Reflections 2010

We can't wait to see you

2010-05-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

We're getting ready for the crop tomorrow and can't wait to see you!

They are ready!!!!

2010-05-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

You've got to check out all the BEAUTIFUL pictures from the weekend. Ben has made it so easy for you to order prints, gifts and even really cool trading cards. LOVE the trading cards. Ben got so many great pictures of the details and the people. I still can't believe that he got so many good shots and was hardly noticed while doing it!

Thank You!!!

2010-05-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all our wonderful attendees. We hope you all felt very spoiled!

Thank you to all our fantastic teachers. You are all so talented!
Thank you to Mother Nature. The weather was perfect!

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers. You worked so hard and we couldn't have done it without you!
.
We will have more recaps, photos and a link to all our wonderful photographer, Ben's photo's shortly!
xoxox!!!

Isle Carnival

2010-04-29T02:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Can you believe Reflections is here!?! We can't and we especially can't believe we get to see all of you in a few more hours!

A few vendors from the Isle Carnival have requested cash or check as their preferred method of payment so we wanted to pass that tidbit of information on to all of you. Also, for the Isle Carnival you should bring a small scrapbook tool kit with you that contains a pair of scissors, a tape runner and some glue dots.

We are so lucky again this year to have some amazing vendors. Sally Balistere with Dare You Say It, Daniella Costa with The Art Life and Punkey Sprouts, just to name a few more.

And for our Make N Takes we are equally lucky! We are fortunate enough to have Suzy Plantamura back along with Alice Carmen and Jamie Ko! Good times!!

See you soon!

ONE MORE SLEEP!

2010-04-28T12:19:00.001-07:00

Ok, two if you don't get in until Friday, but who else is SUPER EXCITED about our weekend REFLECTIONS ?! I am over the moon to meet/see all of you and reconnect with old friends and make some new ones! I'm also super excited and honored to be teaching along with the amazing Elizabeth Kartchner, Kelly Purkey, Maggie Holmes, Katie Watson, Debbie Campos and Danielle Flanders!

I thought I'd post a few sneak peaks of my layouts for my class. We'll be doing 3 single page layouts and 1 double page. It'll be jam packed but tons of fun!

And for those of you going and wanting to get a little head start, here is what I would like my students to bring for this class:
Photos for the layouts -
Layout 1 - 1 VERTICAL 4x6 photo - SUNSHINE/SONSHINE theme (lt. blue, pink, yellows)
Layout 2 - 2 VERTICAL 4x6 photos - ANY Theme (YOU) (kelly green, pink, cream, little brown)
Layout 3 - 1 HORIZONTAL 4x6 photo, 2 VERTICAL 4x6 photos - Birthday Theme (lt. blue, pink, yellow)
Layout 4 - 1 VERTICAL 5x7 photo - I Wish Theme (orange, cream, kelly green)

Tape Runner, Glue Dots, Foam Dots
Trimmer or Craft Knife/mat
1" circle punch (VERY IMPORTANT)
Fine tipped scissors
Corner Rounder
Small Scallop Scissors AND scallop border punch
Crop-a-dile OR 1/8" hole punch
Paper Piercer
Rub-on Roller tool
Ruler
Brown Journaling pen (Zig)
Pencil
White Opaque Pen
Coordinating chalk inks (optional as desired)

I can't wait to see you all there!
xoxo,
k

Sneak Peeks from Kelly

2010-04-27T13:43:00.001-07:00

hi everyone!

it's kelly purkey here and can't tell you how excited i am that we are getting SO close to reflections! it's like counting down to christmas for me. i wanted to share some sneak peeks of the layouts we'll be putting together in my class...the class will be five 12x12 layouts using some of my favorite products and lots of fun, bright colors... including some fun heat embossing with gorgeous hero arts stamps.

looking forward to meeting everyone for an amazing weekend! see you soon!!!

Art As Life

2010-04-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

These past few days I've been posting peeks on my blog "art as Life", of my project for the class I will be teaching this weekend :)

inspired by art, life and pretty things...
i am really excited about the class I cannot wait to meet you all :)

xo
-debee
belladrummer

Home Sweet Home

2010-04-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

.... is the title of the mini album we will be creating in my class and I am so excited to show you a little bit of it today! Everything is finally complete and products are being shipped and kitted as we speak! So fun!!

You can see the cover here along with bits and pieces of the other pages that are peeking out from underneath. As per usual "Maggie" style there is lots of color, some misting and lots of eclectic embellishments all meshed together! Can't wait to see you all in class! We are going to have a blast!!

P.S. Let's not forget to thank my class sponsors:

Her.... Who is She?

2010-04-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hi all, this is Katie Watson! Counting down the days until Reflections starts! I am getting excited and hope you are also!

In my class, we will be exploring YOU. I used my book as more of a picture journal, I filled it with little tidbits that seem to represent who I am.

I'm pretty simple, well not if you ask my husband...but he won't be taking the class so I can be who I want to be. After all it's my album....which is exactly the point.

This album is yours. You may do with it however you like. You may record your deepest loves or simply record the little things that bring a smile to your face. We are all made up of multiple layers and sometimes we want to share the deep dramatic parts and sometimes we are only in the mood for light happy conversations. That is the same with this book. Let it speak, "You"! Whatever you want to share is up to you.

We will be using lots of fun Goodies from Maya Road, October Afternoon, Studio Calico, Lily Bee, Kenner Road and some real Vintage Goodies.

We will also be learning a really easy fun chippy paint technique using the new Maya Resist!

I used all wallet sized photos. Most of them I did however crop down a bit as I went. So bring about 18 wallet size pictures (I used mostly portrait orientated photos and a few landscape) that have a bit of cropping room. Or, if you prefer you may add your photos later. I know that some people like having lots of time to think, journal and embellish and hold off on the photo part for after class. That is fine also, you will leave with pictures of every page in my album and will have learned every technique.

Hope to see you soon!

~Katie

bits of my class

2010-04-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, it's Elizabeth Kartchner here, just wanted to share some pictures for my class "Bits of Us."

I'm really excited about teaching this class that will focus on layering different elements & creative play. Including Shimmerz spray ink with masks & American Crafts embossing powders.

Also, bits of us refers to the canvas pockets which are my favorite part of the album. It's where you can include keepsakes or memorabilia. For example, love notes or sweet messages & movie tickets. are a really cute addition. Take this opportunity to tell someone something that you've been meaning to and tuck it into the pocket.

Think about what you want your album to focus on... maybe it's "bits of me" or maybe it's about a friend, mother, children, grandmother, pet...

I am filling one of the pockets for each of my girls with a note from me, small drawings from them, movie tickets, mini photos, tags, etc.

So start gathering and saving keepsakes! Can't wait until Reflections-it's going to be a blast!

PS Photo recommendations:

Two 2.5"x2.5" photos
Three vertical 3.5" x 5" photos

Two 1.5"x1.5" photos

One 3" x 4" vertical photo

Ready for Some Homework???

2010-04-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!!

Are you excited? Are you ready for a weekend of creating and fun???

We are compiling a nice little check off list for you of what you need to bring (don’t worry-not too much). We thought you might want to start gathering your favorite pictures for Danielle’s class. Here is what she suggests-

I used 8 wallets, 1 4x6” vertical and 4 tiny photos, but you can fit a lot more than that if you’d like. We have 14 pages to fill up. Instead of the wallets, you can also bring 4x6’s and cut them down in class. The theme is “life moments”, so bring any favorite moments/photos you love of your family or loved ones. They don't have to be from a related event. Just random photos are fine. I love to scrap my favorite photos, but sometimes they are just random and don't have a story behind them. Bring some close up shots and some far away shots for cropping. Mine are mostly black and white, but I do have a few color ones. The colors we will be using are white, green, yellow, brown, black and little touch of red.

You will receive an email on Monday that has supply list, photo lists and all the info you need for the weekend.

Have a wonderful day!

Crocheted flowers?

2010-04-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hello there, Danielle here with another little peek for you of my class. I will be showing you how to make these adorable little "crocheted" flowers. And no! We will not be crocheting! I wish I knew how, but I don't. These are super easy and fun, can't wait to show you! Our book will focus on life moments, any of your favorite moments you want to cherish. They do not have to be related. So bring several wallet sized photos of your loved ones (or 4x6's that you can cut down a bit). Whether you have children, grandchildren, or no children at all, this book is perfect for those photos of people in your lives whom you cherish. Our book will have yellows and greens, and warm, homey, neutral colors. Take a peek:

See you in a couple of weeks!
XO,
Danielle

hello there :)

2010-04-05T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hey it's Debee. I've got my spray can ready for this years Reflections event :) I'm here to challenge you and your inner artist! Are you ready to spray paint something!? ( no worries, no graffiti on the walls, just paper * wink*) Are you wanting some new sewing skills? ( just the basics and we're sewing on paper. Easy Peasy! *smiles*) Bring your Can-Do-Attitude and we will learn new ways of Art in scrapbooking. It's gonna be fun!

I've got some yummy Hambly, Sweet twine, Lovely MAMBI papers ( specially designed by me with some spray paint already on it! ), handmade lovin' from my little ETSY shop, Belladrummer and more of my favorite scrapbooking products. Get ready to get your creative self sprayin' & sewin' rockin' some serious good times.

xo
-d

An Easter Treat for you!

2010-04-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

Katie Watson has posted a sneak of her project and talks about it a bit. Check out her blog to read more about it!
We hope you all had a wonderful Sunday.

Home Sweet Home

2010-04-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hi there everyone! I am excited to pop in and share a bit about my project today! I can't wait to go back to the Reflections event again this year! I am hoping to see a lot of familiar faces from last year!! I'm also super excited about the teacher line up this year! It is not only going to be a blast but so inspirational! I only wish I could be a student and take the other classes as well!!

Anyway, I want to get you thinking about your project for my class. Similar to last year we will be creating a mini album but it is going to be all about your homes this year. Think about your home and what you love about your home. You may want to start taking some pictures of your home and jotting down some thoughts and feelings as well. There will be lots of room to add in pictures and journaling and it would be fun to have them ready to go!

We have been making some changes around our home this last month and I am so excited to take pictures of them and include them in my book! I have been wanting to paint our cabinets since we moved in (4 years ago) and we finally had it done! I am beyond happy with the results and the other changes that have happened as well. Lots of them are small and simple but sometimes it is just those little things that can freshen it all up and make us excited about our homes again! You are probably wondering what it all looks like... but I am going to leave you hanging! I am still putting everything back together and will get pictures taken as soon as it is all done! Sheesh, I have a lot to do this week to get it ready and done! :)

We will also be playing around with paint and mists and I can't wait to show you some fun techniques and things I have been doing lately! It is always more fun when we get our hands a little dirty right? :) So far my product line up includes American Crafts, Crate Paper, Bella Blvd and Maya Road! So exciting right? I am still working on finalizing my products but as soon as I do, I will be back with some peeks at what is in store. You know that my eclectic style will guarantee a fun and colorful mix of products and I can't wait to see it all come together!

Well, that's it for me today. I know that I have sort of been a tease in giving lots of hints without actually revealing any pics! Sorry!! :) Check back for more peeks soon!!

Maggie

Hi!

2010-03-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

Hi ladies!

It's Elizabeth Kartchner here... or you can call me Liz or Lizzy. :)

Reflections is going to be such a fabulous event and I am thrilled to be teaching. How fun that Kelly Purkey is teaching now too?! She's so talented and a great teacher.

I'm looking forward to meeting all of you ladies! Also the warm weather sounds heavenly. I may need to make a quick stop to the beach. How warm is it this time of year?

To give you some tidbits about my class it is going to be a fun layout class. We'll be using Shimmerz Paints new product... Shimmerz Vibez. It's colorful spray shimmer.

You might see some of my Dear Lizzy products mixed in there too... :)

Can't wait! See you soon...

We are just giddy....

2010-03-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

We are so pleased to announce that the final addition to the Reflections 2010 line up is Kelly Purkey. Whoo hooo! Karen and I just love her work. It's soooo fun! She has a great way of documenting all the little loves that make up your life.

Let the count down begin! In one month we will be beachside, ready for the ultimate girls weekend!!

Isn't spring rejuvenating?

2010-03-22T22:40:00.000-07:00

Hi, Danielle here! I'm so thrilled to be coming to California and VERY honored to be a part of this event! I haven't been to California since I was about 12, so I'm eagerly anticipating the day when I get to hop on that plane and come visit and meet you all. Not to mention, I bet it's a whole lot warmer there than it is here in New York!*smile*

Spring is finally here, and I can't wait to bring life to my lawn again, plant flowers and add color everywhere! I've been busily creating ~ inspired by a fresh, springy color palette of greens, blues and yellows. (Yellow is my favorite right now.) Here is a little shabby peek for you....shhhh, don't tell!

After this class, I hope you will leave rejuvenated and excited to think beyond the box with your supplies. Please let me know if there is anything you'd love to learn from me, and I will incorporate it in!

See you soon!
Danielle

A Good Cause- A Note From Elena

2010-03-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies!

I am so excited that Scrapbook Royalty has been asked back for this wonderful

event! We will be hosting a Silent Auction to raise money for Karen's charity of

choice which is the American Heart Association. We would love your support by

donated items to the auction. Mostly we are interested in Handmade items. They

are priceless and only another crafter knows how valuable they are!

Please email me if you would like to contribute to the auction we can prepare a bid sheet for you as well as a donation receipt if you would like one..

If you would like to know more about Scrapbook Royalty please visit our

website.... http://www.scrapbookroyalty.org/

See you all soon!

Elena

I'm READY!

2010-03-18T19:13:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, my new orange bargain flats really made me happy and thinking spring today, but I promise you, I can't wait to fling them off and bury my toes in the sand of the O.C.!

Hi, all! I'm Kelly Goree and I'm so excited and very lucky to be one of your instructors at the fabulous event Susan and Karen are putting together! I don't know about you, but I'm counting down the days already! (It's just 43 for those wondering!) In the mean time, I'm busy at work creating a one-of-a-kind class that I can't wait to share more about. For now let me just say it's going to be a power-packed layout class that will feature some fun techniques, some of my favorite tips and tricks and some incredible product.

I look forward to popping in here a bit more to with more details as well as to share some sneak peeks very soon! Until then, only 42 more sleeps until we meet!

xoxo,
Kelly

And the newest teacher is....

2010-03-17T23:10:00.000-07:00

Debee Campos!!

We are so excited to have this funky, cute, talented girl as one of our teachers. Be sure to bookmark her blog. It's just eye candy!

Our Favorite Fiskateer....

2010-03-16T00:17:00.000-07:00

No offense to any other Fiskateers out there but really, is there a sweeter Fiskateer than Cheryl Waters? I think not! Not only is she a doll but she is oh so talented. We are so happy that she is going to be doing a fantastic make and take for us. She's going to be breaking out all kinds of tools and techniques. Can you wait to see what she does with these??? Thank you GCD for sponsoring Cheryl's make and take. You girls are going to love it!

We have a new teacher....

2010-03-15T00:07:00.000-07:00

....Can you guess who????

Scrapbooking Math

2010-02-24T22:23:00.000-08:00

What do you get when you add this

plus this

pluse a little of this

and this?

You get DANIELLE FLANDERS! We are just thrilled to announce that Danielle will be teaching at Reflections!
You probably have seen her work in Paper Crafts , Scrapbook Trends, and Memory Makers Magazine. She is currently on the design teams for Jenni Bowlin, Pink Paislee, Tattered Angels and more. You can get to know her better on her blog. She is so full of talent and we are so happy that she is teaching!

California Dreaming

2010-02-22T10:57:00.000-08:00

Have you booked your room yet?

You seriously will be bummed if you don't stay.

We have managed to secure a special rate of only $139 per night for the hotel. In order to get this rate you can call the hotel direct, (949) 729-1234 or book your stay via the internet, http://newportbeach.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp. Use this code, G-SCRI to get the special Reflections 2010 pricing.

I have a shout out to Viki from Lake Havasu. Hi Viki. You sent me a message asking if there were any spots available. There are a few left. Your email keeps bouncing back so I wanted to let you know :) If anyone knows Viki please let her know. Thanks so much!
Have a great day. We'll see you soon!!

You Better Be Quick!

2010-02-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Kartchner's new Dear Lizzy Line is in at the Oasis!!! Did you know you can order what you want on line and when you go to the store it will be waiting for you? Isn't that cool? Of course, if you are out of town they will ship it to you too.

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2010-02-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

CHA Winter is over and now the FUN begins! Our designers have been waiting for all the new releases so they can start CREATING new projects for REFLECTIONS!
Oh happy day!

Here is a little snippit of some of the work we found around CHA from our super talented instructors!

From Katie Watson at the Maya Road booth-

Mrs. Elizabeth Kartchner at her own special spot at American Crafts. Hmm, I wonder if she will be using any Dear Lizzy in her class project ;)

Kelly Goree's super cute layout at Basic Grey

We're still going through pictures...we will post more soon!

Do you love a great deal?

2010-01-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

We do!! Today I was at Costco and guess what they had? Discounted Hyatt gift cards. How cool is that!?! So on top of getting the room at almost half price you can now pay for it with a gift card and save another 20%. In "Susan math" that means it's just about free :)!!

. Online: Visit www.newportbeach.hyatt.comand enter G-SCRI in the "Group/Corporate #" box. Remember, the Reflections price is only $139. Stay and have fun with us!!

A Sweet Announcement!

2010-01-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

We are so excited to tell you that we will be offering an extra "a la carte" class with the super talented and very sweet, Stephanie Ackerman. If you attended Reflections last year you know she is a girl who gets it done and makes it FUN! She was one of our fabulous teachers and was determined that everyone would leave with a finished product and they did! We just love her so much and we know you do too so she was gracious enough to do a little bonus class for us. The class will be $30. On Thursday evening you can register, hop on over to Steph's class and then still do the getting ready crop. If you are interested in taking Stephanie's class please email us and let us know.

Happy 2010!

2009-12-31T23:08:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! Karen and I hope 2010 is the best ever. We are going to make sure Reflections 2010 is the best ever!!!

How Does Katie Watson Spend the Holidays?

2009-12-20T07:48:00.000-08:00

What is your favorite part of the holiday season?
Decorating for sure! I love to see how excited the kids get when we bring in the Christmas boxes to be unpacked...they oooh and aaahhhh over every thing as they unpack it.

Do you make homemade presents for people?

Yes, every year. I love giving homemade presents for people. If I had a ton of money I would buy the people I love extravagant gifts that were perfect for them but I don't...so instead of giving them some cheap present...I spend that money on supplies and create something special for them. It means much more to them anyway.

What’s your favorite holiday indulgence?
Drinking Baily's and Hot Chocolate with Christmas Music playing in the background.

What are you hoping to find in your stocking?
New makeup.......it won't happen because Santa has no idea how to buy makeup but if I could have anything, it would be new, department store makeup. All in my colors.

What scrap supplies are you drooling over this season?

The Maya Road Chandelier Beads and October Afternoon's Farm Fresh line.

Be sure to check out Katie's blog and see all the beautiful things she does. AMAZING!!

How Does Kelly Goree Spend the Holidays?

2009-12-13T12:37:00.000-08:00

What is your favorite part of the holiday season?
Traditions. Hand down. We have quite a few of them from building a gingerbread house to baking cookies to the Christmas Tree Squirrel (A husband invented concept!) and I look forward to them all year long and the kids do, too! It's what makes the holidays complete for me.

Do you make homemade presents for people?
I'v never really "crafted" presents for people but I often do photographic gifts and absolutely love it. It might be a photo session, photo book, portraits of their kids (or mine) or an art piece that I designed, but it always comes from the heart. I love seeing how they turn out and what my friends and family think of them.

What’s your favorite holiday indulgence?
Mmmm....that's a hard one. When I was a kid it was definitely my grandmother's homemade fudge. It was so rich and packed full of nuts and truly sinful! Now it's more likely to be watching sappy holiday movies night after night and driving my poor husband crazy with them!

What are you hoping to find in your stocking?
A Tamron 18-270mm lens. It'll fit, I've already checked and Santa, I've been a VERY good girl this year!

What scrap supplies are you drooling over this season?
I am really wanting a Cuttlebug. Jen McGuire put it in my head with how incredibly she uses the embossing folders for her gorgeous cards and I. must. have. one. It's next on my scrappy list!

good stuff!

2009-12-07T22:42:00.000-08:00

Last night we had a little party at our house and one of my friends brought a hostess gift. After the party was over and we were cleaning up I remembered and ran over to open it. It was the most thoughtful gift- Liz's book! It was especially thoughtful because my friend isn't even a scrapbooker. She remembered I wanted it and went to Barnes and Noble and got it for me. Isn't that sweet?

I was totally tired but I had to take a peek. And then....I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN! Total goodness. I'm even more excited that she is coming to teach at Reflections!

Fun girls!

2009-11-13T13:40:00.000-08:00

Last week Karen and I got to have some creative fun in Salt Lake City. We were super excited that Elizabeth Karchner agreed to teach at Reflections but after meeting her in person we are even more excited!! She is creative, fun, sweet and just the cutest girl you will ever meet. You are going to LOVE her!!

We were so happy to meet up with Haley from Sassafras Lass. She is such a sweetie and oh so much fun!! Last year Sassafras was such a huge sponsor and so supportive of Reflections. Haley and Rebecca even came to the event! This year we are thrilled to announce that they will be a sponsor again. Don't be surprised if they are sitting next to you in a class either :)

I was practicing my photography skills on Haley. Isn't this picture adorable!?! Love it!

We have people registering from all over the world. Please leave a comment as to where you are coming from. I will have to see if I can figure out how to add one of those maps to the sidebar. We can't wait to meet all of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-10T23:14:00.000-08:00

I was reading Kelly Goree's blog and just got so inpired. She had the most beautiful Thanksgiving cards. Wouldn't you just love to receive one of these? I know I would!

Reflections 2010!!

2009-10-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to announce the opening of registration for Reflections 2010! It’s so exciting to be opening registration earlier this year because it allows us to offer you an excellent payment option. We’ll explain all those details in just a moment. First, let's go over some of the finer points of Reflections 2010!

We’ve officially secured the dates! Reflections 2010 will be on April 30th – May 2, 2010 with registration beginning on Thursday, April 29, 2010

Here’s the full scoop… During your 3 day extravaganza you will be treated to:

• 3 full days of classes taught by 7 amazing designers
• 3 hour long, technique packed classes
• Breakfast provided - Friday
• Lunch provided - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
• 'Make and takes'
• Isle Carnival
• A special event on Saturday night
• Kick-off Crop Thursday night
• Crop rooms open until midnight on Friday and Saturday
Plus lots and lots of surprises along the way!

The other great news… Our Reflections 2010 Payment Plan!

The pricing for Reflections 2010 is only $459, which includes all the great goodies listed above! You won’t need to pay extra for anything. You get it all! Plus, if you pay in full you will receive an exclusive project designed just for you!

To allow all of you to attend Reflections 2010 we are offing you this amazing payment option. For all new attendees of Reflections the monthly payment works out to only $69 a month! (Pricing reflects billing beginning during October and is prorated thereafter with final payment due at event.)

Now for the news we are most ecstatic about… The line up of teachers we have thus far:

Kelly Goree
Maggie Holmes – (Back by popular demand!)
Elizabeth Kartchner -
Katie Watson -

If you have any questions please contact us at info@reflectionsevent.com
Our main site is in the process of being updated but we couldn't wait any longer to share the news with you!

A Few More Pictures from the Crop

2009-07-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

The Fun Continues

2009-07-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

It has been so much fun continuing the fun with our Reflections group! This weekend we had a post Reflections crop so people could stay motivated to finish their projects. (Well, it's also a good excuse to get together)

We had an adorable make and take (if you have a picture will you please send it to me?). It was a cute house complete with a picket fence and a flower bed. We used maya mist to make them the color of our choice. Colette got a bit crazy with it ;)

Alex, Diana, Lupita, Aimee, and Annette were all working hard!

Here's Shannon working on her house.

And no crop would be complete without some fresh Sprinkles cupcakes!

Thanks girls for a wonderful day! Star was the first one to arrive and the last to leave. 15 hours of scrappin!!
We can't wait until Reflections 2010!!

All good things must come to an end...

2009-05-04T21:56:00.000-07:00

For months we thought the day would never arrive and now it's hard to believe that it's over...

We hope that everyone who attended Reflections this year had as much fun as we had planning and putting it together for you.

There are many things that had to come together to make an event like this successful and we want to make sure that we let everyone know how much we acknowledge and appreciate them.

A big 'Thank You' goes out to...

Our instructors, for all the talent and love for the art they brought with them. This event wouldn't have been the same without their involvement and we can't thank them enough.

Our vendors, who believed in us enough to contribute both their time and product to ensure everyone came away with something special.

The Newport Hyatt, for extending their hospitality to us and for providing a beautiful location for our inaugural event.

And above all - our attendees. We feel honored that you took the time to join us and share in our vision. More than anything, we're grateful that you gave us a chance to contribute something to your love of scrapbooking. Our promise to you is that we'll work tirelessly to make sure that each event outshines the one before.

Finally, we'd like to extend a special thank you to the many "Friends of Reflections" who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make things run smoothly, as well as providing help and support throughout the event.

We are already beginning the plans for next year's event and we're looking forward to seeing you all again and sharing in the fun and excitement of everyone's creative process.

Stay tuned to our blog for updates about our upcoming crop, pictures from this year's event and information about next year's event as we begin to make announcements.

Cheers,
Susan & Karen

23 hours, 49 minutes...and counting!

2009-04-30T00:09:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! Tomorrow is the big day! We can’t believe it! If you could see the store right now you would all be giddy with excitement! There is so much going on and so many busy hands making it all happen. Thank you to each and everyone of you!
Since we are a day away we want to send a quick note regarding what to bring and how much of it to bring. =)
For the Isle Carnival Make N Take portion you will only need very basic supplies: Tape Adhesive, scissors and a small paper trimmer. That’s it. =) Oh, and a festive, spunky disposition!
For the event if we could keep rolling totes to a minimum that would be great. We suggest your basic tool box and an over the shoulder bag to carry your projects.
Okay, now that we’ve covered that we would like to introduce you to a very special person who will be a vendor at the Isle Carnival.
Here she is to introduce herself – Please be sure to stop by to see her work!
My name is Kathy Simonetta, and I’m seventeen years old. Just you’re typical teen, and by typical I mean typical Jonas-Brother-loving (yes I did say the Jonas Brothers), accident- prone, romantic-at-heart, teenager. I attend Brea Olinda High School and I’m in the eleventh grade. I have one sister who I live with. Despite what it may seem like, my life hasn’t always been this picture perfect. My background and childhood definitely had its ups and downs and so has my present. My mom became really sick and it was my sister who really stepped up and literally supports me now and everything I do, I’m not sure that I’d be anywhere if it wasn’t for her.

Art is something that has consumed my life in such a way that – if I were to be separated from it – I would never, ever be the same; a beautiful side to my personality would wilt, simply die without it. I can say with assurance, that it is the one thing nobody has ever had to correct me on, which is big when most of a kid’s life is spent being told no. If I had to describe what I do I would say my art is very realistic with a symbolic kind of twist, which in a way, contorts its realism. Meaning, that all my art has symbolism in it. I believe in looking at things from as many perspectives as possible; the more obscure, the better. I am beyond amazed at how many people have responded to my pieces being out there.

Never once did I dream that it would ever be as big as it’s getting to be. I will never loose sight of the root and heart of my art, and I promise that I will never take what everyone has given me for granted. My ultimate goal is to impact someone’s life in the same way that my friends and family have impacted me. If I can do that – with art especially – than I will know that I have not wasted my gift.
Thank You to everyone, including my sister, Karen Erickson, my friends, my second family the Sandovals, and everyone who saw my art for what it was, and not my age.

“...those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act out their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible...” – unknown

"my intention as an artist is to never let a good idea die. the difference between an artist, of any kind, and a regular person, of the regular kind, is that an artist will never let go of something, and a person will. art feeds on festering emotion” - unknown

sneak peek!

2009-04-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

of the cover of the book that we'll be making together in my class! my husband and i are excited to roam around our beautiful hotel with you, snapping away photos and discussing photography along the way! when we get back to the class, i will help you put together this book with some of my favorite supplies!
-hero arts
-bella blvd
-heidi grace
-my little shoebox
-making memories
-cosmo cricket
-creative cafe
let me know if you have any questions! and if you wanted to pop in and answer the little photo post from a few weeks ago, please do, i will still check it :)
thanks!
Jamie

Four Days and Counting....

2009-04-26T15:59:00.001-07:00

and I'll be in California! I'm getting so excited to travel to Newport beach, meet everyone, and do a little scrapbooking!

I've had a couple questions about my class projects, so I thought I'd share the answers here in case anyone else was wondering too.

Yes, you could easily complete the layouts without photos if you wanted to save them for an upcoming occasion.

Yes, the designs could easily be converted to 8.5" x 11" size. Or any size!

Any other questions? I'd be glad to help you prepare!

I cropped the photos of my projects a little to share some more peeks.....

Can't wait to meet everyone! Hope these help you decide on photos and get you pumped up to make some fun layouts!

Shannon Tidwell

shannontidwell@mac.com

I am....

2009-04-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

"I am...." is the title of the mini album that I will be teaching at Reflections.

And while I don't want to give it all away right now...

I am.... excited to show you a few more sneak peeks.

And...

I am.... excited to share with you a few of my favorite products/tools that we will be using in my class!

And most of all....

I am.... super excited to be there next week with all of you!!

We are going to have soooooo much fun!! I can't wait!!

Check..check..

2009-04-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

Kits are 99% done...check

Books are "zuttered"....check

Cookies baked...not yet!

Hello Reflections...This time next week,

I will be teaching,

you will be creating and

all will be well.

I officially finished kitting about an hour ago..well, with a few last minute things to do...and I wanted to give a big THANK YOU shout out to Bazzill Basics, EKSuccess/Martha Stewart and Zutter for helping me create such a wonderful project!

I also want to suggest to those of you who can to make sure and join me at the "Get Ready Crop" on Thursday night...In fact, I highly suggest that you do...we will be using LOTS of Glossy Accents on the embellishments for this project, and if you come on Thursday night...then on Friday, they will be all dry and ready to add to your project!!!

see you in FIVE days....

Fun...

2009-04-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hello. Hello.
Just wanted to drop in here to tell you guys how excited I am that Reflections is less than two weeks away!!! Can you believe the class we've been waiting for for the last year (seems like) is just around the corner?! YAY! It's going to be so much fun I can hardly stand it. :) My projects are done and the anticipation is just building up. So to keep your excitement flowing I have a few sneaks today. I certainly hope you like what you see. I can't stop saying how much fun I had creating the projects for my class. I am thrilled to be able to share how to recreate them.

I've had a few emails about my class theme and the photo strip photos, so I thought it would be best to share a photo of what I did. The theme will be reflecting on ourselves. Make sure your pictures are of you. For more details see THIS POST
Here my example...

And one more sneak just for fun!

Can't wait to meet all of you wonderful ladies!
xoxoxoxo
Mara-May*

Yesterday's Travels

2009-04-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

Introducing "Yesterday's Travels", a twelve page mini album devoted to details and a vast array of new techniques and ideas. It's time to get started on "Yesterday's Travels", so take a moment and select the vacation you want to share..the journey will soon begin at Reflections '09. Two weeks and counting....

Artistic Bliss at Reflection's Isle Carnival

2009-04-19T15:22:00.000-07:00

We can't believe that in less than two weeks it will be time for Reflections! We are so excited and if the weather is anything like it is this weekend it will be pure BLISS. Speaking of bliss, we wanted to introduct you to Kim Caldwell. She is the owner of Artistic Bliss and she will selling her hand made, one of a kind totes at our Isle Carnival.

She will have a new summer line out and each one is a limited edition. There will only be 6 of each style made. You are going to love them!

You can find out more about them on her website.

We've Found Paradise

2009-04-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

The countdown is on and we hope you are as excited as we are for Reflections. We were walking the grounds today and really just felt a sense of peace and total relaxation being at the Hyatt. It is such a beautiful place. We hope everyone will really make it a true getaway and stay there. To make it even more special if you are staying at the hotel we will put you in a drawing to win a complimentary dinner for 2 at Sol Restaurant. We hope that even if you are local you will stay at the hotel and really make it a total get a way. Just think of how relaxed you’ll feel if you don’t go home and feel like you have to do laundry, clean up, make lunches, etc. As an incentive for the local girls we are going to have another RAK for staying at the hotel. If you are staying at the hotel any night you will be entered to win a complimentary Sunday brunch for 2. These certificates do not need to be used at the event so you can bring a loved one back for a special night or afternoon out. We have eaten at the restaurant and the food is delicious!

You don’t need to do a thing to be entered except book a room at the Hyatt. We will cross reference our registration with the room registration.
A special room rate has been negotiated for this event with the Newport Hyatt Regency. To get the event pricing of $139 a night, reserve your room today and enter the following code in the Group/Corportate box: G-SCRI

Sol Restaurant
Crisp, airy décor sets the perfect backdrop for the mouth-watering cuisine offered at our signature restaurant, Sol. Dine al fresco under the stars or start your day soaking up the sun in the solarium style dining room of our Newport Beach CA restaurant. Our menu reflects the eclectic mix of cultures in Southern California using the finest in fresh produce to offer inventive dishes with unexpected twists. Join us for a delectable breakfast, satisfying lunch, superb dinner or sumptuous Sunday Brunch and enjoy a dining experience second-to-none in our very versatile restaurant in Newport Beach, CA.

Sol Restaurant - New Dinner Menu

Sunday Brunch
Indulge yourself with a relaxing weekend brunch. For just $24.95, our top-notch chefs will craft a sweet and savory breakfast buffet of dishes including Cinnamon French Toast or Savory Beef Medallions with Rustico Sauce, and of course, a create-your-own omelet station. Linger all morning – it’s just $5 more for unlimited champagne or mimosas.

Sol Restaurant - New Sunday Brunch Menu

Prix Fixe DiningSavor a delicious three-course feast with our $35 prix fix menu option. Enjoy options with each course, including dishes like Seared Crab Cake with Avocado, Tomato Relish and Red Pepper Aioli, Chilean Sea Bass with Red Beet Risotto and of course, a luscious Warm Molten Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Honey Bee ice cream. Each meal also includes a complimentary glass of our signature Robert Mondavi wine, a Hyatt exclusive blend.

2009-04-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

Reflections Retreat is honored to welcome Scrapbook Royalty to our event. Scrapbook Royalty is a non-profit organzation dedicated to raising money and awareness for other charities through unique scrapbooking and crafting events. They will be hosting a silent auction to benefit the American Heart Association on Friday night at the Isle Carnival. Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer among women? Click here for more facts about women and cardiovascular disease. Along with some great auction items that we have collected from manufacturers, we are asking Reflections participants to be a part of this special silent auction by bringing a handmade item for us to auction off. This is optional and everything handmade is welcome! Minibooks, jewelry, pottery, paintings, set of cards, skies the limit! To help us with checking items in, it would be helpful to have a description and value ahead of time. These can be emailed to info@scrapbookroyalty.org. We will prepare auction bidding sheets and assign you a number so that when you arrive, you can just drop your item off. We are happy to take items at the event as well! We know you are all creative souls and we can't wait to see how much we can raise from your "works of heart!" Whoever's item raises the most money will be crowned Queen of Crafts and presented with a Tiara and gift.

photography class input :)

2009-04-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I cannot believe how quick time has gone by! We are so excited to get to Newport already! :)

I have a few questions for you guys who will be in the photography class.
A: Do you shoot manual?
B: Does your camera have manual capabilities?

And if you could rank in order of importance, it will greatly help us:

- composition
-lighting
-learning your camera
-perspective
-post processing

Thank you! If you have any questions, please post them here. Again, we'd love your input. We know that the range will be broad so if we could get an idea of where you're at, it'd help us plan better!
:)

Jamie

Look What Rolled Up ...

2009-04-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

The biggest delivery ever arrived today and it's all for Reflections attendees! Wow! There is no other way to say it except we are beyond excited! ...

Get your camera's out...or dig through your photo boxes!

2009-04-13T23:23:00.000-07:00

Reflections 2009 Student Photo List

Stephanie Ackerman

Photos
2 - photos that can be trimmed to measure 2 ¾ x 3 ¼. (back of page one)
1 - photo trimmed to measure 2 ¾ x 4 (front flap page 2)
3- 4 x 6 photo ( front & back of page 2, trim to fit tag)
1 - 4 ¼ x 2 ½ (Tag page)

Collage – 1- 5 ¾ x 2 ¾
1- 3 ¼ x 3 ¼
1- 2 ½ x 3 ¼
1 - 2 ¼ x 3 (a to z page)
1 - 3 ½ x 5 (back)

Photos for Right Side Flip
1 - 3” x 2 ¼
1 – 2 ¾ x 4
1 – 3 ½ x 3
1 – 3 ½ x 3 ½

Jamie Waters

2x3 photo (color or b/w is fine) of you with camera or you just by yourself.

Christine Middlecamp

Thirty 4" x 6" photos (vertical/horizontal) Think about the order in which you want to tell your story

Maggie Holmes-list coming shortly

Shannon Tidwell

Photos: six 5x7 (at least 2 should be birthday themed, others can be any theme)
You could also substitute two 4x6 photos for a 5x7 if desired. Bring photos that you want to highlight by making a special page for. Colors should go with the new KI Memories Party, Petal Pop and Baby Cakes papers. Mixture of boy and girl photos best, but any will work.

Melissa Phillips no photo's needed.

Mara May Baca

1 - 4x6 landscape Black and white photo of yourself
3 - 3x10 strips of photobooth black and white photos of themselves. Here is a free download to help http://www.sugarplumpaperie.com/2007/09/07/photo-booth-strips/ ... Mara May cropped off the last photo and all three photos on all three strips are the same picture. You can use different ones if they want. :)

Party with Patterned Paper!

2009-04-09T18:10:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone, Shannon Tidwell here! Happy almost Holiday! Hope you have fun plans for the extended weekend. Me....I'm hoping to get a little scrapping done.

I am so excited about the class I've designed for Reflections. If I had to choose one word to describe the layouts....fun. But cheerful would work. Oh, and so would happy. You get the

picture! I love patterns and bright colors and that's exactly what we'll have in this class.

I saw that Susan shared a sneak peek of one of the layouts. Here are a few more...

I don't want to give away too much! Have a great weekend!

Shannon

shannontidwell@mac.com

A Flicker of Fun!

2009-04-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

On Friday, May 1st we will have Isle Carnival. What is Isle Carnival you ask? Well, it's a night of fun! Come dressed in Island attire and enjoy make and takes, a silent auction, some delectable treats, and a vendor faire. And speaking of vendor faires one of our favorite jewelry designers, Debbie Flicker will be there. Beautiful, bright colors and fabulous designs. You can check out more of her work in her etsy shop.

Shannon's Patterned Paper Class

2009-04-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Patterned Paper is what it's all about! This is going to be a entertaining class full of bright colors and wonderful KI Memories Patterned Paper...lots of it! We'll give center stage to the papers and make amazing pages. you will complete six
12"x12" layouts each with fun ideas you can take home and apply to your projects. So, let's put a little color (and pattern) in your life!

2009-04-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

Jennifer, a 2002 Creating Keepsakes Hall of Famer, has been scrapbooking and stamping since about 2002. Her designs and page layouts have been published in Creating Keepsakes magazines and idea books, Scrapbooks Etc., Autumn Leaves "Designing With” books and several other publications. Her work can be seen each month in CK's Tool Time column, where Jennifer shows the many things you can do with one tool or product. She also writes a bi-monthly article for CreatingKeepsakes.com. A book based on these articles, “101 Things To Do With Your Scrapbook Supplies,” was released in June 2007 from Creating Keepsakes.
And avid rubber stamper, she frequently includes stamping techniques in her scrapbook designs. She also contributes design ideas to the Hero Arts catalogs and website.
Jennifer, who left a job as an engineer to scrapbook full time from her home in Cincinnati, also enjoys traveling around the world teaching stamping classes. Her family includes her husband Ken, step-daughters Kay and Audrey, and son, Colin.

We really wanted Jennifer to be part of Reflections and she did too, but due to scheduling conflicts she couldn't make it. BUT, she offered to design a make and take for us and Jamie Waters graciously offered to teach it for her. Jennifer always includes great techniques that can be used over and over again. We know you will learn something you can use over and over again.

Be sure to check out Jennifer's blog for tons of ideas.

Hey Guys!!!

2009-03-31T23:40:00.000-07:00

MaraMay here! :)
I'm so excited to post my little peek today! I think I'm making some of my favorite projects EVER and I'm so happy to be sharing them with all of you who will be at this amazing event!
I think I'm pretty well-known for doing pages of myself. So YES, my class will be totally self indulgent! And guess what the dictionary say this means...
self-indulgent
Adjective
tending to allow oneself to have or do things that one enjoys
self-indulgence n
So basically it's gonna be fun fun fun. Ha
I've picked out tons of stuff that I LOVE to create with... Think bold, think bling, think flowers... Totally. Think. Girly! :)
I think the last project we'll be doing in my class is one not to be expected, but one to be completely loved. I can't wait, and I sure bet you can't either.
Without further adieu... Here's my little peekie poo...

Just one for now, but more from me later!
You guys hang in there... I know it's getting hard waiting for the day to get here, but while you wait go snap some self portraits! Yer gonna need 'em for this class. :)
xoxoxo

A Sneak Peek from Christine Middlecamp

2009-03-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

I know that Summer is prime time for traveling and if you're anything like me, you're still well behind in documenting your travel stories. In my class, we'll be working on creating a medium size mini album devoted to traveling. No matter where you vacationed last year or the year before (I'm really behind), you'll finally have an opportunity to sit down and bring together a series of photos documenting a trip to some place special.

The mini album we'll be working with is a 10" x 5" ring chipboard album from Creative Imaginations. It's a great size album for holding multiple photos and loads of details. As is typical with all my classes, we'll focus on building multi-layered foundations and self-made embellishments. After the class is over, you'll walk away with a treasure trove of technique driven ideas and an album you'll never want to put down.

I look forward to returning to California for the "Reflections" event! In the mean time, stay tuned for more class sneak peeks from me in the coming weeks.

a little help from our friends

2009-03-28T06:23:00.001-07:00

We are so lucky to know Cheryl. She is truely a gem! And if you know her you certainly know what we mean. And if you don't know her you will be the end of Reflections and you will have made a new and wonderful friend. Our wonderful friend is not only going to be doing a make and take on Friday using Fiskars and Cosmo Cricket but also had been our Fiskateer angel helping us get Fiskars as one of our sponsors. Here's a little more about her.

Hello to all . . . I’m Cheryl Waters and I’m thrilled to be a part of ‘Reflections.’ I’m married and a mother to a funny and sweet ten year old daughter, Abigail. I love to spend time with my family, my church family, and friends. I’m a big football fan by inheritance (I have a cousin who plays in the pros). We are definitely a football family.
I work full time in law enforcement. I am blessed to have occasional opportunities in my full time job to share my passion for art. I enjoying spending my spare time working with all kinds of mediums from paper to fabric to canvas. I enjoy teaching paper and altered art mainly in California and Arizona but have traveled throughout the US. I enjoy the many friendships that have been established as a result of teaching and being a participant in the scrapbooking community.
In 2006, I had the blessing of being a part of a groundbreaking movement in which Fiskars (the orange handled scissor company), a brand identity company Brains on Fire, myself and three other gals from different parts of the US were able to begin a community called the Fiskateers. I love this position and currently still serve as a lead Fiskateer. I have enjoyed serving in the past as a member of the creative team at my local scrapbook store for several years and have also enjoyed writing and creating projects for Stampington and Co. (Somerset Home, Somerset Memories – formerly Legacy), as well as Memory Makers books.
I am so grateful for all the wonderful and talented people I have met through this journey called ‘scrapbooking’ and deeply cherish the friendships that have been made along the way.

It’s official!

2009-03-26T22:05:00.000-07:00

We have started to prep for the big event and we are so excited! We’re sure you will all be very pleased with the goodies coming your way. In fact the first surprise should be mailed out soon, so keep your eyes peeled on your mailboxes! (And we mean the old fashion kind of mailbox!)

More Cool Make and Takes by....

2009-03-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Hi, I’m Nora Griffin…basically just an avid scrapbooker who has been ridiculously lucky to get a few cool opportunities like teaching and guest designing. When I’m not trying to make stuff I’m busy attempting to finally be a good college student. I am working to complete bachelor degrees in Sociology and Women’s Studies at Cal State Fullerton. My son McIntosh has newly turned twelve years old, but thankfully still appreciates my sparkling wit because other than that I’m just the annoying person always crying out for him to clean his room. My husband Sean has put up with me and my crazy ideas for nine years now. He seemingly manages to love me despite the fact that it might involve punching out hundreds of patterned paper scalloped circles or painting a room in our house yet again. Other than that I’m boring…things like organizing a cabinet or spreading a ridiculous amount of butter on a piece of sourdough bread makes me happy…but it’s the little things in life, right?

a sneak peek from Maggie Holmes

2009-03-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

How often do you scrapbook about you? If you are like me, then you don’t do it often enough, if ever at all! And if you are like me you sometimes feel intimidated about dedicating an entire layout to the topic of “you”! Well, I have come up with a solution — the “I am...” mini album. This is a mini album/journal dedicated to you, and in it you will find a ton of journaling prompts that will help you discover and document what makes you unique and fabulous and well.... YOU! This smaller format takes away the intimidation and allows you to complete the journal/album a bit at a time... Whenever you want you can just pick it up and flip to one of the prompts and go for it! You can simply fill in the journaling and be done, or you can take it a step further and add in photos and other memorabilia that help tell your story. The open book format even allows you to add in extra pages and more journaling prompts down the road. The sky is the limit! Oh, and it is also packed full of my favorite products that are bright and happy and fun! And I will teach you some of my favorite techniques as well... So be prepared to get your hands dirty!!

Another fabulous Make and Take

2009-03-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

We can't tell you how excited we are about Reflections! Not only are the classes amazing but the Make and Takes are going to just rock!! We wanted to introduce you to another talented designer who will be doing a make and take.

Hi, my name is Laura McCollough and I live in Southern California with my dear hubby, our three daughters and our adorable but deaf dog “Lady Scarlet Syrah of Glenwood”. I have been scrapbooking ever since I was a little girl but was introduced to the more current way of scrapbooking about 14 years ago. I love to create, design and teach others about this wonderful art form as it is truly a passion of mine! I also love how scrapbooking has blended together with the world of altered art. Making projects for your home with this art form is really where I love to play and experiment since I went to college for Interior Design. I own an online monthly Kit Club, http://www.akissonthechic.com/ where I design kits each month that have a blend of scrapbooking products, vintage finds and altered art projects. I also enjoy singing, cooking, playing tennis and traveling. We were so blessed to be able to take a year off and travel the world a few years back so I still find reasons to scrapbook those wonderful memories! I am continually inspired by so much that life has to offer and feel so blessed to be doing what I love for a living and sharing it with others!

Sneak Peak from Mellisa Phillips

2009-03-16T05:06:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some sneak peeks? We hope so!

Here's just a little tease from Mellisa Phillips.

Prepare to take home something you’ll love so much you can’t bear to ever put it away. We’re going to let our shabby side show as we use glitter, acrylic paint, sandpaper, and distress ink---all to create something unique and heartfelt. When you’re done with your mini masterpiece, you’ll smile each time you look at it and sigh when you open it and enjoy the extra special treat inside created from your own hands. I can’t wait to show you more.”
Melissa

Announcement

2009-03-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Reflections Attendees,

By now you have received the news about Teresa. It was such a hard decision for all of us. We knew Teresa was overbooked and going to miss a big event in her daughter's life. She was feeling overwhelmed and her family was very upset with her. I think we all get ourselves in positions like that where we just don't know what to do and we're disappointing the people who are the most important to us. We believe that family comes first and we started trying to figure out a way to help Teresa but still give you the best possible teacher and event. Then we had a WONDERFUL idea. When we were at CHA the very sweet and talented Stephanie Ackerman was there doing all of Teresa's make and takes. The buzz in the booth was about some AMAZING book that were on display. And guess who made a lot of these book? Why yes, Stephanie! So when this came up with Teresa we thought maybe we could convince Stephanie to create a book for us and she said YES. The book is a totally unique, one a kind project. It uses Teresa's products and we think you will agree that it is something you will TREASURE! It is filled with TECHNIQUE and you will even make your own album. We're sure this is something you will "flip" over (and yes, that is a hint on the project). Stephanie got right to work and has been creating non stop since our discussion. We think you will agree the book is wonderful and unique. And could the title be any more perfect? Remember Family Memories. Please open attachment to see a picture of the album.
Stephanie is filled with creative, innovative, and very practical ideas.

Here's a little list of her resume.

· She had her own magazine, Homegrown Hospitality. If you don't recognize that name it became Home and Heart and Holiday Home this past holiday season.
· Her doodles are famous!
· She's designed stamps for Purple Onion Designs.
· She designed embellishments for Me and My Big Ideas.
· She designed a line for Bo Bunny.
· She's been on numerous design teams including Making Memories, Prima, Freckle Friends and Polka Dot Whimsy.
· She 's a Fiskateer- Nifty 50.

We want you to know that we did not come upon this decision lightly but we truly believe that family comes first. We also fully believe that you deserve the BEST teachers and WONDERFUL projects. We hope you will understand and support this decision. We are striving to make Reflections the best event you've ever been to! We hand picked the 7 teachers because they all have something special to offer. Stephanie fits in perfectly with the caliber of our other designers.
And to satisfy your curiosity sneak peeks will start next week on our blog.

Thank you for all your support! We can't wait until May!!

Sincerely,

Susan and Karen

jamie's class

2009-03-10T21:54:00.000-07:00

Hi all!
I just wanted to post a quick bit about the class I will be teaching. If you've been to any of my classes, you know that I usually take my daughter, Kira with me to help out. This time, to continue the tradition of keeping it in the the family ;), I am teaming up with my husband Chris as we will be teaching class that is half photography and half scrapbooking! We are hoping that you will bring your cameras and be ready for a hands on class with some fun people/things to shoot! You'll leave the class with a notebook decorated ala jamie waters style with lots of space for any photography notes you'd like to add! :)
We are excited to see you there! If you'd like to see more of our photography work, visit our blog, www.jacshoot.com/blog or if you'd like to read about our family, www.watersfive.typepad.com
Thanks!

You've Gotta Have Heart...

2009-03-10T03:20:00.000-07:00

We are really excited that announce that Scrapbook Royalty is going to run the Friday and Saturday night crops! Do you know what Scrapbook Royalty is?

Scrapbook Royalty is a 100% volunteer run organization whose mission is to raise money and awareness for noble causes through unique scrapbooking and crafting events and to promote "creative" opportunities for crafters to give to others in need. 100% of the donations raised is given to the worthy causes we support.

If you've ever been to one of their events you know they really knock it out of the ballpark. There will be fun games, a silent auction and more. And the best thing about it is all the money raised will go to the American Heart Association.

When you sign up with Scrapbook Royalty you get to pick the charity you want to support. Karen and I thought of the American Heart Association right away. I don't think anyone out there hasn't NOT been touched by someone they love having heart disease. It is such a worthy cause. Since it is such a fantastic cause we decided that we will also contribute a portion of ALL THE PROCEDES of Reflections to the AHA. So not only will you be enjoying a great weekend away, learning something new, and making gorgeous projects, you will be helping as well!

Cathy Z picked a winner

2009-03-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

Did you guys see that we were giving away a Reflections registration ? Well, Nancy won. Yeah Nancy! Her note was super cute. Here's what she had to say when Cathy told her she won.

Hey best buddy, best pal, fave simple scrapper, design teacher extraordinaire (that's French):I bet you thought I fell off the earth and did not know I won. Well, I did not know I won until about an hour ago! American Idol was too mind numbing on Wed to return to internet surfing, on Thursday I was too busy to check blogs only email, so today I resumed regularly scheduled blog surfing and OH MY GOSH, I saw my name and freaked out!! Being the anal person that I am, I had to immediately check out every possible cost involved and see if I could swing it, and of course, run it past the DH (he never did call me back, so I called him again). And so . . . the hotel, it still has the group room rate available (seriously?) I was shocked; called them directly. And the flights from Indianapolis, surely that would do me in. Priceline - round trip - to the airport nearest the hotel (not LAX) under $300, that is unreal. Shuttle service to/from the airport, probably $75 I'm thinking, no - FREE!! listed on the hotel website. So I guess Cathy, HOOK ME UP! This is probably the point where most people would say, "I never win anything," but I actually did win a free weekend at a hotel in Chicago once. How many times can I say thank you! or use exclamation points!! because I feel like saying THANK YOU again, and to the Scrapbook Oasis girls who gave this away! (I've been surfing their site and blogs, too). Not getting too much done here at work right now! Ever So Sincerely,Nancy Lockhart

This is EXCITING....

2009-03-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

I spent some time this morning talking to Susan. I cannot express how excited that I am about teaching at this event. I know if anyone knows to to go "all out and Make it FABULOUS" it is Susan and Karen. I thought I should come on and tell you about "my workshop." I love BOOK projects so I will be teaching with my brand new CHA release- the 7x13 chipboard album covers, page protectors...and well, lots of gems and sparkly ornate things. I will be using the bind it all (PINK) in my classes- so if you have one, make sure and bring it! We are going to create a book on our FAMILY- and so start collecting your favorite photos.

I hope this book will become a TREASURED book of your FAMILY-

I've included a little peak of the papers we will be using in our class- the line is called FAMILY matters. So now girls, start collecting or TAKING photos of your mother, father, children, husband, YOU...well, anyone that is a part of your life.

much love,
teresa

New Yahoo Group

2009-03-04T06:01:00.000-08:00

Come chat with us! We started a yahoo group so we can all get to know each other. Please join us. It's a great place to make new friends, ask questions, start swaps, etc.

If you are doing the payment plan please contact us if you have not received your February pay pal invoice. We had a couple people who didn't receive theres and we want to make sure everyone is up to date. If you are still interested in the payment plan I can adjust it to start now. Just drop me a note. We know times are tough and we really want to work with you so you can attend this amazing event!

Have a wonderful day!

We HEART Sassafras Lass...

2009-02-27T10:53:00.000-08:00

...and Christine Middlecamp!

We are so excited that those super cute girls from Sassafras Lass are coming to Reflections! Not only that but they sponsoring classes, doing make and takes and setting up a little store of Sass goodness! Rebecca and Hayley we can't wait to see you!

You have got to check out their blog. The amazing Christine Middlecamp (queen of layering and details) posted a layout and included a tutorial on how to make this super cute page. Be sure to check it out!

glimpses inside...

2009-02-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! My name is Melissa Phillips and I am so excited to share with you a few things you might just find inside my class at the Reflections 2009 event!

I created a little something special for you to help represent my style and show off a few of my favorite techniques and elements of design. I am simply crazy for shabby touches such as soft colors, glitter, distressed chipboard, weathered paper and embellishments, buttons, hemp, trim, and of course the sweet smile of my little one.

I also love incorporating stamping in my creations....so you may just get to play around in some ink while we're together :)

I'm busily and happily creating a fun-filled and unique class for you. I'm so excited to meet you and share with you a project you'll cherish for years to come.

See you in May.

Melissa

Getting Excited!!

2009-02-23T21:39:00.000-08:00

Hello there! My name is Shannon Tidwell and I'm excited to be one of the teachers at Reflections 2009. It's going to be an amazing event! A little bit about me....I've been scrapbooking for almost 9 years now. When I started I was in my 20's without kids...now I'm in my 30's with 3 kids! I have been working for KI Memories as the Special Projects Coordinator for almost 5 years now. I have also been a Garden Girl at Two Peas in a Bucket for going on 8 years. I enjoy making layouts. Colorful, energetic, fun layouts with little twists to make them mine. So that's exactly what my class is going to be....layouts with a bit of flair to make them just your own! We'll be using KI Memories products which are always modern, hip, and colorful. I can't wait to come to California!! If you have any questions about my class feel free to email me at shannontidwell@mac.com. If you'd like to see more of my work you can see most of it here. I will be working more on the class in the coming month and will have some bits to share with you next time!

Want to know more??

2009-02-17T09:44:00.001-08:00

We wanted to share two more of the designers who are doing make and takes. And let me tell you, they are good! They have both actually taught my all time two favorite projects.

Meet Kim Henkel.

A very long time ago, I'm thinking at least 5 years, Kim taught her first class and I was there. It was the cutest Halloween banner I have ever seen. Not only was the project to die for cute but the way she presented everything was just like you were getting the best birthday present ever! She was such a doll we all begged her to create more and I was thrilled to make a Christmas banner with her. Every year for each of the holidays I can't wait to pull those out and put them on my mantel. They make me so happy. And so does being around Kim. She's just a delight. She is working on a darling project for the event and all I can tell you is it involves felt. YUM!

Meet Suzy Plantamura.

You have probably seen some of Suzy's work every time you've opened a Creating Keepsakes magazine. She is a Hall of Famer. She can take an ordinary product and make it an extraordinary project. She's incredibly talented. She's super funny. You will be soooooo happy to make a little project from her. I wanted to tell you about my favorite project from her but I just realized I have 3! Seriously, I don't think I can narrow them down. Pretty much everything I've ever seen her do I love! Shh, don't tell her but my first favorite project I did of hers still has no pictures. It's just so cute that I'm waiting to go on a better vacation and take better pictures so I can do the book justice. But that's our little secret. I proudly display the other two beautiful books.

Reflections is going to be THE event to remember. The amount of talent we have coming to this event is just making me giddy!

Event Schedule Highlights

2009-02-10T11:26:00.001-08:00

For those of you who want to get a better idea of how things are coming together… Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

. Thursday, April 30th

{ 7 pm – 12 am }

Getting Ready Crop – Sit and get ahead start on the upcoming days, by painting chipboard, detail cutting, sanding, inking and whatever will help up stay one step ahead of all the fun.

. Friday, May 1st

{ 9 am – 5 pm }

Classes Start

{ 7 pm – 10 pm }

Isle Carnival – An evening filled with premier vendors showcasing an eclectic array of wares plus a multitude of Make ‘n’ Takes by some of the industry’s top designers.

{ 9 pm – 12 am }

Crop

. Saturday, May 2nd

{ 8 am – 5 pm }

Classes

{ 7 pm – 9 pm }

Special Event – Join us for a very special treat, planned for all of our attendees.

{ 9 pm – 12 am }

Crop

. Sunday, May 3rd

{ 8 am - 3 pm }

Last Day of Classes

Two Talented Designers

2009-02-09T20:35:00.000-08:00

All the preparations have begun! Teachers are busy creating their one of a kind projects with new CHA releases and we continue to come up with idea after idea to make this event as special as can be. One of the funnest things that we can think of is doing make and takes. Don't you just love walking around, chatting, creating, and coming home with lots of projects? Especially when they are really creative projects. So we thought we'd let you in on a couple of the talented people teaching them.

Stephanie Ackerman, Ms. Homegrown Hospitality herself will be designing and teaching a make and take. Remember how cute all those ideas in her magazine were? She is someone who creates every day and is coming up with something just for us. And who knows, maybe she'll even bring some of those world famous chocolate chip cookies.

And the next make and taker is the FUN, vibrant, creative Suezi Gurzi. Suezi is the educational director for Me and My Big Ideas. When she makes a make and take, she REALLY makes a make and take. Her personality is BIG and so are PROJECTS.

We are so excited to have both of these women at our event. Keep checking back and we will be announcing some of the other designers. We have 8 more spots to announce!

Vendor Fair and Make N Take Night

2009-02-05T23:24:00.002-08:00

Okay, you know the teachers and you know the location, now it’s time for some more fun information. It’s the Vendor Fair and Make N Take night!

Spaces are filling up quickly so we figured it was time to announce the, Vendor Fair evening. On Friday, May 1st we will be hosting a Vendor Fair and Make N Take night. The event will be held across from the Newport Beach, Back Bay in the Hyatt's beautiful Pavilion Ballroom. It will be an evening full of shopping and creating. During the Vendor Fair there will be a host of phenomenal Make N Takes taking place, using some of your favorite manufactures and lots of great designers.

We are so excited about this evening, it is going to be so much fun! With activities taking place both inside and outside you will be able to shop and peruse all the amazing vendors and then head back inside to create more Make N Takes! It’s the perfect way to mingle with everyone while so many fun activities are taking place all around you.

Don’t worry – There are other surprises in store for you during the Vendor Fair, but it wouldn’t be any fun if you gave all the secrets away!

If you are interested in being a part of the Vendor Fair please contact us at, q&a@reflectionsevent2009.com. It's the perfect opportunity to showcase your wares to a captive audience!

Everyone Loves Happy Mail

2009-01-30T22:52:00.000-08:00

Karen and I were busy planning today and we can not tell you how EXCITED we are! Especially after attending CHA. All the new products, all the beautiful layouts and displays. We getting new releases out to all the instructors so they can start their projects. And let me tell you, the projects will ROCK! We're talking big albums- 12x6, 8x8, home decor, layouts...Get ready to be inspired!

We have a fun giveaway... the next person to register will get a box of new goodies sent their way...including a line that hasn't been shipped yet that was shown at CHA.

If you have any questions please let us know!

Hello!

2009-01-02T13:15:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I can't tell you how excited Karen and I are about hosting Reflections! We are totally devoted to making this the coolest, most inspiring event ever! We have both attended other conferences and loved our experiences. We are building on that and tweeking things that we felt could make us enjoy the experience even more. This is going to be an ultimate girls weekend. It will be filled with inspiring classes, amazing instructors, yummy food, lots of creativity and all at a beautiful beach resort. We searched high and low to find the perfect place and the Hyatt Newport Beach really spoke to us. It's got a very laid back, Tommy Bahama-ish feel to it. You will LOVE it! One of the classrooms even has a fireplace in it and they all have big windows so we'll have natural light while we work.

We know you have lots of questions and that's why we created this blog. If you have a question I'm sure others do as well so please post it in the comments and Karen and I will post all the answers here.

Happy 2009. May this year bring you everything you desire. May you live the life you want to live!