Paperie Boutique • products, packaging and marketing ideas for professional photographers » stickers

summer lovin’

robyn — Wed, 09 May 2012 04:40:23 +0000

The digital edition of the May 2012 Professional Photographer Magazine is now online for digital subscribers.

In this issue I reviewed summer-themed products by IKEA (photography by Munchkins and Mohawks Photography), Denny Manufacturing Company, Inc., Black River Imaging (photography by Photoumbra Studios), Poppy Tree Frames (photography by Dani Antonucci Photography), Heather Green Designs for Bad Sass Backdrops, and Photojojo.

Click the magazine pages above to read a larger .pdf version of the article. You can also find the article on page 50 and page 52 of the print-version when it hits mailboxes. Plus you can download the digital edition now if you’re a PPA member or digital subscriber.

And don’t miss the special article and interview with Heather Lickliter of Fairyography.com and StylizedPortraiture.com – you can find them starting on page 33 and page 86. Congratulations to Heather on the beautiful features!

Don’t get Professional Photographer Magazine yet? Subscribe here!

And heads up that we currently have a $75 gift card giveaway to MOO.com:

Find more details on how to enter here!

More coming up this week..check in soon!
-Robyn & Todd

fun. fresh. different.

robyn — Sun, 06 May 2012 05:37:33 +0000

We’re excited to present one of our favorite features on the site – photography packaging photos & descriptions by Erica Clark Photography!

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had a love affair with all things stationary. Even as a teenager, I was always looking for the most unique and personalized gift packaging. I would wrap CDs in sheet music and unravel and scrunch up the inside of cassette tapes for the bow. Now, I totally allow my photography business to feed my love for boutique packaging.

I specialize in family photography and weddings. So, I decided to include my packaging for family clients as well as my wedding welcome packets which I send to brides who book with me. (Vendor information provided after photos.)

All teal colored boxes were purchased at H-B Photo. I ALWAYS buy my boxes from there. The quality is great, the prices are good, and the shipping is lightning fast.

The brown paper bags shown in the first image were purchased at my local dollar store where they are 2 for a $1. The little white bags are bought at a variety of places. Basically, wherever I see a good sale.

I bought the tiny brown paper sacks from a vendor on Etsy, I tuck a business card inside and clip it with a miniature clothespin I found for $2.00 a box on clearance at Walmart. I think about 20 came in a box. Needless to say, I bout about 10 boxes.

The twine, I bought it from our local farm store when they were marked down and out in a clearance bin.

All ribbon/lace was purchased at our local Hobby Lobby. They frequently have 50% ribbon/bows sales. When they do, I stock up…big time.

The burlap, which is cut into strips, was also purchased at Hobby Lobby. I’m an economical girl because the way I see it, if I save money, so do my clients. So when I bought the burlap, I bought TONS of it because I printed off a 40% off coupon from Hobby Lobby’s website.

The red and white baker’s twine was purchased at JoAnn’s Fabric. The tissue paper was purchased at Target. The little back chalkboard ‘thank you’ tag is actually just black card stock with a hole punched in it. I bought a chalkboard pen online (eBay, I think) and I hand write ‘thank you’ on the card stock. I trim the edges so it looks like a little ticket. The white button is just from my stock pile of random buttons. The clear plastic bags are from Rice Studio.

My business cards and mini cards are from Moo…of course. One of my favorite things about Moo, besides the ultra high quality, is their infinity print. If I buy 100 cards, I can have 100 different images on the backs. That’s pretty awesome in my book. As a photographer, it’s like having a mini-portfolio in my wallet. I always hand out cards with images on the back that might correspond to the type of photography a potential client may want. Some of my stickers come from Moo as well. The business cards and mini cards serve as hang tags as well.

The stickers I use to seal the tissue paper are from WHCC. The 5×5 press printed square is also from WHCC and I use the other side to hand write a thank you note.

The petal enclosure is what I use for discs of digital files and the 5×5 card fits right on top of it. I buy those from The Paper Source. I seal the enclosure with one of the Moo stickers.

The 3×3 accordions are from WHCC and are sometimes one of the little gifts I give my clients.

The following is what goes into my bridal packets, along with a few business cards from local hair/make-up, DJ, & cake vendors.

All of the press printed products are purchased from WHCC. ALL of the images used were taken by me, but the templates were purchased from Design Aglow. I LOVE Design Aglow! LOVE!

Included in my bridal packets are:

A little accordion pocket planner. That way, as they complete each step of the planning process, brides can check it off in their planner. It’s the perfect size for their purse.

The 5×5 trifold includes info regarding save-the-dates, first looks, formals, and even a little note just for grooms.

Also included is a 4×5 accordion card all about make-up and ways for brides to look their best.

Finally, a 5×7 press printed card that talks about engagement sessions. On the reverse side is ‘what-to-wear’ advice.

Most of my brides don’t hire a planner, so I try to make the planning process as easy as possible for them.

The last thing I include is an Erica Clark Photography tote bag wrapped with the baker’s twine. The 3×3 hang tag is from WHCC and the totes are from The Wedding Chicks.

When my clients receive their prints or when my brides receive their welcome packets, I want them to feel like they are receiving a special little gift that was meant just for them.

I always say that hiring a custom photographer should be a luxurious experience and I want my packaging to represent just that.

A side note on budgeting, I always wait for sales. Always. Hobby Lobby always has sales/printable coupons on their website, Design Aglow offers a discount when the item is just released, WHCC has press printed cards sales every spring and winter, Target and JoAnn’s have clearance items, Moo offers free shipping sometimes, and so on.

When I decided on my branding colors, I thought about holidays. Yes, holidays. There are 2 major holidays that use red as the main color: Christmas and Valentine’s Day. The week following those two holidays are when I clean up!

My point is, luxury doesn’t have to have a hefty price tag. Just be smart about what, where, and when you buy.

A very special thanks to Robyn for allowing me to share my packaging addiction. I’m grateful to have Paperie Boutique as a source for inspiration.

And a huge thanks to Erica Clark Photography for taking the time to share her packaging photos / resources / hints & tips! If you just can’t get enough of Erica’s packaging and presentation, make sure to visit this blog post and tell her thanks for sharing with the class!

Excited to announce the winner of the 3-month subscription to Chic Critique Forum is Tara Nichols!

And the winner of our Poppy Tree Frames giveaway is…Olivia Price Photography!

Thanks to everyone who entered both contests, and to Poppy Tree Frames for the fun prize! I’ll be in touch with the winners by Monday!

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

Check in all week – great things are scheduled!
-Robyn & Todd

P.S. The Savvy Photographer is running a photo contest through May 15th, 2012. Categories include Baby, Child, Family, Seniors , Wedding, and Pets. The prizes are amazing, so visit the site to check them out – and enter!

gimme an F ! R ! E ! E !

robyn — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 01:45:01 +0000

From today’s MOOsLetter – 10:00 AM EDT – 03.28.12:

Hello, would you like free shipping with MOO?

We’ll just assume the answer is yes, which works out rather nicely – because for the next 48 hours, that’s what’s happening! Simply place an order within the next 48 hours using the code SHIP2012 at checkout – whether it’s Business Cards, MiniCards, Stickers or even Luxe Business Cards – we’ll ship it to you absolutely free*.

So, if you’ve never made any MOO products, it’s the perfect time to give us a try. What are you waiting for – get on board!

*This offer is valid until midnight PST Friday 30th March 2012 and applies to the cheapest shipping option only.

(Don’t forget to look through the Paperie free downloads archives for Moo templates ready to customize, upload, and print!)

Don’t forget we also have a giveaway going on through Friday for your choice of a Pebbles Inc. Ribbon Iron or the i-magicut ribbon cutter:

Click here for more details – and good luck!
-Robyn & Todd

the envelope, please!

robyn — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:07:30 +0000

We’re excited to name the winners in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

1st place winner – Chubby Cheek Photography

2nd place winner – Jen Lynne Photography

3rd place winner – Jennifer Stuart Photography

(There were two mail-in ballots. One for Chubby Cheek Photography and one for Persian Kitty Kat Photography.)

The award for “Most Original” goes to…Persian Kitty Kat Photography!

The “Fan Favorite” award was selected from the most pinned Paperie Boutique photos on Pinterest, and that contestant is…Chubby Cheek Photography!

Our remaining finalists will receive a $25 Sassy Designs Inc. gift certificate and a $25 Bad Sass Backdrops gift certificate.

Thanks to everyone who entered, everyone who voted, all of our wonderful vendors who donated prizes, our judging panel, and CONGRATULATIONS to all of our winners this year!

I will be sending out prize notifications later this week as I get each prize set organized. Please be patient with me! (I have a big meeting coming up later this morning, and a column deadline this week – I’m juggling everything as best / as quickly as I can.) So if you’re listed as a winner above, watch your e-mail over the next couple of days!

This year’s contest was amazing – thanks again for making it possible!
-Robyn & Todd

déjà vu all over again

robyn — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:01:59 +0000

We’re ready to reopen the vote in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here. Please see Facebook for updates on why the voting was temporarily suspended yesterday.)

Especially today, one more round of applause / show of thanks for our judges:

• Alycia Alvarez – Alycia Alvarez Photography
• Beth Forester – Beth Forester Photography / photoDUDS
• Marsha Mifsud – The Savvy Photographer
• Heather Lickliter – Stylized Portraiture / Fairyography
• Lisa Hoang – Windwardskies Photography / Simply Baby
• Marie Cox – Phreckles Photography

Without further adieu, I bring you the – new – six Wrap Battle finalists (all listed in order of submission with photos linked to their original entry)…

Entry #2 by Shalonda Chaddock of Chubby Cheek Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2011/12/09/wrap_it_up/

Entry #7 by Jen Lynne Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2011/12/17/senior_portraits_101/

Entry #21 by Keki Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2011/12/29/show_off/

Entry #28 by Persian Kitty Kat Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2012/01/01/wrap_battle_entries_closed/

Entry #29 by Jennifer Stuart Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2012/01/01/wrap_battle_entries_closed/

Entry #30 by Tamara Elise Photography:

Entry link: http://paperieboutique.com/2012/01/01/wrap_battle_entries_closed/

And now for the fun part – the VOTING! Just one vote per person, total. Please no cheating (the votes will be closely monitored) – let’s keep this fair and square, ok? Voting is now extended through 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, January 9, 2012.

As you go through the finalists remember to look at the packaging and not just the “pretty pictures” (i.e. product staging). As this is not a photo contest, try to keep in mind what will actually be received by the client… The goal: best packaging!

UPDATE: Voting is closed – winners announced here!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered, and good luck to the six finalists!

Thank you for your patience & understanding -
-Robyn & Todd

Super Tuesday

robyn — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:13:40 +0000

Even if you don’t live in Iowa, never fear – today you can vote for something that really counts! We’re ready to rock the vote for the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

I am so glad I had a judging panel to select the six finalists this year. I’m not sure I could have done it myself, and as things were, the voting was extremely close! One more round of applause / show of thanks for the following judges:

Without further adieu, I bring you the six Wrap Battle finalists (all listed in order of submission with photos linked to their original entry)…

UPDATE: The voting has been reinstated. Please see this post to vote (or vote again if you originally voted on Tuesday)!

-Robyn & Todd

the final four

robyn — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:54:23 +0000

These are the last four entries in the 2011 “Wrap Battle” packaging contest!

Submissions closed late last night for the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

The prize package for our 1st place winner is worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

This year judges will select the top half-dozen from the submitted entries, and then this week (January 3rd – 8th, 2012) winners will be selected from the remaining finalists by public vote. This year’s judges include:

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

Entry #28 is by Persian Kitty Kat Photography. Soft, pretty and eco-friendly!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I sell a full list of packaging details via my blog – the blog post has more (larger) photos of our new everyday eco-friendly packaging.“

Vendors used:
• Michael’s
• Amazon
• Kraft and Jute

Entry #29 is from Jennifer Stuart Photography. Love the bold color punches combined with the pale chartreuse!

“I have been researching for over a year to find the perfect solutions for product presentation. Most of the time I have to ship items to clients, so I wanted them to feel like they were opening something very special. Everything is wrapped in crisp white tissue, boxes are finished with a satin bow and EVERY package includes handwritten note for a personal touch. It was very important to me that the look and colors were consistent throughout.

My branding uses chartreuse green, black, white, gray, and a little orange, so for my holiday packaging I just switched out the orange for a cheerful red. I wanted to keep the sleek, clean, modern look that my packaging usually has, but jazzed is up a little with extra details for fun. I also included a metal Christmas ornament from Black River Imaging as a gift for each client. The photos below also show a couple of the cards I’ve created which are sent throughout the year.“

Entry #30 is from Tamara Elise Photography – such a dreamlike quality to it.

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“This is my wedding packaging. My photography style is light, elegant, and natural, so I tried to incorporate that into my packaging. I searched and searched for a long time for exactly what I had pictured in my mind. Many of the items, I simply made myself.“

Vendors used:
• Light blue wedding DVD case – Loktah
• DVD case for the engagements and bridals – Northwest
   Professional Color Lab (The inside of these are not fully
   pictured, but they include a dvd holder on their tri-fold and
   bi-fold cards, which I customize with images for the bride
   and groom. Love these!)
• Cream box – I couldn’t find the exact size and natural feel
   that I was looking for, so I made them myself with thick
   cardstock from Hobby Lobby.
• Little flowers, ribbon, and Kraft bag – Hobby Lobby
• Tissue paper – Target
• Supplies for handwritten thank you card – Wal Mart
• Cloth – local quilting and fabric stores
• Logo – printed on cream colored cardstock

And that’s the way it was… Thirty entries total in the 2011 “Wrap Battle”!

We have been nothing short of blown away by the 2011 entries! So much inspiration (and so many ideas to file back for our own packaging)!

Thanks to each and every contestant who took the time to share their photos, their tips, and their vendors with the rest of the class. Thanks to each of our sponsors and prize donors for their promotion and gifts for the winners. And thanks in advance to each of our Paperie readers for voting and selecting the winners later this week.

Watch this space for details. As soon as the judging panel (linked above) selects the finalists, the voting will commence right here on Paperie and run through 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, January 8th.

Happy New Year!
-Robyn & Todd

P.S. If you just didn’t get enough “pretty“, make sure you check out our packaging contest entries from last year!

home stretch

robyn — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 22:10:08 +0000

There are just a few hours left in the HUGE Fit to Print “Buy the Store” sale on Paperie – just $5 (yep, five bucks) gets you EVERYTHING Fit to Print sells – plus other templates exclusive only to Paperie.

The only place to get this deal is right here on Paperie Boutique. Just look for the “Buy Now” button in this post to get the $5 deal!

This great bargain ends late tonight – Friday, December 30th, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. EST – after midnight the deal turns into a pumpkin and won’t be seen until December 26th, 2012! So grab it NOW while you can and get a jump on the New Year with your business!

Just over 24 hours left for submissions to the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

The prize package for our 1st place winner is now worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

This year judges will select the top half-dozen from the submitted entries, and then next week (January 3rd – 8th, 2012) winners will be selected from the remaining finalists by public vote. This year’s judges include:

Don’t miss your chance to win – ENTER HERE NOW!

Entry #24 is from Little Bubbles Photography – love the embossing!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I have been working on the perfect packaging for awhile and finally decided I wanted to keep things as local as possible. My packaging includes Kraft paper boxes and bags, turquoise & white ribbon and custom button. I also incorporate my custom rubber stamps and embossed them on my packaging.

I decided to create a small spinoff when it came to my holiday packaging but also wanted something simple that everyone could enjoy. So I added 2 simple white snowflake ornaments & silver tissue paper. Nothing better then snow for the holiday!“

Vendors used:
• Embossing by Tatiana Fowler – Martha Stewart heat tool & powder
• Ribbons & button – Michael’s Craft Store
• Frame – Jasper Lilly
• Thank you cards- WHCC
• Custom logo stamp – My Rubber Stamp
• Kraft bags – Michael’s Craft Store
• Tissue paper – Target
• Snowflakes – Target
• Boxes & Bella Terrra Ribbon – HB Photo Packaging
• Stickers / tags – WHCC

Entry #25 is from M.A. Photography. Such a pretty, yet bold, statement!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

Entry #26 is from Lindsey Clare Photography – not a single detail missed!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

Vendors used:
• Kraft folder – HB Photo Packaging
• Bella Terra Ribbon – HB Photo Packaging
• Kraft bags – Hobby Lobby
• Raffia and blue ribbon – Hobby Lobby
• Water bottle label – OnlineLabels.com
• Stickers, thank you card, and REP cards – WHCC
• Tin CD/DVD case – American Digital
• Tin wallet case – McKenna Pro
• DVD – MPixPro

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this Paperie post will walk you through it!

Have a wonderful New Year’s weekend everyone!

Check back soon for our final Wrap Battle entries…
-Robyn & Todd

blackjack!

robyn — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:47:18 +0000

Time for three more entries in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames?!? (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

The prize package for our 1st place winner is now worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

We’ve reached Entry #21 from Keki Photography – love how festive it is!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“The boxes and elastic bands are from HB Photo Packaging, the ribbons and other accepts are collected from a variety of sources. The base for every customers packaging is the same: red box with silver band…then each package is customized to match the client and season!”

Entry #22 is from Hold ‘Em Photography. Such a unique, rich color combo!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“We wanted our packaging to have a earthy and organic feel, but also wanted a bit of vintage and elegance as well. Paying attention to small details such as creating a custom stamped envelope for our ornate shape business cards lets our clients know from the beginning that their photography experience with us will be anything but ordinary. We are passionate about bringing our clients stories to life with wall displays in their homes and wanted that to start with packaging and marketing materials.”

Vendors used:
• Brown boxes – DNL Photo Supply
• Kraft envelopes – Paper Presentation
• Bags and raffia – Beverly’s Crafts
• Ornate cards for brochures – CPQ
• Ornate business cards – Black River Imaging

“We also change the photo on the business card with every 20 cards, so it is always a surprise for the client as to which card they will get in their envelope. Clients are delighted when they see one of their photos has made it to our cards, and are happy to pass them out to friends and family.“

Entry #23 is from Lynette Weber Photography – sure to brighten any day!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I have changed my color scheme but I really loved this packaging!”

Vendors used:
• Boxes – HB • Photo Packaging
• Tissue paper and raffia – Nashville Wraps
• Custom shape stickers – Black River Imaging
• Silver Bag – JoAnn Fabrics

More entries still waiting in my inbox – so check back soon!

We’ll be accepting entries for the remainder of 2011 – the cut-off date / time to enter the “2011 Wrap Battle” is Saturday, December 31st, 2011 (11:59 p.m. EST).

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this Paperie post will walk you through it!

See ya’ real soon!
-Robyn & Todd

just one Abe Lincoln

robyn — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 02:45:12 +0000

It’s an after Christmas sale that everyone can afford! From today through Friday, December 30th, 2011 (11:59 p.m. EST) the ENTIRE Fit to Print store is on sale for just $5 – including templates available exclusively here at Paperie Boutique!

BONUS: The $5 special also includes FIVE never-released before storyboard template designs. Quotes cannot be changed (but layer can be hidden / replaced). The background layer color can be changed for each design. Three designs are 20×10″ full-storyboard designs, one is a 10×5″ mini-storyboard design, and one storyboard design makes a perfect “grandparent gift” to tuck in orders at 5×3.5″.

click above images for larger versions – all three are 20×10″ designs

click above image for larger version – it’s a 10×5″ mini storyboard design

click above image for larger version – it’s a 5×3.5″ mini storyboard design

(Photos shown in samples above are for illustration purposes / not included.)

-♦-¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -

The five storyboard templates alone are a great bargain at $5 – but you also get ALL the contents of the Fit to Print store and the following Paperie bonus items:

-♦-¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -¤-♦ -

- PLUS – You’ll receive the contents of the ENTIRE Fit to Print store with your $5 purchase! The “Buy the Store” kit alone is $65.00!

All orders are processed during U.S. Eastern time between the hours of 8 a.m. and midnight. Each “buy the store” kit will be e-mailed to you (with download links) within 6-8 hours of ordering (usually MUCH sooner during normal business hours). If you have any questions, e-mail contact information is located here.

Technical support is limited to download issues and design files from “Fit to Print” only. I do not provide support for other vendors, products I do not sell, and resources linked in the “achieve this look” section of each download. Other vendors will need to be contacted directly to support their own products and / or answer any questions you may have before you make a purchase from them. Thank you for your understanding!

~~YOU CAN ONLY BUY IT FOR $5~~ ↓ HERE ↓ ON PAPERIE!

Sorry – the $5 deal has expired! But you can still get it all for $65 at Fit to Print!

Ready for more entries in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames?!? (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

The prize package for our 1st place winner is now worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

Entry #19 is from Aric Becker Photography – love those ornaments!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“This a picture of our normal picture packaging. Clients really enjoy unwrapping every day of the year!“

“This is the how we packaged the pewter ornaments that we bought from Kimbra Studios for our wedding clients for their first Christmas together. The boxes are from HB Photo Packaging, stamped with our logo and wrapped with wraphia from Michael’s Arts and Crafts.“

Entry #20 is from Jacqueline Photography – awesome logo, Jackie!

More entries are still in my inbox waiting to be processed so check back soon!

We’ll be accepting entries for the remainder of 2011 – the cut-off date / time to enter the “2011 Wrap Battle” is Saturday, December 31st, 2011 (11:59 p.m. EST).

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this Paperie post will walk you through it!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday week!
-Robyn & Todd

lustre of midday to objects below

robyn — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 18:31:46 +0000

Merry Christmas (Eve) and Happy Hanukkah to all of our readers!

Do you still have a few last minute gifts to wrap and assemble? Check out our Pinterest board! I’ve been scouring the web now that I finally have that elusive thing called “free time” to find the best wrapping ideas and holiday-themed FREE printables (for you – and ME)!

There’s everything from FREE printable giftwrap, to DIY boxes, to embellishment ideas (including these awesome photo cookie-cutter frames and paper bows)!

click each collage above and below to visit our Pinterest board

And now we have four more entries in the entries in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here.)

The prize package for our 1st place winner is now worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

Entry #15 by Jennifer Weinman Photography arrives just before Santa!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I like to keep things as local as possible, so most of my materials I purchase in our small little town at the local Hallmark or Hardware store. (There are no Michael’s or Hobby Lobby stores within an hour!)

My holiday packaging is a spinoff of my regular packaging, which includes white, kraft paper, and twine. Typically I package my large canvases or framed prints in handmade muslin bags, but I decided to try tissue paper this year for Christmas. I also incorporate a stamped logo using a custom rubber stamp.”

Vendors used:
• Bags – Kraft bags (you can find similar ones at Nashville Wraps)
• Tissue paper – Local Hallmark store
• Twine – Local Ace Hardware store
• Handmade Christmas light ornament – Made by a local artist
• Bows and ribbon – Local Hallmark store
• Frame ornament – Organic Bloom
• Tags – Kraft Paper from Paper Presentation, cut using decorative
scissors
• Custom logo stamp – Rubberstamps.net

Entry #16 is a festive creation by Captured Bliss Photography:

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I use the boutique packaging from MPixPro and add some fancy touches – sparkly tissue inside and custom stickers – and always, ALWAYS pink and green touches on everything.“

Entry #17 from DeShazo Photography has a beautiful, creative mix of laces, notions, and textures:

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I wanted to do something different with my packaging this Christmas season to let my clients feel loved and appreciated! Therefore, I gave my ‘everyday’ packaging a little bit of a different feel. I wanted the gifts to match my brand, and have a natural, hand-made feel to them with a touch of whimsy. Each client gift sent out this year has their own, unique touch – some wrapped with burlap, some with brown kraft paper and twine – some had flower while others had lace.”

Vendors used:
• Sage photo boxes – HB Poto Packaging
• Brown kraft paper – Hobby Lobby
• Ribbon and lace – Hobby Lobby
• Hang tags – Hobby Lobby
• Gift bag –Hobby Lobby
• Burlap – Given to me by my friends at WiseAbe
• Flowers – made with coffee filters dyed with tea bags

Entry #18 from VLV Photography needs to be viewed large to appreciate – so click on the images!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

Vendors used:
• Brown bags, tissue paper, and candy bags – boxandwrap.com
• Bag tags – Jessica of Starr Design
• Boxes (with vanilla tissue) – HB Poto Packaging
• Portfolio Cases (used for calendar gifts, smaller print orders and
    as envelopes) – Paper Presentation
• Clear bags for prints – ClearBags.com (and also Rice Studio
    Supply)
• Jute cord and fabric strips – Jo-Ann’s or Wal-Mart (I use fabric
    with leaves on it that go with my brand, cut into thin strips and make
    the strips more “ragged” by pulling them through my hand)
• Custom DVD – MPixPro
• DVD cases (not pictured) – ReBinder and custom DVD cases
    from MPixPro (with plans to use Kraft & Jute in the future)
• Round stickers – Zazzle
• Gift certificates – Printed from MPixPro / Miller’s
• Business cards – Miller’s
• Thank You Card – a package of 50 kraft cards from Hobby Lobby
    (stamp and ink also from Hobby Lobby)
• Square sticker on the front of bags (not pictured) – MPixPro

There are even more entries to post in my inbox. And as the holidays wind down, I expect even more- so stay tuned!

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this Paperie post will walk you through it!

We have a couple of prizes to award from recent giveaways, so away we go! The winner of the “Senior Portraits 101 Guide“ is…Lynette Weber!

And the winner of the $75 Design Aglow gift card is…Melanie Ashcraft!

Congratulations to all of our winners, thanks to everyone who entered, and a huge thank you to Senior Portraits 101 and Design Aglow!

I’ll be contacting both winners with prize information this weekend, so check your inboxes!

To close, I received the following from Kelli France and wanted to share it with all of you. Back in college, I worked in a group home with Down Syndrome adults – so this something very near and dear to my heart – not just at the holidays, but all the year through. Please take the time to read / spread the word!

“Giving Back”
from Kelli France / Chic Critique Forum

Christmas is just around the corner and it’s a time where we think beyond ourselves to serve others. Chic Critique Forum would like to donate $5000 to help this little girl with Down Syndrome get out of a neglected orphanage and adopted into a loving home but they can’t do it without you.

Meet Charity. Read her story.

If you would like to give back this holiday season, HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP: It will only take 5 minutes of your time but could change her life.

• Join Chic Critique Forum with an annual membership and they’ll
   donate $19 towards her adoption grant
• Share on Facebook and Twitter by saying: “Help this little girl with Down
   Syndrome get adopted and out of an orphanage“: http://tinyurl.com/cz85bwz
• Pin her picture on Pinterest with the text: “Help this little girl with Down
   Syndrome get adopted and out of an orphanage“: http://tinyurl.com/cz85bwz
• Copy and paste this blog post onto your own blog
• Share her story with your friends & family via email
• Donate directly to her grant

$39 for an annual forum membership is really not that much when you consider how much you will be helping sweet, little Charity. It’s the same price of an action set, card templates, a dinner for 2, a set of Legos, a belt at Anthropologie…but this $39 will make ALL the difference for her. Please help them to help her!

Thanks to everyone for reading / supporting Paperie in 2011!

Have a magical holiday season—
-Robyn & Todd

dashing through

robyn — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:05:41 +0000

Time for three more entries in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

This year is shaping up to be simply AMAZING—be prepared to be blown away!

Entry #12 by Lynn Fletcher Weddings Inc. is not just a treat for the eyes – it really is a treat!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I am super excited to show you the packaging that we have created using HB Photo Packaging products! We are a wedding planning company and give these packaged gifts to clients as a thank-you. We ordered HB‘s beautiful black boxes and had our logo imprinted on them in silver. Then they are filled with a special one of a kind treat-bag with black, silver and pink custom monogrammed M&M’s with our company logo. In addition, a tiny portfolio book of wedding photos adorned with a pink rhinestone is nestled inside. The outer box is embellished with a pink satin ribbon bow to complete the look!” [photos by "Orangegirl Photographs"]

Our lucky Entry #13 by Denise Gammell Photography is adorably festive!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“My stickers and gift certificates are in the new Luxe shape, which has become just as much a part of my brand as my signature green. All of my boxes, cases, and bags are from HB Photo Packaging, they have the best service and selection. I picked up the jingle bells at Target as a festive addition for all of my holiday orders.“

And Entry #14 is from Vintage Bloom Photography reminds me of a beautiful lemon meringue.

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I just started to really package things pretty this year! The ribbon, tags, and stamping are all from Hobby Lobby. I tied 2-3 mini snowflakes on each ribbon and those I got from Michael’s. The photo boxes are from Wildcat Photo Packaging (in Sunflower). Those are more everyday boxes. I wanted to use them in the winter to add a holiday twist. For the clients of mine who don’t celebrate Christmas, I also have a stamp that says ‘Happy Holidays’. The Kraft CD holder is from ReBinder. I would love to win this contest! I love getting creative!“

Thanks each of the above 2011 Wrap Battle entries – fantastic work everyone!

There are still more entries to post in my inbox – and more are sure to follow as holiday orders wind down – so stay tuned!

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this Paperie post will walk you through it!

The prize package for our 1st place winner is now worth OVER $2000 – and we have well OVER $4500 in prizes donated total!

Don’t forget we have two giveaways going on right now as well. One is a $75 gift certificate to Design Aglow, and the other is a copy of the “Senior Portraits 101 Guide” ($250 value)!

Can you believe Christmas is just FOUR DAYS away?!?
Merry Happy!
-Robyn & Todd

in style

robyn — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:52:03 +0000

It’s yet another giveaway within a contest here at Paperie! Design Aglow is back with a gift card for one lucky Paperie reader, and their vendor / guest post features the new Style Guides by Design Aglow. Read ’til the end for more!

But first-up we have more entries in the 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

Entry #8 is a happy color-mix by Flourishing Photography:

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“These are my main colors that I mix and match.“

Entry #9 by Blue Sugar Photography is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“This is my 2011 Holiday Session packaging, it’s a spinoff of my everyday packaging with a splash of red and green thrown in! With each session, the client received a CD of all their images, an 8×10 canvas and 50 custom Christmas cards.”

Vendors used:
• White Kraft paper, ribbons, candy canes, bells & pine cones
from Michael’s
• Custom printed CDs from Miller’s
• Logo sticker from WHCC
• Bag, Tissue papers and Snowflake from Target
• Bag tag from Moo

Entry #10 is lime sherbet dessert from Just Molly Photography:

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I don’t currently offer holiday wrapping, so here’s my “regular” stuff!“

Entry #11 is from PhotoBella Photography – I love seeing all the different packaging with aqua boxes this year!

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

“I wanted my packaging to reflect how much I love my clients, and I wanted them to feel special when they get their order. So I wrap everything with a cute bow in coordinating colors and then I put it in a stamped canvas tote.

I like the idea that there is little waste and the tote can be reused. I also love little unexpected tokens of appreciation, so for the holidays I tie a small photo ornament with 1.5″x1.5″ print to the tote.”

Vendors used:
• Canvas tote bags – Hobby Lobby
• Photo boxes – HB Photo Packaging
• Custom rubber stamps (stamped logo on bag & boxes) -
Simon’s Stamps
• Ribbon – Hobby Lobby
• Small photo ornament – Hobby Lobby

Thanks so much to this latest round of 2011 Wrap Battle entries – they are all amazing!

There are still more entries to post in my inbox – and more are sure to follow as holiday orders are packed up – so stay tuned!

For information on how to enter your own packaging photos, this entry will walk you through it!

Style Guides
by Design Aglow

What to Wear: for Families, Seniors, and Engagements

Straight from the hottest names in photography, Design Aglow‘s new style guide for shooting clients is the perfect way to keep fashion flubs at bay for your clients’ most important sessions and show off your photography in the most beautiful way possible…with style.

Present this gorgeous style guide to clients and expect picture-perfect wardrobes with less worry and time spent. Use as simple flat cards, a spiral bound mini guide, or online as a paperless pdf or email.

This savvy service shows clients you’re in-the-know with fashion, lending every client to a unique, full service boutique session. Bonus items include: a printable tip sheet for photographers from the top names in photography and a client dress for success guide.

Expand your studio catalog seamlessly with the Family, Engagement and Seniors Collections.

With tips from the hottest professional photographers including:
Jinky Art Studio
Jessica Claire Photography
Untamed Heart Photography
Holli True Photography
Amanda Holloway Photography
Crave Photography
Jessica Feely Photography
Spanki Mills Photography
Pastel Photography
Jean Smith Photography
Photography by Meg
Whitebox Photography

Introductory pricing is on today….SAVE $15 per Guide!

You can read more details at the Design Aglow Blog.

And now one lucky Paperie reader can win a $75 gift card Design Aglow!

View Paperie Boutique official rules for contests and giveaways here. Please note that Paperie Boutique events are open to U.S. residents age 18 and over only.

All you have to do is post in the comments here and let us know what your favorite Design Aglow product is! That’s all there is to it! The shop is all new…and amazing…you have to see it!

You can have an additional – optional – “bonus” entry if you “like” their Facebook fan page – just comment that you’ve done so, or that you’re already a fan.

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

Comment with where you’re from – or that you’ve liked Design Aglow on Facebook – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

Comment(s) must be posted here by 11:59 p.m. EST on Thursday, December 22nd. You can enter up to TWO 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 two 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 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 to everyone who enters and thanks so much to Design Aglow for hosting so many great giveaways here at Paperie!

Don’t forget we’re also giving away a “Senior Portraits 101 Guide” ($250 value) right now as well – you can enter to win it here!

(HO)³ —
-Robyn & Todd

weekend wrap-up

robyn — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 07:04:44 +0000

Today’s post is a giveaway within a contest! We are joined by vendor “Senior Portraits 101” for a guest post and your chance to win their “Senior Portraits 101 Guide“!

First though, we have several new entries in our 2011 Wrap Battle from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames! (Official rules are here, and a list of this year’s prizes is located here.)

First up is Entry #4 by Nicole Haley Photography – Audrey would be proud! Boxes are from HB Photo Packaging.

click each Wrap Battle entry photo for a larger pop-up version

Entry #5 is by DeVoe Creative Photography & Design. Somehow I have a feeling this photo doesn’t do it justice!

“This is my every day packaging dressed up a bit for the holidays! It is very important to me the everything is either made from recyclable material or re-usable. All of the printed marketing pieces are printed through WHCC on their Art Recycled Card Stock. Under the birdie gift wrap is a CD case from ReBinder, made of recycled cardboard. The bag and ornament are reusable which is great! I dressed up the accordion albums with a simple bow.“

Next up, our Entry #6 is by Carolyn Vaughn Photography. She uses the boxes for prints and albums. I just love the pop of color!

And our Entry #7 is by Jen Lynne Photography. I was so excited to see her enter this year – you can see more of her packaging details here!

Thanks so much to this round of packaging entries – they are all gorgeous!

There are still several entries in my inbox left to post, and I’m sure more will be coming in soon as everyone finishes their holiday orders – so keep checking in!

For information on how to enter, check out the instructions here.

Did someone say giveaway? They sure did – welcome “Senior Portraits 101“!

This guide is for those photographers who want to jump into the senior portraits business. It also is great for photographers who would like to revamp their current senior business right now.

It is filled with information that can give you the push you need for your senior program to do well. Not only is it an overall senior start up program, but it also shows how to start up your rep program.

If you are a visual person, then you will love the workflow and editing video included. If you are serious about your senior portraits business, take a look at the Senior Portrait 101 Guide and how it can help you!

What is included in the Senior Portraits 101 Guide -
A Comprehensive Digital Guide that dishes out every last strategy and detail:
• Senior Portraits & Marketing
• Pricing Guide
• My Current Pricing & Other Examples
• Promotion Ideas
• A Typical Client Meeting
• Clothing Guide
• Styling Your Senior
• Posing + Tips
• FAQ for Clients
• Senior Portrait Timeline
• After The Session
• Quick Session Tips
• Starting A Senior Rep Program
• Senior Rep Benefits + Information
• Senior Rep Meeting
• Marketing Tips for your Rep
• Resources, Sponsors, and Discounts

A Digital Folder Containing Customizable Forms & Contracts:
• Senior Portrait Contract
• What to Wear
• Senior Rep Program Welcome Packet + Follow up Forms
• Senior Portrait Timeline
• FAQ for Clients
• Invoice Template
• Senior Rep Referral Tracking Chart
• Client Gallery Email Template

65 Minute HD Video Covering My Workflow + Editing:
• Uploading & Sorting
• Preparing Images for Client Gallery
• Basic Edits in ACR
• Client Gallery + Email
• Editing in Photoshop
• Saving for Print & Web
• Blogging
*All done in real time so you can see exactly what my process is.

Getting You Started Marketing Templates:
• 5×5 Marketing Trifold
• 5×5 Thank you Card with Print Release On Back
• Model Release Contract
• Single CD Case
• Senior Rep Card
• 10×20 Storyboard

Now you can be prepared, be inspired, and be creative with everything you need in this Senior Portraits 101 Guide.

PRODUCT DETAILS:
• Templates are fully layered Photoshop PSD files for unlimited customization
and ready to print at WHCC.
• The Contracts & Forms are MS Word Format so that you can more easily
change text and layouts.
• Templates are compatible with Photoshop CS3 and newer.

And now one lucky Paperie reader can win a “Senior Portraits 101 Guide“. (Please do not enter if you live within 3 hours of Sacramento, CA. More on Paperie giveaway official rules here.)

All you have to do is post in the comments here and let us know where you’re from! That’s it – no, really!

View Paperie Boutique official rules for contests and giveaways here. Please note that Paperie Boutique events are open to U.S. residents age 18 and over only.

You can have an additional – optional – “bonus” entry if you “like” their Facebook fan page – just comment that you’ve done so, or that you’re already a fan.

Comment with where you’re from – or that you’ve liked Senior Portraits 101 on Facebook – in separate comments here to have multiple chances to win!

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

Good luck to everyone who enters and thanks so much to Senior Portraits 101 for the great prize!

And “Senior Portraits 101” is also offering this $45 discount code to Paperie readers!

More packaging photos posted soon – where’s yours?
Happy weekend –
-Robyn & Todd

gotta get down on Friday

robyn — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 18:19:56 +0000

Quick update today because I’m in the middle of designing Christmas cards for a client…but had to share two new entries for the “2011 Wrap Battle” from Paperie Boutique and HB Photo Packaging—sponsored by Artsy Couture, Bad Sass Backdrops, CPQ Professional Imaging & Hardwood Frames… (Official rules here.) Check back soon because we’ll be posting more as time allows!

And if you missed our previous post, we now have well over $4500 in prizes donated for the Wrap Battle – the prizes for 1st place total more than $2K!

I love it when I see packaging entries that make me say, “Why didn’t I think of that?!” Here’s Entry #2 by Shalonda Chaddock of Chubby Cheek Photography – the client-gift idea is brilliant, that snowflake through the ribbon is to die for, and it’s a gorgeous use of the popular Chevron pattern!

click each image above for a larger pop-up version

“The best part of this years packaging and of the ‘all wrapped up sessions’ this year was the gift inside the gable box…it was a hand-carved, personalized address stamp for each family.”

Vendors used:
• Small gable boxes: garnish
• White 8×10 and 5×7 boxes: NPD Box Company
• Stickers: designed by yours truly, printed at WHCC
• Snowflakes: Target (left over from last years Polar Express party)
• Ribbons: Container Store

Simple. Perfection! Thanks Shalonda!

Next we have Entry #3 by Megan DiPiero. It’s a color-scheme near and dear to my heart, and I love the circle-stickers on the gift boxes!

click the image above for a larger pop-up version

Thanks so much for your entry, Megan!

Lena Hyde of Design Aglow fame has just launched a new project called Muses & Visionaries – the communal art space is located in West Palm Beach, FL:

“Muses & Visionaries aspires to create an enlightened environment where dynamic and creative women can come together to draw inspiration for their work and lives.

We offer a unique space intended to nurture fresh ideas, foster connections, and act as a catalyst for both independent and collaborative work.

Muses & Visionaries will cultivate a supportive milieu for women to move forward as thinkers, artists, innovators, trend-setters, and entrepreneurs.

Muses & Visionaries envisions a chic modern day salon where women can retreat to find what they need in that moment, whether it is relaxing sanctuary, stimulating discussion or inspired work.”

Visit the Muses & Visionaries website for more details!

Happy almost-weekend!
-Robyn & Todd