Hyatt Place

I apologize for my lack of posting. Don't give up on me! I'm going through a lot of life transitions right now, so things have been crazy.

My husband and I just got back from an interview he had in Cincinnati, OH. The company put us up in a hotel, which was awesome. Apparently, Hyatt has started a new chain called "Hyatt Place." The decor is modern and comfortable, and their papers and identity match:

this is their welcome folder:




paper and pen:

Postcards! I took these with me because they're the perfect size to put behind a 4x6 photo (just need to make sure they're acid free):


keycard:


I guess the two black dots are supposed to be ignored so the other dots make an "H." I was seriously impressed with this place. I'd definitely recommend it.

Product Review: Crop-A-Dile

I recently purchased a Crop-A-Dile eyelet setter and hole punch for an invitation project. I went back and forth, mainly because I hated the name of the tool (snotty, I know)! After using it to make 200 invitations, I can say with confidence that it is a great product. In fact, it has become a necessity for me. In addition to using it for paper projects, it can be used to punch holes in metal for those feeling crafty. I tried it and it is quite easy.

My favorite features:

• It can punch and set 4 different sizes (including one flat side for over sized and square shaped items).
• It feels like a big hole puncher.
• Comfort grips.
• It costs about $20.00, and can be found cheaper at craft stores and eBay.
• The tool makes fast work of what used to be a very tedious process.
• It truly is easy.

My only concern would be if you have small hands. Then, it would be a difficult tool to use, as the grip is quite wide.

If you are planning on making your own invitations or stationery with eyelets, this is a worthwhile investment...even if you only use it once.

PDF instructions (on the back of the package) from We R Memory Keepers (photos from We R Memory Keepers).

Here I Go

Lately, I have been toying with the idea of a blog to help people navigate the world of paper and design (and, really, to get my ideas out of my head on on "paper"). After some practice posts on my own computer, I think I'm ready to go! In order to organize my own brain and have an intentional focus, I'm giving each day of the week a different subject:

Mondays: beautiful things (paper and design items for everyday or special use)
Tuesdays: reviews and tutorials (from products to vendors and step-by-step how to's)
Wednesdays: inspiration (mood boards, photographs, color schemes)
Thursdays: general thoughts, tips and advice
Fridays: beautiful web (the best things I find online each week)

This will be a loose framework, because I want the freedom to tell you about what's going on in the moment. We'll see how it works.

I truly hope that this blog becomes one of your favorite reads! If you have any ideas or suggestions, please don't hesitate to contact me. Also, if you would like to be reviewed and added to my link list, send me an email and I'll get back to you as soon as I can!