Happy 2017!

You guys, I’m such a bad blogger! Between holiday travels and some big exciting projects, I haven’t had much time to write, but this rainy morning seems the perfect opportunity.

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First things first, if you’re here trying to find out more about the Kindness is Everything, I’ve licensed the design to the Wisconsin Alliance for Women’s Health and you can shop for signs, shirts and more here. Follow our Kindness is Everything facebook page for updates and to connect with people across the nation that identified with the movement that began as a simple sign.

If you have no idea what I’m talking about above, check out my original post for the back story. Hundreds of emails and thousands of orders later, we’ve raised more than $7,000 for the ACLU with our Midwest sign distribution, and dozens of other groups across the country have raised even more! There were three of us managing all the requests and etsy page (completely pro bono of course) and it just got to be too much, so we started seeking a nonprofit with the capability to sell branded merchandise. Two of us had worked with WAWH previously, were familiar the good work the organization was doing in Wisconsin and nationally and thought it was the perfect fit (plus we knew the executive director would make the most of the opportunity!). It’s been really exciting to have something I made “go viral” and more importantly, to be able to connect with like-minded people across the world.

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I also took a step toward expanding the flower arm of 622 press in December. I offered my first flower making class in December! We ended up having to cancel it, but now that I’ve got the instruction booklets and material kits made—I even hosted a practice class with friends!—I’ve totally got the bug. I’m talking with a few venues in different cities about 2017 classes, so stay tuned! (And if you’re interested in having me teach a class in your area, get in touch, I’m available to travel!)

Speaking of flowers, I felt like they were starting to take over my Instagram feed, so I started a second account completely devoted to paper flowers. Follow here!

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I also had quite a few engaged couples get in touch before the holidays for save the dates and invitations. I can’t share any of those until after the big day of course, but here’s a lovely piece I received in late fall—nothing better than getting your own work in the mail! I’m so excited to work on more wedding invitations in 2017—get in touch if you’re planning your nuptials!

Holiday Shopping: New Mugs!

Well friends, we are officially in holiday shopping season! I hate Black Friday crowds, so I do most of my shopping early or online (mostly from small businesses though!), and I’ve just launched a new product line perfect for gifting!

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Custom mugs featuring watercolor illustrations, motivational phrases and personalized designs are now available in the shop! Some designs, like those above, are favorite prints or cards already in the shop, while others are brand new!

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One of my favorite designs is the first of several watercolor monogram designs. I’m hoping to release new designs seasonally, and this first wintery monogram features my original burgundy and blush floral elements. Order any letter here!

monogram_2105p.s. You can also find the paper flowers in the mug photos in my shop! Check out this section. Happy shopping!

New Retailer: Heyday

Raise your hand if you live near Fort Collin, CO! If your hand is in the air (like you just don’t care), chance are you’ve already heard of Heyday, the ultra-chic fashion, home and gift boutique in the Jessup Farm Artisan Village.

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Owner Jen said it best, “Our philosophy is that simple-living doesn’t mean going without; it’s about effortlessly incorporating classic elements and well-worn pieces into your wardrobe and home — blending simplicity with luxury, old with new, large with small, fun with serious.”

And so in that vein, she chose a variety of cards—some funny, some heartfelt and all different occasions. Perfect to stock up for the holidays and well into the spring!

Happy Holidays!

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I know, I know, Halloween was just yesterday, but I’ve been working on holiday cards since August and I just can’t wait any more! My goal is always to have my Christmas cards written before Thanksgiving before things get too busy with the holidays, so for you fellow early birds, the 622 press holiday collection is now available!

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I’ve brought back a few old favorites of course, but what I’m most excited about is all the new designs this year! I’ve been working with a lot of calligraphy-inspired fonts and hand lettering lately, so of course those informed many of the new designs.

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I wanted to make sure I offered a card for every customer, so while some designs would appeal to a more traditional customer, others are simple and modern, while still others lend a bit of levity to the holiday season.

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I also wanted to make sure I offered cards for those who don’t celebrate Christmas or don’t adhere to the religious aspect of the season (or simply don’t want to send out a card that does), so I’ve got some nondenominational salutations that are pretty darn funny if I do say so myself. Shop all the cards here!nondenominational_4873

 

Closing up Shop

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The end is near! Today is the very last day to order anything from my etsy shop until after Christmas. By tomorrow evening I’ll be in Wisconsin! I’m so excited to see friends and family and am very much looking forward to a break from the small-business-owner hustle.

I’m so grateful to have been so busy this last month as I always struggle this time of year. I think it simply comes down to seeing less sunlight, but aside from the holidays, November-March are just not my favorite. One evening last week I decided I needed something to re-energize me, so I bought myself a little present: A bundle of a dozen or so fonts and hundreds of decorative elements and illustrations!

I’m so excited about my new toy and actually stayed up late last Friday night working on some new designs (I know, I’m pretty cool). So stay tuned for lots of new digital downloads in the shop soon—including this one, available here—which actually are available while I’m away!

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