Comparing SU! and CTMH colors

 Here's the first video I did comparing Stampin' Up! DPS papers to Close To My Heart cardstock.

The latest CTMH --> SU! info

In the coming week and months there will be a lot of new information and changes.  I don't want you to miss out, but I also don't want to bug you every time a new product pops, so, please make sure I have your updated contact information (email, phone, address) and that you are following my social media accounts, if you do any of those.  ANYONE can use my blog as it is basically a website address.  If you are limited in your use of technology, that would also be good for me to know.

CURRENTLY

I am a Close To My Heart Maker and you can shop via my website:  Tamara.CloseToMyHeart.com or contact me. 

AS OF MAY 1

I will be a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.  You will be able to shop at StampinUp.com. When you are ready to check out, create an account and you will be asked to select a demonstrator.  Type in my name.  The next time you login, it should default to me.

If you shop from CTMH after May 1, you will be redirected, or can go to CloseToMyHeart.com.  I believe they are doing a liquidation sale in May.

When I learn more about placing Stampin' Up orders, I will probably do a video how to.  I can't even practice, or try the SU! ordering system until May 1. And I will be up until 2 am Tuesday night/Wednesday morning to place my first SU! order, along with many of the other former CTMH Makers and customers like YOU!  Watch for any ordering news and updates on my Facebook Page. 

I suggest you make a list (use item numbers) and familiarize yourself with the SU! website ahead of time.  One thing I do know, is that you earn 10% Stampin' Rewards on a $150 order.  So if you are looking at that amount, or ordering with a friend, keep that in mind and spend those rewards before submitting your order.  (Everything will ship together.)  If you are not placing a large order, look for a host code on my Facebook Page. A host code is kind of like a party designation.

You should put this on your to do calendar for May 1.  Why?  Because that's the day NEW Close To My Heart products will be released!!  

The Enjoy the Ride suite is scheduled to be released May 1 and is the familiar, "regular" CTMH product that was designed and ordered before the closure decision was made. Stampin' Up! purchased the product and it will be sold through SU! only.  And the only way to purchase is if you had an account with CTMH (as a customer or Maker) and use the SAME email.  The suite features bright summery colors. You can view the pdf flyer.  

Please note that the ink pads will be EXTREMEMLY limited on quantities.  All products are only available WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.  Products will NOT be restocked.

May 1 begins at midnight MST.  At least that's one thing that is not changing! If you go to bed before ordering, things will sell out! If you want me to place an order for you, contact me BEFORE May 1.  I cannot guarantee that I will be able to get your order in, but I will definitely try. If you are local I will have everything ship together (assuming that works!).

But wait, there's more!  VIP customers will get a FREE Stampin' Up catalog when they order!!  That is a special goodie for you from SU! that they normally do not offer, and didn't have to provide. I do have catalogs on hand if your are local and not a VIP, or not placing an order.

I have been impressed with how welcoming and helpful the SU! corporate people have been, as well as my new SU! leader.  I have so much more information and training opportunities, including local (Michigan) support.  I selected my leader on purpose after interviewing several. 

Here’s the plan, so far…

 I have decided to accept the offer Stampin’ Up! has extended to current Close To My Heart Makers!

I will be a CTMH Maker with a CTMH website through April.

I will become  SU! Demonstrator on May 1.  I don’t have website info yet. This week sounds like it will be a busy one for learning new things.

If you are interested in 

• Cardmaking
• Scrapbooking
• Club

Please let me know so that I can focus on learn what I need to do to make those things happen!

SU! has purchased some CTMH inventory, and the rights to other things. I believe the first items available, like the new products introduced last week, are from what was originally planned for the May/June catalog.  

In May there will be a product suite released with paper, kits, stamps, etc.  In June there will be another suite introduced. New items will become available monthly as Stampin’ Up! ramps up their scrapbooking line. These new items in May and June will be available exclusively through former CTMH Makers like me, who move over to Stampin’ Up!

I will keep my Facebook page, this blog, and my Pinterest account. Following this blog is really the best place to find info since I can link to other accounts and you don’t need a Facebook or Pinterest account. If you FOLLOW my blog, new posts will come to your email.

New Items to be Released!!

New Close To My Heart products will be released on a monthly basis.  The April release is happening early!! Friday, March 29 @ 3 pm MST.

Here is the flyer for the new April Products.

The Joy in the Journey is also starting early. You can view the FLYER.

Out Of Stock items will be re-stocked and available at 3 pm.  Please keep in mind that the website will be extremely busy!!  You can find the Out Of Stock list (and a list of what is coming back today) under the Sold Out and Retired tab above.

Close To My Heart is closing.

Well, this is a sad, unexpected news to write. Makers were informed on Tuesday, February 27,  that Close To My Heart is closing June 30. I wanted you all to hear it from me.  There are many questions; some have answers.

If you weren't aware, our founder and CEO Jeanette Lynton has been in ill health for many years since contracting Lyme Disease, and not being diagnosed in time for treatment. This year she celebrates 40 years of creativity and an industry leader. As hard as it must be for her to let go, it would probably be harder to see it run by anyone else. Everyone at corporate has stepped up over the years to do physical things for her as the disease became more debilitating.  I believe her mind is still sharp and she has continued to make and approve decisions, attend meetings, and inspire everyone with her ideas.  Her husband David runs the warehouse. 

The current economic situation has also led to this decision. You've no doubt noticed the increases in raw materials, labor costs, shipping rates, and other factors in your area.  These things have resulted in less discretionary spending as well.

If there is anything you want to order, my website will work through April 30.  As of May 1, you will be redirected and can order through closetomyheart.com. Keep in mind that shipping with probably slow down.  Be sure to double check your order in case of a mistake or product defect, so there is time for it to be corrected.

Note that I will only earn commission on purchases made through April 30.  Even without commission, and after CTMH closes, I am still happy to help you finish projects or whatever need you may have.  I have workshop directions downloaded.   I will be catching up on all my scrapbooking and using 25+ years of supplies!!  If you are looking for any non-CTMH products, I may be able to direct you to another source. If you are looking for anything retired, LMK.

There will be some kind of opportunity for CTMH Makers to move to Stampin' Up and discussions are in process for them to pick up some of our products, specifically for scrapbooking.  I do not have all the information yet, but will let you know when I do.  I don't have enough info to make a decision on whether  I will join them or not.  If I do not, I will probably have someone to refer you too.