Color Club: First Meet Up

Adult coloring has become a new trend and the relaxing benefits of coloring have found many out buying a coloring book and markers or colored pencils to partake.

What do you do with those coloring pages when you are finished?  I decided that if I was going to spend time coloring, I want to use what I have colored to share joy with someone else.  I also know that I have too many beautiful stamps sets to justify purchasing a coloring book.

After random stamping with my acrylic stamps, coloring with my Shin Han markers, discovering the relaxation, and creativity and then creating a card that I can send to someone else I had to share! Thus, the coloring club was born.

Our first meet up was in April and I had provided each participant a random stamped 12 x 12 sheet (using Memento Ink and the You've got a Friend stamp set from CTMH).  I shared with them the benefits and care of the Shin Han markers and then we spent the evening coloring together.

We started with the following colors:

Here's a bit of what I covered.

• The markers perform best when they are stored horizontally.
• CTMH provides a great storage solution in the marker roll up.
• The colorless blender helps remove color, blending two colors together or repairs coloring outside the lines.
• Memento Black ink provides a stamped image that does not run when using alcohol markers.

Here are the cards we made during our first meeting.  Fast, easy and simple.  Bright colors will bring a smile to any recipient.  (For some reason the exposure of this photo is not bright but trust me, it is in person!)And the time spent together was relaxing and therapeutic.  We made 6 cards for the win!

The next month, we will play with shading and light source direction.  I can't wait to show you how.

If you like video instruction like me, here's the video by Kathy Skipper that I watched to get me started.



If you would like to join the color club, we would love to have you join us either locally, through skype or via mail order kits.  Contact me to start your coloring craze!

Happy coloring to you!

Michele

Would you enjoy a craft weekend away?

National Scrapbook Month Challenge

Earn a FREE craft weekend @ our Fish Lake Cabin!

Date: September 9-11, 2016.

Our family cabin is located just 30 minutes from Leavenworth near Lake Wenatchee.  During this getaway you will have the opportunity to work on your own projects, complete a scrapbook or card workshop from the new catalog, participate in technique demos, win prizes, and enjoy time at the lake!

How do you earn it?
This weekend will be offered to the first 5 people who complete one of the following challenges:

• For Evergreen Memories consultants who signed up before April 2016:
• Submit $600 in sales by May 31st, 2016. 
• For Evergreen Memories consultants who signed up during April or May 2016:
• Submit $350 in sales by May 31st, 2016.
• For my hostesses during May 2016:
• Host an in‐person or online gathering with a minimum of $350 in sales.

This is the PERFECT month for this challenge! 

New Catalog!       New Products!

  New Paper!       New Stamp Sets!

 

 

FREE Happy Times paper pack
with a $60 purchase

All CTMH albums are 20% off!

 

Want to take on the challenge?  Contact me today to get started!  

Happy National Scrapbook Month!

Michele 

Nat'l Scrapbook Month Special: Happy Times

Did you know that May is Nat'l Scrapbooking month?  Any month that brings out a gorgeous paper packet like "Happy Times" is a friend of mine.  

And of course, I want to show it off!  This blog hop is a fantastic way to become inspired by all the creative ways you can use this set of patterned paper.  If you have arrived here from Lauren's Blog, you are on the right track.  After you have seen the artwork I am sharing, you are welcome to move along to Donna's Blog.

The detail of this paper features floral designs, gold foil details, and more!  The colors are stunning and pair nicely with CTMH pomegranate, fern, smoothie, glacier and canary colors. 

 The special also includes an exclusive "Happy Times" stamp set which coordinates perfectly with the floral images.

I chose to create a card using the new Jubilee Cut above card bases.  I love how the gold accents in the kit coordinate with the gold detail in the "Happy Times" paper as well as the white and gold ribbon. 

 For the cards I inked the flowers in canary ink and then touched the tips in hollyhock to get a two-toned flower.

This next 3x3 card was a create and take for my last retreat.  For this card, I used juniper paper and ink in addition to pixie and hollyhock.  Great combination for a floral card. 

Now just a reminder, this paper packet and stamp set are available only during May 1-31, 2016 OR while supplies last.  The paper pack is free with a $60 purchase which can include the Happy Times stamp set for $17.95.  You can also purchase that paper packet for $14.95.

Contact your Close to My Heart Consultant to take advantage of this offer.  If you do not have a consultant you currently work with, I would love to help you.  Feel free to contact me or order directly from my website.

And now for this great video from our home office showing you even more artwork.


To see more artwork, don't forget to hop on over to  Donna's Blog. 

I hope your day is filled with Happy Times.
Michele

Stamp of the Month Blog Hop: Celebrate with Cake

Yes, any kind of cake you like! This month the stamp of the month allows you to build the cake you like! 

Thank you for joining me on this blog hop.  If you have arrived here from Michelle's blog, you a hopping right along.  When you have finished your stop here, you will be heading over to Brenda's blog. 

 For this artwork display, I created two cards.  The first is paper pieced.  I stamp on several different patterned papers from the Kaleidoscope paper packet, cut the pieces and then layered them together for a yummy spring cake. 

This second card is not "cake" related but I loved the simplicity of the banner and roses for a card. 

You can purchase this stamp set only during the month of May.  Contact your consultant for details or if you do not have a CTMH consultant, you can order from my website here. 

Now don't forget to move on to Brenda's Blog to see her artwork using this stamp set. 

And don't forget to celebrate with cake!
Michele

Instalife for mini albums and so much more.

The Close to My Heart Instalife collection is perfect for celebrating special events, capturing the memories of the day and even creating cards and gifts. 

Our current Seasonal Expression catalog features the City Limits Instalife Cards and the Black & White mini album. 

Z3199

Z3206

On  Thursday May 26th, I am hosting a  Father's Day mini album class using the City Life cards and the mini folio album for $18.  Just add photos of dad and you will have a great keepsake. 

The items above as well as the items for the class will be retiring on April 30th.  Order yours before then so you don't miss out on these cute ideas. 

And for more Instalife inspiration, take a look at this cute video from our home office. 




Happy Scrapping,
Michele

Baby I'm Worth It

This month I am celebrating two BIG events.  First, it is my 14th year as a consultant with Close to My Heart.  Second, the Baby I'm Worth It campaign.

Although I am not officially part of the blog hop this evening, I wanted to share my story with you and get you connected to the blog hop so you can see how inspiring and fun it is to be a part of the Close to My Heart family. 

For me, there are so many reasons!  This layout lists just a few:  Family, Creativity, Travel, Challenge and Friends.  

Being a consultant means that I can make creativity (which is therapeutic) a priority. Having access to all the goods at a discount makes me even happier!  At first, I was just a hobbyist but then I realized I could make a bit more money if I was willing to step out of my comfort zone just a bit and share what I have learned with others.  Then, there was an opportunity to earn a Mediterranean Cruise in 2008.  I took the challenge and made it happen.  Since then I have earned a trip to Costa Rica and am working on a trip to Puerta Vallarta.  Whether you want a discount, a little extra income or an all inclusive FREE vacation, CTMH has a place for you!

What about you?  What is your story?  Who do you enjoy sitting down with for creative time?  What are your favorite products?  Are you a patterned paper lover?  Do acrylic stamps make you smile?  Would a few extra dollars help your family budget?  Have you ever been curious about Close to My Heart?

Close to My Heart is offering webinars just for you!  Wait til you meet Kristina and she shares all the great information with you.  She will put a spark in you!  You can't be helped to be inspired.  And after the webinars, I am available to chat with you, either online or by phone to answer your specific questions.

Thursday, April 14, 7:00 pm MDT
Saturday, April 23, 9:00 am MDT
Wednesday, April 27, 7:00 pm MDT

Join the Opportunity calls via phone by calling 1-201-479-4595. To join online, go to http://fuze.me/32464058 a few minutes before the scheduled webinar time. You can also simply go to www.fuze.com or open the Fuze app and enter the meeting ID: 32464058. If you wish to participate online, we encourage you to download the Fuze application beforehand so you can be all set up to enjoy the webinar when it’s time to join.

Now if you want to see the journeys of other sister consultants, move on over to this blog hop starting with Melinda's Blog.  Then hop through the other 15 who are sharing.

When you are done, schedule out some time for you to be creative or give me a call and we can create together.  

Blessings

Michele

FAQ's: Become a Close To My Heart Consultant

I love being a Close To My Heart Consultant! It’s one of the best decisions I ever made, and I want to invite you to join my Team and get in on the fun! But before you do I’m sure you have lots of questions. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions. 

1. Can you tell me more about yourself and your Team?  

Absolutely! 
I am a wife, mother of two girls, and CTMH consultant since 2002.  For me, being a consultant means that I can make being creative (which is therapeutic) a priority. Having access to all the goods at a discount makes me even happier!  At first, I was just a hobbyist but then I realized I could make a bit more money if I was willing to step out of my comfort zone just a bit and share what I have learned with others.  Then, there was an opportunity to earn a Mediterranean Cruise in 2008.  I took the challenge and made it happen.  Since then I have earned a trip to Costa Rica and am working on a trip to Puert Vallarta.  Whether you want a discount, a little extra income or an all inclusive FREE vacation, CTMH has a place for you!

My team of Evergreen Memories is a solid team with a total longevity of over 50 years.  We are small (looking to grow) and mighty group.  I am delighted to say that these women have become my friends and supporters as we have shared many life events together.  They challenge me to grow every day.   Sharing ideas and inspiration, offering workshops and events together, and just having crafty time brings enriches our friendships.

2. What is the cost of the New Consultant Kit, and what comes in it?
The New Consultant kit costs just $75 USD plus tax and shipping, and has a retail value of $205! You receive all the essential business tools you need to get started—in a handy organizer—PLUS $50 in FREE Select Product Credit so you can choose your own creative products. It’s a great value on the tools you need, with free credit toward the fun products you want! 

© CTMH CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
 

3. What discount do I receive as a Consultant?
Consultants receive a minimum base commission of 22%, which can increase up to 35%, depending on monthly sales totals. Consultants can also earn up to $75 in FREE select product credit every single month, which really adds up! When you decide to build a Team, your earning potential is even greater!
This chart outlines the commission (or discount) and Select Product Credit (SPC) you receive based on monthly commissionable sales. Personal Sales

4. As a new Consultant, can I earn free products?

Yes! You are immediately eligible for the Straight To The Top Program, with the chance to earn exclusive products in your first 90 days. There are three levels in the program, with rewards given at each level based on your personal sales. If you reach all three levels by the deadline dates, you will receive the following free products: three exclusive business builder stamp sets, an adorable “On the Go” bag, a trendy heart dangle, a Close To My Heart logo t-shirt, and a bonus for hitting all three levels which is an organizer filled with $150 in free products! 

5. As a Consultant, can I have a party and be my own hostess?
Absolutely! Close To My Heart has a very generous Hostess Rewards program for hostesses, and you are welcome to be your own hostess and earn even more free products! How awesome is that?! 
 

6. What are the sales requirements for Consultants?
To remain an active Consultant you must submit $300 in sales per calendar quarter. You are not required to meet the sales requirements during your first quarter; this is considered a grace period to allow you additional time to get your business up and running. The first quarter you would be required to meet the minimum sales requirements is the next quarter after you sign up. 

7. What is a calendar quarter?
Our calendar quarters are a period of three consecutive months, beginning in January. There are four quarters per year, as follows:
Quarter 1: January – March Quarter 2: April – June Quarter 3: July – September Quarter 4: October – December 

8. Do I have to build a business?
You have the opportunity to build any size of business you choose, but you don’t have to. Many Consultants buy the products at a discount for their personal use. You are welcome to simply enjoy the discount, or choose to earn income by selling to friends and family. It’s completely up to you! 

9. Am I required to keep an inventory of products?
No. We recommend ordering products as you and your customers need them, rather than investing lots of money up front. This means you can begin a home-based business for very little start-up cost! It’s one of the most affordable business models in the world.

10. What training is available for new Consultants?
Close To My Heart offers all the training you will need! They have business videos, product videos, training courses, Start With Heart newsletters with step-by-step instructions for new Consultants, a Listening Library of recorded conference calls from industry experts, Consultant bulletin boards for artwork ideas, and more. They also offer pre-designed projects and workshops you can use to create beautiful layouts and cards. You can contact me with any questions as well! With my help, the Home Office resources, our Team’s resources, and our incredible community of Consultants, you will never be without help. 

11. Does Close To My Heart offer events?
Absolutely! They host a fabulous annual Convention which is full of product reveals, artwork inspiration and business training. They also offer an assortment of local events, leadership meetings, Album Retreats, and more. In addition to these incredible events, you also have the opportunity to earn our awesome annual incentive trip for you and a guest—free! 

12. How much does it cost to have a website?
Every Consultant is given a personal website free of charge! This is a professionally designed and maintained e-commerce site that is a terrific benefit of being a Consultant with Close To My Heart. Your friends and customers can place orders through your website 24 hours a day, and their orders will be shipped directly to their home. And the best news is that you earn commission on these orders. It’s that easy! 

13. Can I accept credit card payments for orders from customers?
What fees will I incur?
On orders placed through your free Consultant website (called your Online Business Address, or OBA), customers can use Visa, MasterCard, or Discover to pay for their orders. There is no charge for you to accept these payment forms. Additionally, you can accept these same credit cards as payment for orders you enter through our normal Order Entry system. Again, there is absolutely no charge for you to do so! 

14. How do I sign up?
Go to my website to sign up. It’s quick and easy—it takes less than five minutes. Copy and paste my website address below into your internet browser. This will bring you directly to my website. Once there, select the tab that says “What We Do”, and then selection “Be a Consultant”.
My website address:  MRowley.CTMH.com
Once you sign up you’ll be sent your New Consultant Kit right away. Please remember that if you have previously been a CTMH Consultant, the approval process may take a few days. You will receive an email notification as soon as your application is processed. 

15. Which credit cards do you accept as payment for my enrollment?
Close To My Heart accepts Visa, MasterCard and Discover. They have a secure, encrypted website to keep your private data safe. 

16. How long will it take to receive my kit?
New Consultant kits usually ship within 1-2 days of receiving your online application. When it ships you will receive a FedEx Tracking number so you can track your package. 

Feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. I would love to have you join my Team! Whatever your motivation for signing up, you are welcome here. I look forward to working with you!

Website address: MRowley.CTMH.com
Phone number: 206-697-4373
Social media:https://www.facebook.com/EvergreenMemories/   AND  http://evergreenmemoriesandart.blogspot.com/

Brand New Consultant Kit

Close to My Heart is always trying to make it faster, simpler and easier for you to be a successful consultant and they have done it again.  The consultant kit for April 2016-June 2016 has catalogs and business supplies you need to get started PLUS $50 in select product credit (SPC) to build a kit that works best for you!  Are you a hobbyist, scrapbooker, cardmaker, or business builder.  You can use that $50 in SPC to create the kit that fits your goals. 

It will all still come beautifully wrapped and in a medium organizer and the kit cost is $75.  

Here's the Special!

When you sign up during the month of April and sell $350 in product within 30 days, you will also get to choose the Cricut cartridge of your choice OR another $100 in SPC to continue to have resources for your hobby or business.  In addition, at the $250 in sales, you will get 3 "crafting girl" stamp sets that are only available for new consultants who meet this goal. 

I am excited to share this opportunity with you and help you create dreams and goals you may have. 

Don't quit your daydream!
Michele

Life is worth it!

I never thought I would be celebrating 14 years with this company.  Yes, I signed up, thinking I would get a discount for a few months and then be done.  Well, if this is what you call done, then it has been worth it. 

This month, Close to My Heart is offering a special opportunity to see if getting a discount, earning a bit of income and/or traveling on their dime is worth it.  Not to mention rewarding friendships, creative time and online and personal training! 

Here's a short video that shares the heart of this company. 



If you would like to learn more about this special or know someone who might want to, I would love to hear from you!

Dream a little,

Michele

Life in Pictures: Stamp of the month Blog Hop

 I am back on the blog hop this month and happy to share artwork with this fun set.  If you have arrived here from Paige's Blog...you are on the right track to follow all the way through and see the great consultant artwork.  After you have visited here, you will be hopping on over to Helen's Blog and see what she has created and continue on through the hop.

 I am in love with this unique set of stamps featuring the evolution of the camera!  Now, we just use our phones!  What kind of camera was your first camera? 

Capturing our memories with photos is a special way to celebrate the many adventures we have with family and friends.   Along with the Regatta paper, I used these stamps to create cards as well.  I love the ombre look of this paper in Regatta so I used the watercolors to color my Polaroid camera. 

Cameras are often clicking away during birthday celebrations so why not send birthday greetings to someone with cameras?  

Now remember, you can get these stamp sets during the month of April and with a qualifying purchase you can get this set for $5.  If you do not have a Close to My Heart consultant, you can shop on my website here.

Now remember, you will be traveling on to Helen's Blog to see what she has created.

Enjoy the hop,
Michele