the “it” bag

We’re excited to have a new vendor at Paperie today for a fun guest post / giveaway! Please help us welcome…THEIT Camera Bags!

THEIT creates camera bags for photographers that value both style and substance. With designs that aim to capture classic modernity with a sense of playfulness, this philosophy exemplifies the essence of the THEIT customer: someone who is independent, inspired, and full of life, who cannot help but to capture the beauty in her world through the lens.

An homage to the well-known fashion term “the it bag“, the brand represents more than the most coveted piece for the season, but a new wave of design enabling style, function and versatility for the fashion-minded photographer. Inspired by the runway and the streets, THEIT‘s vision is to uphold a fashion standard that helps photographers live their dreams in style.

And now one lucky Paperie reader has a chance to win The Bossi Bag by THEIT in Gravel (value $159.00)! The bag is water resistant with antique brass hardware, comes with interior and exterior zip pockets for extra room and metal feet for protection, and has a zipper top closure.

Features:
•    Convenient dual carrying handles
•    Detachable cross body gold chain strap
•    Customizable padded dividers to protect your gear
     and suit your needs
•    Fully removeable padded insert; our unique design
     allows you to easily organize and change your bag
     from a camera bag to a fashion handbag

The photos above were taken by Paperie Boutique and show the Gravel Bossi Bag with the following inside: Nikon D700 body with grip, Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G ED, Nikon SB-800 speedlight, Apple iPad2, Speck iPad2 FitFolio Cover, and Abie Designs camera strap – the bag will zip closed with the items shown / listed inside. (I did not fill the exterior or interior pockets with additional items although there was ample room to do so, and I did not use all of the removable protective padding included with the bag.) The bag’s dimensions are 14 x 9 x 6″.

So how do you win this camera bag? It’s easy!

1. Go to your Facebook and Twitter accounts and post the following on either or both (then tell us where you did):

Win THEIT Bossi Gravel Camera Bag from @theitbags / lovetheit.com at PaperieBoutique.com / @PaperieBoutique – http://is.gd/GM6rdB

2. Friend / Like THEIT on Facebook and come back here and let us know (or tell us you’re already a fan)

3. Follow THEIT on Twitter and come back here and let us know (or tell us you already follow them)

Each entry requires its own separate comment here. (In simple terms: If you want FOUR chances to win, you have to do the FOUR separate things listed above, and then make four separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment that you have posted to your Twitter and/or Facebook account(s), with a link to where you did it – or that you’ve liked THEIT on Facebook – or followed THEIT on Twitter – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, November 11th. You can enter up to FOUR times total. Post that you have met the individual requirements in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

You can enter / post up to four times total – one entry each for all of the options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have FOUR chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 48-72 hours of the winner-announcement to claim their prize.

Good luck to everyone who enters and thanks again to THEIT for the great prize!




Don’t forget we have a contest going on right now from BrandSushi – the grand prize is a logo design valued at $650!

Check back in this week – we’re just getting started!
-Robyn & Todd

don’t blame the messenger

Paperie had one more *emera camera bag to give away, and this time we’ve partnered up with The Savvy Photographer Blog to do it!

Go visit the Savvy Blog for more details on how to enter – and good luck!




Just finished the new splash page on my Butttons & Bows site – wanna peek?

I’m really pleased with how it turned out! For more information on using QR Codes on your website, go here.




I have a “pretty packaging” board on Pinterest if you haven’t seen it ’til now.

One of my favorite boards is “Cool branding and packaging“ by Phreckles Photography. What’s yours?

Leave a link to your favorite pinner or Pinterest board in the comments here – one Paperie reader who does will win this cute camera magnet set:

Have a great week everyone!
-Robyn & Todd

the winner’s circle

We’re excited to have one of our regular vendors back for another giveaway / guest post! I have this prize here with me in person and it’s sometthing I’d love to have for myself!

Nathiya at *emera has donated one of her new Circle Print Tote camera bags – and one lucky Paperie reader gets it!

The above images show the (interior of the) bag filled with my own equipment. I did not fill any of the pockets. To give you an example of what the interior compartment holds, pictured above with the Circle Print Tote are a Nikon D700 body with grip, a Nikon 50mm f/1.4G lens, a Nikon 85mm f/1.4D lens, a Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G lens, a Nikon SB-800, an Apple iPad2 with Speck iPad2 FitFolio Cover, and an Abie Designs camera strap. Here are the specs on the bag:

    • Water-resistant PU coated canvas with soft leather straps and trim
    • Zipper top for security
    • Quick-access outside pockets for phone, keys, ID and emergency mints
    • Generous interior zip pocket for very important accessories
    • Large interior compartment for iPad, magazines, and file folders
    • Modular Velcro dividers create seven padded, customizable compartments
    • Durable canvas interior lining
    • Small metal feet help protect the bottom of the bag
    • Bag size: 15 x 11 x 6”

So now that you WANT it, how do you WIN it? It’s easy! You have FIVE chances!

1. “Like” *emera on Facebook

2. Follow @emerabags on Twitter

3. Post about *emera bags on Facebook

4. Tweet the following on Twitter:
Win a Circle Print Tote designer camera bag from Emera / @emerabags / http://emerabags.com from @paperieboutique – http://is.gd/LjW34x

5. Leave a comment here and tell us what your favorite *emera bag is.

Each entry requires its own separate comment here. (In simple terms: If you want FIVE chances to win, you have to do the FIVE separate things listed above, and then make five separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment that you have posted to your public Twitter and/or Facebook account(s), with a link to where you did it – or that you’ve liked *emera on Facebook and/or Twitter – or your favorite *emera bag – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, October 14th. You can enter up to FIVE times total. Post that you have met the individual requirements in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

You can enter / post up to five times total – one entry each for all of the options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have FIVE chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 48-72 hours of the winner-announcement to claim their prize.




We are currently running a fall special with ad rates up to half-off (or more) — and we’d love to have YOU join us!

Don’t miss this chance to connect with our readers! The Paperie new advertisers sale ends October 15th.

More giveaways coming up – including ANOTHER *emera bag – so stay tuned!

-Robyn & Todd

bonne fête – giveaway 13

We’re over half-way through with birthday week now and the goodies just keep on comin’! This morning we’re kicking off things with “lucky 13” and a Paperie reader favorite — Epiphanie Bags!

Up for grabs is the Epiphanie Pink Cover ($185 value). The Epiphanie Clover bag measures 18 x 6.25 x 13 inches. The bag exterior is water-resistant, high quality synthetic leather. The interior crafted with extra padding for maximum equipment protection. Velcro panels can be adjusted and moved to any position for maximum customization and flexibility, and there is a removable cross-body strap with padding for extra support. Clover has two exterior pockets, one with zipper. The bag features a zipper top closure, with one zippered interior pocket. The Clover bag can accommodate 15″ MacBook Pro with battery cord, one camera body with lens attached, one long lens, two extra lenses, wallet, keys, cell phone, and other miscellaneous personal items.

So how do you grab this great bag for yourself? It’s easy!

1. Go to your Facebook and Twitter accounts and post the following on either or both (then tell us where you did):
It’s my bag baby! I want an EpiphanieBags.com / @EpiphanieBags Clover at @PaperieBoutique / PaperieBoutique.com – http://PaperieBirthday.com

2. Like Epiphanie Bags on Facebook.

3. Follow Epiphanie Bags on Twitter.

Each entry requires its own separate comment here. (In simple terms: If you want FOUR chances to win, you have to do the four things listed above, and then make four separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment that you have posted to your Twitter and/or Facebook account(s), with a link to where you did it – or that you’ve liked one or both vendors on Facebook – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Saturday, July 23rd. You can enter up to four times total. Post that you have met both requirements in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

You can enter / post up to four times total – one entry each for both the options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have four chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 48-72 hours of the winner-announcement to claim their prize.

Good luck!

Thanks to Epiphanie Bags for another great giveaway here at Paperie!




Don’t forget several of our merchants are offering discounts and coupon codes to all Paperie readers this week! Check and see if your favorite vendor is there!

Click over here and see what you missed. A special sale, and a teaser of the great giveaways ahead this week, were posted over the weekend!

There’s a limited-time offer for advertisers / vendors this week, too. Over half-off some ad rates for new advertisers. Check it out!




Tons of prizes are still waiting in the queue – see ya’ real soon!
-Robyn

P.S. Vendors, if you are interested in being a part of the birthday celebration, e-mail me at “robyn AT paperieboutique DOT com” ASAP!

joyeux anniversaire – giveaway 1

Let’s get it started – ha! Let’s get it started in here! Ready for the first giveaway for the Paperie 2nd birthday celebration – a lucky Paperie reader takes the prize!

How do you win? Simple! Go to your Facebook and Twitter accounts and post the following (then tell us where you did):

I need a kellymoorebag.com / @kellymooreclark camera bag from @PaperieBoutique / PaperieBoutique.com – win this week at PaperieBirthday.com!

Each entry requires its own separate comment here. (In simple terms: If you want TWO chances to win, you have to do both things listed above, and then make two separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment that you have posted to your Twitter or Facebook account(s) – with a link to where you did it – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, July 22nd. You can enter up to two times total. Post that you have met both requirements in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

You can enter / post up to two times total – one entry each for both the options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have two chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 48-72 hours of the winner-announcement to claim their prize.

Good luck!

Thanks to Kelly Moore Bags – visit them on Facebook! And don’t forget Kelly is offering a $15 off discount to all Paperie readers this week! You can find that code, and several others from our vendors, continually updated this week here!

Don’t forget to go here and see what you missed. A special sale, and a teaser of the great giveaways ahead this week, were posted over the weekend!

There’s a very special offer for advertisers / vendors this week, too—check it out!

More to follow…check in OFTEN this week!
-Robyn

P.S. Vendors, if you are interested in being a part of the birthday celebration, e-mail me at “robyn AT paperieboutique DOT com” ASAP!

secret stash

Busy week here at Paperie – make sure you read ’til the end of this post so you don’t miss a thing!

Today we kick off with a great giveaway and vendor / guest post by Stash Bags. Trust me – you’ll want to enter! Stash was recently featured in a Macworld article titled “Seven unique and stylish camera cases“.

My name is Mari, and I am originally from Helsinki, Finland. I grew up being inspired by Scandinavian design and was introduced to sewing at a young age by my mother. I started sewing bags for friends and family as gifts, but my line, Stash, really came about when I found etsy.com. I had just relocated to the U.S. and happened to be between jobs.

I wanted to create bags that could be carried by men and women alike, and would be stylish and useful. The line includes camera bags in three sizes varying from small to a large size suitable for professional use.

Stash also makes messenger bags for 13″, 15″ and 17″ laptops as well as 11″ and 13″ MacBook Air and iPad.

The E-readers, iPods and iPhones have their own small Stash cases.

My aesthetic incorporates clean lines and fabrics with graphic patterns. I try to use vintage fabrics whenever possible, and I enjoy experimenting with how the fabric and hardware will work together for a bag design. The leather and metal elements have added to the distinctive quality of the line.

Stash customers like that the products are handmade on a small scale, with attention to detail. The Stash style is really a blend of vintage fashion inspiration combined with modern function. Bags you can really use and enjoy, while looking classically stylish at the same time.

And now one lucky Paperie reader will have a chance to win their very own Stash bag! Mari is giving away the medium camera in green and gray plaid shown above. You have two chances to win by doing the following:

1. “Like” Stash Bags on Facebook: facebook.com/stashbags

2. Tweet or post the following to your Facebook account (and tell us where):
Win a COOL camera bag from Stash / stash-bags.com / mariforssell.etsy.com at PaperieBoutique.com / @paperieboutique – http://is.gd/kZ5bqM

Each entry requires its own separate comment. (In simple terms: If you want TWO chances to win, you have to do both things listed above, and then make two separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, March 21st. You can enter up to two times total. Post that you have met both requirements in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

You can enter / post twice – one entry each for the options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have two chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 24-72 hours of contest’s end to claim their prize.

Good luck!

I really want one of these bags myself – thanks to Mari and Stash for such a great giveaway for our readers!




Quick reminder – you have until 11:59 p.m. EDT Friday to win a vintage camera necklace from Vintage U Creations – and until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, March 20th, to win a camera strap from Trendy Camera Staps.

1. Win a vintage camera necklace from Vintage U Creations

2. Win a trendy camera strap from Trendy Camera Staps

And we have a winner in the TAoPaN maternity ensemble giveaway – it’s Photography By Joncee May!

Congrats to Joncee and thanks to The Art of Pregnancy and Newborn (TAoPaN) for the beautiful prize!




P.S. If you are interested in advertising with Paperie Boutique, please contact todd @ this domain. If you are a photographer and are interested in having your packaging featured – or are a vendor and are interested in having your business packaging, marketing ideas, or photography-related products featured – please contact robyn @ this domain to be added to the posting schedule.

winning!

I’m excited to announce the winner of the huge epiphanie camera bag contest – it’s Ashley Scheerer of Apix Photography!

Huge congratulations to Ashley, our deepest thanks to epiphanie, and thanks to everyone who entered!

If you didn’t win don’t lose heart. We have another great vendor contest TODAY!

Read on…

One lucky Paperie winner can pick their choice from three The Art of Pregnancy and Newborn (TAoPaN) MamaThredz maternity portrait ensembles – the Mama Slim, the All Mama, or the Simple Mama.

How do you win?

1. Follow TAoPaN on Facebook: facebook.com/taopanspage

2. Follow TAoPaN on Twitter: twitter.com/taopangroup

3. Tweet or post the following to Facebook (and tell us where):
Win theartofpregnancyandnewborn.com / @taopangroup maternity session ensemble at PaperieBoutique.com / @paperieboutique http://is.gd/T5s0eO

4. Post in the comments and tell us which gown is your favorite

Each entry requires its own separate comment. (In simple terms: If you want FOUR chances to win, you have to do all four things listed above, and then make four separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EST on Wednesday, March 16th. You can enter up to four times total. Post that you have “liked” the Facebook fan page or Twitter stream, posted to Twitter or Facebook (with a link to where you did it), and / or told us why you want this bag – in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

You can enter / post up to four total times – one entry each for the four options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have four chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 24-72 hours of contest’s end to claim their prize.

Good luck to everyone who enters, and a huge thanks to TAoPaN for the fantastic giveaway!




We have another great giveaway coming up soon – here’s a peek. Stay tuned!

need an epiphanie?

Very excited to have one of our favorite vendors here again for a guest post / giveaway. So if you’re in the need for the PERFECT camera bag look no further!

You can have an epiphanie!

epiphanie is giving away a turquoise “Lola” bag to one lucky Paperie reader.

The bag dimensions are 14x8x12″. Exterior is water-resistant, high quality synthetic leather. Interior crafted with extra padding for maximum equipment protection. Velcro panels can be adjusted and moved to any position for maximum customization and flexibility. Removable cross-body strap with padding for extra support. Two exterior pockets. One interior pocket with zipper. Light colored interior so items can easily be found.

Want to know just how much you can pack into a Lola? I reviewed the Lola bag for Professional Photographer Magazine last summer and I was able to get the following inside: D300 with grip (50mm 1.4 attached), D200, SB-800, SB-600, 85mm f/1.4, flashcard wallet, and WhiBal card. And I was still able to toss my keys inside and zip it close!

I own the Belle in turquoise myself, and I’m constantly stopped and asked, “WHERE did you get that bag?” No one can believe it’s a camera bag! And I just adore the color, not to mention the storage capacity and easy carrying.

So now that you’re practically salivating, how do you win that turquoise Lola?

1. Follow epiphanie on Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Epiphanie

2. Follow epiphanie on Twitter: twitter.com/EPIPHANIEBAGS

3. Tweet the following or post it to Facebook (and tell us where):
     I NEED a new Epiphanie Lola camera bag from
     EpiphanieBags.com / @EpiphanieBags at
     PaperieBoutique.com / @paperieboutique
     http://is.gd/aFjbdv

4. Post in the comments here why you NEED this bag.

Each entry requires its own separate comment. (In simple terms: If you want FOUR chances to win, you have to do all four things listed above, and then make four separate comments here telling us how you did them.)

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, March 11th. You can enter up to four times total. Post that you have “liked” the Facebook fan page or Twitter stream, posted to Twitter or Facebook (with a link to where you did it), and / or told us why you want this bag – in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

You can enter / post up to four total times – one entry each for the four options listed above. (PLEASE NOTE: Comments are held for moderation and may not appear immediately. Please be patient! They will show up eventually.)

You have four chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 24-72 hours of contest’s end to claim their prize.

[ UPDATE: The winner has now been announced here! ]

Thanks to epiphanie for another great giveaway, and good luck to everyone who enters!

who lives in a pineapple…

I’m very excited to share today’s guest post / vendor giveaway – and to be honest, a little bit jealous that I’m not eligible to win one myself since it’s on my site! This is a product I reviewed for the July 2010 issue of Professional Photographer Magazine, and I got to play with it for a few days.

Let’s just say it’s definitely on my “Ohhhhh, Santa!” list already!

Now thanks to Nathiya at Mr. & Mrs. Pineapple Seed, YOU have the chance to win the quilted bag by *emera.

In 1955, Coco Chanel shook the fashion world with a quilted bag. Now with a bow to Mademoiselle C., *emera offers a perfectly constructed quilted bag for your professional photo equipment. A clever mix of femininity and practicality, it’s designed to protect your DSLR, lenses, and other critical things.

From my Professional Photographer Magazine write-up: “The Quilted tote from *emera has a sophisticated look and can withstand a real photographer’s needs. It features a water-resistant body and padded straps with leather trim, and on the bottom, four metal feet. It has zippered top closure, interior zip-pocket for accessories, and outside side pockets for quick access to small items. The large interior compartment is suitable for an iPad or notebook. Velcro dividers protect your gear. The only thing lacking is a second longer shoulder strap to carry the bag cross-body if needed, but with a bag this size, fully loaded, that could quickly get cumbersome…”

“…Holding this bag makes me want to slip into a little black dress, sweep my hair into an up-do, grab black sunglasses, and head to Tiffany’s for breakfast. It’s that beautiful. And functional. Win-win.”

So now that you WANT it, how do you WIN it? It’s easy! You have FIVE separate chances!

UPDATE: Contest is over. The winner has been announced here!

1. “Like” *emera on Facebook

2. Follow @emerabags on Twitter

3. Post about *emera bags on Facebook

4. Tweet the following on Twitter:
I want to win the perfect, chic designer camera bag from *emera / @emerabags / emerabags.com over at PaperieBoutique.com by @shutterblog

5. Post about *emera bags and this giveaway once on any of the following – public-access blog, public-access forum, or public-access Flickr account

Then come back and comment here that you’ve done so – each entry requires its own separate comment. (In simple terms: If you want FIVE chances to win, you have to do all five things listed above, and then make five separate comments telling us how you did them.) U.S. residents only, please.

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, September 12th. You can enter up to five times total. Post that you have “liked” the Facebook fan page, followed the Twitter account – or post the links to your Facebook entries, Tweets, and blog/forum/Flickr posts – in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

ATTENTION: All links you post must direct to public-access accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed, a website, or forum – or request permission to see them – your entry will automatically be disqualified.

You can enter / post up to five total times – one entry each for the five options listed above.

You have five chances to win, but only one chance PER OPTION – please do not post the same link multiple times. Duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 24 hours of contest’s end to claim their prize.

Comments are moderated and may be slow to be added today but they will be added by late afternoon or early evening.

Thanks to *emera for the amazing prize – and good luck to everyone who enters!




Don’t forget we also have two more contests going on right now!

Both of these contests end at the stroke of midnight (Eastern) Friday night – so enter fast!

Have a great weekend!
-Robyn

P.S. If you are interested in advertising with Paperie Boutique, please contact todd @ this domain. If you are a photographer and are interested in having your packaging featured – or are a vendor and are interested in having your business packaging, marketing ideas, or photography-related products featured – please contact robyn @ this domain to be added to the posting schedule.

tote board

I’m excited to announce the winner of the Jo Totes camera bag…Heather Mann:

Heather gets her choice of bag / color / style! Congrats Heather, thanks to everyone who entered, and thanks to Jo Totes for the amazing giveaway!

Don’t forget there’s still a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Denny Manufacturing Company through midnight tonight (Thursday) — and also to win a copy of the “Photographers SEO Book” and “Photography Blog SEO Zen” from Zach Prez until the end of the day Saturday.

P.S. If you are interested in advertising with Paperie Boutique, please contact todd @ this domain. If you are a photographer and are interested in having your packaging featured – or are a vendor and are interested in having your business packaging, marketing ideas, or photography-related products featured – please contact robyn @ this domain to be added to the posting schedule.

it’s my bag, baby!

I’m happy to introduce a guest / vendor post today that I use and love – Jo Totes.

I have the “Missy – Pink” bag and it’s too adorable for words! As shown above, it’s long / deep enough to hold my camera body, an 80-200mm with lens hood, an extra lens and speedlight – plus personal belongings.

You can also see my review of one of last season’s bags in the July 2010 “Professional Photographer Magagazine“.

Jo Totes are the perfect bags for carrying your camera and an extra
lens or two with your purse items while out and about. They allow you to safely carry your gear on a daily basis, at photo shoots, and while traveling.

The padded interior can be custom fitted not only to protect a camera and lenses, but also to accommodate and organize items like a wallet, music, phone, keys, cosmetics and more. Padding is sewn directly into the interior lining on all four sides and the bottom of the bags. The bottom is also equipped with four metal feet to guard your bag from rough, dirty, or damp surfaces.

Inside of each Jo Tote are removable pads which are completely customizable — you can use as many or as few pads as you wish, arranged in the way that best suits your camera, lenses, and other items.

Each bag also includes pockets, strong and comfortable shoulder straps, a top-zippered closure, and a removable cross-body strap.

And Paperie readers are in luck. This week Jo Totes is giving away a bag – color and style of the winner’s choice! How do you win? It’s simple! You have four chances:

1. Follow Jo Totes on Twitter

2. Like Jo Totes on Facebook

3 & 4. Add the following to Facebook and / or your Twitter account:

I want to win a Jo Totes / @jototes / jototes.com camera bag – my choice of color & style – over at PaperieBoutique.com by @shutterblog

Then comment here (up to four separate times) that you have Twitter-followed, Facebook-liked, and / or the link(s) to your Twitter / Facebook posts in the comments for THIS ENTRY. Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, September 1st.

ATTENTION: The links you post must direct to public accounts. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed or page or request permission to see it, you will automatically be disqualified.

You can enter / post that you have followed or ‘liked’ the above Jo Totes accounts, and / or add the links to your entries, up to FOUR times total. One entry each per person, per option – links must direct to public, non-private Facebook and / or Twitter accounts.

You have four chances to win but only one chance per option listed. Post what you have “followed”, “liked”, or posted in separate comments here. Please do not post the same link multiple times – duplicate links will be removed. Each entry requires its own separate comment to have multiple chances to win!

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning numbers will be chosen by Random.org, and the winners will be contacted within 24 hours of contest’s end to claim their prizes.

Comments are moderated and may be slow to be added today but they will be added by late afternoon or early evening.

GOOD LUCK to everyone and thanks so much to Jo Totes for the fantastic prize!!!

UPDATE: The winner has been announced here – check it out!

P.S. If you are interested in advertising with Paperie Boutique, please contact todd @ this domain. If you are a photographer and are interested in having your packaging featured – or are a vendor and are interested in having your business packaging, marketing ideas, or photography-related products featured – please contact robyn @ this domain to be added to the posting schedule.

bag lady

It has been so hard sitting on my hands waiting for the new July 2010 issue of Professional Photographer Magazine to be released!

This month you’ll find me in good company over in “The Goods” section (pages 60-63) and the topic is one that made me swoon – camera bags. I got to hug, squeeze and call every single one of ‘em “George“. It was amazing. And so are the bags! So keep your eyes peeled for the snail-mail copy, and download the digital edition now if you’re a PPA member.

Big thanks to Epiphanie, *emera, Kelly Moore, Jo Totes, and Photojojo for allowing me to review your bags!

noun: illuminating discovery

Today’s guest post should prove to be a very popular giveaway. Maile at Epiphanie bags is donating one bag, your choice, to one lucky Paperie reader!

I’ve been lucky enough to review one of these bags in person and Epiphanie storage seems to extend all the way down to China! And compared to the materials used in my Jill-e small bag, well there is no comparison.

There’s a great review and interview already over at “Beyond Snapshots“—so rather than reinvent the wheel we’re going to send you there to brush up on your Epiphanie history. To win a bag here, simply follow the directions below.

To win, first either fan or follow Epiphanie on Facebook or Twitter.

Then go to your Facebook and Twitter accounts and post the following:

I want to win an Epiphanie camera bag from epiphaniebags.com / @EpiphanieBags at Paperie Boutique / paperieboutique.com by @shutterblog

Post the URL(s) to your link(s) in the comments for THIS ENTRY. Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, June 6th.

Please note: The link you post must direct to a public account. We cannot verify links on private, friends & family only, or passworded accounts and they will not be eligible to win this item. If we have to subscribe to your feed or page or request permission to see it, you will automatically be disqualified.

You can enter up to two times total – one entry each per public, non-private Facebook and Twitter account.

You have two chances to win but only one chance PER LINK – please do not post the same link multiple times – duplicate links will be removed. And post your two separate links in separate comments to have multiple chances to win!

UPDATE: If you want two chances to win, MAKE TWO COMMENTS. One comment with your Facebook link to your entry there. And one comment to your Twitter link with your comment there. If you leave one comment with both links, you are only entered once.

Comments are moderated and may be slow to be added today but they will be added by late afternoon or early evening.

Comments on this entry will be numbered in order of posting. The winning number will be chosen by Random.org, and the winner will be contacted within 24 hours of contest’s end to claim their prize. Thank you so much Maile and good luck!

leaving Las Vegas

Very excited to bring you the first of multiple features by “roving reporters” I asked to cover WPPI 2010 for those of us who could not attend. Give it up for Monica of Photoumbra Studios for providing today’s guest post!

This year’s trip to WPPI was really great. There seemed to be a resurgence of energy that perhaps our segment of the economy is recovering and on the rise. WPPI enrollment was up from last year and the vendors I spoke to said that big budget items were selling like hot cakes! As for myself, I was determined to be “good” this year and limit my spending. It was certainly hard to resist some of the awesome products that were at the trade show, and I did come home with a few things.

If you have ever been to WPPI, you know that the trade show is fun and stock full of companies, products, and people. I only had 3 hours to cover the entire trade show between classes, so I’m sure I didn’t catch everything, but here are some of the companies and products that caught my eye this year both new and old. And since Paperie Boutique is my favorite blog, I will share all of the awesome WPPI discount codes with you. Just visit my blog for a list of the companies and promo codes. Please be aware that most of the codes will expire very soon!

(View above collage larger.) Here are a few of my favorite things!

Priscilla Foster Handmade Books – These books were gorgeous. Covers are made from fine silks, bound with ribbons, and the papers inside were not only fun to touch, they are all archival. In these days where there are a thousand album companies, it was nice to see one that incorporated truly fine materials and craftsmanship.

Freedom Cloth – For all you studio shooters, these guys have some really great backdrops. The coolest thing about their backdrops is that they are wrinkle free, machine washable and BIG! While there is a lot of cheesy stuff on their site, I really like their Retro sets.

After Dark Education – After Dark Education gives you access to 35 top mentors where you will learn directly from your chosen mentor in various settings with hands-on-activities. Looks like they visit many major cities throughout the year and offer some great learning experiences.

Eternal Albums – These luxury albums caught my eye because of their unique cases that not only protected the albums but actually interacted with them as an artistic element. The Sensualle album was my favorite {pictured above}. If you are looking for some new albums and especially some new ways of uniquely presenting them, make sure you check them out. They offer 50% off studio samples, and I have a promo code on my blog for 60% through April.

Jamie Schultz Designs – Jamie was at the Mpix booth displaying her great designs on some of Mpix’s amazing products. I have code for $10 off a $50 purchase from her on my blog.

Triple Scoop Music – While these guys have been around for quite a while, I thought I’d include them on the list because they do offer a a great way to obtain legal music for your websites and projects. They have thousands of songs to choose from that will match your branding or project perfectly. I have a code at my blog for 10% off.

Color Inc. Digital Pro Lab (recently featured here on Paperie Boutique) – I use Color Inc. for a few of my printing needs and I was excited about a few new products that they are offering. The first that caught my eye was their spiral-bound books. While these are not new in themselves, I loved their rounded corners.

Color Inc. is also offering some new boutique packaging services that might be a nice start for someone who can’t quite afford to purchase all these sizes and colors in bulk.

Drop it Modern – You’ve got to love the backdrops from this company. Equally as impressive is their marketing and branding. Very eye catching and inspirational. If you’ve been waiting for a good time to purchase your favorite backdrop, see my blog for a coupon code good through this month.

Photographer Cafe – The Photographer Cafe offers templates, design elements, and even some business and marketing materials. Their blog also provides some great inspiration. Save 10% off your entire order with the wppi coupon code.

DNL Photo Packaging – I love DNL for their beautiful packaging. They offer bags, boxes, cd/dvd packaging, albums, folders, and folios. I have a killer coupon code that can be used on any of their products through the end of the month.

Kelly Moore Bags – This was Kelly Moore Bags first year at WPPI and I hope she had great success. These bags are cute and you’d never guess they were meant for photographers. They are even coming out with a men’s version soon which my husband is actually excited about since his bag strap is currently being held together by duct tape.

Sarah Petty’s The Joy of Marketing (recently featured here on Paperie Boutique) – If you haven’t heard of Sarah Petty, then you really need to get out more. While her Joy of Marketing program is not new, it is neat and I thought I’d mention it on this post because she has a few free things on her site you can enjoy. Also, if you are interested in joining Cafe Joy, you should do so before the end of this month when monthly membership dues will go from $35 to $59. I have a coupon code to get you the rate of $35. Also, if you like free, I know I do, visit HERE to download a free ebook on “The Boutique Experience” and for other goodies!

Barbour Backdrops – I know, I know, another backdrop company. But this one is really different. Their backdrops were of amazing quality and I loved the real texture on them. They also offer nice floor moulding options as well of some classy props. You’ve got to check them out if you haven’t heard of them.

Jolie Wraps – This company is right up Paperie Boutique’s alley! Talk about amazing packaging products and ideas. They offer beautifully designed print and album boxes, some great cloth wraps to house your artwork such as canvases, standouts, and albums. Their slide-out proof boxes are very impressive and they can customize anything for you! I also have a coupon code to save you 10% off your first order.

Moo (frequently featured here on Paperie Boutique) – Well I can’t leave Moo out of my list of favorite things. Moo’s booth was really cute and showed off some of their great products! I picked up a coupon for all Paperie Boutique readers that will get you a free pack of 50 business cards! Just visit my blog for the coupon code.

[Note from Robyn: Check out Shutterbug Portrait's Blog for the "WPPI 2010 Update". You can see yours-truly featured on the Moo booth backdrop!]

I want to thank Paperie Boutique for letting me cover the trade show for the readers. If you’d like to stay connected to my studio for upcoming products for photographers please join the UmbraClique here. You can also become a fan on Facebook and check out my website!

Monica Burby
Photoumbra Studios

Thank you so much for taking the time to share these reviews (and coupon codes), Monica! I know everyone really appreciates it!

Paperie Boutique is featured today on the “France Photography Blog” by Francypants Academy. There’s a special “Easter Egg” freebie if you hunt for it!

Don’t forget there’s just under 2½ hours left to enter the “Pink Boutique Packaging Set” from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging. Go here to enter!

If you’re interested in sending reviews / photos of WPPI 2010, or in having your own business packaging, marketing ideas, or photography-related products featured please contact me (my e-mail is in the sidebar and is robyn @ this domain – or you can leave a comment).