Buddy-Girl Creator Helena...

Totally Random: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy is Coming on Blu-Ray!

2010-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

How exciting! As all my friends and family know, I’m a huge Lord of the Rings fan (yeah, that’s right I’m a geek and pride of it). Annually I actually hold what I call National Lord of the Rings Day, which usually falls on the third Saturday in December. Why that day? Because when they originally released the 4 disc of each film it was usually on the third Tuesday of December and I would always watch them back to back on that Saturday). But, I didn’t do it this pass December (2009). Why you ask (okay, I know you aren't actually asking, but it's more fun this way, I'm trying to be clever here) because when I started to plan it, I learned the very exciting news that the Trilogy will be release on Blu-Ray on April 6th 2010. As some of you might also know, I’m not much for watching things over and over again, I tend to remember movies, books, and such really well so I like to space at least 6 months to a year between viewings and December to April is less than that. So I decide to move National Lord of Rings Day (if you haven’t figure it out, I totally made that up), 13 hours or so, of back to back Lord of Rings (I heart Peter Jackson) to the weekend of April 10th, I’m so, excited!

About Helena: Current Events in My Life

2010-02-24T14:19:00.001-08:00

In the words of Timberland with the help of the late great Aaliyah, “It’s been a long time, I shouldn’t have left you, left you, without a dope beat to step to” I’m sorry all, it’s been a crazy year and I just haven’t been myself, but I’m hoping to change that, I’m hoping to make amends and catch you all up on what’s been going on with me.

Let’s take it back to May 2009, I was officially laid off from my job at Agent Support, and I started doing the Buddy-Girl Greetings full-time (I even extended the name Buddy-Girl Greetings and Design Services) and it’s been freakin’ hard with all the stuff I have to do, plus, pay all my bills. And on top of that I’m freakin’ lonely and tired of being in my apartment (working from home all day everyday sucks). Anyways, it’s gotten a lot harder to get everything I need get done either because I was too busy or I just didn’t feel like it.

Figuring out how to pay for all the things I usually have to do for the business is the hardest (I miss having a part-time job), I almost didn’t have a Kitsap Calendar for 2009-2010, I almost didn’t do the North Kitsap Holiday Festival and I didn’t make as nearly as much money I did the year before with any of my shows. But the good news is that my design and printing services has pulled in a lot of money, plus I have my teaching at OC. Still it’s all been a shock to my system and I’m still just trying to figure out what I need to do in this recession to make the most money.

Now, it’s winter and you guys know how I get during the winter time, I get in my winter funk and can’t get out of it until like spring. I’m trying to get out of it quicker, but man it’s kicking my butt. Luckily, it’s looks like there might be a break in the fog, as me actually writing a new posting for my blog has to be good sign, right.

I know I’m not going into great detail on everything that has happen in the last almost year, but that’s lot and I’m really just trying to get something down for you and posted. So, I’m going to break it down for you the fastest and simplest I can.

May 2009 – Got laid off
June 2009 – Started Buddy-Girl Greetings and Design Services full time and went on unemployment
July and Aug 2009 – Summer Camp teaching for Olympic College
Sept 2009 – Blackberry Festival (went really bad and I’m not just talking about the weather and I could only afford to print 20 Kitsap Calendars)
Oct 2009 – Nothing much happened mostly in my apartment all day (boring)
Nov 2009 – Holiday Festival and Bazaar (Went okay but not as good as the year before). Met a boy that I really liked but it didn’t work out; saw “New Moon” (will blog all about that later), my friends gave me an early birthday present an all day trip to Seattle and to see The Nutcracker Ballet (so, much fun). My niece Louvenia was born on the 10th (she’s really adorable). I did Thanksgiving at my place for the first time ever. My sister-in-law Crystal passed away and my niece Deja moved to Washington all-the--way from Jacksonville, FL (she’s 7)
Dec 2009 – I started to get depressed, Christmas came and went I spent time with Deja.
Jan 2010 – The New Years came had a great New Year’s Eve got a little more depressed, started to plan my 30th Birthday Party, got into the CVG art show, started to feel a little better, my baby brother Alex turned 17 (still a little shock with that one, I use to change his diapers)
Feb 2010 – Did the Wedding Expo (may have found new niche for BGG), had my 30th birthday it was a lot of fun, decided that I would get back to my roots and start water coloring and get back to blogging and all my other writing.

So yeah, that’s basically everything, again I’m sorry for not being around and I’m going to try my best to get back to what I love doing, I’m hoping it will help me be more productive.

What do you have to look forward to from me, well I’m going to actually write those posting on “Dyslexia”, “Computer Shortcuts 101”, plus look for “Twilight: New Moon”, “TV Show’s I’m Loving Right Now”, “Care Bears and Why I Adore Them”, “Other Stuff I Collect” and of course current events and ongoings with BGG and me, plus, whatever totally random stuff I can think of.

Bye for now, laters…

Oh, if you’re trying to guess where the begining quote comes from, it’s from “Try Again” by Aaliyah featuring Timberland on the “Romeo Must Die” Soundtrack.

Thank You and I'm Sorry...

2010-02-23T00:02:00.001-08:00

Thank you to everyone who has ever read my blog and especially to those of you that have left me feedback and comments on my posting. I'm just sorry I've been too lazy, too wrapped up in other parts of my life and not blogging like I should, I really miss doing it, I've just been lazy and out of sorts for the last almost year. But I'm here to let you know that I just officially, wrote my first real posting in like 9 months (which is like forever in real time or Helena time which ever you want to call it). I just need to tweak and go over grammar stuff, not that I'm any good at that stuff, but just that I want to at least try to make it not suck so much grammatically. Anyways, I'm writing this quick posting just because I hadn't logged into blogger in so long that when I did I had all these actually comments to my postings (okay there were like only 3 comments and the rest was spam) still considering I think in 3 years I've only ever had like 3 comments, that getting 3 in the last month is a lot to me and I just wanted to say, it really feels awesome to see that people actually read my blog and it makes me really, really want to get back to blogging again. So look for my next, first real posting in like forever sometime later this week. Laters and thank you, Helena

About Helena: Current Events in My Life

2009-05-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I’ve haven’t been updating you all on my ongoings like I should, mainly because, I’ve been too busy, to remember (for which, I’m very sorry). I have tons of news, some of which affects the ongoings of Buddy-Girl Greetings as well, which totally means, I can’t share with you all at this time. But, that still leaves tons of other stuff, I can tell you about.

First of, I’m still single, I’ve been going out and meeting guys and it’s been fun and not so fun. So far very few have seen the wonderfulness that is me and wanted to stick around. Which is cool by me, cause as we all know the best things come to those who wait. And, my waiting process has been so much fun, that I really don’t mine waiting. I have so many stories and adventures to share, that I’m thinking of starting a new blog and doing the “Sex in the City” thing and blogging about it all, this BGG Helena Blog is so PG and the other blog would be, so “PG-13 and R”, I could really get dirty with it. But, for now I barely have time to update this one, so, if I do decide to start a new one, it would have to be when I have more time.

Second off, I’m officially out of my Winter-Spring funk, so expect lots of exciting and new creative stuff coming your way. I have a lot of business to work to do and get caught up on, but I will still make time to do some new stuff for BGG summer collection. I have finish one new art print, it’s called “Port Orchard” and is done in the style of the “Places in Washington Series” I know I still have to do a Silverdale and a Bainbridge Island print.

Third, I’ve been taking lots of pictures for the calendar and so, I get better at shooting people (for my future comic book), I’ve been doing in house photo shoots for people. I have even started a nice little side business, hooking people up over the internet. $60 will get you a photo shoot, email and account setup, your first ad, and tips on how to organize, how to reply, how to talk, and how to be safe when meeting people over the internet. So, if you live in the Kitsap area and are looking for something fun, random, or long-term and could use some help, let me know, email me and we can set something up. I am more than happy to help and I get to practice my photo skills at the same time. My success rate is off the chain and my customers have all been very happy with their results.

Lastly, I’ve been making new friends left and right and I just to give a shot out to all my new friends, since moving to the Silverdale area and being dumped, I’ve been a lot more out going and willing to do things I usually would say no to. And, I’m so glad I’ve been so much more open, I’m learning new things and about people. So, I totally recommend that if you are a person that only have a few friends, to open yourself up to getting to know at least one new person, it just good and fun and I promise you that you will learn something new.

Well, that’s it for me, look for upcoming posting on “Summer Movies 2009”, “TV Show Dollhouse, Rocks”, “BGG Update”, “Dyslexia”, “Computer Shortcuts 101” and I’ve decided to do some GIVEAWAYS, so look for that, too, until next time, laters…Helena

The Twilight Movie: My Thoughts on it and New Moon…

2009-04-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was supposed to post this way back in November, right after I’d saw the movie. But, alas, I didn’t, so I’m finally doing it, now. But, as I mention it before in past postings, that, from the trailer, I didn’t think it was going to be all that grand of movie. But, I was going see it anyways, because I want the second movie to happen, to see my Jacob Black get his due on the big screen.

So, what did I think of the movie. First off they stayed pretty true to the book, they speed it up a bit, by cutting out a lot of stuff, but it keep the core of the book there, the chemistry between the leads were there, but they could of gave them more time to be all giggly eyes with each other. And, I would’ve loved more time to get to know the other characters. Still, I didn’t hate the movie, I just didn’t love it either and that mostly had to do with the special effects they were ubber cheesy and obvious. To anyone that thinks that Catherine Hardwicke did a great job, you have gots to be out of your freakin’ mind. She did a okay job and the best job that I think she could of done, but when it come to special effects she just don’t the skill level to do what was required for the movie. The over all look was good, the dark, gloominess of the film was right on, but that doesn’t make-up for the lack of skills when it comes to moving fast, climbing tree tops, or looking like shiny marble, that needed to look way more realistic.

I also, have to say that I think Robert Pattinson is a cutie (but so not worth the hype, I actually feel sorry for him, he looks like he is pain half the time you see him in photos and interviews), but he was never what I thought Edward should look like (close but I never felt it 100%) and the fact that he didn’t beef up for the part was a little disappointing for me. If you are going to play a part, I think it’s an actors duty to do his best to look the part, I get that time wasn’t on his side, but he could have done better. And with that said, he did a better job than I though he would and I can’t see anyone else being Edward now. He still need to bulk up for the second one though.

And, of course, I loved my Jacob, Taylor was just prefect, just as I though young Jacob should be and loved that little stare down he gave Edward at the end, I was like, “that’s my dogg, right there!”

The ending was well done and I love how Alice was seen in the background jumping on, James, that was cool.

So, yeah, I didn’t love it, but it did its job, it has paved the way for the “New Moon” and the rest of the books to be made into films. And, I couldn’t be more excited about “New Moon”, first of all they know what they are doing now and have a better idea of what they should keep in and out. Second, they got a director that actually have experience in special effects with Chris Weitz, Third, Taylor Lautner is on broad and as the dedicated actor he is, put on 30 pounds of muscle to insure he could play my Jacob, you have to admire that kid, he’s only 17 and he is freakin’ hot (I hope he beefed up his acting skills too, but still I think he will be fine). Plus, they got the likes of Dakota F (that’s Dakota Fanning for you guys not in the know) she only chooses to be part of good things, just look at her track record that girl can pick a movie not always Oscars winners but always descent movies. Lastly, they go a bigger budget; you can do so much more with a bigger budget. I’m so looking forward to New Moon, my personal favorite in the series, my Jacob is going to rock, with his “Sure, Sure”

By, the way, Kristen Stewart was fine, she looked the part of Bella, her voice is a little to boyish, not that is a bad thing, just, I never get that out of my head when I’m watching her. But, I liked her and she is good in most movies she does.

My Old Obsession, Back Again: Breaking Dawn Review

2009-04-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, now is time for my Breaking Dawn weigh in, for those of you who don’t know; Breaking Dawn is the 4th book in Stephine Meyer’s Twilight Series of which I’m a big fan. I have already blogged about the first 3 books and on my love of Jacob Black, now it finally time for me to voice my opinion on Breaking Dawn.

First of all it took me only 3 days to read the over 700 page book (not really all that impressive, it big text), and I have admit I was a little disappointed, with the book as a whole, I get the ending and I love how she ties up the big plots points of the series. But, if it wasn’t for the fact that I was so invested into all the characters and really wanted to know how it ended for them, I probably wouldn’t have read the book so fast or even finished it.

Lets start with the good parts of the book first, because there were many… (if you haven’t ready the books and hate spoilers, than you should probably stop reading this post, now).

First, I love the fact she splits the book up into 3 mini books (I don’t get it at first but, now I think it was smart of her). Second, I love that she brought my Jacob back (I knew she would, but still, it was a definite high for me). Third, I loved the fact that book 2 was from my Jacob’s perspective, I think it help a lot of those Jacob haters understand him and why he did what he did. Fourth, I love that she didn’t let Jake imprint on just anyone. Fifth, I love that Charlie isn’t so much in the dark anymore. Sixth, I loved the banding together of all the Vampires at the end (I’m a sucker for people coming together to fight the big evil). Lastly, I like that she left the ending open enough for future books.

Now, for the bad, over all this wasn’t Meyer’s best writing, it really felt like she was trying to cram way too much stuff into this last book and half the time I had no clue where she was going and the other time it was too obsessive where she was going. Some parts went too fast and other parts were too slow. And what the hell, was all that talk about her being influence by 3 books for this one, I saw no trace of a Mid Summers Night Dream (I’m a big Shakespeare, in this book other than the magical topical island. I hated, how she had Jacob come into the wedding only to have act like an ass, what was the point of that. And, although I think it was good that Bella got pregnant, I don’t see the point in why Meyer’s made such a big deal to Bella, that everyone would think she was only, getting married because she was pregnant, in previous books; if Meyer was heading, that way in first place, why shine such a bad light on it in the other books. I also, didn’t like how whinny Edward was getting about hurting Bella, I get that he was sad about the baby killing her part, but it was annoying how he reacted to just bruising her. Also, I think it was kind of corny that Bella was like the perfect vampire. I like the fact that she had such control over her bloodlust, and that her power had a name and she was really good a using it. But, she was too good and it went too, well, I would like to see Bella struggle with some part of being a vampire and not being human any more.

Lastly, I hated that she dragged the ending out so freaking long, only to NOT have a finally battle. I went to her book signing (I’m now, I’m the proud owner of an autograph copy of “New Moon”) and she explained why, saying it was because she felt that if there was a battle then she would have had to kill off people she didn’t want to and she knew she wouldn’t be good at describing a really good battle scene with all the fighting. I get that, but really the stand off at the end lasted like 3 1/2 chapters only to end with the badies running away, at least one of the badies could have died or gotten hurt.

So, in the end it’s a really mixed review for me, I think if you have already read all the other books than, this is a must ready, but don’t expect it to be as compelling as the other books. Breaking Dawn, only serves as way for Meyer to make Bella and everyone one else lives perfect. Not that there is anything wrong with a prefect happy ending, it was just a little too prefect. (Oh and by the way, Shephine Meyer’s seems like a really nice person, it was really cool to see so many fans of all ages and to hear her speak about writing the series.)

Totally Random: A New Movie Trailer

2009-04-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, so last week, I was checking out the yahoo, like I do and I came across a new movie trailer. As you might know, I’m a big fan of movie trailers, I watch everyone I come across. And when I first discovered Apple.Quicktime many years ago, I watch every last one of them, it took me about 2 and a half hours. Anyways, there is a new trailer out and I swore to you all, I totally cried watching it. I don’t cry too much at movies unless they are really sad or really cute. I’ve teared up at every Rugrats movie, the 1st when they thought that Spike the dog had died and Angelica was like “you dumb dog”, the 2^nd one when everyone was dancing with their mom, all but Chuckie, cause his mom was dead. And, at the 3^rd one with the Wild Thornbirds, when everyone was all mad at Tommy’s dad and he was like sad for his dad. Hell, I tearing up just thinking about it (I know, I’m so corny and sappy).

So, what new trailer has gotten me all teary eyed and why, well it’s the new “Where the Wild Things Are” trailer, it’s got to be one the best movie trailer in a very long time, it’s just an awesome trailer. And the quality of the film looks off the chain. I swear watching it I had this overwhelming feeling of my childhood flashing before my very eyes. All of sudden, I was transported back to grade school and I was sitting Indian style on a big round carpet and my teacher was reading it out loud to me all over again. It’s was that powerful, no lie. It’s so amazingly awesome that, I’m not the only one saying so, check out this posting.

So, if you want to take a trip back to the days of naptime, you so have to watch this trailer. And, let me know what you think of it too, I would love to have comments to post, about this one on the blog, just so the work know, I’m not being overly silly about this one. Enjoy and laters. Trailer Link click here

It's My Birthday!!! Yaay, Me!

2009-02-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

So, today is my 29^th Birthday, I’m excite, I’m not freaking out because, I’m almost, 30 either. So, it’s all good. I had a big Birthday Bash on Sunday; I got to cook for all my family and friends. I made Japanese food or I should say, Japanese inspired food, it was fun, my first party in my new place (you’ve, got to love that!).

As, I have mention it before, I love Birthdays and getting older, I don’t feel old (I now have 2 gray hairs), but I did have my first pause moment when someone said, “this is your last year in your twenties” I don’t know, I’ve never paused before, but when she said, that I was like, whoa, that’s so true, wow! So, that’s not really a freak-out, of more of a revelation. I look young for my age, so I’m not really worried about getting older, plus, I love cake, and Birthdays and Cake just go together, so I kinda have to love Birthdays.

Well, that’s all I have for today, I’ve been really busy with moving, taxes and everything, so I’m haven’t had time to post much, but I have like three postings on my desktop just waiting to be spell checked and edited. So, I should have something soon. Until then, laters…

Greeting Card Giving: A Helpful Tip…

2009-01-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

So, the other day I just did a boat load of Thank You cards (something all business owners should) and I wanted to share with you a simple little trick I started doing a few years go.

I don’t know about you, but I try to keep every card I get, I have them all in a little suitcase (not in any particular order or anything like that, I’m far too lazy for that).

Anyways, because they aren’t in any particular order it really hard to tell what year I go some of my cards, some, I can breakdown (guess-a-mate) what year I got them, based on what kind and style of a card it is and whether or not I remember where I lived when I got the card; for example I got a cat valentine’s card for my mom, the kind you would give a little-big kid, I remember that she sent it to me when I was living with my grandparents, so right there I know I got the card in February (it being a Valentine’s and all), it was giving to be when I lived with grandparents and it’s for a little-big kid so it had to be around the time when I was 11 or 12 so that mean that I either got the card in 1991 or 92.

Now, that’s a lot stuff to think about, it would be a whole lot easier to figure out what year I got the card, if she had simply flipped the card over to the back and wrote the year in one of the corners, that way 20 years from now, I will know that I got that card in 1991.

So, that’s it, every time I send or give a card to someone, I always write the year on the back of the card. Quick, easy, and helpful (that’s me!)

Totally Random: Off the Wall Thoughts

2009-01-22T10:29:00.000-08:00

I’ve been in a hat mood, lately, I just bought 3 new hats and I fished all of my old ones from the bottom of my closet. I’ve always loved hats and I look good in hats too. I think more people should wear hats; hats like glasses add character to ones appearance.

I'm Teaching Again!

2009-01-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

OC Continuing Education Classes

Continuing Education Non-Credit Classes - Kitsap: 360.475.7786 - www.olympic.edu

CNSMB 010 NEW! Basic Advertisement Design Techniques

Need an eye-catching advertisement or flyer for your business or special event? Learn to create them on your own by using simple tricks of the trade to create an advertisement that should produce results.

Prerequisite: Requires knowledge and experience using MS Publisher and/or Adobe products.

9:00a-11:00a Sa 1/24 Brem-ST 123 $25 Baggs K 9998

CNCMP 059 Retouch Your Digital Photos!

Not happy with a digital photo? Take this hands-on course to learn basic tips and techniques on how to “clean-up”, enhance, and make-over photos using common software! Course is designed for beginners.

Prerequisite: Basic computer skills and knowledge. Do not bring personal photos. Instructor will provide samples.

9:00a-11:00a Sa 2/7 Brem-ENG 114 $29 TBA 9949

CECY 050 NEW! Intro/Animation and Comic Hero Design

Give your original character or comic hero an edge by using basic skills to bring your characters to life. Take your drawings beyond the paper to the computer by the end of class using story boarding and basic computer software.

Prerequisite: Minimum age is 12. Course will not teach how to draw.

E-mail: continuinged@olympic.edu for details.

9:00a-12:00p Sa 2/21 Brem-HUM 120 $45 Baggs K 9914

How to Register for Continuing Education Classes
Complete the Continuing Education Registration form on page 67 of the OC View. Send it to Olympic College or register by phone or in person.

Continuing Education - Kitsap County

OC Bremerton - 1600 Chester Ave, Bremerton -or- OC Poulsbo - 1000 Olympic College Place NW, Poulsbo

Info: 360.475.7786

Registration

360.394.2725, 360.394.2732 FAX

In person: OC Poulsbo, OC Bremerton
E-mail: ContinuingEd@olympic.edu

www.olympic.edu/ContinuingEducation

Ongoings at BGG: Current Events

2008-12-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone, I know it’s been awhile (as always) but I have been sick and very busy. Lots to talk about today, Buddy-Girl Greetings is doing great I’ve been so busy with shows and projects that I only recently been able to update the blog and website (be sure to check out all the new stuff at buddygirlgreetings.com). (I was only able to design 2 new Holiday Cards this season) but I was finally able to get all the other stuff I've done this year on the site (well, almost, everything, the greeting card and more sections still need updating, but the calendar, note card, art print, and Gothic Girl sections are all up to date),

On October 19th I finally was able to do my Gothic Girl Photo shot (after many set backs), it went so well I have tones of pictures and the models Jacky, Rose, Olive, and Jackie were so awesome, thank you all so much (and that goes to their parents, as well, for letting them take part) I hope to have all the work done for it new Gothic Girl Catalog by mid December. Here’s one of pictures, what do you guys think? Click, to see more photos and to get some Gothic Girl gear, I’m having a special giveaway right now, buy any t-shirt for $16.99 and get a free GG Card and Bookmark or buy a zipper hoodie for $34.99 and get a free GG Stationary Kit. (Cool Deal, huh?)

The North Kitsap Holiday Festival went so well, sales were up almost 200% from last year. It was so great to do the show and to see people respond to my work and say, my work is awesome, I was in state of shock the whole weekend. Thank you, to everyone who stopped by my booth, for all the complements and words of good wishes; it means so much to me, you will never know (it really does keep me going). It was so great to see customers and people who have been watching me since I started this; 3 years ago, say how proud they are of me, to hear strangers be so impress with my work (I’m so, getting a big head from this). I hope to see you all next year.

The Brownsville Elementary Craft Bazaar was next and it went really good as well, I’m just amazed at how well I’m doing. I know, doing well is the goal and I’m always the first to say that I’m going be huge, but saying it and actually see it happening is 2 different things.

I’m just so excite this days, the possibilities as endless and I have so much to work on and to look forward to, so please everyone wish me luck. That’s it for now, be sure to check out the website for updates and to get some great stuff for the Holidays.

Creative Block or Getting Over Your Laziness…

2008-10-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

Sometimes not being able to get work done, has nothing to do with managing your time poorly, or having too much to do. Sometimes, you’re just plain out of ideas and feeling lazy; making everything you attempt to do, look…like...crap.

Oh, I’ve been there, I seem to go there, like, every winter & spring, which is odd seeing that spring is a time for new begins and the start of something fresh. But, it never seems to fell, after the holidays and my birthday (which is Feb 10th for the record, just in case any of you would like to send me something shiny or tell me how wonderful I am); I just seem to shutdown, it’s hard to get work done, I don’t feel like designing, and just seem to make mistake after mistake. In the end I just watch TV and play video games. I try to force myself to work on stuff and I just don’t, I can’t. I have all the time in world and I still manage to get nothing.

But, then alas, April/May comes along and I have to sign-up for festival season and I have to start the setup for my calendar. And, slowly I start to come out of my funk and the ideas start coming, and I get overwhelmed (in a good way) with all the stuff I have to do. (Note, my use of the words “have to”)

So, how do you over come a creative block when letting nature take it course, is taking way too long? Well, I’m no expert but I do have some tips or whatever you want to call them that usually get me on the back on track if I really need to get some work done. If the first one doesn’t work for you, just move to the next one, hopefully one of these will stick.

Set a date, deadline, or make it a goal. When you “Have To” do something, you’re more likely to get it done.
Trick your mind and body into getting excited about whatever you have to get done. Pumping yourself up is great because it sets a better more happier work mood. I use music, sugar, and dancing. I put on my favorite tunes, you know the ones with fast up beat tempos that are so catchy you can’t help but sing along or shake your booty to. (Dancing helps get the blood moving, and your brain needs blood. Booty Shaking + Blood Flow = Brain Power to be Creative) Sugar is good, because, I think coffee is heinous and I can’t stand cola. A little sugar and I get the burst of energy I need to push forward (try to make it a healthy sugar, chocolate is great; but too much of it is bad for the hips, think fruit smoothies or gummy snacks).
Turn off or get away from all other distractions, I’m so easily distracted that sometimes I have to turn the music off just to really concentrate on things. I never work with the TV on and if I have to close the blinds and kick everyone out; best believe I do. So, if that means you have to lock yourself in a sound proof room with no windows or internet (another big distraction for me), then that what you have to do.
Clear you mind and breath, taking mini meditation breaks and going blank, just might be the best thing to fill your blank pages (could, I get anymore cornier? But, it’s true, sometimes we can’t be creative, because, we are thinking too much).
Ask for help or look for inspiration, building on a idea or getting a fresh prospective is a great way to open up the flood gates to your creative mind. You may see something or someone might say something and bamm! You have this great idea or concept you didn’t have before.
Do something, anything! Sometimes, randomly shouting out ideas, no matter how lame they might be; just might be what you need to get those creative juices flowing. Doodling, writing random thoughts, or speaking out random ideas, try it, it couldn’t hurt.
There might be some underlying reason you can’t work, you might want to take this time to figure out how your life is going. Sometimes being unsure or needing a change in your life can keep someone for expressing themselves creatively. (You could be like me and don’t deal with the things that bother you, in a normal healthy way like, talking to someone or by having a good cry.) Ignoring an issues can manifest it’s way into other expects of your life including keeping you from doing things you love to do, like being creative.
Lastly, if all else fell, let nature take it course, getting blocked just might be your minds way of telling you to “stop and smell the roses” (before you work yourself into an early grave).

Well, that is all the wisedom, I have for you all today…I hope this help some of you. Laters…

Photo Editors, Converters, Programs and Helpful Tips to Tell Clients, Family, & Friends About...

2008-10-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

Recently, my boss (yes, I have a part-time regular job, still. I’m still, in the learning and needing money on a regular bases stage, to not have one.) Anyways, my boss asked me to give a presentation during our next office meeting on “Easy, Free Ways to Convert and Edit Photos and Other Documents”, that we can tell clients about.

Off, the top of my head, I could already think of a few, other than Photoshop that I use on regular bases. But I figured, if I was going to make a presentation on something like this, I might as well do the full research, I mean, I could always learn something new. And then, I thought since I’m writing this stuff out anyways, I might as well share it with you guys. I don’t know about you but, I’m always having clients and friends asking me how or what they can do and use to make changes to photos, covert files, or edit PDF’s. And, although Photoshop is easy for me and I had to get Acrobat the full version, most people can’t afford or can even grasp how to use them. So here’s the list I came up with… (I even found stuff for MACs)

Programs Most People Already have (Comes with Windows):

Paint - You can open and resize (under, Image-Stretch and Skew) then save as a jpeg, bmp, tiff, gif or png.

Microsoft Office Picture Manager - Most XPs have this, easy to use editor, basic enhancements, resize, crop, and compress any image. It can be found in the start menu under Microsoft Office Tools or by right clicking and choosing, open as. You can export your image if you need it any other format. (jpeg, gif, tiff, bmp, tiff, or png)

Vista Windows Photo Gallery - You can do everything in Microsoft Office Picture Manager right from this updated picture viewer in Vista.

Microsoft Photo Editor – Can be found on older versions of Windows, easy to use editor, basic enhancements, resize, crop, and compress any image. It can be found in the start menu under Microsoft Office Tools or by right clicking and choosing, open as. You can export your image if you need it any other format. (jpeg, gif, tiff, bmp, tiff, or png)

Free Downloadable Programs:

Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition 3.2 http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshopalbum/starter.html
Make basic edits and enhancement with it, it’s great for organizing photos. Downside, doesn't have “save as” or “export” feature you must click "Share" and email or send to... To get your edited photo and it only resizes using a list of standard Pixel dimensions. Big plus, Starter Ed, lets you extract images from PDF files, it will scan your PDF's and take out all images so you can edit them.

Picasa 3 - http://picasa.google.com/#utm_source=en-all-more&utm_campaign=en-pic&utm_medium=et
Easy to make basic edits and enhancement with, great for organizing photos. Downside, only "save as" or "exports" as Jpeg files and you can only resize in Pixel dimensions.

Irfanview - http://www.irfanview.net/ Looks easy to use, it’s free; but I haven’t used it.

For MACs:

Gimp - http://gimp.org/

Seashore - http://seashore.sourceforge.net/screenshot.php

Free Online Photo Editing Sites (Edit a photo from any computer with a browser):

LunaPic - http://www.lunapic.com/editor/
Upload and edit any picture, then download it back to your computer. Downside, it's a little more advance than the other software and it has ads on it's site.

Adobe Express - https://www.photoshop.com/express/landing.html
2GB limited and must create an account and a little more advance than the other software.

Picnik - http://www.picnik.com/
5 photos at a time limit and you must create an account

Cheap Software to Buy:

Adobe Photoshop Elements - Cheaper and more user friendly than regular Photoshop (Photoshop for Dummies or the Poor).

Paint Shop Pro - Cost less than Photoshop but is about as easy to use as regular Photoshop.

Photo Paint (Corel) - Cost less than Photoshop but is about as easy to use as regular Photoshop.

iPhoto - Inexpensive and works with Mac's (comes with iWork).

*Note: Most printers come with some type of photo editor software (HP, Epson, and Lexmark do)

Converting, Exporting, Saving As, and Cutting and Pasting:
You can convert most files into different file types with most programs by going to ”File” and looking under the "Save As" or "Export" options.

Word - Coverts to HTML and different types of word processing program files. Word also has built-in image editing tools you can crop, resize, and adjust the contrast, then cut and paste the updated image to where you need it or into paint and "Save As".

Publisher - "Saves As" HTML, different types of word processing files, as well as jpeg, png, tiff, gif, ps, word clipart files, and bmp. Publisher also has a built in image editing tools you can crop, resize, and adjust the contrast, then cut and paste the updated image and "Save As". Downside, when saving Pub files as images you get a thin black line down the left side of the image, also, you won’t get high resolution.

Making and Editing PDF:

Adobe Acrobat - Easy to use, integrates into every program on your computer, so you can export or print a PDF file from any program. Downside, it cost a lot and doesn't always work well with Microsoft programs.

CutePDF Writer - http://www.cutepdf.com/Products/CutePDF/writer.asp Easy to use integrates into every program on your computer, it's free, and has no problems with Microsoft programs. (To use you must send your file to print and choose this program as your printer)

PDFill - http://www.pdfill.com/download.html Easy to use integrates into every program on your computer, it's free, BONUS, you can also use it to covert any file into image files jpeg, tiff, bmp, gif, or png. (To use you must send your file to print and choose this program as your printer)

PrintToPDF - (For Mac and free) http://www.jwwalker.com/pages/pdf.html (To use you must send your file to print and choose this program as your printer)

Edit PDFs Online at http://www.pdfhammer.com/ (Free) upload your PDF and use the online site to make changes to your file then download the updated file back to your computer

*Note: PDF, PS, AI (Adobe Illustrator), and EPS files are vector based files and are interchangeable, meaning if a program can open one or edit one, it can usually open or edit the others. You might have to go "File-Open” and select "view all files" or you can even just change the file ending (ext.) to the one you need it to be, from file manager.

Ongoings at BGG: Current Events

2008-09-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

I’m so excite! I just got done with the Bremerton Blackberry Festival (okay, maybe not, just got done), although attendants was down, Buddy-Girl Greetings still managed to increase sales by about 20% from last year (Yay, me!). So, I’m just over the moon, thank you do everyone who stop by my booth to just look, say “hi”, and of course to all of you who bought something.

Now that the Blackberry Festival is over, I have the North Kitsap Holiday Festival to look forward to, that happens November 2nd-3rd, so I hope to see you all there, too. I also have the BGG website to update with all the new products and catalog, and to work on new entries for the blog.

Well, that all for now, later everyone and thanks again for all the support.

Ongoings at BGG: Current Events (The Blackberry Festival)

2008-08-25T11:23:00.001-07:00

Hey, guys, I just been really busy getting ready for this year’s Bremerton Blackberry Festival. There is always tons of stuff to do to get ready for a show. And this year is no exception, I have the 2008-2009 calendar to get done, all the Gothic Girl stuff to get tag and ready, cards have to be cut and folded, new designs have to be sent to the printers, and don’t get me started on display stuff for the booth and updating all my promotional stuff.

Not that I’m complaining or anything, I love it, but it does leave little time to write or think about what I’m going to write next. I only have 3 posting topics on my list, one on the “Breaking Dawn” the last book in the Twilight Series (You all knew it was coming, so don’t be surprised), I have one about over coming a creative block, and one on Dyslexia, something very near and dear to my heart. I might do one on 2008 movies I’ve seen as well, so that’s like 4 postings.

Anyways, thanks for staying posted and I hope I can meet or see some of you this Labor Day weekend (August 30th to September 1st) on the Bremerton Boardwalk; for the 19th Annual Blackberry Festival. I’ll be the cute chick in the white booth that has the big Buddy-Girl Greetings banner and all the artwork.

Hope to see you there, until next time.

Ongoings at BGG: Current Events

2008-07-01T19:01:00.001-07:00

Hey, everyone, I know it’s been awhile since your last update on Buddy-Girl Greetings. That’s mainly because I’ve been in lazy mode, again and haven’t done much since launching Gothic Girl (sad, but true). I always seem to get into a funk around spring time, I don’t know why but it always seems that I have this creative-breakdown around spring. But, it’s okay, because as summer approaches I always seem to snap out of it and this year is no exception.

BGG upcoming events and projects include the 3rd Annual Kitsap Calendar for 2008-2009, the Summer/Fall Card Collection, Gothic Girl Apparel (due out this August 30th), the Bremerton Blackberry Festival and maybe a few other shows that I’m working. Bottom-line it’s the busy season and I’m back on my game.

That’s all for now, be sure to check out the BuddyGirlGreetings.com because I’ve made some updates and be sure to read some of the older postings here on the blog, there some great stuff and some funny stuff as well, at least in my opinion.

About Helena: Current Events in My Life

2008-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

As many of you maybe able to tell, I haven’t been designing much lately and though it can be said that I’ve just been lazy (I’ve said that myself). But, in all honesty I haven’t been completely lazy, just lazy when it come to designing stuff. As you know I have been reading a lot (see: my 3 previous posting and I’m currently reading “The Devil Wears Prada”). I’ve also been writing and thinking of my own stories a lot lately, I have physically started writing 4 tales including that comic book, idea I talked about before (see: Idea Book posting), another is a stories set in the 50s which I actually started when I was 16, I also have a vampire tale, which believe it or not I started last November, before I even heard of the “Twilight” series, and that last one is a far fetch anime inspired tale of love, angels, demons, and the world in between.

I know what you’re thinking, were did all this writing stuff come from? Well, I’ve always enjoyed writing (who do you think writes all the cute greetings in my cards), but over the years I have been doing more drawing than writing. Plus my bad grammar skills have always been a little off putting. Still, I use to write all the time, I never finished anything, and I have tons of unfinished stories on my files. I think the biggest influence, though was this blog and getting so excite about “Twilight” they reminded me how much fun writing can be.

Will I ever get something publish, who knows. I’m not even sure if I’ll ever finish anything I’m currently working on. But, I have to say it’s been really fun and I currently I can’t stop thinking about stuff to right next. More than likely, the comic book will happen someday, cause the concept for it is more than just a writing project, it has design elements, I’m really excited about trying out. The story itself isn’t holding me back, I’ve already have the whole thing map out from begin to end, I’ve gotten the first act done, I’ve even started to map out the sequel. It’s funding for the overall project that’s keeping me from moving forward with it. As for the rest of my stories, who knows, I may never finish them; the point is that I’m having a lot of fun working on them and that’s the main reason, I haven’t been doing much else, well that and I love Mario Kart Wii.

My Newest Obsession: Mad Crazy about Jacob Black!

2008-06-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, I promise this will be my last posting on the “Twilight Series” (well at least the last one until the 4th book comes out in August). I don’t want to give anything away, so if you haven’t read the series and don’t like spoilers don’t read on.

If you look on the internet you’ll find all these Jacob Black haters, and as you know, I’m a Jacob lover since the 1st book before I even knew he had a bigger part in the 2nd book. There was something about how Meyer wrote him. He never annoyed Bella, like so many others did. I loved Bella and Edward together in the first book they were so cute and sweet and romantic how could you not. But after reading the 2nd book, I just fell in love with Jake, and the fact it was so easy for Bella to be around him. She is always so self-conscious with Edward; Jacob was just so likeable and it was cute how Meyer describes him and you can tell that she really likes the character of Jake. He’s just a big loveable, loyal, dog (I know I should say wolf). I've always been a sucker for the underdog (underwolf).

Don’t get me wrong, I understand why people don’t like Jake and get annoyed with him. In New Moon Jacob starts to take the place of Edward whom if you read the first book, you would be crazy, not to adore. And if you’ve read Eclipse than it’s easy to see why people get really annoyed with Jake. But, it wasn’t like he was mean or evil about how he did things, there was always this, ‘I don’t want to, but I have to’ and heartfelt passion to everything he did. Jake loves Bella and vampires are his ‘moral enemies’ and here the love of his life (for all he knows, remember he hasn't imprinted yet) wants to become one. What else could he do? Listen to me, I act of if these are real people, but as a writer myself (albeit, not a very good one), I understand that when you are writing, seeing the whole picture is important, so you can drive your character to the finish line and still show everyone got there.

There is way more to Jacob Black, than just some hyped-up, jealous, kid, who doesn’t know how let go. He knows that if he does let go, Bella can never come back even if she wanted to. Yes, it’s a little selfish, but to be honest so are Bella and Edward and that’s why we love them so much. Beside, I think the real reason people are so annoyed with Jake, is because they like him so much that it hurts to think that he might have chance to break up their favorite couple; that if he does somehow break them up “true love” doesn’t exist. Please! All the passion that Bella and Edward feel is awesome, but sometimes love isn’t just about ‘can’t go a minute with out someone’. Jake is that other type of love that ‘I didn’t realize it’ love that’s soft, but very strong and just as true.

I’ve never been this obsessive about a book before in my lift, although, I’m not as bad as some people, you will never find me dressing up or acting out scene from any of the books and I’m not about to create a website devoted to Twilight, just 2 or 3 postings on my blog (not that anything is wrong with that, super fans are great). Still, I haven’t been able to think or talk anything else, and that’s mainly because, I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen to Jacob Black.

Now, I’m not down on Edward, I like Edward, I loved him in the beginning and I know he only left Bella in New Moon because he was trying to protect her. The only thing, I don’t like about him is how overprotective he is of Bella to the point that he is more like a parent than a boyfriend. But, still Edward is endearing, it’s just that I’m a sucker for the boy next door type guy that comes into your life and just slowly works his way into your life until you can’t help but realize that you are madly in love with him. Jake is that guy that always makes you laugh, even when you want to kill him. If you read Stepheine Meyer’s web site she says, Jacob in New Moon is her gift to the readers, but you have to read the book twice to see that.

In New Moon, Jacob was so sweet and happy, it was fun, some people say he was too happy or he took advantage of Bella, but really. Bella was already miserable and when you’re trying to cheer someone up you kinda have to be happier than normal, it wasn’t like he just this crazy happy person, he was just happy because he was able to help Bella and be with her. And, as for taking advantage of her, months passed before he even came back into the picture and on top of that she sought him out. My heart, went out to him at the end, when she runs off to save Edward, I know she had to go, but still, Jacob was crushed.

In Eclipse, Bella wasn’t really giving Jacob many options. To him breaking up her and Edward, was the same as saving her life. But, at the same time he knew how much Bella loves Edward; he wasn’t trying to discount her love for Edward, just, trying to make her see that she was in love with him too. And, I know how some of you feel that she fell in love with him at the last minute, but really she just realized that she loved him at the last minute, she fell in love him in New Moon.

I love Jacob Black more in Eclipse because he was so real, he wears his heart on his selves, out for everyone to see, his anger, his joy, his pain. I like that about him, he also never gives up; the woman he loves is in love we a someone else, who will someday turn her in to something that he was born to fight and destroy. What kind of person just sits back and lets that happen. Sure some of his tactics were underhanded, but the odds were against him and time was running out. I know that force kiss wasn’t one of his best moves, but it was like in the movies when the guy kisses the girl and she slaps him, because see hasn’t realize she’s in love with him, yet. Besides, right after it’s over he is so funny, even Charlie wasn’t upset with him. I laughed so hard, Jacob, was so much fun to read, I couldn’t wait to see what he would do next. I felt so bad for him by at the end of the story.

Personal, I think Meyer gives Bella and Jacob too much closure at the end of Eclipse, I know the drama between Bella, Edward, and Jacob isn’t over, but I just feel like my Jacob only has a slim chance, now. Still, I will be routing for team Jacob until the end. I just hope she doesn’t use the whole imprinting thing as a quick fix and match Jacob with some random chick, if he doesn’t get Bella he at least needs to get his own love story, not some rushed hookup.

My Newest Obsession: The Twilight Series

2008-06-01T13:26:00.000-07:00

First off, I would like to say, I finally beat Zelda: Twilight Princess.I didn’t finish the cave of ordeals or find all the popes, but I did at least finish the main game, I’m so proud of myself. I even did it in time to get Mario Kart Wii which is awesome; it’s also harder than all the other Mario Karts. But, Mario isn’t what I’ve been obsessing about for the last few weeks. It really started a few months ago, I was reading on yahoo (like I always do) about new movies and TV shows coming soon and I came across this new movie that just started shooting call “Twilight” (I know, I totally have a thing for that word, don’t I) it’s based on a book by Stephenie Meyer. It’s about a girl who falls in love with a vampire. I love a good romance and vampires are so cool, so, I made a mental note of it (which of course means I forget about it).

Then a few weeks ago, yahoo had a teaser trailer for the Twilight and I clicked on it, it was good, but nothing great. What really got me was the fact that the movies doesn’t come out until Dec. 12th, I thought to myself why are they promoting this movie so much, what’s the big freaking deal, it doesn’t have any major star, not that Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson aren’t great, but if you don’t tell someone that she was Jodie Foster’s daughter in “Panic Room” or that he was that guy who stole Harry’s girl and died at the end of the 4th Harry Porter movie, they wouldn’t have any idea who you were talking about and you still might have to do a imdatabase search. Anyways, the book series is something of a phenomenon, not as big as Harry Potter but if you are a teenage girl it might be just as awesome, to you. So, I made another mental note of the title and author and went to the store, this time I check it out right away because I wanted to know what the big deal was. Boy, do I understand it now, it a pretty easy ready, it’s for young adult (hey, don’t look at me that way, I watch cartoons and read comic books, I think a book from the young adult section isn’t a big stretch for an almost 30 year old).

"Twilight" isn't your typical vampire story, in the sense that people are killed left and right and someone has to do something about it. Actually, only person dies in the 1st book and we don’t even get to read how it happens. What grabs a person about this series and why I think it’s such a hit with girl is that the author is so descriptive she describe everything from the point of view of the teenage main character Bella (Isabella) Swan we get to feel and see everything, she does, it’s almost as if you are her. And you can easily relate to how she feels about moving to a small town, her parents, being the new kid; how see feels when her future love interest for no reason that she can tell, just is hateful towards her. You can also relate to her awkwardness and clumsiness and it’s just, so, cute how the love story progresses. Although, it's not a saga in which you learn some great moral lesson, most of the characters as pretty selfish to be honest with you, but I think that's part of the series charm, to be so catch up into ones self, would be nice every now and again. I read the first book in a week and I would have been done sooner, but I was trying my hardest to prolong it, and soon as I finished it, I had to get the next book "New Moon" which I did on a Saturday and by Tuesday I was done, again I tried my hardest to prolong it long as I could, I just couldn’t put it down. I’ve even been looking on the internet to found all the info I could on the series, if you go stephienemeyer.com there is a lot of bonus materials including parts of saga from the point of views of different characters. I brought the 3rd book "Eclipse" that Thursday after I finished the 2nd book and by that Saturday I was done (it’s killing me to have to wait for the 4th book).

I know, people are going to totally hate me for this, but I have to say that I loved “New Moon”, I’m mad crazy about Jacob Black. I hope more than anything that the first movie makes enough of an impact so that they can make the rest of the books into movies, so I can see Jacob Black in action, (please oh please, don’t let it suck and be like that Blood and Chocolate movie) I can already see from the Twilight trailer that there are some difference but it’s not a nearly as off as Blood and Chocolate was from the book.

*Side Note, "Blood and Chocolate"book good, the movie very bad, I guess if you haven’t read the book first than movie might not be so bad. I didn’t even want to see the movie because, it was so off from the book, just with the fact they aged her and moved her out of small town setting. I usually, prefer reading a book after I've seen the movie, that way I feel like I’m gaining info and not losing info.

My only concern with the "Twilight" movie (and hopefully future movies) is when it comes to Jacob Black, the actor they got to play him, Taylor Lautner (I have nothing against the kid). I think he’s looks perfect for the part of Jacob in “Twilight”. But if they make the rest of the books into movies, I don’t think he can physically handle the part of Jake, as the books go on Jake keeps getting bigger and bigger, by the end of the 3rd book, he’s 6’7”. I don’t care how much Taylor bulks up for the role, he is not going to reach 6’7”. I guess, with camera tricks they will be able to do something, but still. I could see it, if his size wasn’t a big deal in the books, if it was only mentioned in passing, but it’s constantly brought up throughout the book, that everyone compared to Jake looks like a doll.

Anyways, as you can tell I totally recommend reading the series. It’s funny, cute, and addictive, it’s a totally soap opera like “Dark Shadows” or “Passions”. It reminds me of that Hana Kimi series I told you about before; but, it’s probably closer to “Peach Girl” a anime and manga series about a girl who’s in love with 2 guys and the evil chick that tries to make her life miserable. “Peach Girl” has the same OMG they are so cute factor, but the main characters aren't nearly as selfish as they are in "Twilight", well most of them aren't. I almost didn’t finish the "Peach Girl" because by the end of disc 1, I get so tired of the evil chick Sae (she really is a *itch!) that I can’t stand to watch her, but it ended on a cliffhanger and I just had to watch the next one and I’m gal I did, it was a good series and another total soap opera.

I’m so obsessed, I loved it, bring on books 4 Breaking Dawn (The Twilight Saga, Book 4) due out Aug 2, 2008!

Current Events: It’s my Anniversary! 1 year of Blogging…

2008-05-09T12:39:00.001-07:00

I started this blog 1 year ago, and I have to say that I really enjoy writing and posting. I know that my spelling and grammar skills still suck, but my typing speed has improved, I don’t even have to look at the keys anymore (although, if I did, maybe there wouldn’t be so many errors).

Anyways, I just wanted to say, “Thank You” to everyone who has ever read my blog, I know I don’t have a lot of traffic, yet; but I do know I have some and some of you keep coming back (you got to love Google Analytics) So, for that, I’m grateful. I will try to continue to add new and interesting content (oh, and funny too) if you guys keep reading it. By-the-way, if you guys could please leave me some comments and feedback, that would great, I would love to know who you are, what you like about my blog, and any ideas you might have. I would love to add you to the BGG mailing list if you, as well. Even if your comment is just pointing out an error, I would love to hear from you.

Thanks again, for a great first year. Always, Helena of Buddy-Girl Greetings 2008, Thanks again…

How to Make Money as an Artist/Designer: Part 2 (Cold Calls and More Networking)

2008-05-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

Finding work is hard work, and just because you have the training, the experience, and a will to work; doesn’t mean you will get work. Learning how to network and make cold calls is a must.

(The following tips are mainly for freelance artist/designers, people with product to sell or people that are looking for side income, these tips may or may not be helpful to someone looking for a full-time design job.)

Networking skills and cold calling skills are important tools to gain new clients. I’ve already mention how important it is to network, word of month is the cheapest and most effective form of advertising. But, consistently expanding your network can be troublesome. Joining a local networking groups like BNI or your local Chamber of Commerce can be very helpful. These are organizations that are always getting new members and who really want to scratch your back in hopes that someday you can scratch theirs. Some of these organizations also cost money to join, so be aware.

You can, also find non-profit groups that specialize in helping small business, or people that are self-employed. I’m a proud member of WA Cash (it says so on my blog), it’s a great organization that specialize in micro lending; they also hold bi/monthly meetings so people can learn, network, and stay on track. (I love it, I go to almost every meeting and I have gotten at lot of jobs and sold lots of BGG products).

There are, also online networking, share and peer groups like MySpace, Yahoo Groups, FaceBook, and Bebo although mostly known for their popular with teenagers these sites have been a proven marketing tool for people, products, and business looking for exposure. You can, also look at joining online business groups with Google or MSNLive, and there are also small groups that are gear towards your area, your services, income, race, sex, and age you can join, you just have to look for them. So, check out your local message boards or Google networking groups in your area and see what you can find.

Cold calling, in which you pick up the phone or walk into someone’s place of business and try to sell them on your services; is another way to drum-up business. But to do so, you have to have your “game down tight”, in other words you have to be good at talking to people and ready to answer questions about all the services and/or products you provide. (I’m not good at talking to strangers about my accomplishments, hard to believe, I know but blogging is 10 times easier than walking up to a stranger and trying to convince them to buy my cards. But, in my defense blogging is just another form networking.)

Some, basic tips to remember before making a cold call are (1) only do it between 9am-5pm on weekdays (2) Always be prepared, have your 30 sec “about you” speech down (3) always be friendly (4) set small goals for yourself, (you want a sale, yes) but make that should be your last goal; and your first goal to just get a hold of the person in charge. (5) always leave them with a reliable way to contact you back. (6) Although, cold calling can be successfully, it can also annoy people, so be careful. I’m not a big fan of cold calls, but I know it can be a effective tool and some people actually have a natural talent for it.

How to Make Money as an Artist/Designer: Part 3 (Searching and Posting on the Internet)

2008-05-09T12:33:00.000-07:00

Networking is great but it can’t be your only way and unless you are good at stalking (I mean talking) to people, cold calls can be a pain. Selling your work and/or services on the internet is easy and can make you a lot of money, well, hopefully a lot of money. You just need to know where and how to do it. There is always someone, somewhere that needs something designed or some stock imagery, some people do and they just don’t know it. Using the internet is great, because you can reach people from all over the world. And there are millions of places to go online to find these people. (I can only speak for the few places that have work for me.)

Before I do, you need to come up with some quick (and good) “GoTo Text", text that is about you, your experience, your training, pricing, design procedure (basically a resume and cover letter/business proposal that you can easily cut and paste from a word or notepad doc is fine) web friendly images of your work, is a must. Setting this up can be a job all-in-itself, but once you have them, store them somewhere on your hard drive that you can easily access to cut and paste, upload to websites and/or email. I also, recommend having an online portfolio and/or a website that list your services, products, and rates. If you don’t have one then get one, and if you don’t know how to get one, then learn. Unless you are a fashion designer, sculptor, painter or anyone else who works mostly with materials and not computers, basic html and how to use a website editors is a must. It’s a great skill to have (and get paid for) and in this day in age if you’re an artist/designers that doesn’t know web design or have a websie, it’s a big let down to employers and potential customers.

Once you have your “GoTo Text", samples, and links to your websites ready. You need only, start applying and responding to any and all jobs you find online, but keep it within reason, if you can’t do the job then don’t apply for it and don’t take on more than you can handle. A great place to look for work is Craigslist.org they have tons of listings under “Jobs”: art/media/design, marketing/advertising/PR, web/HTML/info design, writing/editing, tv/film/video/radio. There is also a “Gigs’ section and a section to post your services. Be sure to check out your local newspapers’ websites, too. Keep in mind that if you live in a small town you might have to look in the section for the largest city next to yours. Keywords to search for are: design, logo, graphic designer, graphic artist, Photoshop, Flash, web design, etc. (just use keywords that best or frequently describe design jobs you want to do). There are a ton of artist directory sites and online agency that let you post samples and resumes for free, it take time to do it but if you get one job from it, wouldn’t it be wroth it?

List of free sites to find work or post your services and products:
Craigslist.org
Local Online Newspapers
CreativeGroup.com
Sakson.com
MySpace.com
Backpage.com
Google.com
Yahoo.com
kijiji.com
Local.com

Now, let’s talk pay sites. I’ll be the first to tell you, that half the time (most of the time) I don’t have the funds to pay someone for the “hope” of getting a design job. But, for some of these sites (especially the popular sites) if you don’t pay, you won’t stand a chance of getting a project. I have personal, used only 1 pay site to find design work, Guru.com (formerly emoonlighters.com). I started off with a basic account and get nothing, because people with basic accounts who submit a proposal for a project are always submitted to the clients 48-72 hrs after you click the submit button. As you might guess, most people choose someone to work within the first 24 hrs. So, once I got a few dollars saved I decided to upgrade my account and if it didn’t work out I wouldn’t do it again. Well, with in a month, I was able to make my $75 back and then some. So, of course I totally recommend using Guru.com. It was easy to setup an account, just cut and paste your “GoTo Text", upload some samples, and come up with a great cover letter (proposal/bid) that explains who I was and what I could do for them. I recommend something generic that you can easily switch out words and phrases so that you can tailor it to each project you apply for without having to always rewrite one.

There are of a ton of sites and online classifies to post or look for work on, you just have to take the time and energy to market yourself to or for them (however you want to look at it).

P.S. Statistically speaking, for every 15 jobs you apply for most people will only get 1-2 responds, so don’t be easily discouraged.

List of pay sites to find work or post your services and products:
Guru.com (I used and had great success with it)
Yahoo.com - Shopping (Used to post Products)
Google.com - Shopping (Used to post Products)
ihirecommercialart.com (never used)
iFreelance.com (never used)
Sologig.com (never used)
eLance.com (never used)
Cafepress.com (never used)

*Side note: Getting Business, Doing Business, and getting paid for business online

2008-05-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

If you decide to venture into the fabulous world of “Doing Business” online getting paid is something that is both easy and difficult (especial if you are doing business with someone you never met or lives far away). To ensure payment there are some safeguards, although they aren’t fool proof they are helpful.

1. Get a paypay.com account; PayPal is great because it allows you to expect credit cards and electronic checks and it ensures payment, they also take 2-5% of each payment transaction, but that’s a small price to pay for all the great services they provide. (I know there are other companies like PayPal out there but PayPal is more commonly used and expected.)

2. Only do business on trusted sites with a good reputation who have a policy on making sure there account holders get paid for there work.

3. Setup and state up front your procedures and rules for doing business. Ex 1. If you aren’t sure how long a job might take, but the client wants a ball park figure. Tell them up front that this price isn’t set in stone. Ex 2. If you prefer to get paid up front or that you only send low res samples and proofs until you get paid in full, say so up front.

4. Try to only do business with people and companies you trust or has a reputation for be trustworthy

5. Avoid taking personal checks (sometimes you can’t, so be sure to only take them from trusted clients, always ask when is a good time to cash it, and tell them you policy on cashing checks and on returned checks).

6. Cross your fingers, say a prayer, and hope that you get your money like you are suppose to because you just never know.

How to Make Money as an Artist/Designer: Part 4 (Little things that can payoff in the long run)

2008-05-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

One of the coolest things about being an artist/designer is that hope of someday making it big, the moment when everyone is after your work. Unfortunately, for most of us that’s a long ways off and we have to take side jobs and projects when ever we can. But, wouldn’t it be great, if while we are waiting, we could be making, something. You can, but it will take time and a lot of work in the being. But once you have everything setup, you can be making money while you sleep and once your days of amenity are over, you can make even more money. I know, it sounds like a get rich quick scam, but trust me it’s not it’s nowhere near quick (it’s just sounds that way).

First off if you are photographer, videographer, writer, or good at making clipart type graphics and illustrations; then you might want to consider selling your own stock imagery, video footage, or generic copy text, people and businesses are always in need of such things.

Photographers and videographers, you have to live somewhere and there are always local businesses and companies that need and want fresh original shots and video footage of the local neighborhoods to use in marketing campaigns. Real estate firms and local government agencies always need local imagery to promote how much they love the area. Real estate agents, especial as they not only need promotional shots for themselves but for their sellers as well.

Original clipart and illustrations are always welcome; a new twist on an old idea is great. After all, how many times must we see the same Microsoft style graphics. Also, if you can manage to figure out how to make a clipart style map of your area with all the local attractions highlighted and it being easily updated; again, something real estate firms and local government agencies would love and gladly paid you for you work.

You can, sell your imagery online by building your own website or uploading your work to stock imagery sites. If you choose to use an imagery site, you won’t make the full profit on your work, but you won’t have to manage anything either, you can just collect your 2-5% royalty fee and wait for them to send you a check and your tax information.

Royalties can be great, you can earn them by doing very little to no work, they are easy to setup, and you earn them on just about anything you do as an artist. You can earn royalties on you artwork, designs, and anything else you are willing to let people copy and resale. There are only 2 draw backs to royalties are (1) you have very little control on how many copies of your work are made (on the upside the more copies that are made and sold the more money you make, downside it might cheapen the value of the original work) and (2) royalties can take forever to kick in, only making a few dollars in the begin; but as you and your work gets more popular the likelihood of selling more royalties goes up and money comes faster.

List of Sites to earn royalties on images and artwork
Artistrising.com
Istockphotos.com
Deviantart.com
www.yessy.com
boundlessgallery.com (membership fee)
Amazon.com (membership fee)
Art.com

Lastly, you can earn dollars by selling ad space on your websites and blog to Google, Yahoo, EBay, or lesser know companies that are willing to pay to be on your site. This is especially good if you’re sites gets a lot of traffic. You can also join affiliation programs where you can sell ad space or merely mention some product or book on your site and provide a link on where you got it or where they can get it. Again, you’re not going to earn big bucks right away, but in time and with an increase in your popularity you can make a pretty penny.

Sites to sell ad space with:
Linkshare.com
Art.com
Amazon.com
Barnesandnobles.com
Netflix.com
Google.com
Yahoo.com
MSN.com
eBay.com

Bottom line, making money as an artist is very possible even if you never make it big, you just have to buckle down and come up with ways and places to make money, you also have to put in some killer hours, but what’s a little hard work when you love what you do.