16 Years as a Demonstrator
This calls for a Blog Candy GIVEAWAY!!
Imagine my surprise when I called Demonstrator Support Monday and was told Happy Anniversary! Apparently my demonstrator application form was received and approved by Stampin' UP! 16 years ago on September 22.
I've reflected on those years the past few days. The world of stamping has definitely changed when I look back. What has changed the most? Me, I think.
Sure, I've grown from a novice stamper to well, hopefully, a better artist. But I think the confidence, joy, and sense of accomplishment I have found from being a demonstrator are actually more significant. I have met so many wonderful people over the last 16 years. Developed many friendships, and had some one time stamp experiences that I hope made a difference in someones day.
I am humbled that I can say I have friends I made at my very first stamp workshop that continue to stamp with me today. Some as downline, some as faithful customers. Many ladies drive 45 minutes to an hour to attend my classes and join in the experience of stamping with me. I am very grateful for that.
Before we take a humorous stroll down memory card lane, I ask that you leave a comment on my blog. If you are/have been a customer of mine leave a comment of how long ago we met. If you are a new blog reader, leave a comment of your favorite old time Stampin' UP! set. Crush will supervise a random drawing for someone to win a $50.00 shopping spree from me for any current Stampin' UP! Product!! So you will want to leave a comment I am sure!!
Leave your comment by Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015 5:00 pm. I will announce the winner Sunday night on my blog!
Now for some of the very early cards I made:
Pre-Stampin' Up! I took a stamping class at Barbie's Stitch and Stamp Nook in Speedway, IN. I remember being so impressed with learning how to emboss. It only took three months to find Stampin' UP! and then join as a demonstrator!
The classic Bee Hive Stamp set with the kissing technique of the plaid stamp. Take a look at my layers.. I am still uneven but my ratio's have improved.
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A recurring theme with me is animal/kid stamps. I love how cute they are. I am still drawn immediately to them. This bold frame was fun but difficult to ink and get a good impression with. Our foam ink pads will take care of that these days! I also improved my coloring skills with making fancy shorts on the little guy.
I was super proud of this card... It was my one of my dad's Fathers Day Cards. Using the fun frames, and pastels (chalks). Thank goodness my cutting has improved LOL! I was so proud of thinking to put the little fishing lure on the card and the thin thread.... My dad enjoyed fly fishing so this was a winner.
Old School Big Shot?? We had to had cut, score and fold in the old days!! And use pattern scissors you could never get straight! Remember using wheels? And hand attaching the orange stars with the glue pen....ugh..maybe that is why I haven't jumped yet on the sequin band wagon.
And while I was digging for old cards, I came across a swap card I did two years ago...I loved this card. That is the inside of the card on the right. I think I have improved. But I still have that love of critters!
Don't forget to leave me a comment before you go...a $50.00 Stampin' UP! shopping spree could be yours! Crush is resting before drawing the winner!!
Yes, I'm the first comment! We met 5 or 6 years ago when my aunt Kathy brought me to your stamp class. I was heart broken my stamping company went under and my love of stamping was renewed when I found you! Happy Anniversary! 🎉
ReplyDeleteHi Marette, I feel like I've known you so long, I don't remember how exactly we met, but we were at a local event shoebox swap where IndyAnna's Catering gave us great box lunches. See, I remember the food, but not many other details. You have taught me so much over the years and we meet at the same McD's or my work. Happy Anniversary, and here's to many, many more years of stamping creativity!! I loved the trip down memory lane also, as I have my first card on the inside of my craft room door.
ReplyDeleteI was invited to attend one of your classes by Janice Gunn over 3 years ago, I was a crafter but had never really got into cards. That night I created my 1st card that I really liked & I was hooked on SU. Today I'm proud to be part of your downline. Happy Anniversary, here's to many more!!
ReplyDeleteHi Marette,
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary!!!!! I believe I attended one of your first classes. Have made so many beautiful projects, good memories and friendships!!!! Hooked on SU products and now a proud member of your downline. (Hoping for many more years!!) Used to enjoy going to Barbie’s Stitch and Stamp Nook, also. Was such a neat little shop.
Hi Marette,
ReplyDeleteI love the story about how we met! The simple version of the story is that we met because you created awesome party favors, table name cards and decorations for my cousin’s baby shower and after seeing how awesome the stuff was, I came to your class. I was actually fairly hesitant to attend because I have never considered myself a crafting type of person but I came and had fun! I’m looking forward to many more years of friendship and stamping fun with you. ~ Erin B.