So Suzy Podcast

Strong Within Your Creativity Apr 18, 2018

We're BACK! Well, sort of, I actually have my snarkleganger filling in for me as I am STILL not 100%. I can certainly tell you that I miss laughing A LOT. On today's podcast, I have Chris O'Hearn from the Strong Within Daily Affirmation podcast helping out with a special episode for you.

Today, Chris talks about how to be Strong Within Your Creativity.

SHOW NOTES

Being confident In your creativity
Moving past comparing ourselves to others
You are meant to change your world
Share your artistic beauty

Links Referenced

Life After Creativation Feb 03, 2018

Now that Creativation is over, what to do you do now? How do you process? Should you follow up with those you met? How do you move past some of the heart aches? What do you do with all of the information you obtained, the friends you made, the memories you have and the connections you created?

In today's podcast, we talk about the show, what you should be doing now that life is back to normal and identifying your focus.

SHOW NOTES

"The more you know why you are doing something, then the more you will stay connected and motivated to the thing you pursue." - Chris O'Hearn, Strong Within Podcast, Episode 383: I Focus on the End to Know Where to Begin

Making the Most Out of Creativation Jan 13, 2018

We are just a few days away from the Creative Event of the Year!!! AFCI’s Creativation starts this coming week, where thousands of creative geniuses will descend upon the Phoenix Civic Center in my home town of sunny Arizona for a week long creative fun fest. Full of learning, new products, friends, laughter and Javi Hours.

Plus, yours truly will be speaking at 3 of their education workshops on Thursday and Friday, which I am quite excited about. If you are going to Creativation this year, you definitely need to let me know so we can plan a fun meet up! I am already working on Lesley’s Junior Mint Stash and Miss Laura from Crafty Not Shifty is totally hooking me up with Galaxy Hot Chocolate! I just love my crafty British friends.

My favorite part of Creativation is being able to actually hug the incredible people I have interacted with on social media over the years. It always surprises me that I actually have never MET them, because it feels like we have been friends for ages. It truly is a surreal experience that I cherish.

If you are planning on going to Creativation this year or in the future, there a few things to take into account before going. Regardless of whether or not you have been before.

First things first, WHY are you attending? Are you going to purchase items for your shop? Are you hoping to make connections with manufacturers? Do you want to learn more about the industry and how you can grow your business? Is this an excuse to hang out with friends? Are you trying to expand your business by getting your products in front of buyers? Do you have plans to increase your social media reach and become an influencer within the creative industry?

What is your purpose? What do you hope to get out of the event? Have you set goals for yourself? Maybe you are going just so you can experience a Stamp Junkie Javi Hour. Or you are using Creativation as a hard deadline for your special So Suzy Peacock Tote from Simply Charming Bags.

Whatever your reason, know your WHY!

The reason your why is so important is to help direct you during the craze of the event. If you are just there for the sake of going, there is a good chance you will be disappointed and disillusioned. Which is never fun. You could also inadvertently cause mayhem to someone else’s trip and that is just not cool.

For example, Lesley Oman from Heffy Doodle is flying in from the UK for her very first Heffy Doodle Creativation booth in the hopes that she gets her stamp line in retail shops around the world. She has spent money on the trip, her booth and her goal is to sell her product. BUT let’s say that those people who are going just for the socializing, descend upon her booth and spend the entire weekend chit chatting with her. Lesley’s time is spent socializing with fans, instead of selling her stamps to buyers. The buyers are frustrated because they can’t purchase items for their shop, Lesley is disappointed because she didn’t make the sales she needed to justify her trip and Heffy Doodle customers do not benefit from their favorite stamps being in local shops.

This scenario is a very real one and I have heard the frustration first hand from vendors as well as buyers. Not to say that the influencers, bloggers, fans and new followers aren’t important, because they are! They are what helps to drive demand, but there is a time and a place for everyone. And it’s up to you influencers, to be conscientious and courteous to the vendors and buyers. If you see someone with a buyer’s badge come up to the booth you are at, be polite and allow them to interact and talk with the people at the vendor booth you are in.

With that being said, there is a time and place for everything and success is there for all. Which is why knowing your WHY is essential. I highly recommend taking the next few days and think about your WHY, write it down and think about how you can achieve the goals that come from your why. This will help you keep your focus and ensure that Creativation is a success for you and your purpose.

If you have never been to Creativation, Thursday and Fridays are education days. It’s going to be a lot of learning, giddiness when you see your favorite crafting celebrity from afar and excitement when you meet your friends for the first time. This is also the perfect time to set up times to meet, have lunch, coffee, happy hours and dinners. Just be aware that some people are going to be so busy and absorbing all that Creativation has to offer that it may be hard to nail down a specific time. So, don’t become frustrated.

Saturday, the doors open to the showroom floor and it is INSANE! Booths are packed, people are everywhere, everyone is trying to spy the latest “hot” item, phones are recording, pictures are being snapped and selfie sticks are out.

A lot of vendors will have an opening day show special for buyers. If you are a buyer, use your Creativation app, plot out the booths you want to hit FIRST. Keep in mind they are going to be jam packed and busy, so plan your most important vendor first. Go directly to the booth, do not dawdle, just go.

If you are there to mingle, socialize and make connections, I suggest you walk the whole floor, look at the booths, see what is going on and stay in background. Let the vendors and buyers have their moment. Check out the smaller booths, maybe the lesser known companies, who don’t have people in their spaces. See what they have to offer, take the pictures, post them on social media. Help get their message and products out there.

By midday, things will start to settle down and this is your time to check out the new products, introduce yourself to your favorite companies, just a quick into. Keep it short, make your own personal notes of the products, people and companies that interest you for later on in the weekend.

Sunday the showroom floor starts to die down a bit, especially in the afternoon. If you are there to make the connections and see your favorite companies, this is the best time to scoot in their booths, to get the selfies, to say hello. Check out all of the cool new toys, post pictures on social media, share what you are excited about.

Monday, oh my! This is HEAVEN! The showroom floor is typically super chill and regardless of your reason for going, THIS is the day your magic will happen.

Buyers, take advantage of the quietness to really talk to the vendors, to place your order, to go over marketing ideas with the designers and see what else they may have to help out your shop.

Influencers, go back and reconnect to those companies you are interested in. Take pictures, post them on social media, tag the company, talk to them about guest designer spots or becoming an ambassador for them.

Create a special photo album on your phone for your sample work so you can show them without having to zip past kid and pet photos. Make sure you take one of their business cards and send them an email to thank them for their time. If you took a selfie with them, include the photo in the email so they can put a face to the name. Things are crazy and everyone’s brains go to mush after the event. Don’t expect them to remember EXACTLY who you are. Help them out by sending the photo and a recap of what you spoke about.

For the social butterflies, you can help everyone out by communicating your excitement. If you are talking to random people and new-found friends, tell them which companies are your favorite, the booths that are super cool and nifty new products that you saw. Post those on social media, tag the people and companies. The more exposure you give the event, vendors and people you meet, the more successful it becomes. Be the excitement! Build the enthusiasm! Share the epic coolness you find!

Creativation has so much to offer to so many and it is a wonderful excuse for companies to come together and meet the people who have been on their design teams over the years. This was definitely my favorite part of going, being able to give Martha Lucia a huge hug, seeing Stephanie Ackerman, being surprised meeting Jenny Johnson, scaring the living daylights out of Kymona Tracey, shopping with Jennifer Loftfield, plotting with Justine Hovey and laughing uncontrollably with Josefine Fourage. Meeting in person the women who helped build So Suzy Stamps.

If you are a stamp company and you are meeting your design team for the first time, make the time to say hi. Even if it is just for a moment, hug them and tell them how important they are to you and your company. It may not always be possible, but if you can see about getting together for a group photo. This may be nearly impossible with everyone’s schedule, but I really wish I had done this in the past. Let’s face it, this may be one of the rare opportunities a lot of you are in the same room together.

Justine Hovey put together a special Facebook Group for people who are attending Creativation this year as a way to find out who all was going and schedule times for people to meet up. If you are going and would like to join the group, we will have a link in the show notes or you can search for it under Stampers going to AFCI/Creativation. It’s a great way to find out who is going in your craft circle before the event instead of after! Plus, it will be the easiest and fastest way to find out where and when Javi hour will be!

I was so excited to learn that Miss Dayna is flying in from Hawaii for Creativation and she was asking what to do on her long flight to the mainland and I am going to recommend that all of you take some time this weekend or on your flight to Phoenix, to think about your Why, write down the reason you are going to Creativation, what your goals are for the event, make a list of people who you would like to meet and try to schedule some time with those on your priority list.

It's going to be a fun filled time and for those of you going, I can’t wait to see you!!

Until next time, this is Suzanne, and you have been listening to the So Suzy Podcast.

Happy Stamping!

Crafting For You - Finding Your Joy Dec 26, 2017

Hey everyone! It’s Suzanne and I want to thank you for joining us for the So Suzy Podcast where we help you build a business out of the hobby you love. You will also be able to get the show notes and the links we reference by visiting us at SoSuzyPodcast.com

Over the past 6 months or so, I have been listening to the Strong Within Podcast from Chris O’Hearn. It’s a quick 7 to 11-minute podcast that focuses on, essentially, the power of YOU. Every day Chris has a Daily Affirmation podcast that 9 out of 10 times totally hits home and leaves me asking a ton of questions and gets my mind going a million miles a minute.

One of his podcasts, number 338, I Bring Joy to Whatever I Do, left me thinking about my craft life; making cards, painting galaxies, coloring the latest Kit and Clowder monthly class and the joy it brings…until I think about the picture and posting process. Getting the right light, posting it in my favorite Facebook Groups or Instagram.

Do I blog about it or just post it?

So many times, I make cards at night and the lighting is terrible, so I fret about the lighting and staging. So many of these thoughts race through my head until I am frustrated, disillusioned and depressed about the whole process.

If I blog about it, I should write instructions, leave a list of the items I used and include all of the correct SEO words. It takes time and we all know how poorly I take photos, so let’s not even broach that touchy subject. Bottom-line, everything that should be done, sucks the joy out of something I used to do to relax.

Making cards has turned into a chore.

I see others post their creations and it never fails, just as they get the courage to post, the evil troll comes out of its dark, dank, hate infused hole to spread its hatred for all to read.

Confession? There are times when I post in the hopes of one such soul sucker will leave a nasty comment on my project, just so I can have the pure pleasure of blasting them into the darkest depths of hell for the pain and suffering they have caused to other crafters. And yes, I probably have watched John Wick one too many times. But I digress.

After listening to Chris’s podcast, I realized that I stopped making cards out of JOY. Instead, I was making them out of necessity. Whether they were for business, blog hops, holiday cards, or for my own ego, it wasn’t always because I WANTED to.

I would make a card and then throw it into a drawer. Not send them out. There was no purpose, other than to make a card, post it and get a reaction. A heart, like or comment. What I wasn’t focused on, was the JOY. The joy of making it, spending time in my craft room, playing with my stamps and supplies, thinking of the person I would send the latest creation to. Those thoughts were not at the forefront of my mind and it caused me to lose the happiness I once had. Which depressed me, here I am surrounded by tens of thousands of dollars in killer stamps and supplies and I was SAD, burnt out and did not have the joy I once had. And frankly, that was unacceptable.

That month’s Kit and Clowder class, I colored the Penguin Christmas scene for Shannon, who absolutely LOVES penguins.

I painted so many galaxies, it was INSANE! And turned them into bookmarks for friends, family and my mom to give out at Christmas.

I started playing with my Art Impressions stamps and made cute little watercolor projects.

I painted more galaxies because they put a smile on my face and I created something special for my friend Anne in England.

I started to find MY JOY again. Sometimes I would post something on Instagram and I didn’t worry about the staging, lighting or anything else for that matter. I posted them because I thought they were cool and I needed to make sure that my mom had proof of life.

I found my memory of why I enjoyed making cards.

Chris said in his podcast, “We believe that joy is brought to us in the new things we receive, instead of understanding what we already have is joyful. So, we wait for that new thing to come, in hopes that it will make us feel better. We are bored with what we already have, and we get impatient thinking that our lives aren’t what they should be because of the idea that newness brings joy.”

Which got me to thinking about all of the stamps and supplies I have and have not even used. Let’s face it, retail therapy is AMAZING, but how many of you are like me and have stamp sets that you have NEVER used? We buy them and have grand ideas of using the stamps and making gorgeous cards, but then they arrive and already we are looking at the next PERFECT stamp set, and we must have it.

This reality smacked me full on in the face while I was cleaning my craft room and I found two bags full of unopened and unused supplies. One bag was from 2 years ago, the other bag was from 6 years ago!!! I bought stamps and never even pulled them out of the bag! As I went through my purchases and after I got over my initial disgust with myself, I started to remember why I bought them. How cool they were and what I could make with them.

A part of me was tempted to put them back in the bag and put them away later, but let’s face it, creator first, adult second, right? So, I pulled out one of the stamps and started playing with it. Just because. For no real purpose, except that I wanted to use it. Which led to going through my other drawers and checking out some of the other stamps in my collection and do you know what? It was like shopping all over again, except I was doing it in my own house without spending any more money and it was so much fun! A messy fun, but the smiles just kept coming.

My stamps were like a mini photo album of my life. What I was attracted to, the styles I have had over the years, the memories of why I purchased them and for whom. I also discovered that I truly love snarky stamps and always have. I sat for hours laughing at all of the silliness.

I had found of my joy. There were no pictures. No posts to social media. It was just me, surrounded by a humongous mess of stamps and a whole lot of happiness.

If you have lost your mojo or your joy for creating, take some time for you and find your joy. Make a card because YOU want to. Don’t worry about posting it. Don’t fret about how it measures up to the latest and greatest crafting diva. Just make it for the joy of creating. Go through your stamps and supplies, what does your stamping life album look like? Remember the emotions you had when you made the purchases. The people you had in mind.

Make a card for someone just for the joy of giving. Don’t worry about what they do with it after they receive it, just know that in that instant when they open their mailbox and see an envelope that is not a bill and open up your card, you gave them the gift of happiness. A bright spot in their day and life.

Your thoughtfulness and creativity is the joy in their life.

Until next time, this is Suzanne, and you have been listening to the So Suzy Podcast.

Happy Stamping!

MIHM with Lesley Oman from Heffy Doodle Stamps Dec 11, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Lesley Oman from Heffy Doodle Stamps! I am so excited to have Lesley on today's show and talk to her about Heffy Doodle AND how she launched her stamp company via a Kickstarter. Find out more about Heffy Doodle AND the amazing prizes she is giving away this week on today's show!

12 Days of Christmas with Justine Hovey Oct 23, 2017

Today we have the incredible Justine Hovey on the podcast talking about her annual 12 Days of Christmas celebration, where she provides us with holiday inspiration! Hear how the 12 Days of Christmas got started, how it evolved and the incredible prizes and cards she is featuring starting TODAY!

SHOW NOTES

12 Day of Christmas

Social Media

Making the Most of Your Crafting Dollar Oct 20, 2017

If you are new to card making or are on a tight budget, making your crafting dollar go as far as possible is essential! Today, I am going to give you some crafty buying secrets on how you can save money and get started building your card making stash.

SHOW NOTES

Special Coupon Code and Link for 15% off all items on Gina K Designs for today (10/20/17) only!

Use coupon code SOSUZY15

Perfect Starter Kit from Gina K Designs - Sentimental Bouquet Mini Kit

Pick up a MISTI using the 15% off coupon from Gina K Designs

Making the Most of Your Craft Dollar

Garage Sales
Craiglist in your area
Purchase individual stamps versus sets
Consider ordering Digital Stamps from your favorite companies or on Etsy
Buy AMAZING paper - Heavy Weight Card Stock from Gina K
Focus on inks that match your style and buy the mini ink pads versus larger ones
- Gina K Mini Inks - Don't forget to use coupon code! SOSUZY15
- The Ton Mini Inks
Pick up Memento Tuxedo Black Ink
Paper Cutter
Foam Vinyl Placemat
Scotch 3M Double-Sided Sticky Tape
Dimensionals from Stampin' Up
Become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Get Creative For Free and Sale Items

Join in on blog hops with contests
Participate in blog challenges
Join in on contests on Facebook, Blogs, Instagram and YouTube
Apply to be on a Design Team
Check out Destash Facebook Groups
Join your favorite stamp companies Facebook Groups
Sign up for your favorite stamp companies newsletters
Keep a calendar for sales, free shipping and coupon codes
Take advantage of End of Year Clearance Sales
Use the 40% off coupons at the big box stores
Shop from companies that have free shipping

Where to Go for Inspiration

MIHM with Bonnie Krebs from Art Impressions Oct 16, 2017

This week, we have the amazing Bonnie Krebs on the podcast from Art Impressions. We talk about how she got her start in the crafting industry, her over 8000 images she has designed, the evolution of Art Impressions and how she finds her inspiration!

SHOW NOTES Stamp Styles

Girlfriend Skin Tones Video Bonnie's Recommendations

Where to Find Art Impressions Website Facebook YouTube Instagram Blog Classes and Shows Here is the lady who I love on Instagram! Her name is Dot and she is incredible!

Living In a World of Knock Offs Oct 13, 2017

There has been a lot of heated conversations lately over the ever-growing infestation of knock off craft supplies. Typically, when someone mentions knock offs in the crafting industry, most people immediately gravitate toward the MISTI copycats and the blatant patent infringements some companies thought were ok to violate to make a quick buck. Foolishness, my friends, foolishness.

However, stamping tools are not the only ones being raped by creatives in the industry. Stamps, dies and other intellectual property are being stolen, brand names are being stripped from packaging and products are being sold at murderous rates.

For those of you who would like to know how to avoid or spot a scam, this podcast is going to help you identify the offending stamps and respond when you THINK a company is out of line.

Getting Ready for the Holidays with Amit Mathradas from PayPal Oct 12, 2017

Whether you are a business or a consumer, it's time to get your game face on and prepare for the holiday shopping frenzy! On today's podcast, we not only give you 5 incredible tips on how you can score your favorite items during the releases and sales, but we also have Amit Mathradas from PayPal on the show. Amit gives us some incredible ideas for not only boosting sales during the holiday season, but how you can maximize the global market as well!

SHOW NOTES 5 Tips to Score Your Favorite Items During Releases and Sales

Join the company's FB Group and mailing list to get a heads up on sales, specials, coupons, sneak peek's and pre-launches
Set your alarm for release times
Get on your computer or sign up for PayPal One Touch to ensure speedy check out
Make sure you have an account with the company AND you are logged in
Have a PAYPAL ACCOUNT!

Amit's Top Tips

For businesses, make sure your site is optimized for mobile shopping
Have a simply purchase path for your consumers
Both businesses AND consumers can take advantage of PayPal's One Touch for speedy check out and higher conversions
Make sure, as a business, you have capital set aside for marketing initiatives and inventory
Go after international markets during THEIR major holidays, check out PayPal's Global Sellers Program

Amit's 1.5 Top Tip for a Successful Holiday Season

PLAN! Have a plan for the holiday season to increase sales
Try something new!

Snarktoberfest - Interview with Suha Hazboun from Swedish House Crafts Oct 04, 2017

Welcome to Day 3 of Snarktoberfest! Today's guest is Suha Hazboun from Swedish House Crafts. Not only is Suha the owner of Swedish House Crafts, she is also one of our incredible sponsors for the Snarktoberfest blog hop!

Hear all about Swedish House Crafts, Suha's love for snark AND how she has the lowest shipping rates in the UK! That's right, my UK friends, Swedish House Crafts is on YOUR side of the world!

Snarktoberfest - Interview with Donna Whiteman from the Sisterhood of the Snarky Stampers Oct 03, 2017

Welcome to Day 2 of Snarktoberfest and our interview with Donna Whiteman from The Sisterhood of Snarky Stampers. Today, we continue with Snarktoberfest and interviewing one of the amazing lovers of snark, a snarky place to share your creations without fear of someone standing on their precious pansy soap boxes on how your card offends their delicate natures. I also threw down the gauntlet and issued a challenge to de-throne Miss Josefine Fouarge and her Snarky Queen Reign! It's time to overthrow her snarky reign!

Snarktoberfest with Josefine Fouarge *Not appropriate for small children or easily offended Oct 02, 2017

Welcome to Snarktoberfest!

*WARNING: Today's podcast has a few bad words that may not be appropriate for little ears or those of you who get easily offended. Josefine and I talk about some of our favorite snarky sentiments and cards during the podcast, there are no F-bombs, but it may not seen as a family friendly show today. Funny, but not geared for the little people. If you get offended, don't complain to me, because I did warn you. :)

First, thank you so much for your patience during my little hiatus. I had several huge audiobook deadlines happening in September and I just didn't have time to put together the podcasts for the month. BUT the podcast is BACK and I have a ton of great surprises in store for you this month.

The second being, Snarktoberfest! Where the snarky soul sisters unite and create a month of snarky fun.

SHOW NOTES Snarktoberfest Details

When: October 2nd - October 5th

Where: The fun starts on Josefine's blog

Bloghop Ends: October 5th

Winners Announced: October 6th

Snarktoberfest lasts all month long so please be sure and use #snarktoberfest or #snarktoberfest2017 so we can find your snarky creations!

Sponsors for Snarktoberfest

Look! I made a card too! You can find all of the details on my blog at All About Suzy.

Stamps Referenced

Bitchy Pills - Crackerbox Palace

Valentine's Day - So Suzy Stamps

Warning Labels - So Suzy Stamps

Shank a Bitch - So Suzy Stamps

Creativation 2018 with Keli Bell-Cole from AFCI Sep 06, 2017

Eeeek, I am so excited! Creativation is just around the corner and the registration for the education program starts next week on September 12 at 11am EST! Today, we have Keli Bell-Cole from AFCI on the podcast to talk about attending Creativation, the educational classes, key note speaker and so much more! And Keli is kinda awesome!

PLUS, we try to talk Mark into letting her go to Greendale, WI to check out the Village! Pretty sure she needs a chaperone...just sayin!

Check out the preview guide to write down your questions before class registration starts!

Registration starts on Tuesday, September 12th at 11am at the Creativation website.

If you have not registered for Creativation yet, head on out and do so!

MIHM with Kim Evans from Emerald Creek Aug 28, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Kim Evans from Emerald Creek! Today, we are going to be talking to Kim about how she got her start in the stamping industry, her unique embossing powders, AFCI Canada (because we love our Canadian sisters!) and a few shout outs to some amazing menfolk in the industry!

PLUS! Kim has GENEROUSLY offered a $50 prize pack to one lucky listener! OH YA, BABY!

SHOW NOTES Kim's Favorites

Favorite part of running a business:

Math...seriously, she SAID that...out loud! Oh, and the people!

Favorite embossing powder color:

Charred Gold and Fractured Ice

Favorite craft item you can't live without:

(as if any of us can name JUST one) Heat tool, craft mat, Ranger Emboss It Dabber

Super Secret Product Announcement!

ATC Chipboard coming SOON!

Amazing Shout Outs to a Couple of Super Cool Guys

Seth Apter

Ted from Stampers Anonymous

Where to Find Kim and AFCI Canada

Emerald Creek Website

Card Classes and Retreats with Lydia Fiedler Aug 17, 2017

**DISCLAIMER**

Skype was not behaving during the recording of our podcast so we had to use Zoom, needless to say, the quality is not as good as normal. I do apologize and I PROMISE once you get used to the "bubbling abyss ocean sounds", you'll be fine!

It would be an extreme disservice to the crafting community if I did not have the bomdiggityshizznit of all crafters on the show to talk about her incredibly cool method of hosting card classes and retreats. If you are considering starting a card class outside of the how or you are feeling like you want to branch out and start hosting retreats, this podcast is for you!

Lydia shares some of her million dollar secrets, talks about what it takes to host a successful retreat AND we also talk podcasts and serial killers...ya, we're an eclectic bunch!

SHOW NOTES

Hosting Classes Outside the Home

#1 piece of advice: Frequent a local establishment, find out when their slow times are and approach them with the idea of you teaching an art class during this time. Don't forget to be kind, courteous and to let them know you will encourage your attendees to purchase food after the class.

Retreats

#1 piece of advice: Attend retreats before hosting your own. Find out what you like or don't like.

Lydia's Favorites

Favorite technique: Decorating backgrounds - anything inky and messy

Favorite retreat snack: Blueberry Scones that are super special

Favorite serial killer: Zodiac...at the moment

Favorite podcast: Serial and Undisclosed

Where to Find Out More About Lydia and Understand Blue

Understand Blue

Don't Forget to Share

Do you host classes or retreats?

What are some of your favorite million dollar tips?

What has been your favorite class or retreat that you have attended?

Share your stories in the comments section!

Building and Launching Your Creative Dreams Aug 16, 2017

Today, we have Teresa DeWitt-Pierce from Whimsical Card Studio on the podcast sharing with us how she built and launched her creative dream of being on a design team. PLUS, we have a special surprise for her that she had NO CLUE was coming! Thanks to Justine Hovey and Vicky Briggs from So Suzy Stamps for allowing me to a part of the fun!

SHOW NOTES Teresa's Favorites

Favorite So Suzy Stamps Stamp - Fancy Butterfly

Favorite Crafter - Justine Hovey and Jennifer McGuire

Favorite Card Design to Make - Interactive

Where to Find Teresa

Links Reference

How to Be on a Design Team

If you would like to congratulate Teresa on her new Design Team position, please leave her a special note in the comments section!

Organizing a Successful Card Class Aug 11, 2017

This month, we are focusing on different ways to make extra money to support your craft habit. Last week, we discussed craft fairs and launched our Craft Show 101 online class at SoSuzySessions.com This week, we are going to talk about card classes and how you can make extra money by hosting your own.

SHOW NOTES

If you are wanting to host classes, there are a few things to consider before you go all gang busters and start promoting.

Where are you going to hold them?
How many people is your ideal number?
How many cards are you going to make?
What will you charge?
Where will you promote?
What products will you use?
How long will your class be?
What type of class will you teach?
How much time do you have to prepare?
Instructions or no instructions?

If you decide to host in your home, keep these things in mind:

ALWAYS include if you have pets in your marketing and promo materials.
If you do have pets, the dog goes outside PERIOD. Same goes for the cat. Cat goes outside or in a room.
Kids are not allowed at home. The same goes with your guests, no children.
Clean your house and bathroom.

Companies with Card Class Programs

Brutus Monore - contact heather (at) brutusmonroe (dot) com

So Suzy Stamps

Right at Home

Crackerbox Palace

Use the "Contact Us" page for So Suzy Stamps, Right at Home and Crackerbox Palace.

Links Referenced

Craft Show 101 Online Class

Card Pricing Calculator

Stampin' Up!

New Fun Releases

CK Designs at Simon Says Stamps

SPONSORED BY MY SWEET PETUNIA

Habits and Accountability Take Time for You May 12, 2017

Whatever habit you create for yourself, it’s up to you to decide you’re worth it and to take the time you need. Life is too short and there are a ton of fabulous projects to work on, hobbies to learn and art to create.

Today's episode is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the amazing MISTI.

MIHM with Annie Kelly from Stamp AnnieThing May 08, 2017

Today, we are interviewing Annie Kelly from Stamp AnnieThing. Annie is one of these amazing women who not only illustrates and designs stamps, but she has all branched out into SVG cutting files and designing fun goodies to go with your planners. We find out about her different creative ventures, why her Chibi kids have such distinct features and how they get their special names. PLUS, she is offering (2) $25 Gift Certificates to our listeners. Find out how you can take one of these home during our interview with Annie.

Finding Your Mojo May 05, 2017

Since I slammed head first into the Blahs, I figured today would be a great time to move our podcast calendar around and bring forth the episode on losing your creative mojo, because I definitely lost it. But what I want to know is why.

Why do we hit these creative walls that stop us dead in our tracks?
How can we overcome them?
What can do to find it again?
When do we decide to follow our mojo and go on a mini hiatus?

Today's podcast is sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the MISTI.

MIHM with Alyce Keegan from Kit and Clowder May 01, 2017

Alyce Keegan is the owner, amazing artist and super teacher behind Kit and Clowder, an online community and coloring class. Today, we talk to Alyce about how she started Kit and Clowder, what the Kit and Clowder community means to her and the fun classes she has available for all coloring levels.

Plus, find out more about her free Markers 101 Class.

"When we feel overwhelmed in life, typically we take it out on ourselves and our opportunities to be creative." - Alyce Keegan, Kit and Clowder

Telling a Story With Your Cards Apr 28, 2017

If you are a crafter who is trying to find new ways to drum up followers, become more of an influencer within the industry or are trying to sell your cards, creating a series of cards that tells a story could really boost up your interest, create anticipation and get you exposure to some of the companies you love. Hear how Lois Gray Bak took her Crazy Bird stamps and turned them into an amazing World Traveler Selfie Series!

*Sponsored by My Sweet Petunia and the amazing MISTI.

SHOW NOTES

Create interest in your cards by creating a story.

By creating a story, you provide curiosity, anticipation and fun.

What story will YOU tell? Let us know in the show notes or tag us on Twitter or Instagram. @AllAbout_Suzy

MIHM with Brutus Monroe Apr 24, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Christopher Alan from Brutus Monroe! On today's show, Christopher shares with us his passion for developing products, helping others achieve their dreams and the amazing journey Brutus Monroe is on with a new retail location, their Open House and their recent release.

So Suzy Podcast brings you the stories from those within the creative craft industry who have built a business and made it happen.

Craft Bullies - How to Handle the Haters Apr 21, 2017

How do you deal with bullies in the crafting industry? It is something that is becoming more and more prevalent on social media. It is something that can hurt your feelings, cause you anxiety, make you angry and kill your creative mojo. Today, we are addressing those bully tactics, identifying ways to handle them and I will share how a little Jack Bauer, Mitch Rapp, Jack Reacher and The Rock singing Shake If Off, helps me cope.

SHOW NOTES

Identify when to:

Delete

Ignore

Respond

Be honest, be real, be authentic, but don't be nasty.

Today's show was sponsored by My Sweet Petunia!

MISTI the Most Incredible Stamping Tool Invented

MIHM Nicole Baez from Right at Home Stamps Apr 17, 2017

Welcome to Made it Happen Monday with Nicole Baez from Right at Home Stamps! Today, we are going to hear Nicole's story from growing up in the crafting industry with her mother and grandma and going from a LSS to an online stamp company. Sometimes all you need is a little "happy mail" to create a dream. Plus, she has a few surprises for our So Suzy Podcast listeners.

Use code sosuzy at check out on the Right at Home Stamps website and receive 15% off your stamp order.

The So Suzy Podcast covers the stories from the crafting and creative industry.

What to Expect at Creativation Apr 14, 2017

Back in January, we were able to interview the marvelous ladies from AFCI and get the inside scoop behind the new Creativation facelift. They also have some great information on what to expect when you attend if you are a shop owner, blogger or vendor. With registration for the 2018 Creativation just around the corner, now is the time to think about becoming a member or possibly teaching one of the seminars or sponsoring a workshop!

Brought to you by: So Suzy Podcast - "Helping you build a business out of the hobby you love." - Suzanne Moore

Interview with AFCI Global:

Andria LeJeunesse - VP of Events and Education

Keli Bell-Cole - Director of Events

Nidia Negron - Director of Education

"AFCI...supporting the entire creative industry."

-Andria LeJeunesse

MIHM with Kelly Klapstein from Kelly Creates Apr 10, 2017

I could sit and watch brush lettering videos all day. I love the beauty, the creativity of the backgrounds and the different markers and pens you can use. I have always loved calligraphy and this brush lettering phenomena was right up my alley. When Kymona Tracey recommended the practice sheets by Kelly Klapstein from Kelly Creates, I was instantly hooked. Hear about Kelly's journey into Brush Lettering, learn some fabulous tips for improving your brush lettering and how she was able to turn this fun hobby into a great line of stamps.

Benefits of Participating in Blog Hops and Challenges Apr 07, 2017

In world of instant gratification, Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest are the social media platforms that seem to get the most attention these days. Gone are the days of waking up and reading your favorite blog posts, now it's about checking to see the cards posted on your favorite quick hit social media site. So, why do we still see people starting new blogs and companies focused on blog hops and challenges? Because, those blogs are where the magic happens! In today's podcast, we talk about the benefits of hosting and participating in blog/video hops and card challenges.

Special Interview with Justine Hovey Apr 05, 2017

Welcome to a special Wednesday interview with the amazing Justine Hovey! She is celebrating her 1 Million Views on YouTube this month with a ton of prizes, lots of videos and a special Video Hop with 12 of her closest friends. We talk to Justine today about her crafting journey how she got started and the insights she has had along the way.

MIHM with Jackie Lee from The Cookie Corner AZ Apr 03, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Jackie Lee from The Cookie Corner AZ. We are going to be bringing you the stories of the people in the craft industry who have built a business and “made it happen”. You will hear how they got started, secrets of their success and perhaps even a few secrets they want to share with some of their closest podcast friends.

DT Call - April 2017 Apr 01, 2017

Thank you for joining us for our new Design Team Call series on the So Suzy Podcast. Every 1st Saturday of the month, we will be announcing the most current Design Team Calls in the industry. If you have a call you would like included in our show, just head out to SoSuzyPodcast.com, select the tab for DT Call Listings, click on the DT Call Form and fill in your information. As long as we have it by the 26th of the month, you should be good to go.

Find Your Photography Style Mar 31, 2017

Between the light boxes, fancy equipment, staging, flat lays and everything in-between, taking pictures of your cards can be the most frustrating aspect of card making. Especially if you haven’t found what method works for you. Everyone of us is different; from our card styles, to our crafting goals and all the way to our photography skills. Which is why knowing your Photography Style is so important. In today's podcast, we are going to review the key aspects of finding your natural photography style and how to put it to work for your needs.

Enhancing the Quality of Your Cards Mar 24, 2017

One of the key aspects we discuss in our Price, Market and Sell Your Handmade Cards online class is enhancing the quality of your cards. Even if you aren't planning to sell your cards, striving to be better at your craft or hobby is critical to your own personal growth and self-confidence. Find out about what the top tools and supplies you can use to help you enhance your card quality.

MIHM - Gina Krupsky from Gina K Designs Mar 20, 2017

It's Made It Happen Monday with Gina K from Gina K Designs! Not only will we hear how she got her start, but we will also get the dish on her new products coming out with Thermoweb and are they ever AMAZING!

Expanding Your Craft Business Mar 17, 2017

There are times when growth requires thinking outside of the box and expanding your horizons. There are so many things you can do to increase your value and grow, but why would you even consider it? What can you do to expand YOUR business? How you can reach a new and different audience to help you grow and make more money?

MIHM - Living the Art Life with Cheryl Boglioli Mar 13, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Cheryl Boglioli from The Art Life. Have you ever wanted to travel the country, teach classes and glamp in style? Well, today, we are going to talk to Cheryl because that is exactly what she does! Find out about her adventures with Glinda and Toto and some of the fun she has along the way.

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others Mar 10, 2017

Have you ever perused through Pinterest, Facebook or YouTube and got totally depressed because you don’t feel like you are up to par with the crafters or people around you? It is only natural to compare yourself to other people and a lot of time it helps to push us to accomplish bigger and better things. Healthy competition is amazing for the soul, but kicking yourself in the rear because you AREN’T your favorite crafter is not going to help you.

MIHM - Iliana Myska from My Sweet Petunia Mar 06, 2017

It's Made It Happen Monday with Iliana Myska from My Sweet Petunia and the inventor of the MISTI. Hear her story of how she came up with the MISTI and some of the new products she has coming out!

Best Uses for Your Social Media Platforms Mar 03, 2017

Have you ever felt like you are floundering around with all the different social media sites? Trying to figure out what to post, feeling redundant when you post the same image to Instagram, Facebook and your blog? You know you could be doing something different, but what is that “something”?

MIHM - Ariel Brown from PenBlade Feb 27, 2017

It's Made It Happen Monday and we are going to speaking with Ariel Brown from PenBlade about this incredible craft knife that made it's debut in an emergency room!

Are You Ready to Own a Stamp Company? Feb 24, 2017

Have you ever thought of owning your own stamp company? You have seen the excitement and you think to yourself, 201COh ya, I can do this! I want to own a stamp company!201D Everyone says if you are doing something you love you will never work another day in your life, right?

MIHM - Kymona Tracey Feb 20, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday with Kymona Tracey from Kreative Kymona! Kymona has made the journey from card making hobbiest, to Design Team Member, DT Coordinator and now she is branching out and making her dream of industry influencer a reality! Hear about her journey, how attending Creativation inspired her to obtain her dream and where she plans on going to next in today's episode.

Importance of Planning Feb 17, 2017

There is definitely a benefit to planning and one of those benefits is money. Today's podcast is all about planning and how you can find your own success. "The road to hell is paved with good intentions; the road to success is paved with preparation."

How Are You Building Your Justice League Feb 10, 2017

How are you building your Justice League? And by that, I mean, who are your crafty friends? Where do you go to be with like-minded people who understand the need to own every single color of the Nuvo Crystal Drops, who get just as excited when there is a new coupon or free shipping on your favorite craft site? Where do you find them at? Your Justice League, if you will, doesn’t just apply to the paper craft world, but to all crafts and hobbies. Whether you knit, bake, put together models, paint, create flower arrangements, fight evil wearing a Superman cape, or whatever your crafty heart desires, having a core group of people who understand your passion is key for so many reasons.

MIHM - Catherine Pooler from Catherine Pooler Designs Feb 06, 2017

Welcome to Made It Happen Monday! Today we are talking with Catherine Pooler from Catherine Pooler Designs and we had a super fun time during Creativation, laughing, cutting up and the out takes...well, that should be a show all in of itself! Today we are going to hear her story from StampNation, to Stamp of Approval, the Foundations Box and some exciting things coming in the future.

Niche Market by Brand Feb 03, 2017

When selling your handmade cards, one of the biggest obstacles you face is how to set yourself apart from the competition. Finding something to differentiate yourself from the "other guy", can be something as simple as using stamps from new stamp companies or focusing on one particular brand. In today's show, we go over the benefits of creating a niche market for yourself by brand.

MIHM - Effie Cho from The Ton Stamps Jan 30, 2017

Welcome to our first Made it Happen Monday Podcast, where we will be bringing you the stories of the people in the craft industry who have built a business and Made it Happen! You will hear how they got started, secrets of their success and perhaps a few secrets they want to share with some of their closest podcast friends. Our first MIHM Guest is Effie Cho from The Ton Stamps! *Recorded live from the 2017 Creativation Show

Creativation Recap with Jason Baum Jan 27, 2017

We are back from Creativation and talk about a week full of fun, friends and hugs! Having been to the CHA Mega Show last year and attending the new Creativation this year, I can honestly say THIS was the BEST of the two shows. Find out about the changes from last year to this year along with the new direction the Craft and Hobby Association is going with the Association for Creative Industries (AFCI) in today's podcast with Jason Baum and Jeffrey Malaney.

Cards of All Sizes Jan 20, 2017

What is your go to card size? Are you an A2 girl or maybe you prefer the full-bodied experience of an A7? Perhaps, like me, you are wondering what sizes an A2 and A7 are. Yes, I had to look them up, because, like you, I prefer to use the actual size of the card. Today, we are going to explore the different sizes and introduce you to the star of 2017, the No 10 card.

Setting Up Goals and Plotting World Domination Jan 13, 2017

What goals do you want to accomplish this year? How are you going to turn your dreams into realities? In this episode, we are going to identify key industry goals, give you a couple of pointers of how to achieve them and we also have a special sponsor with a giveaway. Thanks to Catherine Pooler and StampNation!

Finding the Perfect Color Palette Jan 06, 2017

Sometimes deciding on the colors to use is harder than making the actual card. Today, we are going to go over color palettes, where to find inspiration and gaining more confidence with your selections. This is not going to be a lesson in color theory, this is going to be easy. It’s going to be real, because let’s face it, we have cards to make.

Making Industry Specific Cards Dec 30, 2016

Imagine if you knew for certain exactly who you were targeting to sell your cards to. What could you accomplish? How much time would you save? How effective would you be? Today, we are going to go over the power of knowing exactly who and the industries to target.

Making Industry Specific Cards Dec 30, 2016

Imagine if you knew for certain exactly who you were targeting to sell your cards to. What could you accomplish? How much time would you save? How effective would you be? Today, we are going to go over the power of knowing exactly who and the industries to target.

The Art of the Thank You Card Dec 23, 2016

When was the last time you sent or received a thank you card? On today's podcast, we are going to discuss not only the importance of sending them, but the styles and how to create a niche market for yourself. Plus, January is National Thank You Month so what better time to get started on making thank you cards then right now?

Why Card Making Dec 16, 2016

If you have ever wondered why you should look at card making as a possible hobby, this is the podcast for you. Not only are we going to go over why you would want to, but we will also cover the benefits, what makes it attractive, where do you start and what do you need to get you on your way.

Benefits of Creating Card Gift Packs Dec 09, 2016

Creating gift packs of cards to sell or to give as gifts is a wonderful way to create a fabulous market for yourself and clean out your stash. Do it correctly and you essentially have the perfect Henry Cavill trifecta; Henry Cavill, Clark Kent and Superman!

Interview with Mark Hill, CEO of Craft and Hobby Association Dec 02, 2016

Today, we interview Mark Hill the CEO of the Craft and Hobby Association. With Creativation just around the corner, we wanted to find out about the changes, the benefits of attending Creativation and find out who his favorite meet up was!

Every Card Maker's Hell - Masculine Cards Nov 25, 2016

I don't know about you, but guy cards are the bane of my very existence. Today, we are going to talk about those annoying masculine cards, give you some quick pointers on how to get out of your creative rut and fill you in on some money saving tips.

Using Snark the Right Way Nov 18, 2016

Please also be advised, if you are easily offended you may want to skip this episode and check out our Wedding Card Niche Market podcast. On today's podcast, we are going to be discussing the wonderful world of snark and all the silliness that goes with it. Snark isn't for everyone so it's very important to fully understand the what, why, who, how and where behind it.

Wedding Cards Finding Your Niche Market Nov 11, 2016

On today's podcast, we are going to dive deeper into creating your perfect niche market. Knowing your niche market will assist you in being able to clearly identify your area of expertise and will help build your brand, your business and your style. If you have a very elegant or shabby chic card making style, you can easily parlay that into a wedding card based niche market. By using stylish, classy and unique wedding stamps, you will be able to offer your clientele sophisticated yet exclusive handmade wedding cards.

Finding Your Niche Market Nov 04, 2016

Today we discuss finding your niche market and how it can help you grow your craft business, your community and your talent.

Stamping for the Holidays Oct 28, 2016

With the holidays fast approaching, the assembly line card making frenzy is upon us. We are going to shed some light on how you can get all of your cards out the door and with your sanity intact! Plus, we have a special giveaway from this show's sponsor, My Sweet Petunia!

Build Your Crafting Community Oct 21, 2016

Whether you are working toward your Dream Design Team, looking to earn some extra money or wanting to be a leader in the industry, it is all about building your own crafting community.

Being on a Design Team Oct 05, 2016

Have you ever wanted to be on a design team, but didn't know how? Perhaps you are already part of a team, but you want to know how to make yourself indispensable. Today, we are going to cover the three different perspectives of what a design team does from the point of view of the company, design team member and the audience they target.

Find Your Card Making Style Sep 24, 2016

We are reviewing some of the most popular card making styles, talking with a few industry leading crafters about their style and helping you identify YOUR style!

Selling Your Cards Sep 10, 2016

We are going to go over the best way to set yourself apart from the competition, identify your target market and step up your game to increase your rates without having to spend a dime.

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