{Sweet Customers} Adorable Little Birdie Baby Shower for Twin Boys!

This adorable shower was in honor of my childhood best friend, in New York. We reconnected last year via Facebook and now she is a loyal follower of The TomKat Studio! She asked me to create a "Little Birdie" boy twin design for her baby shower invitations and cupcake toppers!
It turns out she is quite creative and crafty herself and she took a ton of inspiration from my blog and used it for her baby shower!
She did an incredible job on all of the birdie details!
I hope you enjoy this....
Little Birdie Twin Boy Baby Shower! Details from the guest of honor:
Door Prizes: Frames inspired by the extremely talented Kim at The TomKat Studio! Thanks again for doing all that you do! You are truly a creative inspiration! Centerpieces: Idea came from this Project Nursery post - I substituted paint cans with these already decorated cans from Christmas Tree Shop. I used die cut birds on various scrapbook papers from "kotibeth" on etsy. Put them back-to-back on lollipop sticks and had a mama and two babies in each can (secured with florist oasis, and covered in crinkled paper.) We added two blue balloons to each can to make the centerpieces look bigger and add more color underneath the tent.

Coconut Cupcakes: Recipe from The Barefoot Contessa's Cookbook. Combined the recipe with Martha's Nesting Baby Blue-Bird Cupcake design with a cream-cheese frosting. After trying many ideas for making birds that would hold up outside for a couple of hours (firm frosting, blue jordan almonds, Gumdrops), I ended up creating the birds out of vanilla cake pops, inspired by Bakerella! They worked out perfectly & were delicious!

Blue Cupcakes: Also were Coconut cupcakes, but I used a firmer Decorator's Buttercream Frosting recipe from Epicurious for these. Cupcakes were garnished with TomKat Studio's adorable cupcake toppers & sprinkles! Invitations: Custom designed by The TomKat Studio! Totally adorable, and received lots of wonderful feedback on how great they were!

Thank you for sharing your shower with us, Margie!
I hope it was worth the wait! {the very long wait}
Your twins are adorable!
XOXO, Kimmi

Believe Holiday Boutique: A Sparkling Success!

It was very first "show" ever. I was so nervous when I got there. I seriously felt like it was my first day at a new school where I didn't know anyone. As I made the 7 trips back and forth from my car to my tables, I felt quite akward. You know, everyone is checking out everyone else's goods. Luckily, once I started getting settled, I met an old friend from high school, selling Mary Kay right behind me! She's an old pro at these things and gave me some great tips and advice while I was setting up. And of course, by the time the doors opened for the boutique, I was friends with everyone down my aisle. :) This boutique was not as exactly how I imagined it would be. No offense to those who make crocheted beer cozees, but I just didn't realize the amount of trendy, fabulous handmade talent that would be there. SERIOUSLY. Super cute stuff. I should have taken pictures of other booths, but this thing was PACKED with people. Two days, over 100 vendors....with the majority that you would want to stop and take a gander at! So fun. I have to thank one of my sweetest customers, Andra for securing me incredible space in the lobby area!

My sales were great! I sold out of all of my 12x12 frames, as well as all of the DIY frame kits that I had with me. The best part though, was really meeting and connecting with so many sweet people. I brought a stack of my Go Gilbert magazines, and really enjoyed being called "Cover Girl" by multiple people! They would look down at the stack, look up and say "OH MY...that's YOU!...I read that article, I saved that issue!" Sooo flattering. I met a bunch of "fans" including one who made me blush with her lovely compliments! It was so amazing to have all these sweet girls come up and say they read my blog, have visited my blog or even just heard of The TomKat Studio. It gives me the warm and fuzzies! :)

I ordered 250 new business cards for the event, and came home with 25. WOW!

Such a great time and such wonderful people! It sure was exhausting, though! I'm not used to being on my feet all day, and being "on". I'm used to dealing with customers via email in my pjs! It was so fun though, and I'm really glad I did it!

I have several sets of my holiday gift tags leftover, so for you....my loyal readers, let's have a GIVEAWAY!

Two winners will be chosen & will receive 4 sets (6/set) of gift tags each!

Here's 4 ways to enter!
(Enter up to 4 times by doing the following):
1. Leave me a comment and let me know which item you like best from my booths!
(you will be disqualified if you say the bowl of candy bars :)
2. Post about this giveaway on Facebook, comment with the link!
3. Tweet about this giveaway, comment with the link!
4. Post about this giveaway on your own Blog, and comment with the link!

Winner will be chosen on Monday, November 16th at 11:00pm (MST).
Any entries received after this time, will not be considered. Open to US residents.
Winners will be chosen using random.org

BELIEVE: A Holiday Boutique!

Just a little peek at one of my frames that will be on display at the boutique! You might notice a few new things in this photo....my new LOGO and my new little unofficial spokesmodel, Miss Ivy Rae. I fell in LOVE with these photos of my friend, Katy's daughter and I knew I had to use them!

{Photo via Ivy's Auntie Vicki ~ Vicki Lynn Photography}

I'm so excited because this will be the first time my designs are displayed in person, rather than online! I'm a little nervous about the logistic side of the things, but I'll figure it all out!

Thank you to all my girls that helped me assemble all my crafty stuff, I could have never done it without your help! A big thanks to Kristina & Camille, who helped me build up my inventory for the event! And, way to take charge and keep me on track last night, Taryn & Amanda!

And to Tina for learning how to fold paper!

If you are in the area, please stop in and visit me!

Cornerstone Christian Fellowship

Chandler, Arizona

Friday, November 6th 5:00pm-9:00pm

Saturday, November 7th 9:00am - 2:00pm

The TomKat Studio DIY PRINTABLES & PROJECTS!

The SHOP IS OPEN (re-opened) with a new concept!

Since I can't keep up with all the party orders, it's time for you to take matters into your own hands! My Etsy shop will be filled with Do-It-Yourself Printables & Projects! I added lots of cute cupcake topper designs today, and invitations, banners, tags, etc are coming soon! Nothing new that you probably haven't already seen, but now in a DIY format! I have lots more to upload, so keep checking back at the SHOP! I will be posting the instructions for my *famous* layered lollipop invitations soon, along with the option of having the top layer designed and sent as a PDF for your printing pleasure! I have a list of about 50 emails from crafty mommas looking for the instructions!
So if you're one of them....go visit the SHOP next week!

For those waiting (I get quite a few emails!)...the DIY Glam Frame Kits are *almost* ready!
I went on a shopping spree and picked out my favorite papers & flowers for you crafty ladies to choose from! (what fun!) I am still figuring out the best way to sell them. As a complete package, or a basic frame/instructions and add embellishments of your choice....we'll see! I may try it both ways and see what you all like best!

Can you tell I'M EXCITED?!?

The TomKat Studio: DIY (Do It Yourself, Please!)

I am excited to tell you that the DIY kits are in production for my frames! I am quickly figuring out that I cannot keep up with demand for everything I make, so it's time to put YOU to work!
{small custom frame I made recently}
The frame kits will include a 12x12 frame (custom made locally for my shop!), hardware, instructions, and possibly paper and flower options to choose from. Adding rhinestones will also be an option. Certain papers work better (bubbling can be an issue) and I would offer papers that I have the best success with. What are your thoughts? Would you just want the frames/hardware/instructions, or the decorative options, too?

{custom frame made for heather}
You may have noticed that my Etsy shop continues to be "on vacation". Trust me, I am not on vacation. Things were just getting too busy and stressful that I decided to take a break, re-evaluate and figure out the best way to move forward! I have so many ideas but really need to take time to figure out what makes the most sense on my limited time schedule. Thank you for your patience if you've tried to email/convo me and I haven't replied yet!

Other exciting news about the DIY branch of The TomKat Studio....

I am starting to work on PRINTABLE invitation designs and party supplies! I can't seem to find the time to design/print/cut/fold/assemble/package/ship all of my orders, so I'm ready for you to Do-It-Yourself! I design, you print & assemble?

What do you say? Are you up for it?

Get ready to get your craft on!

TomKat Studio Frames: Worth The Wait...Hopefully!

I've been bad. Really bad. I had several custom orders for frames from April, that I finally just completed. Luckily, my customers were patient. I think they will be happy with the results!

During the process of making these frames (quite a few steps), I tell myself I'm not going to make them anymore. Too much work. But then, when I see the end result...I just can't help but want to make more! I've had many more requests for custom frames, but with my lack of time and demand for party products, I have been turning down the orders! So, I've been thinking about offering a DIY kit for these, including: instructions, frame, hardware, crytals and a choice of paper & flower combinations. What do you think?

So, on to the new ones! This one was created for Kara's mother-in-law (for Mother's Day), and it's my favorite of the bunch! I used a navy/olive/cream Amy Butler paper, topped with a white flower & Swarovski crystals.

Kara also purchased a frame for her mom, for Mother's Day and requested neutral or burgandy. I found this simple patterned paper and topped with a rich burgandy flower & crystals!
Mandy found me on Etsy, and after we chatted about some of her wedding items, she decided she couldn't live without a frame! She requested something blue/brown, and after giving her a few options, she chose this blue/brown (almost olive) Amy Butler paper. I topped with a white flower and some bling (of course!)


It was such a relief to get these completed and shipped off!

I also made two small custom frames, for my local customer, Heather.

I'll share those soon after I take some pictures!

Happy Customers: Miss Viv loves Paris!

A few months ago, I introduced you to little Miss Viv! Viv was a custom frame I made for an Etsy customer, Becky who was in the process of decorating her daughter's room in a Paris theme! Becky has shared her fabulous room photos with me, and all of the darling details she put into this room! My favorites are shown above, but to view more photos & details, visit her blog HERE!

This reminds me of this fabulous black/white/pink party I posted awhile back! Ooh...la...la!{via HMTM}

TomKat Studio Frames: Perfect for Mother's Day!

Need a Mother's Day gift? Miss Holly is ready for a new home!

I just listed this frame in my shop! Isn't she pretty? :)

Here is Holly's Description from Etsy:

Meet Miss Holly! Holly has a casual elegance about her that makes everyone feel right at home. She loves all things beautiful and is wearing a gorgeous damask paper designed by Amy Butler. She is sprinkled with Swarovski crystals!

This hand decorated frame is 12x12 overall, with a 4x4 opening for your favorite photo. Made beautiful with paint, designer paper, genuine Swarovski crystals and a gorgeous silk flower. Painted, sanded, distressed and decoupaged by yours truly ;)

BUY MISS HOLLY HERE

The TomKat Studio Frames: Little Viv - Custom Frame

I'm finally starting to get some of the photos off of my camera and on to this blog! I am pretty vigilent about photographing everything I'm working on. It's just a matter of time to get the photos off the camera, edited and up here for your viewing pleasure!

This frame was custom made for Becky after she found Miss Vivian on my Etsy shop! I mentioned this order previously, and that she is doing her daughter's room in a black, white & pink theme with lots of bling! Little Viv should fit in perfect!

She has promised to share photos of the room and Little Viv in the room, so stay tuned!

The TomKat Studio Frames: SOLD OUT on Etsy!

A fabulous photographer in Illinois just purchased my remaining frames on my Etsy shop for her new studio/shop! She is eager for more, so it's time to get to work! (Not that I'm not working already!) Thank you for your order, Ashley! My dear Miss Evelyn....I will miss you the most!

Miss Amy, you've brightened many of my days!

Miss Annette, we didn't spend much time together, but I know you'll be happy in your new home!

Farewell my lovelies!

The TomKat Studio - My First Boutique Party!

My friend, Lisa hosted a boutique party Friday night at her home, and invited me to bring my frames and invitations to display at the party! Other vendors were there with fabulous clothing, purses & accessories! Of course, I took a few pictures of my first little display of The TomKat Studio products!
I had hoped for more time to prepare, but orders are keeping me busy! (Hence the fact that I haven't posted since Wednesday, except to say Happy Easter?!?) But I did get it all together last minute, literally printing postcards to hand out 15 minutes before leaving for the party. Eeek!
I made cupcakes (as usual) and made cupcake toppers (one of my fave products I make) that said "The TomKat Studio"...how about that for a promotional item? Win 'em over with sweets, right?!
The party went great! I sold 2 of the 6 frames that I brought and also have a few girls wanting custom frames made! Email me, girls! :) I talked to some of the shoppers about invitations, so hopefully they will remember me when they are planning their next party!

THANK YOU, LISA!!!

TomKat Studio Frames: Miss Vivian is Officially Off The Market!

I had my first "real" Etsy frame sale a few hours ago! Miss Vivian, who was featured on NBC News in Atlanta a few weeks ago, was sold as a custom order. The customer ordered the black/ivory damask, with a hot pink flower for her daughter's paris themed room! (sounds familiar!) I think we'll call her Little Viv, Miss Vivian's daughter. Am I insane for writing about my frames like they are people? Is that just weird or a good marketing ploy? Just trying to keep things interesting, people! ;)



Inquiries have definitely picked up for the frames this week (after a price reduction across the board)! I was getting a little worried and thought about just focusing on invitations, since they are getting noticed! But I really LOVE making these, so I'm going to keep doing both for now!

The other day I had a custom request for Miss Evelyn, but without the flower. Unfortunately, I cannot locate that paper again. I buy paper everywhere randomly, so who knows where it came from. I can't even figure out the brand since it is obviously glued to the frame! Anyone a die-hard paper lover recognize it? I offered the customer a Martha paper in similar colors...we'll see if she likes it!

Also, I had a customer notice the polka dot frame with the beautiful black bow and rhinestone buckle in one of the group photos (shown at top) on Etsy. The actual frame isn't up because it was a sample/prototype that Kristi made, that we plan on making more of in the future. So the customer will probably take that one off of our hands!

While I'm on the topic of frames, I just realized I forgot to introduce you all to Angelina. (shown above) Here is her description from Etsy:

Meet Angelina! Angelina is bold, beautiful and provocative. Her black and white damask pattern is distressed and ink-washed, giving her an edge. She is topped with crystals to give her a little sparkle in the dark life she lives! This listing includes the black metal easel to display Angelina beautifully!

My friend, Lisa invited me to display my frames and invitations at her boutique party this Friday! I'm nervous because I have a ton to make before then! But really excited to see how people like my products in person! (I've only tried selling on Etsy so far!) Wanna come visit me at the party?!?! It's in Chandler. Email me! Please come, I need some support! And for all of you that come to my annual boutique party every December, the same purse people will be there!

Cheers! I'm off to assemble some lollipop invitations......Tommy keeps asking, "Momma, lollipops AGAIN?" Cute.

The TomKat Studio on the NEWS!

Hello there! I have some really exciting news for The TomKat Studio! I was contacted a couple days ago by New York Times Best Selling author and television/radio personality, Robyn Spizman. She found my "Vivian" frame on Etsy, and asked if she can feature it this Saturday, March 21st on NBC News in Atlanta! She is known as the "Gift Guru" and has authored tons of books on gift giving, women in business, working from home, and more. See her list of books HERE. She has appeared on NBC's Today Show, CNN, The Discovery Channel, and weekly on NBC on her segment, Been There Bought That.

I was jumping up and down after she called! (Literally doing leaps through the air, as I tend to do when really excited!)

Luckily, my brother lives in Atlanta and is going to DVR it for me! Hopefully he can send it to me so I can see it and post it. It will be listed on the channel's website at http://www.11alive.com/!

The TomKat Studio is OPEN at Etsy!

I really wanted to get more frames made and invitation designs done before I officially announced the shop on Etsy.com! However, what better time than now!?

You'll just have to keep visiting for new and fabulous products from The TomKat Studio!

For those of you who aren't familiar with Etsy, it is an online "store" of all things handmade! Individual sellers post a "shop" within Etsy of the items they make. If you have any interest in crafty things, you'll love this place! It's addicting and amazing!

Find great gifts, paper products, apparel items and more.

I have no idea what will come from my little shop, but I love creating things and if someone likes something enough to buy it, that's all the motivation I need to keep creating!

VISIT THE TOMKAT STUDIO ETSY SHOP!

TomKatStudio Photo Frames: Florie

Meet Miss Florie! She should actually be named Miss Kristi, because she is Kristi's first creation for The TomKat Studio, and she reminds me of Kristi! Miss Florie isn't fussy, she is soft spoken and beautiful. Her neutrality gets along with everyone, meaning she'll fit in with most decor! She is topped with a soft, cream flower that welcomes you like a hug. Her inner glitz and glam come out with her amber colored Swarovski crystals! Florie will be available for purchase at the TomKat Studio Etsy shop soon!

TomKat Studio Photo Frames: Dottie

Hello Dottie! In case you are new to my blog, I am featuring new frames that I am creating for my Etsy shop launch! I have decided to give them "names" to help identify them and give them a little personality!

Dottie was made using my favorite square 12x12 frame. Dottie is wearing a black and cream polka dots, and she is topped with a little bling around her middle 4x4 frame (a bit hard to see in the photos since they are on top of dots). I always use genuine Swarvoski crystals on the frames as well as the sprinkled on the flowers. Who doesn't like a little sparkle?!

I am excited to announce some BIG news for TomKat Studio frames! My best friend, Kristi is going to start working on the frames as well so that we can build up our stock and start selling them! She has great style and ideas, so together, we hope to create some fabulous items! We figure, what the heck?..Let's give it go and see what happens! I will be featuring some of her designs soon!

TomKat Studio Photo Frames: Evelyn

Meet Miss Evelyn! I have decided to "name" each frame that I make. That way if you ever see one you like, just remember her name and I'll know which one you're talking about! Plus it is just plain fun to look at the style of the frame and come up with a fitting name!


Evelyn was made using my favorite square 12x12 frame. The paper used to dress her is a green and white damask, with a worn look. The base of the frame is painted white. Swarvoski crystals outline the center opening for a 4x4 photo. She is topped with a beautiful white & green flower sparkling with crystals!


I am gearing up to officially launch an Etsy shop to sell invitations and frames! I am planning on making each frame unique, although if someone requests a certain style I can duplicate it, as long as the materials are available. I am also open to making custom frames to fit your nursery, child's room or home decor. Just say the word....

Reader Question: Family Photo Arrangements

{image via hgtv}

Hi Kim! We had the kids pictures professionally done last September and have yet to frame them. Do you know a good place or what's the most cost effective way to get something framed? They are way too nice to just stick in any frame. :) - Lorie

~

Hi Lorie! Thanks for asking, this is a great idea for a post!

If you are lucky enough to have a large wall space to dedicate to a collage of frames, this would be my favorite way of displaying family photos. A few years ago, I purchased these black thick border 8x10 frames from Joanns. I have arranged them several ways depending on the size of the space. In one of our houses, I did a grid of 3 across and 3 down. Very symmetrical (which is more my style). In our last home, pictured below, I had more space, so added a few other sizes of the same frame and created a collage. (I promise they weren't crooked, it's just the photo)

If you are creating a collage of frames like this, it is recommended to trace & cut the frame sizes out of wrapping paper or newspaper, and hang on the wall before nailing. My favorite places for inexpensive wall frames are Michaels, Aaron Brothers & Ikea. They all carry a wide variety of wall frames to match any decor. I personally prefer either a thicker frame or if a thinner frame use with mattes. I prefer to stick with the same color/style frame, just use different sizes. However, if your style is more eclectic, you can mix colors and styles to create something that works for you!

Here are a few other ideas for arranging:

{image via west elm}

I love the wall arrangement above from West Elm (and so does my blogging friend, Sarah :), and it would be fun to incorporate art and personal photos in a wall collage like this. Use the same style frames in multiple sizes.

{image via domino mag}

{image via aaron brothers}

{image via designmom}

{image via designmom}

SiDe NoTe:

Need beautiful family photos to put in frames? If you are in the Phoenix area, two of my best friends are both available for hire!

(CLICK LOGOS to view their work)

Like their logos? I designed them both! :)