Customer Appreciation Sale Event

Hey!
I know it has been a while- but man Spring has been crazy busy (in the great, creative way!)

Planning tomorrows big Customer Appreciation Sale has been so exciting- from deciding on the props to creating new patterns for the new sewn newborn rompers!

Another really fun start to the sale is tonight's drawing for a $100 shop credit! Yay! Drawing will be done at 8CST tonight, and is drawn from everyone on my newsletter. If you want your chance to win- enter here! Good Luck!

Here's the previews on some of the props on sale tomorrow!

Wraps

Furs

Tassel Hats

My Favorite Time of Year {When My Business Goes "Bust"}

 My Favorite Time of Year 

{When My Business Goes "Bust"} 

What do you do when you are getting sessions like crazy- October and November were so busy that you had to stay up until 2 am EVERY night to get close to getting all your sessions edited, uploaded, sent - whatever you do- and the constant stream of e-mails wonder where the galleries are.

You look to December for a break

 "As soon as these Christmas Cards are done- I will breathe again." Right?

Little do you know- you can breath again - until you realize 2 things. First off- you now have  no cash coming in- and it is time to buy Christmas Presents. Second -  you are bored out of your mind.          

I get it- been there- done that. For YEARS. Not kidding- I was a slow learner. I would work like crazy to get orders out and then amazingly Dec 6th everything stopped. Complete Crickets.

Instead of enjoying my holiday, I was stressed- upset- bored and worried.

What if I never got another order again? 

I know that is a bit dramatic- but that's me! Overly dramatic when I'm bored and stressed. 

The past two years I have had a "fool proof" plan. 

I actually close up shop. Which sounds crazy when you are hurting for business- but when work is slow- it is so easy to sit around on your computer just waiting for someone to message you that might be interested. The amount of hours I have sat in front of Facebook during the holidays- instead of with my family- is embarrassing. So I vow not to do that. Yes- I take orders- if I get a message when I'm checking up on things and I can squeeze it in or have it Ready to Ship- I am always happy to help! But sitting around on Facebook while everyone is enjoying eggnog (YUM!) no longer happens. 

I shop early- and online- for Christmas presents. The slowly come in in December and I can wrap them and stick them under the tree. No "worries" about not having presents for everyone under the tree. The few things I get locally- I run to the store on Christmas Eve for- because ya know- I like the rush of last min holiday shopping- I usually take my dad so it is SUPER intense :) LOL

And my FAVORITE part of this year- When all orders are out (which is happening this week! YAY!!!)I plan the next year.

I window shop for new colors, new fibers, and new patterns.I start planning color combinations for the next season- start chatting with prospective customers on color palates and items for Spring. I do some heavy duty organizing within my business and personal life. I follow up on business classes that I have taken and had to put on the back burner during busy times. 

I work on my "theme" for the year- the style that I'm bringing to all my photographers. ReiLynn Designs is known for unique color combinations- but toward the end of the year, I focused on unique textures, and writing my own patterns. I know that I'll be adding to that this year. I'm adding new fibers- new tie back designs and adding to the afghan styles that I already create. 

Most important- I make sure to spend holidays with my family. That is- after all- why I started ReiLynn Designs in the first place. I wanted a business that I could spend time with my family and share my passions to the world. In no way was being too stressed to enjoy my holidays part of that plan. 

Instead of worrying, and being stressed, remember who you are and what you are doing it for. Take this time for self reflection and business planning. This is your chance to start out 2015 right- positive and inspired! 

I am sending this blog out along with my top ways to stay inpsired in the newsletter. If you would like to receive the newsletter- just visit the shop and put your e-mail address in the top bar. 

**ReiLynn Designs Photography Prop Shop*

Featured Photographer: Porcelain Photography

A few months ago I had the pleasure of meeting one of my best Facebook friends, ReAnna from Porcelain Photography! My favorite part of finding new Facebook Photographer Friends- we are always creating together! I am always on the edge of my computer just waiting for the sneak peaks of her latest session (sometimes I get a little too impatient and message her during the sessions... whoops!) 

Do you want to be Friends with ReAnna or book her for your next session? Make sure to follow her on social media! 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/porcelain.photography.by.reanna.evelynn

What types of photography do you specialize in?

I focus on Maternity and Newborn-1st Year, but I photograph everything from Children, Families and Weddings as well as Boudoir.

What are a few of your "go-to" prop inspirations?

I order props for each newborn I photograph, so I draw inspiration from their family's story, their goals and hopes for their new baby, and their tastes - then I put a classic spin on them and strive to use their inspirations in ways they don't expect.

3 Tips for booking a session for you- and GO!

1) Book Early. I book newborn by Due Date, then schedule once the baby has arrived. Booking at least a month prior to a due date ensures that I can order their props and accessories. 

2) Be Prepared. I spend as much time as needed informing the soon-to-be-new-parents on preparations for their session, I try to verbally paint a picture so that they can properly visualize how their experience will go. this helps them be realistic with expectations of the session, and helps everyone relax. Preparation is key.

3) Keep Me Informed. Every single session is customized for my client and their new baby. I like to stay 100% in the loop about my clients' ideas for the session, and props they want to bring so that I can be 100% prepared when they walk in the door.

Lets talk inspirations! Who is one of your "Photographer Idols?"

Ana Brandt is a huge inspiration for me. I love that her photographs are so organic and they never seem forced.

What are your words of wisdom to share with your fellow photographers? 

Breathe. You can prepare as much as your heart desires but at the end of the day, its the baby's game - you're just playing in it :) there's no need to stress or get frustrated during a session when it's not going according to your plan, just breathe and go at the baby's pace and you'll be okay.

Now for some fun :) What is the funniest thing that has happened during a shoot? 

It wasn't funny at the time, and actually it was quite gross, but now it's my "go-to story" every time a baby poops on me or my props and mom gets embarrassed.

One of my FIRST newborns was a family friend's new 9 pound baby boy. My mom watches my daughter during every session, and since we grew up with my friend my mom came in during a set change to hold him - he was still naked and i didn't think to wrap his bum with a cloth diaper. Well, he pooped down my mother's shirt... so I decided to wipe her off. This was a bad idea as Mr R wasn't finished his business. He not only pooped in my face and somehow managed to soil the entire set behind me, but it also got into my eye AND my mouth. They thought it was hilarious, and all I could say was "Well, it doesn't taste like it smells.." and excuse myself to freshen up and change my clothes. 
best. day. ever.

Why do we do what we do? {Keeping Memories Alive}

This past week I took my little family to the Indianapolis Museum and it was a BLAST! They have this whole glass ceiling that you find shapes in, every morning this week I wake up wishing I was in the spinning chair looking at all those beautiful colors and shapes. But enough of that - I obviously don't need a glass ceiling- I need more coffee.

There is also a part of the Children's Museum that is dedicated to children of the world who have shaped our lives, country and literally changed the world.

Anne Franks, Ruby Bridges, Ryan White

There is an area where children write a promise on a leaf about how they are going to make the world a better place. While Domino was doing that- I went through the Ryan White room. 

Honesty, and more embarrassingly, I wasn't really sure who Ryan was or what he did. I was still really young and sheltered in the 90's. He had gotten AID's from a blood transfusion and helped rid the nation of misinformation and fear. 

He was so brave- so so brave. In his short life he brought to the world more guidance and understanding than most people give in 90 years. 

His room is set up there- exactly how it was when he left it. As if I wasn't crying enough already, you turn the corner, and there are his baby photos. The blanket in the photos, was one that his grandmother had crocheted him. It too, was folded right next to his baby toys.\

At that point, I was sobbing. 

That is why we do what we do? Right? Why we create beautiful images and keepsakes. To pass on to future generations. To give to loved ones to cherish memories. Ryan's family has that tiny blanket and photos for years to come. His mom wanted to keep spreading the word about his life, his disease and his amazing work. She could do that by the keepsakes that were left behind. 

Today I am proud to say that I'm a part of keeping memories alive. I have had parents and photographers request a keepsake prop for a child that may not make it much longer. Ones that have passed for remembrance and ones for children to have during recovery. It is always an honor to be chosen to be the one to help create a memory- or keep it alive. 

By the way, Domino finished her leaf and my baby brother took her though the Anne Frank exhibit, because I was crying so bad I couldn't. Poor girl. 

Finding Inspiration in Others {TGIF Mingles with Southern Willow Photography }

Hello Again!

This past month, I took a long, hard look at my life, business and environment. Working 12-14 hour days, spending too much time online vs. with my family has been taking it's toll. I know that is exactly how many of you feel. Tired, but your mind can't stop creating, networking- the minute you step away you feel as if you are missing an opportunity that you shouldn't have! 

One of my biggest time suckers is networking- it sucks my time because I LOVE it! Being able to chat with others and meet new creative people going though the same things I am is such a relief in my hectic day. Soon- if found my "networking" turned into scanning the humor boards of Pinterest and chatting with old high school friends on Facebook. Neither produce the creative edge I need in my company. 

It had to stop. So I have made the bold choice to do most of my networking though Mingles. I have to say I LOVE it! I have met so many new creative photographers and vendors who understand that work comes first on Facebook- and then you get to chat it up. I see their beautiful props and images in my newsfeed and instantly get inspired to write, crochet, or design an entire new line (which I will be posting sneaks of later!) 

This week I am SO excited to be a featured page on Southern Willow Photography's TGIF Mingle. I have been following Southern Willow Photography for some time, and love the images and others that follow them! I urge everyone- get in the mingles because THAT is where you can find true inspiration- and form those amazing connections that help you grow! 

To join Southern Willow Photography's TGIF Mingle, just head over to there Facebook page- like the featured vendors and photographers and post your own Facebook page for others to follow you as well! I will be following EVERYONE in the mingle today! 

"It’s a LIFESTYLE business, right? So get a life."

"It's a LIFESTYLE business, right? So get a life." 

During my last business course that quote that really grabbed me. It was about why I created the business in the first place. My lifestyle. 

I'm sure my life style is much like yours- kids, significant other, house, cooking, cleaning, pets, work. It is hard to find time for the "ideal lifestyle" that you dream of. Days are filled with dreams. Not dreams like when you were a kid- but dreams like "when I'm done with this, then things will be easier."

Is that why you stared your creative journey? To constantly work? To half-ass every dinner because any energy you have NEEDS to go into your work. Right? If not you feel guilty. Guilty for not having time/money/energy and once you make it BIG all of the guilt and time will be worth it. Right?

What are the things you love to do. Not just randomly- but every day.

What would you do if you had an extra 7 hours.

Would you sip your coffee in the morning, instead of chug it down while reading e-mails.

Would you go jogging? Hiking? Riding horses? Gardening? Painting? Take bubble baths or just take a freakin nap?

For the last 4 years (I am SO not kidding) every couple of months, I go " Ya know what, I'm going to wake up an hour early, so I can drink my coffee, do yoga, mediate and actually put real clothes on and do my hair and make up- all before everyone gets up."

At no point in those 4 years have I done that. Even once. 

Why? Because I'm tired, I stay up at night to finish up work, and considering that 9-12 PM is my "high traffic" time on the website- you do too.

So I am not longer going to attempt to wake up super early, but create my lifestyle today. Right now. I want to go to lunch with friends, do yoga and not look like I rolled out of bed before talking my daughter to school. Take time for me AND my family.

Where to start? Stop giving people who don't deserve your time and energy, your time and energy.

• Is there a reason someone isn't begging you to be their photographer? Drop them. Gush on your current clients and make each one value your business. 
• Make sure people "pay to play," you aren't Walmart- you are a hands on, custom photography service. 
• Stop trolling Facebook groups for "deals, sales, DIY projects." Sign up for newsletters and sales will be hand delivered to you so when your ready to shop, shop. (this is the link for my newsletter, should you not be a part of it already :) 
• Invest your time as well as you invest your money. Your business takes away from your life, time with your children, family and fun. If you aren't going to make that time worth it, no one is.

I want to hear your thoughts on this. Are you feeling guilty by spending too much time working? What is your biggest "Time Sucker?" I want to hear and we can all get our priorities straight! 

Quality Props for Quality Pictures and Creating Amazing Relationships

Image by: Gabriela Bauerova - Photography
Baby Bear and Bonnet Set by ReiLynn Designs

A few weeks ago, I was on a site that was bickering back and fourth about the best way to get professional photos for vendor's shops. This bickering went on for days and while I didn't partake int, I watched the drama unfold.

There are SO many issues with the prop trade for photos ordeal- I know- cause I've been there. And what do I say?

~BUILD LASTING RELATIONSHIPS~

Creating lasting relationships with photographers is something very near and dear to my heart- after all, I am a prop creator!

After a few months in the photography prop business I realized a couple of things:

1. My photos were horrible!
2. While I followed all of the patterns perfectly- I never really had feedback on sizing, texture, or quality on my props.

I also realized that both of those things can be fixed with one or two AMAZING relationships with photographers! 

Image by: Jennifer Nace Photography
Stocking Hat by: ReiLynn Designs

I have tried almost every way to get professional photos of my props and starting out wasn't easy. 

Six years ago, I literally posted "Hey! I have a couple of props that I am looking for images of! Who would like to get them in exchange for some photos?"

I can not express what a bad idea that was. 

Messages came flooding in- from TONS of very inexperienced photographers. I found a few that were "okay" and sent them products. I am still waiting on said product images- 6 YEARS LATER. 

I went back to the drawing board. 

I started up with a modeling company- I read a profile that had the professional photographers name that she would be using and 

OMG THAT PHOTOGRAPHER WAS AMAZING AND THIS WAS GOING TO BE MY BIG BREAK! 

After sending products- and waiting a month- I got images back with this adorable little note

"So we haven't had the chance to get professional photos done, so I did them last night with the flash, I hope you like them! She didn't really want to sleep and the hat was too small." 

I don't have a copy of those images- because I deleted them that night. They were horrible, and no, my hat didn't fit on a 3 month old when it was supposed to be on an 8 lb newborn. UGH!

Drawing board anyone?

By that time I had sent over $3000.00 products and had not gotten a single usable image back. Which is a VERY common complaint among vendors.

So I started messaging photographers- which, if your a photographer- is the last thing you want in your inbox.

Note to Vendors: 

Vendors begging for photos is JUST as bad as photographers begging for free props! 

Did I get replies? Nope!

Lets fast forward a few years to when life gets crazy. I work three jobs, have a toddler, divorced, moved AND started a local boutique. Need for professional photos? Not great. So I stopped worrying about it.

Image by : Shanna Rae Photogaphy
Mini Stretch Blankets by: ReiLynn Designs

Then I closed my boutique. All of a sudden I was online only again with my sad pictures.

I blasted 50% off in exchange for images all over Facebook. I got a TON of responses- so many that I ended up refunding a lot of people because there were repeat items, delays in shipping and an overall mess of how that happened. And THAT is the common complaint among photographers.

In this time though, I was getting a few orders here and there. Branding my name slowly and providing great customer service to regular customers.

Now I am SO proud to say that I work with all three of these methods, and that was accomplished my creating lasting relationships- not spamming- not Facebook blasting- but by taking the time to really talk with my customers and photographers I knew.

It took some time, patience and great communication, but I turned a few of my tried and true customers into photography prop partners. They get an automatic 50% off in exchange for photos on all the items that need images in my shop. When they are looking for something for their next session- I send them a list of items I can discount. Now- it isn't without it's set backs.

I also gift props to a few photographers and work with photographers though a modeling company.

In my experience I have learned that when communicating about photos or props- being 100% straight forward is important!

Tips for Props for Photos:

• GREAT communication is key! Make sure you know shipping time, sizes, image turn around time. Everything! There are instances where it takes 4-5 weeks to edit a gallery- make sure you communicate that to your prop vendors. 

• Don't SPAM people! A great way to get discounted props is to make a purchase- see if you even like the quality of them- and then offer an image, with no strings attached. Many vendors will give you a discount on your next order or ask to work with you more! 

• Stay organized! Make sure you are tagging your vendors you purchase props from- they love it and will share the love. If you don't know where you got what from and who- you can't start building that relationship. 

• Nothing is free- time for your images isn't and supplies to create props isn't- if you are going to build relationships for that type of trade BOTH of you need to respect each others time, energy and skill level. 

If you have any suggestions, tips, tricks or information you would love to add- feel free to comment! I would LOVE to hear your perspective or experiences!