If you've been following my blog, you know I revealed my "secret" a few days ago.
I was selected by Stampin' Up! to be a presenter at Convention last week. I was so excited – and nervous!
The idea of 1,500 seats filled with people, watching me talk had me a bit anxious. I'll admit, I had a few sleepless nights.
I must have rehearsed my script 100 times. I wanted to memorize it so I didn't have to use notes. I'm happy to say that my "Bedrock cast" of Wilma, Betty and Fred were well received! The Flintstones…Bedrock? Yep, I decided that a presentation is a lot more fun with props. I briefly wore a pair of over-sized sunglasses to share that I was from warm and sunny Florida. (Great ice breaker!) I had a sand bucket to fill with 'goals' for the Stampin' Up! year. I talked about how to share the Stampin' Up! opportunity with others – Wilma, Betty and Fred (I threw Barney, Pebbles and Bam Bam in, too, for good measure!) I had a blast presenting! I felt honored to be among the 11 other demonstrators, all of whom I've admired over the years, each sharing a different presentations.
Every year, before the start of Convention, I hold an annual "kickoff party". Each year I choose a different theme. I go all out! I love to spoil the people on my team and thank them for their hard work and dedication to the craft we love. We had a small group attend this year but it was just as much fun!
This year's theme was Paris. I rented a banquet room at a Salt Lake City hotel, sent a 6 page passport style invitation to each of my Convention attendees, decorated, gave gifts, had a photo op and even had a "guest appearance"!
I had each place setting marked with their name held by a beautiful pewter and rhinestone Eiffel Tower place card holder. I wrapped our team t-shirts in pink tulle, had monogrammed tags made for their convention bags and included a free stamp set "Bordering Blooms".
I also included these little suitcases that I made using the half-size wood mount stamp cases. Bob the Builder put a handle of them (drawer pull) and I decorated them with the Typeset Designer Paper, mini brads and ribbon. I included a spool of the Venetian Crochet Trim Ribbon and a mixture of Stampin' Up!'s Very Vintage and Vintage Faceted Buttons, inside. They were a hit!
Our 'guest appearance' was by Bob the Builder – complete in his mime costume! No one recognized him as he silently ushered them into the hotel (in true mime gestures). When I first saw him I didn't recognize him either! That white face paint made him look so…ahhhh…'round'! (hehehe)
Can I just tell you what a fun and supportive man I married?
The decorations flowed through the menu with French inspired dishes. I even made paper cones for the French Fries (the only non-fancy food I had served). The eclairs and pastries were amazing, as well as the chicken, salmon and imported French bread and cheeses. A wedge salad with toppings, green beans and fresh fruit were a great addition, too.
And what party is complete without a photo op? The catering manager at the Peery Hotel is incredibly accommodating. This was my second year working with her. She provided several picture frames for our photo op.
We had a fantastic time!
Maybe you should join us and come with us next year?
Check out the video from this year's Convention fun and don' forget – YOU can join the fun, too!
CLICK HERE to get all the information on the fun, benefits, discounts and more!
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