It’s Paper & Pigtails’ Birthday

Ok, technically, Saturday was the official birthday. This post should have been done yesterday, but a flow of orders kept me from getting over to write it (no complaints).

On March 12 of last year, I opened the Etsy Shop – Paper & Pigtails and it’s been one crazy ride ever since! I have been on Etsy since 2007, selling both graphics and custom painted wall letters. They did well, but I couldn’t truly get my whole heart into it. I have designed and illustrated stationery designs as a hobby for friends and family since learning graphic design over 10 years ago and it’s always been a passion for me! When I was first asked to design things for a friends party, I had NO IDEA about this “party world” that was out there…and when I saw it…well, it was a perfect fit. I felt like I came home to my niche.

It has been a year full of late nights, squeezing in work at every moment, and during every nap.

It has been a year of “date nights” that consisted of the hubby on the couch and me on the computer.

It has been a year of startling revelations and learning lessons.

It has been a year that has taught me that we all make our own choices and paths in life, and if you want something, you have to do it, WITH ALL OF YOUR HEART!

I learned that when you live the life you love, things fall into place.

I learned that laundry won’t get finished every day, and my kids may not always have the best home cooked dinner….and I learned that I am OK with that.

I learned that it is OK to follow your dreams.

I learned that dreams mean making TIME for a LOT of hard work (which doesn’t really feel like work at all).

I learned that if you try and it doesn’t work – TRY AGAIN – AND AGAIN – AND AGAIN – AND AGAIN – you get the point.

I know that I have a LONG way to go from reaching “the top” {whatever that means}, but I am loving life, grateful for each day, and blessed to be living my dream, no matter how large or small it may be.

This year has been a labor of pure love for me, and I sit in awe at what amazing things this year has brought….here are just a few….

Designs in Celebrate Magazine for a Kate Landers Photo Shoot

The Preppy Turtle Party on Amy Atlas , Save the Date for Cupcakes, Pizzazzarie, and Thoughtfully Simple

Operation Shower Printables

Balloon Party on Hostess With the Mostess

Paper Airplane Set on At Home With Kim Vallee (amazing party by Amy of Buggie and Jellybean)

“Love Letters Valentine Party” on Celebrations at Home and Kate Landers

Sweet as Honey Housewarming on Oh, Hello Friend (full post coming VERY SOON)

The Woodland Fairy Party by Kate Landers, seen around the web, and In Good Company (photo above)

Interviewed by Interview Her

FREE Printables for Kids with Food Allergies for Back to School

and a few more designs seen in other parties and in the shop over the last year

Photo by Courtney Vickers Photography for her little guy’s birthday party

NOW…IF you made it to the end of this post, CONGRATS! =) You can have 15% off any item in the shop from now until Wednesday Night!! Use this coupon code at checkout – HAPPYBIRTHDAY15

Thanks for hanging out with me this year!! It’s because of you all that I have this possibility and it means the world to me! I love you all!