With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to start planning your annual holiday cards! A memorable, heartfelt card doesn’t have to be complicated—with a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful card that friends and family will love. Here are some tips to make your holiday greetings stand out this year! 1. Choose Your Favorite Family Photos Nothing says “holiday spirit” like a personalized card featuring a favorite family photo or photo collage. For a timeless look, pick a card design that captures your family’s unique personality. Add a cheerful greeting like “Merry Christmas” or […]
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Planning a 50th Wedding Anniversary: A Journey of Love and Learning
Planning my parents’ 50th golden wedding anniversary was a special honor. While I wasn’t there to help plan their wedding fifty years ago, being part of this milestone celebration was incredibly meaningful. It was heartwarming to have so many friends and family offer their help. Several talented guests, including those with expertise in hair and makeup, photography, music, and baking, generously contributed to the festivities. Here’s how we made the day memorable and what we learned along the way. Choosing the Perfect Venue Our first priority was selecting the right venue. Since we were planning for a guest list of […]
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Redefine Success
A big part of my life is the Christian community in which my husband and I volunteer. We met in this community and have seen firsthand the positive impact a supportive environment can have on raising a family. We’ve had the honor of mentoring young adults and facilitating conversations to help them navigate life’s challenges One significant topic we’ve addressed, especially during the lockdown, is “Redefine Success.” When everyone was isolated, we found ways to connect on Zoom, using the time to check on each other, reflect, and discuss meaningful topics. Why am I sharing this with you? Because I […]
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A message from a recovering perfectionist.
Did the title grab your attention? If so, chances are you’re a bit of a perfectionist like me. I wanted to dive into this topic because I’ve been getting questions about my journey as an online entrepreneur and a big part of that journey has been overcoming perfectionism. So, here’s the deal: I call myself a “recovering perfectionist” because, since starting my entrepreneurial journey, perfectionism turned into a hurdle. It’s kind of amusing – I used to flaunt my perfectionist trait like a badge of honor. Having the highest standards sounded great. But, I realized it was holding me back. […]
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My Entrepreneurial Journey through Zazzle; What helped me.
When I embarked on my journey to establish an online business as a graphic designer, I stumbled upon a game-changer: Zazzle*. This remarkable print-on-demand platform proved to be a goldmine for independent designers and business owners, offering seamless solutions for printing, shipping, and customer service. It was precisely what I needed to focus on my designs and other aspects of my business. Let me share how Zazzle has become a vital part of my entrepreneurial success and what helped me. While I was on YouTube I discovered Elke and Jen Clarke. They are Gold and Diamond sellers on Zazzle and […]
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How I became a full-time creative entrepreneur.
This is my first week as a full-time creative entrepreneur. I was inspired to write this post while all the feelings were fresh. I’m humbled by the early lessons and eager to share some points that might resonate with those who, like me, are venturing into the world of creative dreams. Perhaps you’re wondering why I decided to step away from a stable day job, one that was working well. It’s true, I had a great time in my corporate role, and I’m deeply grateful for the support it provided. Yet, a yearning for more, both for my family and […]
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Tips for Sending Out Holiday Corporate Cards, Like a Boss
With the holiday season approaching, many of my clients have begun reaching out to me for help with designing their corporate holiday cards. It’s truly heartwarming to see how much thought they put into expressing gratitude to their customers, clients, vendors, supporters, and employees through the simple gesture of a holiday card. This genuine appreciation is a beautiful trait in any business, and I’m excited to share some valuable tips to help you send out holiday corporate cards like a boss. 1. Embrace the Spirit of the Holidays:As early as July, I’m already in the festive spirit at LD Design […]
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AHA, moments in my entrepreneurial journey
Walking a creative entrepreneurial journey takes guts, gumption, and heart. It’s been a few years since LD Design Loft came to be. No fancy ribbon cutting but I surely cut my attachments to fear & resistance. As Steven Pressfield would say: “The more important a call to action is to our soul’s evolution, the more Resistance we will feel about answering it.” I’m grateful I found the courage, I’m thankful for the transformation I’ve gone through. The permission I’ve given myself to explore and create, to find the courage to fail forward. Not everything has worked, but I learned a […]
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Affordable Wedding Invitation Options in one place.
I discovered that one of my best-selling wedding invitations was featured on the Woman Getting Married blog. The helpful article shares affordable options for your wedding invitation and Zazzle, where I license my designs, is part of their top choices. It’s true, a site like Zazzle allows you to use creations from professional designers and artists, like myself. I enjoy creating and sharing our work. Since that article was posted, Zazzle has enhanced its options and capabilities. I’ve always been impressed by what Zazzle has to offer, I wish I knew about it when I was getting married a few years […]
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Where do you get energy? How do you find time?
“You can spend an hour doing something you love and feel energized afterward and you can spend 30 minutes doing something that doesn’t feel expansive and drains your energy.” – (Amanda Boleyn) Why do I love this statement so much? Other than confirming that doing what we love can bring forth super-human energy, these words give me so much hope. It also shows that there’s a difference between time and energy. As Amanda also said:“If you have the energy but no time, you’ll find the time because you’re inspired to do so. But if you have the time but no […]
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What Moms Really Need.
Even with all the years that have gone by, I still pinch myself to know that I’m a mom. The greatest honor of my life. No one said this great honor was glamorous though. 🙂That’s me in the middle of my laundry, between my then 3-year-old and 11-month-old. I love looking at this photo because I don’t immediately look at the laundry, I zoom right into my babies and their faces. That day I showed my daughter how to pair socks, I gave up on doing all the things and focused on what was essential. The laundry can be done, […]
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Your Brand is more than your Logo – Show up for your business. – Get started.
I once heard that your brand is what people say about your business when you’re not in the room. Being in the industry of design and advertising for over 20 years, I understand this statement. They are referring to the reputation and perception that people have of your business or personal brand. This means that your brand is not only defined by your marketing efforts, but also by what others say about you based on their experiences with your product, service, or personal interactions. In other words, “the know, like, and trust factor”, your brand is not just about what […]
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Making your own luck. Finding your opportunities.
My husband purchased a new MAC computer for me in 2010. Being a professional graphic designer he always believed I should create something on my own.
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10 tips for Entrepreneurs…and moms
As a wife & mother of four who started a small business a few years ago, I get this question a lot “What are some of the best tips you can give as an entrepreneur and mom?” The question comes in many forms and I understand why they add the mom part. There are additional challenges and mindset blocks that come up when you’re a mother. #Momguilt is real. Here’s a list of Top 10 that has helped me so far. I also want to point out that we all go through different seasons of life and motherhood. We can’t […]
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3 Essential Tools for the beginner watercolor artist – (Bonus: How I digitize art and shoot process videos)
I’ve been getting some positive feedback whenever I would paint with my watercolors or illustrate on my social media channels. It’s so fun to know that you enjoy the process as much as I do. Some people have been asking what I use. I thought it would be easier to compile what I’ve found helpful in a post. This video should give you a summary of the process. The #plantmom phone case from the video is a product that I created for our online shop. It can be purchase here or by clicking on the image. The right tools can […]
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Can anyone be a graphic designer? Questions Graphic Design Students have asked me.
During this coronavirus pandemic, working from home has become necessary. I’m fortunate that my line of work allows this. As a graphic designer, I have been able to continue working with clients and designing online. A lot of people have been exploring different careers that lend itself to working from home. Including graphic design. I thought I’d share this interview which I did with Ryerson University students in 2017. It was an honor to have been able to help Nate and Monica with this. They have told me that their professor now shares this interview with other students too. It […]
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Planning Baby’s baptism
Baptism invitation, decor, planning ideas. Curated designs to save you time and enjoy planning.
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Write that book, start a blog, share your story. Find your voice.
As part of being a modern entrepreneur, you are called to bring forth skills you might not have used in a while. For me, writing is one of them. It may not be a book — maybe one day — but in the past few years, I’ve dedicated a lot of my blog stories to our children. I have this dream that they’d stumble upon it when they’re grown during a time they need it most. I pray that the heartfelt stories will help them and that it will remind them of these times. Remind them of what’s important. The […]
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#AustraliaLove Collection
Our family has been talking about the effects of climate change on the environment. We’ve seen in the news devastating results of the drought and fires in Australia. We’re heart-broken to know human lives have been lost. Billions of animals are gone and nature destroyed. With several species already nearly extinct such as the Koala. I’m joining artists worldwide to help support organizations that aid those affected. 100% of my earnings from my #AustraliaLove collection will go towards those in need via Australia Red Cross and WIRES Australian Wildlife Rescue Organisation. Consider donating directly to each organization as well. My […]
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How to start special family traditions.
I still recall when we were little watching the games and the joy it brought everyone. I do believe my foundation of family and generosity has been encouraged by this tradition.
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Wondering what to get “The Best Dad Ever”? – Gift ideas for Dad
When the dad in your life should really get the award for “Best Dad Ever” — coming up with unique gift ideas can be a real challenge every year. Different men have different ways of feeling appreciated. Some need words to affirm them, so this free downloadable Father’s day card* is for you to print and handwrite your own thoughts. A great accompaniment with your gift.Like many people, some fathers may not even know you recognize their awesomeness. To encourage them more, consider these gifts to show them your gratitude and love. These thoughtful and even personalized suggestions should take […]
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A mindset shift to deal with overwhelm.
Overwhelmed? Read this. My husband is the chill voice that can often put things in perspective for me. I recall a time when I was feeling overwhelmed … lots of things to do, opportunities, projects and ideas to tackle …I didn’t know where to start. I tell him about it and he’s the one that pointed out.. “The way I see it…you’ve got a good problem”… “These are answered prayers” He’s right! Of course, he’s right! What he said is just another reminder for me to be grateful. There truly are so many answered prayers, overwhelm can distort our perspective. The mess in […]
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What’s keeping you from pursuing your goals?
Over the past few years of pursuing my own goals I have had many conversations with family and friends. They’ve encouraged the spark they’ve seen in me. I’ve been touched by your love and support. As I write this I want to hug you for allowing me to have this platform to share. As much as I embrace the motivation, my husband noticed that I’ve been so quick to tell others to do the same thing. If you were ever on the other end of my excitement for you and got taken a back …well … I say “too bad”…(I […]
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Kind People are my Kinda People
I read this phrase one time “Kind People are my kinda people”, it made me smile. Aside from being clever it was so sweet. It got me thinking about kindness, how it’s a simple but profound gesture that can change lives.
It reminded me when I was in grade school. We just moved to a new school and I remember that would find my little brother at recess to make sure he was ok. He was only 5 years old at the time and I was 10.
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Personalized Gifts for Kids
Discover personalized gifts. Gifts for kids — for boys and girls. Personalized watches, balls, phone cases, skateboards etc. Designs from Disney, Marvel, LD Design Loft, Star Wars, Sesame street distributed by Zazzle.
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Looking for a unique Christmas photo card this year? Check these out!
Easy to use editable Family Christmas Card templates. Instantly see. Video tutorial.
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What the kids really want for Christmas!
What do the kids really want for Christmas? A couple of years ago I came across this IKEA commercial video which really spoke to me. It’s called ‘The Other Letter’. They did an experiment asking children of different ages to write to The Three Kings for what they’d like for Christmas. They quickly scribbled down things like a Wii®, a unicorn, a soccer ball, etc. After collecting the letters, they were then asked to write another letter, this time they are writing to their parents of what they really want for Christmas. The responses would amaze you; they just wanted […]
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Life Hack: The After School Checklist for kids (Free printable)
I love a good life hack, especially something for our kids. I was home for my second maternity leave when my eldest started kindergarten. I noticed that when she got home her first instinct was to watch T.V. and throw her backpack in a corner. I get that she wanted to unwind but she’d forget to wash her hands and take out her lunch box. Believe me, these needed some serious washing at the end of the school day. I’m always trying to find ways to stay productive and I’ve found checklists very helpful for myself. There’s something satisfying about […]
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Invest in yourself.
I was in San Diego for an entrepreneur conference and I think about it fondly because it was a milestone for my business. ✨ It was such a big decision for our family and investment in resources to make the trip happen but it really was worth it. I still recall that I almost didn’t go but an unexpected and timely set of funds arrived the day enrolment to B-school was closing. Coincidence? I think NoT! I knew I had to do it! Learning from the best and taking action brought me to a room of amazing people including Jasmine […]
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A decade of motherhood. “Aha” moments.
“I’ve been around for a decade” …that’s what Julia said to me about her 10th birthday! ✨ I had to sit on her phrase for a minute. That also means I’ve been a mother for a whole decade too. I thought it would be fun to share my “AHA” moments for each year. Here goes… Year 1 Babies poop. 😆 and diapers leak. I learned that onesies have those special slits by the shoulders so you can slide them down to avoid getting poop on baby’s hair. 👍🏼 Year 2 My picky eater will try food if you pretend […]
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My days off from the day job – was it productive? You tell me.
You see this week I had a couple of days off from my day job. Days off are awesome because you can plan your day the way you’d like. My trouble was I tried to cram so much in one day. Here was the plan:1. I wanted to get up and work on some products and marketing.2. I wanted to make the kids pancakes and be the best mom!3. I wanted some self-pampering and get my nails done.4. Pick up my youngest from pre-school and show him an amazing time.5. Do groceries.6. Clean the van.7. Clean my house so that it’s immaculate.8. […]
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How Do You Do It all? How do you do it well?
If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business. You likely find yourself talking yourself out of it. You have questions like “How do you do it all?” “How do you do it well?”
Well, at least that was the case for me. It took me several years to get started and it’s not like my responsibilities in life lessened. If anything it increased.
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Dear mom, I get it now.
I get it now… Why when we were little, you seldom bought anything new for yourself — your children, on the other hand, always seem to have what they need. I get why you taught us to appreciate what we have, to work smart, and be wise with our money. I get why there seems to always be a piece of cake for me and why you pretend you didn’t need it. I get why you instilled in us the importance of prayer and faith in God, especially when raising a family. For this and many more, thank you! What […]
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Easter Egg Hunt – Free Printables and Ideas
Grab editable printables featuring decorated Easter Egg illustrations and check out the collection from our shop. Purchase paper plates, napkins, banners with this design.
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Exclusive for Pottery Barn Kids – Adventure Awaits Vintage Airplane by Lorena Depante
I was waiting for my café latte at a Starbucks when I saw a water bottle featured on their shelf. I picked it up and saw that it was by an artist. I looked up and the whole shelf was filled with more beautiful art.
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Our fourth child was a Surprise
Many emotions come with an unexpected pregnancy. I came from a family with three children, so I suppose in my mind I would stop having children after three.
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The Disney Brand
We’re going to Disney World!! Every time I say that to people, there’s an automatic twinkle in their eyes. It’s not uncommon for them to say “You’re ALL going to love it!”. Then they get excited and start to share their own cherished childhood memories about the place. They rave how Disney has thought of everything and is simply the best. We’re so excited! This family trip means so much more to me. You see, a trip like this has been on my dream board since I started as an entrepreneur. I needed a vision and a goal that inspires […]
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You’ve got the Write Stuff – FREE Valentine’s tag printables
Remember that Valentine’s Simpsons episode? When Ralph Wiggum took the words “I Choo Choose You” to heart from a Valentine’s card. He got it from Lisa and he fell in love with her, even though it was meant to be innocent. Oh I can relate to this episode so much. I recall my first Valentine’s day in Canada. I was in grade school at the time and the teacher said it’s customary to hand out cards to everyone. My mom bought a bunch of cards with pre-made sayings and I didn’t really care what was on them. I just wrote […]
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How I started my online business; as a mother of four, Mompreneur
Mompreneur, who me? When I became a mother I looked at my baby and said to myself, “I want to be there for you, I want to be present in the moments that make you proud“. Since starting LD Design Loft, people have become curious about my experience in this new business. I’ve been interviewed by University Design students, online coaches and it’s a subject during coffee chats with close friends. I’m always so delighted to share my experience since it has been so positive. Don’t get me wrong, I’m no billionaire… well not yet ;). I’m still a work […]
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Do you stare at a bare wall and wonder?
I’ve worked with clients who have asked me to come up with what to put on their boardroom walls and other areas of the office. To get this right I like to take a photo of the space and note the size I’d like to take up for a print. Then I go on my Photoshop software and play around with my ideas. It got me thinking of my walls at home. If you’re like me, I bet you have so many photos sitting on your computer or phone. I’ve been dreaming of a family gallery for a while now […]
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Christmas Crack – Easy Recipe (Saltine CRACKers toffee)
I’m fortunate enough to have a friend who makes the most amazing Christmas treats. Without fail, Andrea begins her baking early and shares it with us each year (mind you… not only at Christmas). Simple enough to make with the kids. She once shared the recipe to a mind blowing dessert that can only be described as “Christmas Crack” (oohh yeah, it’s that good)! To my disbelief, it was pretty easy to make. My girls helped me try it for the first time and topped it with sprinkles and nuts as you can see from the photo below. INGREDIENTS 1 […]
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Top Holiday Designs, Motherhood and Overcoming self-doubt
Zazzle has selected their favorite Christmas card designs this holiday season and I’m excited and honored to be part of this group. I’ve now learned to create for myself but validations of my work is certainly welcome. Hey, I’m a real person and it’s amazing to get noticed and recognized. Designs from these collections have made the Editor’s pick if you want to check them out, here they are below. Minimalist | Modern | Greenery Wreath Christmas by Lorena Depante Minimalist Modern Merry Script by Lorena Depante View the full HolidayZ Design Challenge Winners post here. I’m always […]
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Keeping Family Night Alive
“Why do we have to do this?”, I remember asking my mother as a teenager. That’s because she insisted that every Wednesday night we gathered for Family Nights. I’m the first to admit that at the beginning I thought it was so corny. Being teenagers we felt we had so many other things we wanted to do. Like be on our phones or go out with our friends. At the time there was a lot of resistance. I have to give it to my mama for being faithful to having these evenings. Family Night just meant that we […]
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Do you dare to dream?
Some day I’d love to take the whole family on a vacation and see our kids splash in the ocean and play in the sand. Since my youngest was born we haven’t been. Do you have a dream board? Well I do. It hangs on our bathroom wall. I see it every day. This is one of my dreams. I also have other things on there. One in particular jumped at me a few months ago. It was “To give more” We had planned for our family vacation in October for our 10th anniversary but it seemed like it wasn’t […]
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First Day of Kindergarten – how I really feel.
I told a friend that I was emotional when my third child entered kindergarten a few days ago. He had this surprised look in his face as if to say… “Really?! Shouldn’t you be used to it by now” Maybe I should be, and maybe I could avoid feeling emotional. Truthfully, I don’t want to. I join the other mothers that want to feel, because I get to relive and remember the times my baby needed me. They all enter the big world with different readiness. And we are fearful how they will adjust to all the changes. I mean for […]
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First day of school – How to make it fun.
Oh I’m not gonna sit here and pretend that the first day of school is super fun! But there are ways that I have found over the years to help prepare us. When it was time to send our third child to kindergarten, we had him in pre-school activities to expose him to social settings and routine. I recommend doing that if you can. Making school a big deal — since it is — includes some creative and thoughtful planning. I’ve always admired those who post chalkboard signs. I love the answers children give, it changes over the years and […]
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You Are Loved
“I don’t understand why you don’t want to try, you’re brilliant and amazing!” These words caused my daughter Camryn to cry as if she had no idea. I remember thinking how can she be doubting herself already, she’s so young. Am I failing her?⠀ Our self image is shaped by everything around us. We are so sensitive to the opinions of others and form our own conclusions, not always to the truth. ——– On my 40th birthday I received a gift. The gift of delivering a very important topic to young adults in our Christian community. I say it’s […]
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Baby keepsakes, how much should I do? Tangible vs. digital
It’s so much easier nowadays to snap a shot, document your daily activities right in the palm of your hands. Leaving you with a keepsake all the time. #Poweroftechnology But do you wonder if there’s still a point to printing things or is the cloud enough? When I first got pregnant we received albums and books about baby’s first year. Being a new expectant mother, I dreamt of filling it up, I was fortunate that I kept some thoughts in a journal. When my baby was born I printed a few photos and wrote in the book but any new […]
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Milestone Birthday Party Theme Ideas
Metallic Gold, Boho Chic or Black and White. How does one choose for a milestone birthday?! Planning for a milestone birthday celebration is so fun when you’ve buckled down on a concept. I’ve been busy with themed party invitations, including my own, especially when I turned 40. Yup, I’m a 1978 baby…go ahead… do the math. I’m cool with it. 🙂 A lot goes into party planning, my post titled, 5 Tips to Party Planning may help you with that, check it out by clicking here. In my observation, a well put together party can jump off from these basics: Season, […]
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Safari birthday theme ideas – Drawing for my children.
My youngest is the first to celebrate his birthday every year and I was doodling his favorite animals for a safari theme. He’s my little party animal so it was perfect. I illustrated a tiger at first and expanded to more jungle animals such as the zebra, giraffe, monkey, hippo, lion with monstera leaves. Check out the process video below. I’m pleased to offer my safari designs for you to purchase as part of a new collection from our shop. Customize jungle-themed party supplies, safari t-shirt (for the celebrant, mommy, daddy), banners, decor and more. These easy to use templates […]
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Ideas for a memorable wedding – Tell your story, add that personal touch.
Since we celebrated 10 years of marriage, friends and family have come up to say the usual “Wow, has it been that long?!” The next sentence that follows is what pleases me the most. It warms my heart when they also say, “Your wedding was one of the most memorable and loving events we’ve ever attended”. My husband and I couldn’t ask for more. We hoped that our guests felt the love..I mean, that’s why we were there in the first place. We hoped they also felt included and special to share in the day. We had a few special […]
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DIY Christmas Word Banners
View the tutorial video above. What you will need: Scissors 1 hole punch glue stick pencil yarn or jewelry cord (we used a metallic stretch cord from a dollar store) black bristol board Christmas Word Banner Template* *Access the template and it would be amazing if would consider signing up to our free email newsletter. Click here. By providing your information you confirm you have read & agree to our Privacy + Terms. Step 5: Punch holes on the top left and top right corners of the flag. If you like this post we hope you share it with your friends.
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This could be the start of a love for writing.
In grade 6 I had the most wonderful teacher, her name was Mrs. Stewart. One thing I recall was how she got us writing in our own journals. She wrote back encouraging fun notes, and rewarded us with cool unique stickers. Bubble gum scented, glittery and even fuzzy animal ones too. Stickers are LIFE don’t you know! As a teenager I came across that grade 6 journal and started writing for myself this time. I found it brought dreams and goals to life, it helped me visualize reflections and insights that I never knew I had. Believe me when I […]
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5 Tips to party planning – a NEW perspective
I remember party planning at home for our first born. I felt so exhausted and overwhelmed. Being new to hosting parties at the time I recall the anxiety to please everyone, the worry of making everything perfect. Then on the day of the party, my daughter got the stomach flu, she was miserable and it really put things into perspective for me. ‘What was this for again?’ I look back at that event now and learned that it didn’t have to feel that way. It’s really just my approach that has shifted and if you can get anything out of […]
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Room To Share
Childhood memories built here. (Create personalized wall art. – encourage sisterhood) As I stood outside my two daughters’ shared bedroom I was excited that I’ve finally finished reorganizing their space. I suppose I can tell you that the cute little things were gifts from generous family and friends purchased from Potterybarn Kids, HomeSense and the likes, but the room has a different story to share. It reminded me of something a lot more significant. I’m the middle child and the only daughter, I loved growing up with brothers. I knew about comic books, sports, wrestling, superheroes and Nintendo but a part […]
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