Resolutions for a Happy New Year

Once again it’s time to ring in the New Year! A time to rejuvenate old resolutions and create new ones. Looking back over 2008 and the resolutions I had regarding my family, I fulfilled many that I thought would get lost in the shuffle. I became more involved in building my children’s social network by participating in more playgroups, library times and having them join in activities like swim lessons! Building cognitive and learning skills by reading to them every night and keeping up with writing the ABC’s. I’ve added new things to my shopping cart to keep everyone’s taste-buds happy! And also, researched new ways to accomplish home renovations and persevere with my husband to keep the home front moving! All in All, a success.

On the business resolution list I reached for many goals and achieved a lot of them. I worked on a new line of notes, became more involved in offline festivals and circulating TheMerryBird.com name. I figured out ways to market online and off utilizing $0 money down through social networking. By sharing with others I found new printing options and designed a quality stationery product. Another resolution for business was to add a service that people could use to help facilitate their own business, logo design.

A social friend asked me what made this list of resolutions successful? How did you do it? I came up with a short but sturdy list in my mind that I believe kept me from falling off the resolution wagon.

1.) Perserverence

As with anything you do, if at first you don't succeed try, and try again! Keep going and don't give up!

2.) Consistency

Reaching for a goal takes more than a just having one. As with any goal you have to create a path to get to it and follow it along. If the path turns in the wrong direction, pick yourself up and find the right track. Being consistent on any road will bring you to where you want to go!

3.) Positive thoughts and visualization

Always think positive and visualize what you want to happen! Whether it be having your child become a reader overnight or having a great customer base for your business, positive thoughts and visualization will get you there. Be consistent with your thoughts and try this method! It really works!

Overall 2008 was a successful year. With the help of local groups and online ones like, Women Business Owners, Women in Networking and other fantastic business groups, my business revenue increased 2x since 2007 and it feels good!

Despite the outlook for the economy and spending habits of consumers, the right doors will open and hopefully there will be wind beneath TheMerryBird.com’s wings! I’m looking forward to another great business year ahead! Fly in! http://www.themerrybird.com/

Have a Happy Fulfilled New Year 2009!

-- Kristine Sheehan

The Difficult Client

With much experience and years of cultivating relationships with clients there is always one client that stands out… the one that is Difficult to work with. This person is someone that you least expect to pounce on you. This person is someone that chooses you to work with and in turn is a client that you have accepted to work for. At the onset of the job all starts off well. A deposit is received and the design process begins. You follow your design processes and begin to work closely with the client.

First a design brief is completed by the client. A design brief includes questions that will help the designer learn what the client’s business is about, what the client needs and wants. Now having a certain understanding about the person and their business you begin researching images and think about how to approach the new design. The client offers her ideas, and images that make her happy. You oblige.

Ok! Sketch, Sketch, Sketch and tumble the ideas in and out of your mind. The first design is presented to the client to give her an understanding of the direction you are headed. Immediately blood rushes to her head and you are attacked for not having the correct size, color or shape. And to top it off, she has already scrapped a copy from the Private web link you provided and brought it to an online printer for sample business card viewing. You, a mind reader should already know where this is headed.

Wow! Stand back! Be open to learn about what the client likes and dislikes about the first design being offered. It is important to listen and understand. 1.) You are the expert in this area and know she has missed the point on how the process between client and designer works. You know best. 2.) Reassure her that the image is only the starting point of where you can go. Working together will bring the end result she desires. 3.) Don't forget to have watermarks on your work!

This method fails. She resists and closes you down before you can take the next step. You now have no where to go with the client. She didn’t allow you to work out the design process and had little input before ending the relationship. This client was not only difficult, but she is not the right client for you! Don't ruin future business for one bad apple! Take the loss and move on!

Kristine Sheehan

If you remember, not too long ago I donated my design services to Front Porch Folks to help new and existing businesses create or make over thier business identity. I’m happy to announce that Front Porch Folks awarded their first grant to recipient Sherry Dawson of One Great Gift.

The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design worked closely with Sherry to create a new vision for her existing drop ship service logo. Her vision is also being expanded on by the Website design services of Firelight Web Studio’s Laura Wheeler.

First step was to create a logo for her existing online business One Great Gift. Sherry wanted to emphasize her custom hand tied bows and drop ship gift services. She wanted a logo icon that was sophisticated and appealing and not “cutesie”.

Secondly, she requested that no Typography be used in the logo design.

The parachute with package (as shown ) blends both a sophistication and “hand touched” quality. This logo will be featured on her new website and business materials.

And finally, onto the website design with FireLight Web Studio! Success to you Sherry Dawson of One Great Gift! I look forward to seeing your new website and hearing about the other great services that you have won as a Front Porch Folk grant recipient.

— Kristine Sheehan, The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design.

Blogging

If you want your online business to succeed you need a blog. Blogging is one of the most important ways to accumulate knowledge as well as spread it around. It is useful in building online client relationships and readership. A question that you may need to answer is How do you retain readership and keep a blog moving forward?

While reading a favorite blog of mine, Just Creative, I came across an article dealing with online tactics to a better blog. I think it’s important enough to share, read and re-read. Most points are easy to achieve and are worth the time!

Here is a list of 7 things you can do to give your blog more of an edge… These are based on Just Creative, Jacob Cass’ observations and experience with blogs. Verbatim:

Format your text - This is my biggest tip. The amount of blogs that I see with huge chunks of text is amazing. People on the internet do not read paragraphs, they read in sentences. Try to keep your paragraphs down to 3-4 lines tops. Use headings, sub headings and bullet points.

Tell your reader the whole article in the first two sentences - This is another huge tip. People will decide if they want to read your article based on the opening two sentences. Ensure you make your opening paragraph a killer and of course, the headline.

Always use quality images in your posts. An image will invite people to read your article so ensure it is not a crappy one… make it relevant to the post. Try to use a consistent image style / size for your blog posts so people know what to expect. Separate long articles with images. I use the free stock sites sxc.hu and compfight for my images (ensure creative commons is on).

Put more time into your post. If you spend an hour crafting a post, why can’t you spend another 15 minutes spicing it up? Add relevant images and links throughout your post. Proof read at least 4 times.

Give back to your readers. Hold competitions and giveaways. Offer prizes and give link love. Don’t offer crappy prizes like ‘advertise on my site’ - give something of value and ensure that they want it. For example, my latest book giveaway. Look at the prizes you give away as investments, not costs.

Get onto as many blog rolls as possible - Ask blogs in your niche if you would like to do an exchange. Tell them what you have to offer and ask kindly. On that note would you like to be added to my blog roll? Use the form on that page if you would like to be considered for addition to my blog roll.

Do to others as you would like done to you - I like this tip because it is so true. Ensure you reply to every comment and email. Link to other sites and articles just as you would like done to you. This applies to all aspects of blogging and life in general.

Give more than expected - I wonder how many of you noticed that I gave you 8 tips, not 7? If you give your readers more than they expect they will always be pleased. Remember the saying “Under Promise, Over Deliver.”

Another suggestion is to check out http://www.dailyblogtips.com/ – Your blog will only improve! Thanks Jacob for your keen advice on Blogging!

Web Banner Design

Another great service offered by TheMerryBird.com has just flown in!

Web banner design.

Easy as 1,2,3 you request the size banner/s, send the name of your business along with your contact info to TheMerryBird via the order form on the Banner page: http://www.themerrybird.com/banners.html



A paypal invoice will follow to your e-box, unless of course you'd like to pay cash, by check or send a money order.



Let's work together to get your business flying all over the web! - Kristine Sheehan





info@themerrybird.com

Author Challenge and Contest

Writers, Authors, and Bards:

The Merry Bird Challenges you

Submit a Synopsis

of your Copyrighted
Fictional or Non-fictional

works to have a
Book Cover Designed

for it by The Merry Bird

Of All the works submitted by November 30th 2008
THREE
Writer synopsis' will be Chosen.
A cover will be designed for each.

When Completed in February 2009
The Three Book covers will be displayed here and on The Merry Bird Contest page
Where a Vote can be submitted

A vote from your networks and friends will determine the Winning Cover Design

The Winning Author will receive a PDFof the Winning cover design
to use to promote their Work and The Merry Bird's too!

Email contest Submissions to: info@themerrybird.com
Include: Author Name, Email Address,Synopsis of Fictional or Non-fictional work,Author Bio and copyright year of work. Don't forget to put "Book Cover Contest" in the subject line!
Good Luck!

Book Covers!

Flying back into the world of publishing and book cover design is interesting to say the least! When I first learned to design cover art 15 years ago, I layed out art work on a drawing board with a blue pencil and grid. In the early '90's Quark was the tech tool to know, and today, Indesign takes center stage.

With the recent press release of TheMerryBird's newest service, book cover design, I decided to mock up a book cover for a online, author friend, Diane Tegarden.

I thought this would be a great way to make Diane and other authors in Diane's author circle take notice of the TheMerryBird book cover design abilities. Unique in it's image, I believe the cover illustrates the sci-fi world Diane wants us to enter as we read Anti-Vigilante and The Rips In Time.

I hope Diane like's the sci-fi mock up cover TheMerryBird created for her new book:

Anti-Vigilante and The Rips In Time -

Check out her website for more details about her book: http://www.firewalkerpublications.com/

Any referrals welcome and any comments appreciated! -- Kristine

A Diamond on my hands!

Recently, I had the opportunity to draw a pen and ink portrait of a horse! Interesting! It's so rare to find a diamond in the rough, a customer that has the desire to display an image that is not from the technical age!

Now that my hands have finished drawing the horse, framed, packed and ready to ship, I can't help but wonder whats next? :) Exciting!

FrontPorchFolks.com - an Interview

FrontporchFolks.com has interviewed TheMerryBird for the Front Porch Spotlight this month. Check out the interview posted on Frontporch the week of October 12th!


[Business]

* Your stippling process is a fresh alternative to brush. What led you to this art form?

Actually it’s a funny thing, stippling. This style is a relaxing art technique of pen and ink. It’s not “free” but reflects static and kinetic energies at the same time. I guess a little bit of scientific thought comes to mind.

* The artwork is very detailed. does it take a long time to do each one?

It depends on the subject matter. It can take a long time to complete a drawing if it’s very detailed, ie. pets. (the hair can be a challenge!).

* Do you use a graphics program or physical media?

I use different pen sizes, colors and inks. I usually create the master image by hand and have it printed on note cards or invitations. Recently, I began entwining graphic programs with pen and ink images. It’s a lot of fun and I’m sure in time my style will evolve into something different.


* Are your designs one-of a-kind or can customers order stock images?

So far a limited edition of each motif has been printed. Customers can order CUSTOM motifs but usually orders are of what is available on www.themerrybird.com

* What was your most challenging custom order?

Ad design is the most challenging to create, but wedding invitations rank high up there on the challenging list. Brides like things a certain way and they should get what they want!

* Who is your ideal customer?

The ideal customer is one that is excited about what The Merry Bird offers and wants a note card or invitation not found in stores!


* How long does it take to deliver a finished product?

If a motif or note card is in stock it takes One week for delivery. If the work is custom or personalized it could take up to 3 weeks to have ready to ship. Everything depends on the time of year and what the customer needs and wants. Logo design takes 1-2 months or more, ad creation has a 2-5 day turnaround and E-cover and Book Covers design take 4-6 weeks to complete properly.

* Will your business be affected by the current state of the economy?

Yes, as a small business owner I know the state of the economy affects the way people will spend their dollars. Most people pull back spending on frivolous items and non – necessities. But as long as entrepreneurs exist, businesses will need logo’s, ads and other design work to propel out there!

[Personal]

* How did you decide to start your business?

The Merry Bird has been out there for a long time. It wasn’t until recent years that I had time to reflect on how I wanted to go about building it and make it official. The web has made all of this possible as marketing, networking and viewing is much easier than if I had to do all of business searching by foot.

* Is this your primary business or is it more of a part-time endeavor?

This is my primary business.

* Do you have formal training in art and/or graphic design?

Natural from birth, painting, sculpting and drawing has been part of me, innate. Formally, I have a BA in Art History, and Studio Art. After graduation from college I continued my Art education with graphic design courses, photography and computer art. Right about now I wish I had a business degree too!

* How did you come up with the name Merry Bird?

The Merry Bird refers to two things: a man’s “flitting” woman, and a waltz from 1871.

* Where do you see the Merry Bird in five years?

I see The Merry Bird making full time income and gaining greater exposure with authors, publishers for book cover design, with small/big businesses for logo creation and identity and eventually in your local store as an invitation or note.

* Do you have any advice for aspiring graphic designers?

Once you start your dream of becoming a designer, don’t stop, not even for a moment!

What a day!

So here we are at the Trumbull Arts Festival at 7am in the morning, setting up tent and table. It just stopped down pouring and we were thinking this day isn't going to be fun.










With kids in tow, rain trickling and that muggy feeling all around we just realized our tent was stuck out in left field! Geez, we knew the traffic flow would be even slower because of the placement of our tent.



To make matters worse, by 10am (the opening time of the show) the sun started to peak through and droplets of sweat start to pour off our brows.



By 11am we were stuck in this hot sauna of a day, for the rest of the day. Fortunately, no rain meant people would be more likely to walk! Noon time: no one is crying YET and YES there are people walking the festival and even buying!






1 pm, Now, for the jury to deliberate the winning vendors of the day. Oh well! I didn't come in at all but neither did 65 other vendors so I don't feel so bad! (I do need to work on display, but for a first time vendor, I pat myself on the back!)







Ok, Ok, I made some sales and the day turned out great. With my little helper handing out flyers and making cute talk with people, he managed to lure people in and HOOK 'EM!


I managed to go through at least two boxes of biz cards and other marketing materials I had. All and all - good job!


At 2pm an interview by Channel 17 stopped by to chat with The Merry Bird. I asked them to put me in soft focus and let my helper do all the talking! lol


Thanks to my husband for helping set up the tent and table, it made it easy. He even took the baby home for a three hour nap and returned to take my little helper out to lunch.


What a team! Now maybe next year I'll get a space that is in the middle of all the flowing traffic!

September Issue

Check out TheMerryBird's article Rock Star Big! in September's issue of WBO Magazine!

Why not join Women Business Owners and see how they can help you promote your business.

http://www.wbomagazine.com

Summers End: A New Beginning

It’s an exciting time as August brings people home from vacation and summer camps to a close. The thought of the children’s new school books sitting on the kitchen counter brings a smile. Most online businesses know that online business picks up in September as more people afford the time online, so for the next two months brides, arts and guest writers will be flying around the The Merry Bird blog to inspire what’s to come in the New Year. If you have something related to arts, event planning, stationery or design and you’d like to share, fly in and let’s chat!

As for the next big adventure, The Merry Bird will be offline at the Trumbull Arts Festival, on September 14th, 2008. I’ve been “cleaning house” and preparing for the festival these past couple of months. So the final touches are in the works for the September rush. I will be offering, a new holiday tag line, note cards, invitations, event invitation planning, as well as logo design for small businesses. Yes, all this to be presented to the screaming crowd at the long awaited juried festival. I’ll take photos of the day to share with you, so be sure to fly back in to http://www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com/
to check it all out! I’ll be taking notes on the in’s and out’s of festival etiquette, as this is my first major festival. I will also post an article here this September to help new festival comers out.

As for today, you can find new advertisements and offers on www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com. Just take a look at the side bar to the right and explore the exciting offers!

Fitness Tips for the Bride or Bridal party

3 Stunningly Simple Ways to Flatten your Belly — without Crunches
By Carol Dunlop
www.Optimumbodysculpting.com


If you pick up any magazine or turn on any fitness show right now, chances are they are telling you how to flatten your belly. This is actually the first question I get from women of all ages, where ever I go, “How do I get rid of this pooch?” You will be glad to know that you can achieve a flatter tummy by following these three simple steps.

Do More Cardio

Cardio (which is short for cardiovascular training) has long been recommended as the preferred means of burning fat. Women really underestimate the powerful fat-burning effects that cardio has on their workouts. Whether you ride a bike, jump rope, glide on the elliptical trainer or shoot some hoops, cardio is essential to allowing your body to burn excess fat.
While you are performing any of the above or similar activities, you are causing your body to work harder to keep blood pumping. All that pumping requires extra energy for your cells, heart, lungs and circulatory system to keep up. So, where does your body get this energy? It comes from stored, excess fat.
Just think of that run or fast walk as a way of trimming your tummy, thighs and tush, bit by bit.

Get to the Core

Your core is comprised of your upper and lower abdominal muscles, obliques; muscles that run vertically on your sides and the muscles of your lower back. Together, these muscles form the girdle that protects your internal organs and gives you the strength and support your body requires. In order to perform everyday tasks such as standing, walking upright, tossing a ball and vacuuming or sweeping, you need a strong core. If your core isn’t strong, your entire body is weak and won’t perform properly during daily activities.

Core exercises can be as simple as tossing a weighted ball from side to side while standing. Core muscles are also engaged when you perform a plank move, your body is extended and you are resting only on your elbows and tippy toes. A more advanced core move is a full, bent knee sit-up, with no one holding your ankles.

Eat Less Carbs

There’s that word again, carbs! It strikes fear in the hearts of many. There is so much information about carbs or carbohydrates, that when you hear the word, people just cringe.
No need to worry, carbs are good for you, they give you energy and keep you feeling satisfied long after you eat. The bad news is many women eat too much of the wrong type of carbs. I am referring to carbs that are made up of ingredients such as refined sugar, white flour and white rice. These carbs have all been stripped of their nutrients and processed right out of the “health-o-meter.” Your best bet are complex carbs which are made from whole grains and have the hull intact. An example of complex carbs are brown rice, sweet potatoes and whole wheat breads.
Your body needs a certain amount of carbs in your diet to regulate blood sugar, aid in digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied longer, so those annoying hunger pains don’t come back so quickly. Whole grains also provide much needed fiber and nutrients to your body.

By incorporating these simple tips into your weight management regimen, you can be certain that you will look and feel great and not have to worry about the belly bulge.
--------------------------------------
Carol Dunlop is certified through FiTour as a Personal Trainer and through the American Red Cross as a CPR, AED and First Aid Instructor. She has competed and placed in several Fitness America and National Bodybuilding competitions. To receive your Free E-course “How to Burn Calories While you Sleep,” log on to www.optimumbodysculpting.com.

Working to design Clever Solutions Coaching logo was a dream! Let's say my "clever" intelect was challenged! How does one visualize clever? Hmmmm....mentally quick and original, bright!

With the coaching vision of Holly Amarandei, Clever Solutions Coach, I came up with a design that fit those three descriptive words, mentally quick, original and bright. Holly's preference in colors for the logo (above) represent wellness, business and strength

Holly, to say the least is an expressive person that reeks fun! As Clever Solutions Coach, Holly spends her time pushing those with weight, personal life and wellness goals. Her approach to these issues may be unique in that she makes it FUN to take on your goal while deleting the stress from your life! Stop by and take a look at the packages she offers her clients... get moving, its your life and you are worth it!

You can contact Holly by visiting her website http://www.cleversolutionscoaching.com/

She tells me that her new logo will appear on her website and marketing materials this Fall.

Author: Kristine Sheehan, Designer
The Merry Bird...pen, ink and design
http://www.themerrybird.com/

A NEW Dress the Drink Website!

One of The Merry Bird's favorite advertisers has launched a NEW site with more incredible flavors to choose - Check this one out!


Las Vegas, NV (July, 2008) - Dress The Drink™ announced today the launch of their new website http://www.blogger.com/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.IE5/0S8UA2SA/www.dressthedrink.com. Timing has been everything for Dress the Drink™ and its drink kit which was introduced at the Manolos & Martinis event on May 18th as their VIP sponsor. Dress the Drink™ rapidly garnered national interest only three days after the event with what is being hailed as “The Ultimate Girlfriend Gift.” Everything looks better dressed-up and that is why Dress the Drink™ was created. With over 150 drink creations possible, it takes your ordinary cocktail or beverage to the next level of an extraordinary experience. Just like wearing great heels with jeans, it changes your entire look and attitude. Dress the Drink™ turns your ordinary cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage into a personal statement. At Dress the Drink™ we believe that a simple idea done well is the definition of elegance and we know that you will too. Say goodbye to your ordinary, everyday, run-of-the-mill beverage ……..And Dress It with Dress the Drink™.

Cindy McClure, President and Owner, is joined by Co-Owner Mary Carroll, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Scott Miller, Vice President of Product Development and Award Winning Mixologist Trevor Thorpe. Together they bring over 30 years of expertise in the food and beverage industry to the table, rounding out a highly skilled and talented team. In the 60 days since our product launch we have enjoyed several feature articles in both national and local publications with interest increasing daily. Dress the Drink™ will be included in many national print and online publications for holiday gift buying. KVVU FOX 5 news in Las Vegas will be interviewing us and showcasing our product on August 6 @ 7:45am, which you will be able to view on our website. We are also working with a global retailer to enhance their signature cocktail during their Las Vegas event in September. “It is not just about our company and its success, but it is also our vital business relationships that truly catapult our product,” says McClure

From our clear acrylic and stainless steel case to the jars and spoons, it is clear to see this is makeup for your drink and it provides you with a reason to get the girls together. Dress the Drink™ kits include: edible silver flakes, crushed red hots, rock candy pebbles, crushed toffee, toasted coconut flakes and two outrageous flavors of rimming sugar. We topped it all off with individual serving spoons, reusable drawstring bags, serving suggestions and a product brochure stored in the lid. We offer you sophisticated enhancements to the overall look and appeal of your next intimate or casual gathering. Take the next step and Dress Your Drink with Dress The Drink™. Priced at $49.00, this collection of ingredients will enhance over 150 drink combinations.

Never before has it been so easy to Dress The Drink™.

Media Contact: Razonia McClellan RM Public Relations for Dress the Drink™ 432-686-9956 Razonia@razoniapr.com FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



To learn more about Dress The Drink ™, visit: http://www.blogger.com/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.IE5/0S8UA2SA/www.dressthedrink.com




P 702.270.4346 M 702.807.7554 F 702.837.6687



http://www.blogger.com/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.IE5/0S8UA2SA/www.dressthedrink.com

The Close of Summer

Summer is moving quickly (as it always does!) and as always the Women Owners July Expo will be/was... a great success. It’s a nice ending to an exciting summer time online event. August brings people home from vacation and summer camps to a close. The thought of the children’s new school books sitting on the kitchen counter brings a smile. Most people know that online business picks up in September as more people afford the time online, so for the next two months brides, arts and guest writers will be flying around the The Merry Bird blog to inspire what’s to come in the New Year. If you have something related to arts, event planning, stationery or design and you’d like to share, fly in and let’s chat! info@themerrybird.com

As for the next big adventure, The Merry Bird will be offline at the Trumbull Arts Festival, on September 14th, 2008. I’ve been “cleaning house” and preparing for the festival these past couple of months. So the final touches are in the works for the September rush. I will be offering, a new holiday tag line, note cards (new notes to come in the new year!), invitations, event invitation planning, as well as logo design for small businesses. Yes, all this to be presented to the screaming crowd at the long awaited juried festival. I’ll take photos of the day to share with you, so be sure to fly back in to

http://www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com/
to check it all out! I’ll be taking notes on the in’s and out’s of festival etiquette, as this is my first major festival. I will also post an article here this September to help new festival comers out.

As for today, you can find new advertisements and offers on www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com. Just take a look at the side bar to the right and explore the exciting offers!

PRESS RELEASE

Fly around this season with Merry Bird Holiday Tags!

July 2008, CT -- The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design flies in to start the holiday season this July 17th through July 19th for the Women Business Owners July Expo at http://www.womenbizowners.org

Personalize your holiday gifts with a Merry Bird gift tag. http://www.themerrybird.com With a distinct pen and ink, stippled style, holiday tags are a beautiful token of “holiday cheer”. These hole punched tags come with a gold or silver cord attached and are purchased either flat, hand trimmed “die cut” or folded. Motif choices are : Gift, Skate, Soldier, Santa Bag or “Holiday House”, Tree, Santa face, Red Bird Tree, tags -- all 2 x 4 in size and custom printed. Tags come in a cello 8 pack and are reasonably priced at $5.50 per pack.

Coordinate your holiday tags with fifteen (15) holiday cards/envelopes, beautifully presented in a gold box, with Merry Bird ribbon to give as a gift or mail out to your family and friends. The July holiday card line includes: Soldiers: Merry Christmas/Happy Holiday, Santa’s Bag, Bells: Can you hear them ring?

Note cards, holiday tags and custom stationery are available to purchase and shipped to you with a click of a paypal button. All Cello wrapped and Boxed Note cards are standard size 4.25 x 5.5 folded.

Vendors and buyers are welcome to contact The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design at info@themerrybird.com to receive a “buyer flyer” to view cards and place holiday orders.


Company Bio:

The Merry Bird....pen, ink and design company of Connecticut has officially been in business since March 2006. Kristine Sheehan, the owner, began working in the design/art industry because her passion is drawing with pen and ink, painting and photography. Her company offers a line of pen and ink motifs on note cards, holiday cards and invitations. The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design is ever changing and adding more beautiful ideas to choose from, come take a peek, Fly in! http://www.themerrybird.com
*********************

Welcome Back to the World of Small Business Logo Design

Since 1999, I put logo design on the side to build my family. And coming back into the world of logo design has been a fun challenge and one that was an unexpected surprise. Today, working online has allowed me to expose the natural artistic talent that I can offer to a small business out there, one that didn't want the glitz and computerized view of the world to show who and what they have to offer.

What I enjoyed most recently was working with a small business owner, Bea Kunz of Sage Hill Farms, TN. Not only did Bea have a specific vision in mind, but I knew that all the new wave hoopla out there didn't appeal to her. Hence, The Merry Bird...pen, ink and design took a piece of her farm and drew it in pen and ink, utilized a font that made a modern, sassy and still down to earth statement.

Take a look for yourself! Bea plans to use this logo on her business sign, business stationery, and marketing materials for her organic products! check it out in the next Sage Hill Farm News letter and be sure to visit: http://www.sagehillfarmsandvintagestore.com

Thank you Mike and Bea of Sage Hill Farms - I hope your logo brings you years of memorable business!

Kristine Sheehan

The Merry Bird...pen,ink and design

"Your Stationery in Flight"

http://www.themerrybird.com/

Getting Stationery Serious...

Hi all -

It's been sometime since I've focused on stationery blogging... I've developed an online stationery business and my focus was learning "how to build it" so they would come. I think I've learned a few things and will continue to look to those that have been in flight for inspiration!

Here are some new venues and designer blogs that made my heart sing and I'd like to share them with you. I'll be back this coming week with reasons why each one tickled my fancy!

http://papercrave.com/
papercrave is where you can find that artsy gift paper recommendation or stationery that you could just die for.... of course you'll fly in to see The Merry Bird before you say "croak"! lol


http://www.designspongeonline.com/
Design Sponge is a great Resource for finding unique items from accessories, to graphic design, interior design and paper..... it offers a "mini trends" link which is my fav....:)

http://www.papercupdesign.blogspot.com/
Papercup designs deep dark attraction to paper stands out! Classy and Chic it's one for an aspiring stationer to be in the running with!

http://www.stationeryhustle.blogspot.com/
Stationery hustle is a Great blog for learning to build your own "ink spot" (stationery biz). Tons of tips, tid bits and "know abouts". A nice easy read and resource!

http://www.parsiri.com/
Parsiri blog is very literal, slap in the face, "think about what I'm writing about" kind of art blog! Honest, open and sometimes mature, good and inspiring read. You'll love it!

http://www.ashleybugdesigns.blogspot.com/
Ashley bug blog is very like my own... at least I see similar artistic motivations... focused on Ashley bug, all about finding information to propel business and being open to new artists and ideas... love the paper products!


Squiggle away!

Kristine

BlogTalkRadio - A great Wedding Resource

With wedding season around the corner brides and grooms alike should stop and listen to some wedding Blogtalk. You can find a plethera of ideas and advice to make your special day that much more special!

Check this link out to listen to Segment 1 of "Your Engaged ! Now What? by Diva Event

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cocktailsandconversations/2008/04/11/Congratulations-Youre-EngagedNow-What-Creating-a-Workable-Wedding-Budget

An Ink Spot of one’s own….

Taking on an entrepreneurial spirit and making an online design business a reality is a challenge. With so many design professionals and technical upgrades out there, competition is paramount. But how you choose to forge ahead and create an ink spot of your own is not as difficult as it may appear. Here are some tips on how The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design began.

Get out there….

Utilizing the web was the first step at bringing my online business, The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design to fruition. Blogging, building a website, and most important – offering customized ink works and building a product line to present to buyers, vendors and customers online and off is key.

Become an expert in the field….

Reading Just Creative Blog is part of my expertise development. Yes, brown nosing is too! Reading, reading and reading some more… keep up to date on what’s going on in the technical arena as well as industry trends. Socialize with like business owners and swap idea’s. Attend local shops and shows (like…The National Stationery show at the Javits Center in NY!)

Fly around the world wide web….

Regular, social networking is easy and fun to do. So I fly into social networks such as Myspace, LinkedIn, Ryze, and other online venues. It is here that networking with entrepreneurs and others got the word out about The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design business. Now, my ink spot is in the works! The Merry Bird is recognized in some circles and is beyond the “unknown business” realm.

Find target markets….

Customers are everywhere, but the ones that are drawn to The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design are those that like something “real”, nostalgic or customized. Mothers to be, Brides, and women between the ages of 25-50.


Ask for referrals…
Once business is in flight, I always ask my customer for a referral. This definitely opens opportunity to propel into a new custom job.

The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design has been an online business for two years and I can officially say I have an ink spot of my own! How about you?


Kristine Sheehan
The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design
http://www.themerrybird.com/
http://www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com/

PRESS RELEASE

Fly around this season with Merry Bird Holiday Tags!
MAY 2008, Trumbull, CT -- The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design flies in to start the holiday season this July 17th through July 19th at the Christmas in July Sale at http://www.womenbizowners.org

Personalize your holiday gifts with a Merry Bird gift tag. http://www.themerrybird.com With a distinct pen and ink, stippled style, holiday tags are a beautiful token of “holiday cheer”. These hole punched tags come with a gold or silver cord attached and are purchased either flat, hand trimmed “die cut” or folded. Motif choices are : Gift, Skate, Soldier, Santa Bag or “Holiday House” tags -- all 2 x 4 in size and custom printed. Tags come in a cello 8 pack and are reasonably priced at $5.50 per pack.

Coordinate your holiday tags with fifteen (15) holiday cards/envelopes, beautifully presented in a gold box, with Merry Bird ribbon to give as a gift or mail out to your family and friends. The July holiday card line includes: Soldiers: Merry Christmas/Happy Holiday, Santa’s Bag, Bells: Can you hear them ring?

Note cards, holiday tags and custom stationery are available to purchase and shipped to you with a click of a paypal button. All Cello wrapped and Boxed Note cards are standard size 4.25 x 5.5 folded.

Vendors and buyers are welcome to contact The Merry Bird…pen, ink and design at info@themerrybird.com to receive a “buyer flyer” to view cards and place holiday orders.

Eco-friendly products going mainstream

12:00 AM CDT on Wednesday, April 9, 2008
By MARIA HALKIAS / The Dallas Morning News


Attention, tree huggers: Your values aren't so exclusive anymore.

Earth Day 2008, on April 22, marks a paradigm shift in the social consciousness of America as mainstream retail makes it easier for consumers to live a greener lifestyle.Merchandise that appeals to the environmentally conscious no longer requires a trip to a specialty store but is as close as the neighborhood shopping center. That means all the trappings of a green lifestyle are also becoming more affordable for middle America.

Move over President's Day and weekend early bird sales. Shoppers: Prepare to hear the new mantra as the mall turns green this month.

Organic cotton bath towels and sheets and Arizona jeans made from recycled denim are available at J.C. Penney. An eco-friendly tote bag designed by Fossil Inc. is among the products coming to Macy's, and next month Target will stock its first eco-friendly, limited-edition designer collection.

Product manufacturers from Coca-Cola to Keds sneakers to Dell computers are pushing recycled materials and ways to offset your carbon impact.

With Earth Day's roots dating to the 1960s, consumers have seen plenty of eco-friendly fads and trends over the years.

Is the timing right to broadcast this marketing message?

"This time, it's a shift," said Mary Brett Whitfield, senior vice president at TNS Retail Forward. The firm surveyed consumers in November 2006 and last January on various brands and retailers and their commitment to social responsibility.

Consumers said that issues such as reducing waste and supporting recycling were more important to them in the most recent poll, Ms. Whitfield said.

Even as the economy weakened between the two polls, consumers said in January that they were willing to pay a little more for a product that met some aspect of social responsibility, such as being energy-efficient or packaged to reduce waste.

Those consumer attitudes are making niche products more widely available, she said.

"What's happening now is not about mainstream America becoming more green; what we're seeing now is making green products more mainstream," said Raphael Bemporad, principal and co-founder of BBMG, a market research firm that has published a new report on the conscious consumer.

About 60 percent of Americans already identify themselves as socially responsible, he said. The most dedicated 10 percent are willing to be inconvenienced; the next 20 percent share the same values as the most dedicated but are less likely to make trade-offs; and the next 30 percent say they'll switch if performance, quality and price are delivered.

Companies are figuring out more ways to go green and save money at the same time. In reality, Wal-Mart got on board with the ultra-concentrated detergent in smaller bottles because it cost less, but if Wal-Mart does it, consumers take notice, Ms. Whitfield said.

Wal-Mart's campaign to get Americans to replace their light bulbs with more energy-efficient curly fluorescents has also had an impact.

In its January poll, Retail Forward asked consumers which retailers they believed were committed to sustainability and social responsibility initiatives. For the first time, Wal-Mart jumped ahead of Whole Foods Market, she said.

In BBMG's poll, Wal-Mart ranked third, behind Whole Foods and Newman's Own.

Although eco-friendly awareness has gone mainstream, the dangers that manufacturers and retailers face with such claims is that they can't just be buzzwords, Mr. Bemporad said.

"That means more skepticism, and authenticity is more important than ever," he said.

"There will be a huge backlash if marketing claims and how a company behaves don't match."

Honey Moon Thoughts For The Bride and Groom

Make Your Own Slideshow | More Slideshows

"Ring Them Bells!"

Wedding Season is right around the corner!
Walk down the isle in style and don’t forget to make your guests know it by sending a custom invitation that says it all!

June 2008 The Merry Bird will showcase its Annual custom, pen and ink Bridal Stationery Line. Find new ideas that will not go out of fashion! Allow The Merry Bird to fly in and decorate your invitation with a quality and uniqueness you can only find with The Merry Bird. Enter your bridal info here: http://www.themerrybird.com/wedding.html
Have your own idea? Let The Merry Bird take it and bring your dream invitation to fruition for you. Let’s “Ring them bells!”

And The Winner is.....

The Merry Bird...pen, ink and design
presents winner :

Huckleberry

Owner: Lynne Flood

Runner Up

Benny

Owner: Dan Johnson

Honorable Mention

Kira
Owner: Helen Onulak

Special Thanks to Contest Judges:

Lisa Guarino of:

and

Ginger Marks of DocUmeant Designs
http://www.documeantdesigns.com/

Leaping Doggies! Who Won?

Leap over to http://www.the-merry-bird.blogspot.com/ on February 29 to see

which of the adorable doggies in The Cutest Merry Bird Dog Contest won the prize

for being too cute in pen and ink!

Pick your favorite doggie in the window and see if the judges agree!

http://www.themerrybird.com/contest.html

RADIO TALK

Looking forward to taking part in Women Business Owners new Online Radio show this 2008. There is so much excitement watching WBO grow from an online chat to a full fledged 501c3 business with it's first radio show tomorrow and it's first convention being prepared for as we speak!

Join WBO for the first pod show

January 30 at 1pm and Meet Anna Campbell CEO and some special guests.

Just click on the icon to the right of this message to pop in!

I'm presently collecting my thoughts for

February 13, 2008 at 1pm for a Radio/podcast interview with Women Business Owners Radio talk show host Tammy Munson. I'd love meet and share The Merry Bird... with all of you listeners!

Kristine Sheehan

The Merry Bird...pen, ink and design

"Your Stationery in Flight"

http://www.themerrybird.com/

Control and Creativity: A Match Made in Heaven

Organization, structure, and habit aren't threats to your artistic freedom. In fact, they're tools that help you carve out the time you need to let your creativity fly. (Business of Design Online)

By Mark A. McGuinness

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

View More In: BusinessRelated Features: The Art of Business: Project Management for Creative Professionals

Creative Fuel: Turning Mission Organization into Mission Possible

The Art of Business: Mastering Virtual Project Management

Related Books: Organizing from the Right Side of the Brain : A Creative Approach to Getting Organized
Originally published at Business of Design Online

Some people think of creativity and organization as opposites. But Mark McGuiness believes that concentration is a must for the best creative work. If you don't consciously make time for being focused, you're vulnerable to interruptions that can stop your creative flow mid-stream.
In his book Time Management for Creative People, he goes into the theory and practice of maintaining your creative focus under pressure, and of managing the information flooding in on us all.

You can download the entire 32-page book by clicking the image below:

For more on Mark McGuiness, including free updates about coaching, creativity, and business, go to his blog, Wishful Thinking.

POW! or Should I say PAW!

Ring in 2008 with a POW! or should I say PAW!

Puppies! Hand drawn and printed on note cards or framed as portraits are available this coming February 2008. An appropriate theme for Valentine Day gifts and doggie lovers alike! Fly in to view the new doggie note line this February or inquire about your own dog portrait or image on a note card today at info@themerrybird.com.

The Merry Bird...pen, ink and design

"Your Stationery in Flight"

http://www.themerrybird.com