THE SUPER SKETCH CLUB WILL BE MINE!
Ahem! Erm, I mean … I will finally join the SUPER SKETCH CLUB. And I did. And my first kit (the MARCH one) came today. I had to take the kids somewhere straight after the post office and, okay, I admit it: I kind of sped a teensy bit in my car to get there sooner so I could open the stinkin’ kit!
When we got there and I let them off, I sat in the car and opened it. For the record, it was packaged very nicely in a flattened box and then a big plastic ziplock-y type bag. The invoice was on top, then the first sketch, with all the papers and cardstock to make the first 3 layouts. Then the other sketches and papers organized perfectly.
They post photos of the layouts every month on their blog so if there’s a kit you don’t care for, you can just send it to me. Or I mean, cancel it for that month. What-EVER!
Here are the March layouts from the blog:
So you get 5 double-page layouts (and there will be nice leftovers you can make cards from if you like) for only $26.99 including shipping. Amazing.
Is it too soon to declare that I’m in love?!?!? I mean, we just met and all but – sometimes you just KNOW, right? Yeah, I KNOW.
So then I looked out my car windows to make sure no one was looking and … well, you know what I did next because you have the same sickness I do.
I took a deep breath and smelled all that paper.
Don’t look at me like that! You know you would’ve done the same thing. Don’t pretend you’re all better than me, all holier-than-thou, “ooh, I would never inhale paper sitting in a car alone, ew!” Because you know you would.
So I got a little sidetracked there but I just wanted to tell you that I totally recommend the Super Sketch Club from Scrapbook Generations. You should sign up. Today.
HERE are the Memory Works catalog pages that show images as well and describe what’s included with each item and prices.
With these amazing little albums, you can use the basic pages and divided photo page protectors to make an album on any subject under the sun. Then take it a step further and incorporate the 6×8 album pages from the 3 new Simple Stories lines ~ one at a time or mix and match them.
The memorabilia pockets come in 4 sizes, 3 of which can be used in the 6×8 album … the fact that there are also 12×12 memorabilia pockets just makes me think … BONUS!! You can use those in your regular scrapbooks, hang them on your scraproom wall for storage, or maybe even bind them into an album.
I just placed an order for a Simple Stories 6×8 album and every single one of the accessories and memorabilia pockets. I can’t wait until they get there and when they do I’ll post pics.
We do have limited quantities at this point, so if you don’t want to miss out out, PLEASE place your order quickly RIGHT HERE on my Memory Works website*.
So what do you think? Do you like these new Simple Stories products? What projects can you see making with them? For instance, I’m going to use my first one for a trip we just took to Spring Training (baseball) in Arizona. I think the colors from Documented and Awesome especially will work great with all the baseball photos. I plan to use some Fabulous pages for all the pics we took at the pool (turquoise water in every pic … should be a great match!). I can tuck receipts and ticket stubs in the pockets, showcase all my fun photos in the divided page protectors, and journal about our trip in all the great spaces provided on the insert pages.
Shizzle! The UPS man canNOT get here fast enough. For rizzle. I can’t wait I can’t wait I can’t wait!!
*Don’t let shopping with a scrapbook consultant scare you. I promise I won’t pressure you to join my monthly stamping club or scare you into thinking only MY items are archival safe and all others will ruin your photos for generations to come ;) Ordering through me is very similar to doing any other online shopping. You go to my website, put what you like in a shopping cart, and check out. I’ll get an e-mail as soon as you place your order -> will send you a Paypal invoice. Once your payment is received, I’ll process your order and it’ll ship from Home Office in Utah in 1-2 business days. See? WAY-hey-hey easier than flocking and you’ve tried that, right?
The Bad News is that I got busy and didn’t ever get organized to take pre-orders on the new SIMPLE STORIES releases from CHA like I said I would. {“BAD CONSULTANT!! Twenty lashes with a deco ruler and no late night scrapping for you!”}
But the Good News is that those lines are … JUST RELEASED AND AVAILABLE NOW!!
Woot, woot!
If you want to help a sista’ out and order it from me, HERE is where ya’ do it. It’s easy … just like any other online shopping. You put stuff in your cart, submit the order, I send you a Paypal invoice (or will take checks), and once payment is cleared, it ships straight to you from our Utah home office within 1-2 business days (although when they get busy with new releases, it can sometimes take an extra day).
SIMPLE STORIES Fabulous “Sweet” paper {Sorry, I can’t isolate just the “Sweet” paper; please scroll down a bit}.
Here are my observations:
~ Both papers do have a similar overall design with with a circular doily-type pattern.
~ Both make use of softer or “shabby” color schemes.
~ Both are multi-colored, as opposed to one solid color (I’m referring just to the “A” sides)
~ Eclectic has 2 sizes of the “doilies” while Sweet uses multiple sizes (I count 6)
~ Eclectic is in a very set pattern while Sweet is more random.
Obviously, I’m biased because I’m a 5-year consultant with MEMORY WORKS who produces the Simple Stories lines. So my opinion doesn’t matter much … but I’ll give it to ya’ anyway ;)
I do think the 2 papers are alike and I can see why the similarity caught the commenter’s eye. If I had first seen the Cosmo Cricket paper and then saw the Simple Stories paper, I probably would’ve thought “Wow, ‘Sweet’ reminds me of a paper I’ve seen before.”
But overall I don’t see Sweet as a “ripoff” or “exact copy” of Eclectic. They are definitely similar … no denying that. But I don’t know how you would use a circular, doily-type design and not have it look similar to Eclectic. There are only so many ways you can arrange circles on a 12×12 canvas.
The colors are different enough to give a different overall feel; from Eclectic I get “shabby, vintage, warm” and from Sweet I get “girly, Spring, happy.” Besides, DOILIES ARE KINDA’ HOT right now ;)
So … what do you think: Copycat or coincidence?
**P.S.: I do find it pretty funny that the Cosmo Cricket line that Eclectic comes from is called “Odds N Ends” … because that’s very similar to the name of a NEW SIMPLE STORIES LINE … which is “Odds & Ends”. :) :)
Over on the SIMPLE STORIES BLOG, they’ve revealed their third new line for CHA later this month!! It’s all all boy line called “AWESOME.”
Note: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog.
Again, they’ve got these “awesome” 6×8 pages that will fit into THIS new journal/scrapbook; it was introduced on Monday. You can mix and match all the new lines in it: so far, we’re talkin’ “FABULOUS” and “Awesome.” Maybe more later this week … I hope!
These are my favorite stamps – the license plates are classic!
Hey, I hope you’re entering the daily contests on the Simple Stories blog. You can win an entire set of a new collection just for entering a comment. Memory Works totally RAWKS. I’ve been a CONSULTANT with them for almost 5 years now. HERE is my website.
I’ll be taking pre-orders on all these new lines, which are due out in March. More details to follow on that … My understanding is they’re due out in March 2012 so we have a little time :)
After yesterday’s reveal of “Fabulous” ~ a more girly, feminine, spring, bright, pretty line ~ I was very glad to see this more boyish one. I love that it uses boy-friendly colors but it’s not the traditional primary blue/red/yellow. There are so many elements that can be used on other layouts, too. I’m picturing Fall, sports, travel, teen, etc. I can even see some toddler pages, with some of the fun sayings like “Are you looking for trouble?” I love their take on the banner flags, too.
What do you think of “Awesome,” Simple Stories’ new line for boys?
Well, YESTERDAY’S REVEAL was certainly a big hit. Everyone seems to love the new Simple Stories line of a 6×8 personalized scrapbooking/journal line, along with memorabilia pockets up to 12×12 size.
Now it’s time for Memory Works and Simple Stories big reveal #2 of CHA …. Introducing “Fabulous”!!!
NOTE: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog
The Simple Basics Designer Cardstock is one of my favorite elements of the “Fabulous” line. I love the pretty, simple prints AND the ledger sides, too. How will a girl choose???
These “Fabulous” Journal Pages will go with the 6×8 journal products revealed YESTERDAY. Is that cool or what? My mind is spinning with the creative possibilities of mixing and matching these journal pages from all the new Simple Stories lines into the 6×8 journals! Oh my gosh, talk about personalizing your journal/scrapbook!
Okay, that’s the whole line ~ what do you think? I’m loving the whole thing. Often “girl” lines are just pink-pink-pink, and it really limits what you can use the lines for. One thing I like about “Fabulous” is that it has a variety of colors and designs that can be used for other layouts – for instance, All About Me, spring, summer, swimming, birthday, etc.
On the message board for MEMORY WORKS consultants, we’ve gathered suggestions for future Simple Stories lines at least twice before. “Boy” and “girl” collections always come up, so I know many will be happy there’s now a girl line for Simple Stories.
I hope it means that a Boy line is next. I can’t wait for tomorrow’s reveal!!
It’s going to be an exciting week for Memory Works! I’ve been a CONSULTANT with this company for almost 4 years and love new Simple Stories releases. Every single line has been something that I’ve loved and I can tell this week will be no exception.
NOTE: All images and projects are courtesy of the Simple Stories blog.
It’s a whole new system within the Simple Stories framework and design concept: 6×8 elements that you can make a personalized mini album with or use the elements in your 12×12 albums. It’s like a combination SMASH BOOK, PROJECT LIFE, and SIMPLE STORIES all put into one.
{Sorry the blog looks a bit wonky but I figured you’d want to see BIG pictures of it!}
I love this whole concept and can’t wait to get my hot little hands on it! The stated release date is March 2012. If ya’ll let me know you’re interested, I’ll do pre-orders again. That way, when the items are released, you’ll already be paid in full and I can submit your order the minute everything goes on sale … which is a good thing, as the new Simple Stories have been known to sell out quickly on their initial run.
What are your thoughts so far? Are you curious what else Simple Stories by Memory Works has in store this week? If you see anything you want to pre-order, leave me some comments so I can get to planning :)
Yeah, I’m biased but you gotta’ admit MEMORY WORKS is going to have some slammin’ deals during their Black Friday Blowout Event. ***Everything below applies to Thursday 11/24/11 and Friday 11/25/11***
HERE is my Memory Works website if I can help you order. THIS is a link to the special section of Memory Works called “Black Friday Specials”. I’m always available for questions, too. No, I mean ALWAYS … 24/7 … 365 … even the Thanksgiving holiday, sista. ‘Cuz I know how seriously you take your scrapbook shopping.
We have that in common, you and I ;)
I’m picking up the THICKERS deal for sure. {10 packs for only $20!!!} Yes, I have 4 zillion Thickers but why wouldn’t I buy more when they’re only $2 per pack AND I get a free SIMPLE STORIES gift with purchase? It’s a no brainer, people. Actually with my consultant discount, they’re only going to cost me $1.60 per pack or 68% off, hollah!!!
Other deals:
~ MY MINDS EYE “Lost and Found” mega pack (32 double-sided sheets with assorted embellishments), a $65 value for only $20
~ My Minds Eye “O Christmas Tree” paper pad (54 cardstock glitter sheets), a $20 value for only $14
~ ALL Memory Works “Trend Essentials” are 20% off (these are ‘latest and greatest’ products you can find HERE)
~Select Memory Works Express kits for 50% off (these are the monthly kits and are packed with goodies; you can see them HERE)
*Please note that if you’re clicking the above Memory Works links any time OTHER THAN Thanksgiving Thursday {11/24/11} and Black Friday {11/25/11}, the pages aren’t going to reflect the special deals ~ thanks, mwuh mwuh!
Okay, now tell me what you’re looking for on this fine Black Friday and what other great deals you’ve seen out there.
Yay! Memory Works now has “Year.o.graphy” by Simple Stories in stock!! Hoop and holler!
From Memory Works:
We are thrilled to announce that Simple Stories NEW Year.o.graphy collection is now available for purchase! This new edition to the best selling Life Documented series has all new designs, perfectly coordinated colors and fun new additions!
***
Fabulous New Options – 6 all-new Simple Basics cardstock designs to coordinate with the delicious color palette and yummy vintage office prints – plus an all new calendar sticker sheet perfect for creating your own calendar album or project!
***
Fresh New Designs – Super cute new icons, designs and patterns with that aged, distressed hand-made layered look to coordinate perfectly with the original Life Documented collection, but still lend a fresh, stylish look to your year-in-review albums, layouts and projects.
***
Fun New Ideas – All new signature elements, flash cards and sticker designs with a touch of vintage whimsy to help you to celebrate the seasons of your life….each month of the year!
Above is just a mere sample of the goodness. You can read and see more on my other POST.
HERE on my website you can see the entire line … AND you can place your order with me. I take Paypal and will process your order promptly. Simple Stories “Year.o.graphy” will be in your hot scrappy hands before you know it!
If you have any questions about placing an order, please contact me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
You can see the whole line on the Simple Stories blog HERE.
OMG ~ I am loving all those Designer Cardstocks! Actually, hate to say but I’ll have to buy this entire collection. It coordinates perfectly with the original “Life Documented” line and I still have some of it … hollah! And just like “Life Documented,” the new line “Year.o.Graphy” is going to be perfect for Project 365/Project Life type scrapbooking, don’t you think?
Yes, you can buy Simple Stories “Year.o.Graphy” from online retailers … but why wouldn’t you order it straight from the friendly MEMORY WORKS CONSULTANT right here in front of you?
I’m going to keep a blog diary as I go along for the next 3 days.
I was up early today … anxious to get started! I even dreamt about organizing my room, lol. I had to do some paperwork first but it’s 10 am and I’m off and running. I’m going to move stuff mostly to the dining room next door.
Things that are going to take some time to go through before they come back into my space will go to the garage (my memorabilia and some old photos are a huge mess right now, for one thing). I’m hoping most of what I put in the dining room can be back in the scrap room by the end of today. I hate leaving a mess in other parts of the house but we’ll see …
Here’s what I’ve accomplished so far:
– Folded up boxes from recent purchases of printer, laptop, and foot pedal (for my transcription business). This printer is giving me fits and I might return it so the box is in the garage for now. Other boxes to the recycle as I’m happy with my laptop and pedal.
– Found 2 new baskets for my {extensive, embarrassing, but oh so loved} Thickers collection. One basket had my “recently purchased/inspiration stuff” that I keep on my desk. Now that’s all sitting in a pile on my desk. Must find another home for it. Well, better yet, by the end of the 3 days, all that stuff will be put away and I’ll have an empty basket other than a few things I want to use soon. The basket that my Thickers were in also included all my other letter stickers, sorted by color in manila folders, standing up in the basket. Now that basket is 1/2 empty and, since I don’t see myself buying many more non-Thickers letters in the future, I should probably downsize that storage and free up the large basket for something else. The good thing is I have lots of empty baskets and bins to choose from :)
MY EMBARRASSING THICKERS COLLECTION(there are also faux-Thickers in there by Miss Elizabeth’s from the Dollar Tree)
MY SAD “OTHER THAN THICKERS” LETTER STICKERS (Yes, I used to have almost all of those Thicker packs jammed in this basket, too. Yike)
– Put my Heidi Swapp paper folder back together and on the shelf. I took it to a recent crop, so all the papers were pulled out and a mess.
– Also from the recent crop, my crop bags were strewn everywhere. I had managed to get them unpacked but not put away. I collapse the smaller bags down into the huge one for storage. So, got that done.
– For now, I’m going to take all office-related stuff to the guest room. That’s a whole NOTHER issue! Taming the paper tiger. I need to get a handle on that for sure. But for today, I’m only going to worry about the scrapbook portion of the room.
– Took a big bin of MEMORY WORKS stock and catalogs to the dining room. There’s not much I can do about this bin. It’s big but it’s organized and necessary. Same goes for a tote full of MW stock. My MW things have always just sat on the floor. I wish there was somewhere I could put them away. Maybe as the room progresses, I’ll find some free space. Hey, a girl can dream.
BIN OF MEMORY WORKS STOCK
Okay, I’ll check in again later today with a progress report! I’ll post some photos then, too.
ETA 8/10/11 10:45 pm: Added photos that go with this post :)
At least two times a year when all the new things from CHA are coming in, we get TONS of things moved into the Memory Works clearance section. CHECK IT OUT!
Pink Paislee
My Little Shoebox
American Crafts
Fancy Pants
Echo Park
Basic Grey
Fiskars punches
My Minds Eye
Cosmo Cricket
Bo Bunny
Creative Imaginations (including Star Wars stuff)
Petaloo
GCD
Xyron
WRMK
Ranger
7 Gypsies
We even have some of the GIRLS PAPERIE stuff that will no longer be made … once it’s gone, it’s gone.
If you want, you could save that link in your Favorites and check back all the time. Always some great deals to be had. Please let me know if you have any questions … leave a Comment below or e-mail me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
It seems the hot item of Spring 2011 (erm, now “Summer 2011”) is the “Smash Book” by K & Company. What in the heck is a Smash Book, you ask? Check this out:
Already a hit before it has even released (coming this spring!), SMASH is an exciting new program from K&Company that takes scrapbooking back to its roots. Simplistic, on-the-fly, and with no rules and no special crafting ability needed, you can Smash your everyday life between the pages of our contemporary-style Smash Books.
An ultra-convenient combo glue pen/journaling marker comes attached to each book so it’s always at hand when you need it. Now, how cool is that?!
So, what do you Smash? Well, it doesn’t have to be a life event, just the special little moments and mementos of your day—some of that stuff in your junk drawer, for example. A snapshot, a ticket stub from that movie you loved, a newspaper clipping, a magazine snippet, a cardboard coaster from a favorite restaurant, your child’s first crayon doodle…get the idea? Smash it, jot a note or add a caption sticker, and go!
Here is a video of the Smash Book set-up at CHA back in February 2011 from Noell Hyman at PAPERCLIPPING.COM:
{By the way, I’m listening to the latest Paperclipping broadcast while I blog. CHECK IT}.
As you can see, this isn’t your traditional scrapbooking, but a cool twist, a fun new way of keeping your memories … unstructured, unfiltered, unencumbered by convention. For some of us, Smash Books may bring back memories of our childhood or teenage years when we kept books with doodles, ticket stubs, photos, quotes, and random writings.
One of the reasons these books are so eagerly anticipated … is that they were supposed to be available in April 2011, but K & Company had a manufacturing delay. They weren’t sure when the Smash Books would be ready to ship, then came out with projected dates in May … exact date dependent on when each retailer receives them.
On their awesome SMASH STORIES BLOG, they then did two things that somewhat appeased the masses: They did a giveaway of the mini-Smash Books (I was lucky enough to get one, thanks to my friend Abby tipping me off!), and they did weekly giveways of a full-size Smash Book each Monday.
I’ve heard comments on the message boards that, because of the delay, some people are “so over” the Smash Books. They got tired of waiting and lost enthusiasm, wanted them for grad gifts and it’s too late now, etc. I understand the frustration and wish the delay wouldn’t have happened. I do think it cost K & Company some sales … but think in the long run, this will still be a VERY popular product.
I plan to get one … or several. I don’t even know what I’m going to use Smash Books for yet … I just know that I must have them, LOL. The accessories are SO cute. Sure, you could make your own version of a Smash Book but I think this version is super cute and unique … also, I assume, archival safe … which a composition book, etc. you make on your own might not be.
A few ideas I have for my own Smash Books are:
Everyday stuff ~ Quotes, random photos, ticket stubs, grocery lists, sticky notes (I *live* for sticky notes!), observations, etc.
Kids book ~ Funny or interesting things my kids do or say, milestones, photos that won’t be scrapped with another event, etc.
Weight loss ~ I just started a weight loss journal, a plain lined notebook about the same size as a Smash Book. But if I get a Smash Book soon, I may re-start it and include photos, measurements, before/during/after photos, recipes, menus, etc. The cute stickers and add-ons could make a quite boring job a bit more fun. And when (not IF) I reach my weight loss goals, I’ll have a cool little book to look back on. A cool PRIVATE little book. Ahem.
What would you do with a Smash Book?
Here is a sample Smash Book from the Smash Blog:
I am SO happy that Memory Works will be carrying a bunch of the K & Company Smash Books line. You can find it on my website HERE and place an order soon. (As of this blog post, availability is expected on May 20, 2011!!!).
I’ve known for quite some time that Memory Works was going to carry Smash Books and contemplated taking pre-orders for them (like I’ve done for the very popular SIMPLE STORIES lines). But I was too nervous, given the delays they’d already had and unpredictability of when Memory Works would actually have them in stock.
According to our online Product Availability list, Smash Books are due at Memory Works on May 20, 2011 … a mere 2 days away. So *now* I feel comfortable posting about them. I hope you’ll consider ordering your Smash Books and accessories from me! To entice you, I’m going to post photos of the different colors available and a peek inside to some of the pages ~ so you can pick the best style for your project …
Do you have a favorite? I think I’m leaning toward the PINK if I could only choose one.
Okay, I’m going to shut up about the Smash Books now :P
Isn’t it nice in life when something you’re waiting anxiously for actually gets here EARLY? I thought I had to wait until 4/25/11 for my favorite new scrapbook line to become available … but it came out early, ya’ll. Yeah baby!
Pictures and details about the line are HERE and HERE.
If you would like to place your order now, you can go HERE.
SQUEEEE! I’m so excited to get this! I’m ordering it now along with some NEW CATALOGS. Guess I can start stalking the UPS man next week, yeah? “Just hand over the Memory Works and nobody gets hurt, Mister Brown Shorts Man.”
If you’d like a hard copy catalog, I can send you a Paypal for $4 and ship it out when I receive them next week :) Just give me a shout in Comments or E-me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
In case I don’t post again before then …. Please have a wonderful and amazing Easter, my little bunnies! Remember: If you close your eyes while eating chocolate, it has no calories ;P
So there’s that old saying, “Good things come to those who wait.” It came to mind when I was thinking about the fact that the new Memory Works catalog is now available. But because I can’t do anything the normal or expected way ~ and because I like to make you smile ~ I had to introduce our new catalog with this quote instead:
The things that come to those that wait … may be the things left by those that got there first.
If you watch AMERICAN IDOL religiously like I do, I’ll bet you can give a guess who said that friggin’ doozy. Yep, Mr. STEVEN TYLER! The man is full of these funny comments and sayings that have me wondering if he’s drunk or just plain cray-cray. Which I really don’t care, since his voice absolutely rocks and he’s a doll to all the contestants.
I mean, what’s wrong with a little crazy/drunk on national television, right? Never hurt nobody. Welllll, I take that back. There was the little matter of Chris Brown and the BROKEN WINDOW … but I digress.
STEVEN!
But back to my initial point: THE NEW MEMORY WORKS CATALOG IS AVAILABLE!
You’ll find the entire Memory Works product line inside, which features a sampling of the latest-and-greatest supplies in the industry showcased in this striking, full-color, 48-page catalog! Customers will appreciate it as an invaluable scrapbook resource.
New Simple Stories
New 7 Gypsies
New BasicGrey
New BoBunny
New Cosmo Cricket
New Crate Paper
New Creative Imaginations
New Echo Park
New Fancy Pants
New Jillibean Soup
New K & Company
New Lily Bee Designs
New My Minds Eye
New October Afternoon
New Pink Paislee
New Teresa Collins
New Three Bugs
New Tim Holtz
New Stamp Essentials
New Design Essentials
New Ink & Mist Essentials
New Adhesives
New Crop Tools
New Cardstock
It’s taking all the strength I have not to place my order right now for a pack or two of these catalogs (or as we oh-so-professional consultants like to call them, “catties” :). As much as I love to look at all our new items ONLINE, I’m an old-fashioned girl who likes to hold a paper catalog in my scrappy little hands.
However, I’m restraining myself from placing my catalog order because if I can wait a mere 5 more days (until April 25), I can order THIS at the same time … HOLLAH!
It’s the new SIMPLE STORIES “100 Days of Summer” line that I’ve been waiting for since BACK HERE.
I can see on my MW website that not only will we carry the “100 Days of Summer” Collection Pack, Designer Cardstock Pack, Signature Elements, Flash Cards, Fundamentals Stickers, and Expression Stickers (click on BACK HERE above to see pics/prices for all of these items) …
As always, feel free to leave comments here or e-mail about anything Memory Works – the new catalog, 100 Days of Summer, or any of our other FABU products … scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
I leave you today with another Steven Tyler bon mot:
Well hellfire, save matches, (bleep!) a duck, and see what hatches.
(Oh man, I am SO going to lose customers by posting that, aren’t I? …. )
I wanted to explain the difference between what comes in the Simple Stories 12×12 Collection Kits vs. the other items you can buy separately. I’ll use the upcoming “100 Days of Summer” line to explain.
The 12×12 COLLECTION KIT contains:
{6} sheets of 12×12, double-sided Designer Cardstock paper
{1} 12×12 sheet of Fundamentals cardstock stickers
{1} 12×12 sheet of Expressions cardstock stickers
{30} cut-apart, double-sided Element pieces (sizes 4×6, 6×8, 4×4, 2×12, 4×12, and 6×12)
BONUS: {6} 4×6 transparency photo overlays exclusive to the Collection Kit
In other words, you get EVERYTHING in the kit.
But you can also buy most of the items separately*
* Except for the {6} 4×6 transparency photo overlays because they are exclusive to the Collection Kit
The cover of the Collection Kits show each of the items inside:
The top half shows the cut-apart Element pieces. They come in {6} actual sheets that are double-sided so they’re represented on the cover as 12 items (6 double-sided sheets = 12). Hope that makes sense :)
The top half also shows the Fundamentals and Expressions stickers and the 4×6 transparencies, along the upper right-hand side.
Then the bottom half shows the {6} sheets of Designer Cardstock paper; again, it’s {6} sheets that are double-sided so you see all 12 sides.
To summarize: In the 12×12 Collection Kit, you get all of the items and you get the 4×6 Transparencies.
If you want only select items from the kit, or if you want to order extras of particular items, we also sell them separately.
This holds true for all three existing Simple Stories lines ~ Life Documented, ele.ment.ary, Destinations ~ and the forthcoming 100 Days of Summer. (I’m taking PRE-ORDERS now).
I hope that explains what exactly is in the Simple Stories 12×12 Collection Kits vs. the items you can buy separately. If you have any questions, please leave a Comment here or e-mail me: scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com.
ETA 4/3/11: This layout is from the Simple Stories blog. I think it was made by Memory Works co-owner, Amber Crowell. (Those look like her gorgeous girlies).
Simple Stories announced their latest line on April 1, 2011. It’s called “100 Days of Summer” and it follows the same concept at their PREVIOUS SIMPLE STORIES LINES, “Life Documented”, “ele.ment.ary”, and “Destinations”.
Since we first introduced our innovative Simple Stories brand to the scrapbook world in January 2011…we have received an incredible response to our product line. We are so excited for the future of Simple Stories and are so grateful to our fans, customers and scrapbookers who have fully embraced our designs, products and the Simple Stories concept! So of course we are beyond thrilled to introduce our first-ever mid-release, 100 Days of Summer. This new release is all about scrapbooking your summer memories and photos in a fun and simple way. There are approximately 100 days of summer…and there’s plenty to keep you busy! So whether you’re soaking up the sun, exploring outdoor adventures, enjoying summer celebrations…or simply resting, relaxing and chill-axing, 100 Days of Summer is the perfect way to capture your fun-filled, carefree lazy days of summer!
$20.99
$3.00
$3.00
* These are included in the Collection Kit and that’s the only way you can get them :)
$5.50
(6) 12×12 sheets, double-sided
$6.00
(6) 12×12 sheets of pre-designed, double-sided cut-apart element pieces
The planned release date for “100 Days of Summer” is APRIL 25, 2011.
I will take pre-orders from now until the release date. The benefit to placing a pre-order with me is that, when the line becomes available, you will have already paid and your order can be processed lickity-split! Anything that gets scrapbook supplies to you faster is a very good thing in my book :)
Here is how the pre-orders will work:
I’ll collect and process payments until the release date. When the “100 Days of Summer” kit and additional items become available, I’ll e-mail you with instructions on what to do then. If you subscribe to my blog, you can follow the progress that way as well.
{Which will be to log into my Memory Works WEBSITE, place the pre-paid for items in your shopping cart, enter your shipping address, and submit your order. I will be automatically notified that your order has been placed and, instead of having to wait for your payment to be received, I’ll be able to approve your order for processing immediately … assuming your payment has been received and processed already}.
To place your pre-order now, e-mail me at scrapbookobsession(at)gmail(dot)com. Please include:
1. Item(s) requested and cost
2. Shipping address
3. Total due including items, tax*, and shipping/handling**
4. Payment method – check, money order, or Paypal
~ I prefer Paypal, and will e-mail a Paypal invoice to you ASAP
~ If paying by check or money order, I’ll e-mail you back with my address. Please be aware that I can’t approve your order until the check/MO have been received and cleared.
* Sales tax amount is based on the tax rate for the address you’re shipping to. There is a really cool sales tax rate lookup and calculator HERE.
** Please see THIS post for information on Memory Works shipping/handling information and costs.
Let me know if you have any questions :) If you know of anyone who plans to order Simple Stories “100 Days of Summer,” please send them my way!
PS: Please see my SHIPPING page regarding placing non-U.S. orders.
