These are my plans...

So many of you have been patiently waiting for me to reopen my shop that I HATE having to say this.... I won't be reopening my shop on March 26th....and I won't be offering very many birthday banners when I start selling again....and I won't be taking custom work...

Phew! I've said it! That was really hard for me to say... I know that this may be frustrating, especially for those of you who have been waiting but, here are my reasons and my plans for Cardboard Sheek's future.

Reasons:
For some time now I have felt frazzled. I have two little people who I love dearly. I want to be the best Momma I can be and I want to be "present" in both mind & body when they are awake. I also have a wonderful husband, who although is very self sufficient, I miss him and I want to spend more time with him. When I'm old and grey I want to have their affection rather than them wondering, " Mom/Wife, why did you trade time with us for cardboard??" Ok, maybe I'm being a little dramatic, but you get the idea. I know lots of Mom's who balance family and work well but I know my weaknesses and this is really important to me.

Why No Birthday banners??
Simply put, 13. That's how many letters are in "happy birthday". It's a whole-lot-o cutting & a whole-lot-o time. I'm hoping to bring them back in the next few months though.

Why No Custom Work??
I've made some great connections with you all through the custom work & believe me, I LOVE doing it!! But, it takes a lot of time messaging back and forth & with the little people underfoot I'm going to try and limit the time I have to be on the computer every day when they are awake.

What Will You Be Selling Then??
Lots of short and sweet banners! Mostly geared towards babies, maternity, & family photo shoots.

So, What's the Plan:
1. I'm working towards moving out of Etsy by this summer!!! I think of them as "parents" for Cardboard Sheek and now that we've become more established, it's time to move out on our own. I've really had a great experience using Etsy but I think my future plans for the biz will be better suited in my own place :)

2. Using the new web site, I'm going to do a few things:
     - Once a month I'm going to take orders on a really special design. Something seasonal, embellished, and awesome!!!
     - Once a week (day to be determined), I'm going to open up my shop and sell whatever I was able to make the week before. I'll gladly take requests from you all & will keep you informed on what's going to be available via Cardboard Sheek's Facebook fan page.

3. I will be responding to messages as I can. Most likely at night when my kiddos are asleep (because that's when I think best). So if you haven't heard from me, don't worry! There will probably be a message from me the next morning when you're drinking your coffee :).

What Does All This Mean??
-I will only be going to the post office once a week!
-I will be able to make MORE banners then I do now!!
-I will be offering more items ready to ship!!!
-I will be able to make NEW designs more often for you to enjoy!!!!
 And lastly,
-I will get more time with my kiddos and hubby!!!!!

When Are You Coming Back??
I will probably start selling again on Etsy in the next few weeks. APRIL 16th is my new goal :) 

So friends, and soon to be friends, any thoughts? I'd love to get your feedback!  Thank you all so much for supporting me, cheering me on, & giving me lots and lots of reasons to LOVE what I do :)

Sarah

P.S. Don't forget to like Cardboard Sheek on Facebook if you want updates on my shop and sneak peaks at all of the goodies in the works!