Warren Tales made its craft fair debut last weekend, and I am happy to consider Patchwork Long Beach a success. While a flash mob of fans didn't come stampeding through the show to find me, and I didn't have to worry about selling out of stock, I supported a steady string of customers, received invaluable positive feedback from the many browsers, and came away with a profit. I think the only way I could have learned more was if it was a complete disaster.
The best thing about these winter shows—aside from product refinement and developing selling strategies—is that they impose three hard mini-deadlines on Warren Tales, before I attend the National Stationery Show in May. They push me to create and finish new products, which might have otherwise sat waiting in my sketchbook. I debuted EIGHT new cards at the Long Beach show, two of which stormed ahead to became instant best-sellers. And now they've come to a shopping cart near you:
Non-Traditional Holiday Cards
Yes, it's the holidays, but it's also cold outside, and we love a good break from the summer heat as well as time to don our ironic ugly sweaters. Who doesn't. So celebrate hot chocolate, winter coats, and pumpkin/peppermint everything (and if you're on the East Coast, please mail them all to California, care of Warren Tales). It's winter in SoCal too—just last week it was overcast for a few hours...Available in red and white, in singles and sets of six.
We drink tea, we reminisce, and we catch up—and when we don't, we miss each other. No matter what, we're missing someone on the other side of the kettle, so send them a note and let them know. Available in singles and sets of six.
Have yourself a geometric Christmas; let your cards be bright. From now on, your snail mail will be "out of sight!" Okay, so my cards are more colorful than my spoof-lyrics. Brighten up the shortest days of the year by adding an abstract touch to tradition. Available in singles and sets of six.
Other Occasions
Support with a touch of dark humor, because shit happens. You don't always get the best out of a situation, but it does get better. An instant best-seller, by popular demand.
An interactive card to amuse and appreciate—just connect the dots to reveal a message of thanks!
Available in singles and sets of four.
Happy balloon day to you and yours! These cute doodles are a great way to celebrate any occasion, from a birthday to success. Blank inside, and full of possibility.
Thank you's, well-wishes, or just because: it's not often you find triangles that are so well-rounded (couldn't help myself!) Write what's on your mind, and send a notable note.
Available in singles and sets of four.
Warmth can be read on more than just a thermostat, and even after the snow melts, we're missing you.
Next up: Coronado's Artisan Alley on December 7th!
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