Sugarhouse Ink

FREE PRINTABLE: Valentine's Day Treat Bag Topper

2012-02-02T14:57:00.000-07:00

With all the new classroom valentines, I thought it would be fun to create some treat bag toppers to go along with them. You can purchase a coordinating treat bag topper for any of the kid's valentine designs for $9.

But if you'd just like a sweet treat bag topper that you can write your [kid's] name on yourself, I've got you covered on that front too. Here's a cute valentine's day treat bag topper - it's a FREE printable for you!

Click here to download and print this free printable.

Classroom Valentines

2012-02-01T13:45:00.001-07:00

This year I've got all new valentine designs perfect for classroom trading! They feature cute illustrations and customizable messages perfect for your kid to take to school. I offer them as 4x6, 5x7 or a full sheet of 3.5x2.5 designs. These designs don't have photos and are $8. I also offer printable treat bag toppers, circle tags or stickers for each design. Here's a sampling of some of the new designs. Enjoy!

Recent Orders

2012-01-23T08:03:00.001-07:00

One of my most popular designs in the past few months has been the "Santa Brought" Christmas birth announcement. It is perfect for a holiday baby! I loved designing so many of these birth announcements and seeing the darling photos of Christmas babies. The great photos really make the announcement. Here's a small sampling:

There are so many darling props to use for newborn photo shoots now. Seeing all of these cute babies made me wish I could do my Christmas Eve baby's newborn photo shoot over again. Note to self: newborn knitted cap with a long pom pom tail is a must!

Because this announcement has been such a hit, I've adapted it as a new years birth announcement and valentines day birth announcement as well.

winter is on it's way!

2011-10-08T08:27:00.001-06:00

Here in Utah we have already had our first good snowstorm! Can you believe it? I always consider snow before Halloween a [not so welcome] sign of an extra long winter ahead... But the mountains look beautiful with their brilliant fall leaves AND a fresh dusting of white. No matter how early that first snowfall is, it's a reminder that the holiday season is just around the corner!

October is a great month to start planning for your holiday photo cards and get them checked off that never-ending holiday to-do list. My family and I are going to have our photos taken in the next few weeks so it's one less thing to worry about in that chaotic post-Thanksgiving frenzy. What about you? When are you getting your photos taken this year?

Party Board #4 - Pumpkin Party

2011-09-16T15:36:00.002-06:00

One of my most popular designs in the fall is the Little Pumpkin Spiderweb Birthday Invitation. I'm no stranger to birthdays that happen to fall around a holiday (my little girl was born on Christmas Eve!), and for many parents it's easy to just design a party around the theme that's already there. In the fall you've got your house decked out for Halloween and pumpkins abound, so they are easy to use for lots of great decor. Check out my inspiration board below!

Jack-o-lantern Mason Jar lanterns, Carve the guest of honor's age in a pumpkin, Little Pumpkin Spiderweb Birthday Invitation, Pumpkin Pinatas, Pumpkin Lollipop Holder, Pumpkin Favors, Jack-o-lantern Veggie Tray, Orange and White Striped straws, Orange paper lanters, Jack-o-lantern seeds, Serve drinks in a pumpkin, Pumpkin Cake Pops

Please refer to my Pinterest Pumpkin Party Board for sources, links, and even more ideas.

Party Board #3 - Tie Dye Party

2011-09-07T10:27:00.000-06:00

My cute niece is a budding artist and recently turned 13. She wanted to have a colorful tie dye party without being heavily themed with the often-tied-to-tie-dye peace signs, hippie references, or the 60's in general. She provided white t-shirts for everyone to dye, but they could bring their own white articles to dye as well. Darling, right? I created this board more focused on color rather than just tie dye and found some great ideas and supplies for the perfect party. I love the idea of focusing on warm (red, pink, orange, yellow) or cool (blue, green, aqua, purple) colors so it seems a little more focused and isn't just all over the rainbow (like a rainbow party should be). This would work great for a colorful art themed party as well. Here's the party board inspired by her colorful tie dye party!

Candles: Pretty Tall Candles
Cake: A Pretty Warm, Cool or Ombre Cake would work great!

Cookies: Tie Dye Cookies

Candy: Candy Kabobs
Invitation: Tie Dye Colorful Splats
Serving Bowls: Streak Dyed Bowl
Cups, Napkins, Plates: Summer Lovin'
Dip Dyed Paper Cups (for centerpieces or decor) from Design Sponge
Tie Dye Tissue Paper (for wrapping, decor, or as a craft) from Honest to Nod
Zig Zag Streamers from Oh Happy Day

Holiday Photo Contest

2011-08-13T14:27:00.004-06:00

We've been working on some fresh new designs for the holidays and need some fabulous photos to really make them pop. Sugarhouse Ink is inviting our fans to submit their favorite photos to be featured in our new designs in our shop. If you're a great photographer or just think you have the cutest kids around, now is the time to show them off!

We're hoping to select a variety of winners - all of whom will receive a free customized photo card design plus a generous discount code to share with friends and family. A "fan favorite" will be chosen who will receive a free design and discount code as well as 25 free Premium Prints (over $80 value). An "editor's choice" grand prize winner will also be chosen who will additionally receive 50 free Premium Prints (over $100 value).

Submit photos of:
-Families
-Couples
-Children (newborn on up)

Photos can be:
-posed or unposed
-professionally taken or informal snapshots
-black and white or color

Please don't submit:
-Photos with red eye
-Photos with harsh shadows

How it works
1. Submit as many photos as you like. We're looking for photos that will make the designs shine! Please don't submit anything that you wouldn't consider sending out in a photo card of your own. These should be only the best photos you've got!
2. The submission deadline is midnight (MDT) September 2, 2011.
3. Please encourage friends and family to submit photos as well!
4. Encourage friends and family to "like" your submissions on facebook and make comments on them as well. The number of likes and comments will be taken into consideration for the "fan favorite" winner.
5. Winners will be announced on September 10, 2011.

How to submit your photo(s)
1. Visit Sugarhouse Ink on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sugarhouseink
2. "Like" Sugarhouse Ink if you're not already a fan
3. On the wall click the photo icon near the top of the page
4. Upload your photo and type anything you'd like us to know about it (or nothing at all)
5. Click "share."
6. Feel free to invite your friends to "like" your photo - these will count as votes for the fan favorite prize!

Fine Print
-Prizes are limited to one per participant (for example you cannot win editor's choice AND fan favorite, even for different photos)
-Please only submit your own photos
-If you are a winner, your photos may be featured in our card design samples, in our online shop and on our website. If you are a winner, you must submit a model release form. If your photos were taken by a professional photographer, you must submit a photographer release form as well. Details on these formalities will be emailed out to the winners. Prizes cannot be awarded to winners who are unable to provide completed forms.
-You will be contacted via facebook if you are a winner
-Prizes must be claimed and ordered on or before December 31, 2011

Leave a comment if you have any questions! Looking forward to your entries!

Invitation Timing

2011-03-22T10:50:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I am in the middle of designing an invite when I get a frantic email about needing to "get these out right away." Then I look at the date of the event and it is several weeks (or sometimes even months) away. Invitation timing is critical - you don't want to send invitations too early or they might be lost or forgotten. Too late and your guests may have already made other plans. So, I thought it might be helpful to have a little reference guide on the timing of when to send invitations for your event. Of course, on such a subject I consulted none other than the queen of etiquette herself, Emily Post.

The Event	When to Invite
Anniversary party	3 to 6 weeks
Bar or Bat Mitzvah	1 month
Bon Voyage party	Last minute to 3 weeks
Casual party	Same day to 2 weeks
Charity Ball	6 weeks to 3 months
Christmas party	1 month
Cocktail party	1 to 4 weeks
Debutante Ball	6 weeks to 3 months
Formal dinner	3 to 6 weeks
Graduation party	3 weeks
Housewarming party	A few days to 3 weeks
Informal dinner	A few days to 3 weeks
Lunch or Tea	A few days to 2 weeks
Thanksgiving dinner	2 weeks to 2 months

Holiday Printing + Shipping Schedule

2010-12-02T10:12:00.005-07:00

Please reference the table below for shipment dates for your holiday cards (or any other cards!). This table assumes that your design is ordered, finalized (proofed) and paid for by 5:00 pm on the date in the first column. While I am planning to continue to fill design orders and print requests beyond the dates listed, I am expecting a baby this month. I'm giving myself a buffer prior to my due date when I cannot guarantee your ship date. Although I have no idea when the baby will come, this is my best effort at not ruining your holidays by promising something I cannot! Please note that any orders beyond these dates will still be accepted and processed, and any interruption of service or shipping will be noted in my etsy shop announcement. Thanks!

Date of Complete Order + Payment	Print Yourself Digital Image	Photo Cards will Ship	Value Cards or Magnets will Ship	Premium Cards will Ship
12-1	12-2	12-6	12-8	12-9
12-2	12-3	12-6	12-9	12-10
12-3	12-4	12-7	12-10
12-4	12-6	12-8
12-5	12-6	12-8
12-6	12-7	12-9
12-7	12-8	12-10
12-8	12-9	12-11
12-9	12-10
12-10	12-11
12-11	12-13

Final Day to Save!

2010-11-12T09:12:00.002-07:00

Don't forget that the 25% off Holiday Card sale ends tonight at midnight!

Early Bird Sale

2010-11-09T08:02:00.000-07:00

The holidays are quickly approaching - and this year for me, that means the birth of my first child is too! In an effort to make the holidays a little easier for all of us, I'm offering a great incentive to get your holiday cards done early this year: the entire holiday section of the etsy shop will be 25% off for the next three days (until November 12, 2010 at midnight MST). All holiday designs are currently marked down to their sale price. No special codes to enter or discounts to calculate, anyone can save with this sale! Feel free to spread the word!

Please note that the 25% discount applies to holiday designs only. Print packages and custom designs are not included. All prices are as marked in the shop.

In Every Color

2010-09-23T13:23:00.004-06:00

Now you can make even more of a statement with your invitation or announcement! I am so excited to be offering envelopes in nearly every color imaginable. My envelopes are available in sets of 25 and ship within five days. White envelopes still ship within one business day, as does any of my in-house stock of colored envelopes.

These colors are $5.50 per set of 25. They are A7 size and perfect for your 5x7 photos or cards. You'll also be happy to know that they all contain 20-30% PCW (post-consumer waste - that means recycled material). They are nice and sturdy 60 lb. envelopes. Midnight and Natural are 70 lb.

These colors are $6.00 for a set. They are also A7 size and some are even 100% PCW. One of my favorites is Grocery Bag. It has the texture and weight of a grocery bag and they are just awesome envelopes. For the details by color (or to purchase), click here.

These last ones may be my favorites! You've probably seen cute Japanese tape featured all around the blogosphere lately -- well now you've got envelopes to match! These Japanese washi dot envelopes are so cute and would be perfect for birth announcements, shower invitations or any other fun occasion! They are $6.50 a set. Order them here.

Retirement Party

2010-09-22T16:33:00.001-06:00

We're saying goodbye to some old designs. Retiring designs include several holiday photo cards; they are on their way out so we can make room for newer, more hip stuff!

All retiring designs can be found and purchased via the Sugarhouse Ink Etsy Shop and are on sale for $9.00 each.

Please check the shop often -- I'm adding more regularly and they'll only be available for a limited time. Here are a few we're saying "ciao" to:

A Few Recent Favorites

2010-08-18T11:17:00.000-06:00

Here's a sampling of some favorite cards I've designed over the past few months.

A WWE Superstar birthday party invitation
A bodybuilder surprise 30th birthday party invitation (I photoshopped his head onto the bodybuilder's body) This was a custom design.
some adorable birth announcements!

The Cutest Little Valentines

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a sampling of some of the Valentines I've done for clients this year. If you still need Valentine's, it's not too late to order print-yourself designs from the Etsy shop!

Buy A Card, Help In Haiti

2010-01-18T15:39:00.000-07:00

I think we've all wondered what we can do to help. Here's what Sugarhouse Ink came up with:

$10 of every order* in the etsy shop will be donated to Doctors Without Borders. If you need an invitation, announcement, valentine or card, this is a great way to get something cute and custom and help out in some small way at the same time.

Please spread the word.

*donations will be made for all designs purchased between 1/18/10 and 2/12/10

January Special :: Mini Valentines

2010-01-07T15:28:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited about this new product and special because they're just so cute! The January Special is $25. Here's what you get:

Customized valentine design of your choice
36 mini (2.5x3.5") photo cards with white border
38 mini white envelopes

These cards are cute and petite and perfect for your kids to take to school and share with friends. They'll have totally unique valentine's featuring a photo of them!

Here's a sampling of the latest kids valentine photo cards.

Inspiration From Google

2010-01-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

Every so often, I look up the search terms that people have used to find Sugarhouse Ink. Often it gives me good ideas about new products to develop that people are already looking for. Here are a few of the latest (written exactly as reported from google):

Baptism Announcements
Baby Shower Thank You Notes
Birdie Themed Invitations
Moving Announcements
Hockey Valentines
Irish Bridal Shower Invitations
Modern Beach Wedding Invitations
Rockin Graduation Announcements
Tom and Jerry Valentines

Thoughts? What new products would you like to see in the shop?

December Special - Huge Savings

2009-12-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Happy December! In honor of this festive month, we came up with a great deal to offer all month long. Here's what you get:

personalized card design
100 printed photo cards (size 6" x 7.5")
100 lined white envelopes
free shipping

Seriously, good deal, right? All you have to do is type "december special" into the special instructions box on your order form and we'll know what you're talking about. Also, if you need more than 100 cards, additional sets of 25 are available for only $9.99 each.

More details here and here.

Custom Photo Card - Color

2009-12-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

I love getting orders with special requests for color or layout changes. Often they lead to new design ideas that everyone can order! Here are some recent examples of custom photo card orders where just changing the colors made all the difference.
Feel free to submit special requests when you order your custom holiday photo cards this year!

Party Board #2 - Snowflake Party

2009-11-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

A snowflake party is the perfect theme for a neighborhood holiday party or a winter birthday party. Here's what we found:
Invitation: Snowflake Party Invitation (available with or without photo)
Cupcake Liners: Winter Splendor by Wilton
Snowflake Cookies: Frosted Sugar Cookies from cakebox cookies
Snowflake Marshmallows: Let Martha Stewart show you how to dress up your hot cocoa!
Cool Mountain Creme Soda: From Soda Samurai
Snowflake Cupcakes: Here's a tutorial by Wilton
Snowflake Tableware: available on amazon.com
Snowflake Cutouts: from Target

Party Board #1 - Rainbow Birthday

2009-11-23T20:44:00.000-07:00

This is a new series to help you plan the perfect party inspired by an invitation from our shop!A rainbow birthday party is perfect for anyone who loves color! Set the tone with the rainbow stripes and cupcake custom photo invitation. Set the table with each place setting of a different color and provide an assortment of fun colorful beverages (izze sparkling juice featured here). Let them eat cake with beautiful colorburst cupcakes (easy instructions on Our Best Bites) and send them home with rainbow whirlypops at the end.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my pinterest board dedicated to rainbow party inspiration.

What do you think would make the perfect rainbow party? Share your ideas in the comments section!

Featured on Our Best Bites

2009-11-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend our favorite cooking blog did a special feature on... Sugarhouse Ink! If you've never visited Our Best Bites, I suggest you head over now -- they've got tons of amazing recipes, helpful tips and tricks and pretty photos to go with it all. Plus you get the occasional great deal from companies they love (like a special discount codes and giveaways). So hop on over and check them out!

More New Holiday Designs!

2009-11-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

Check it out - even more new holiday photo card designs! These designs (and many more) now available for purchase in our Christmas gallery.

New Product - Gift Cards!

2009-11-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the holidays, we're happy to be offering gift cards in our shop! Gift cards can be purchased for any value and are customized with a personal message to the recipient. You can purchase them here.

Holiday Family Photo Tip #2

2009-11-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

This is part of our holiday family photo tip series, giving you some great tips on taking the perfect family photo for your holiday photo card.

image via designmom.com

Today's tip is to plan your clothing. Remember the popular "all in denim" photos of the 90's? Yeah, that's not what we're talking about. Isn't the above family photo scrumptious? Well, it didn't just fall into place - design mom spent some significant time planning the outfits with care. It's a good idea to have everyone wearing similar color tones (i.e. bright saturated colors, dimmed hues, muted tones, etc), but not the same outfit. Try and choose color tones that will complement your setting and background.

Holiday Family Photo Tip #1

2009-11-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Over the next few days, we'll be giving you some great tips on taking the perfect family photo for your holiday photo card.

From now until the new year, everyone will be bustling about, with busy schedules and packed calendars. It can be especially difficult to get your family together for a photo shoot! Aside from the fact that many families are sprawled across the country, most of us have other priorities and short attention spans.

Tip #1 is to plan your photo shoot!

Send out an email before everyone packs to come home for Thanksgiving so they'll know that it will be part of the weekend. Set a specific time and day (preferably within an hour of sunrise or sunset if you're doing an outdoor shoot) and make sure everyone is on board. This will help you avoid complaining and conflict when the set time rolls around. After you set the date (and time), scout out your location a day or two in advance. Try and go during the same time of day you're planning your shoot and make sure there aren't any weird shadows or anything. Hopefully making a plan will make shooting your family photos that much easier!

Holiday Birth Announcements

2009-10-28T19:12:00.000-06:00

Families who welcome a new little one around the holidays have a lot to be thankful for -- and a lot to think about! In order to simplify things we've created an exclusive line of Holiday Birth Announcements. These are a great way to announce your sweet new bundle while wishing a happy holiday as well. Check out the new designs -- Christmas Birth Announcements, Hanukkah Birth Announcements and New Years Birth Announcements.

All Things Autumn, All 1/2 Price!

2009-10-21T10:11:00.000-06:00

Huge sale! All of our autumn-related designs (that means halloween, thanksgiving, autumn greetings, and practically anything with orange, yellow, or red in the design) are on sale! Check out the news here. Hurry, the sale ends October 25th.

Little Birdie Secrets Giveaway

2009-10-21T07:42:00.000-06:00

Little Birdie Secrets is one of the cutest crafty blogs around! Overflowing with homemade goodness and timely tips, it's definitely one worth checking out. Right now they are hosting a giveaway for us too! Hop on over and check it out - and be sure to leave a comment on THEIR post to enter.

Cute Rainbow Birthday Invitation

2009-10-20T16:40:00.001-06:00

Check out this recent order for a rainbow stripes birthday invitation! Is that skirt not to die for?

Formerly Phread Giveaway

2009-10-18T09:56:00.000-06:00

Some of you may remember the huge online outpouring to the Nielson family that went on last year as we all learned of their tragic plane crash. Sugarhouse Ink participated in a charity auction at that time and the generous winner was the lovely author of Formerly Phread. Now she's agreed to host a giveaway of her own with a lovely prize that could make for some free Christmas cards this year. Hooray! Hop on over to enter here -- entries accepted until Oct 22 at noon.

C'est Jolie Giveaway

2009-10-17T10:53:00.000-06:00

Check out our latest giveaway on C'est Jolie - a blog of lovely things and regular updates by the lovely Erin about her experiences on the road with a little show called Wicked. :) Hurry, the giveaway ends October 19th.

Plaid & Polka Dot Baptism Invitation

2009-10-17T09:49:00.001-06:00

This birthday invitation was converted into a cute baptism invitation! Any design can easily be used for any occasion!Like this design? Order yours here!

What's Your Favorite Holiday Greeting?

2009-10-15T11:00:00.001-06:00

Take our poll!

More Giveaways... More Chances to Win!

2009-10-15T08:19:00.001-06:00

We're well into giveaway month with lots of winners already! Here are a few more chances to win:

Formerly Phread - Ends 10/22

The Post-it Place - Ends 10/26

TicTacDough - Ends 10/26

More giveaways (believe it or not) coming soon!

Featured Seller

2009-10-13T03:56:00.000-06:00

TicTacDough is an adorable blog featuring recipes, giveaways and etsy shops. Recently they featured Sugarhouse Ink as a featured Etsy seller! Check it out for all the cutest Etsy finds.

Save the Date

2009-10-09T11:32:00.000-06:00

This is a recent order we filled for some adorable save-the-dates. The photos totally make the card!

Pretty Pink Momma Review + Giveaway

2009-10-09T11:14:00.001-06:00

Pretty Pink Momma just did a super detailed review of Sugarhouse Ink and our designs for Christmas cards, Thanksgiving cards, Birth Announcements and everything else we offer. Check it out and also leave a comment on their post to enter to win a gift card or free print-yourself design from our Etsy shop.

Mismikado's Journey Down The Aisle Giveaway

2009-10-06T11:46:00.000-06:00

Enter two win one of two great prizes over at Mismikado's! Check out lots of great wedding tips too. :)

All Because Two People Fell In Love Giveaway

2009-10-05T11:30:00.000-06:00

The latest giveaway just went live on All Because Two People Fell In Love. Enter to win a $35 gift card to the shop!

Gifted Giveaways Giveaway

2009-10-05T08:57:00.000-06:00

This blog features new giveaways all the time! Their most recent? A $30 gift card to Sugarhouse Ink. Enter before midnight on October 8th for a chance to win.

Halloween Birthday Invitation

2009-10-02T16:10:00.000-06:00

Do you have a little pumpkin? Perhaps one that is turning one? No matter the age, it's fun to have a party that reflects the season of your birthday! These Halloween themed birthday invitations are great for October birthdays. This design is currently available exclusively in our Etsy shop. If you'd like to order prints, feel free to contact us! Check out some of the cute little pumpkins we've made invitations for recently:

Slave to Save Giveaway

2009-10-02T15:54:00.001-06:00

Slave to Save is a Utah blog specializing in finding great deals! Check out their giveaway with two winners - one $25 gift card to the shop, and one free design from the etsy shop!

MMB Giveaway

2009-10-02T15:46:00.000-06:00

Enter the Mormon Mommy Blogs Giveaway for a chance to win a gift card to Sugarhouse Ink and tons of other great prizes! Hurry, you only have until midnight to enter!

Happy Birthday to Us!

2009-10-02T15:43:00.000-06:00

Sugarhouse Ink celebrates one year of being in business this month! To celebrate we've coordinated tons of great giveaways and discounts to thank our great customers and continue to spread the word about our products. Follow the blog, facebook, or twitter for constant updates on new giveaways!

Designs So Pretty Giveaway

2009-10-01T14:51:00.000-06:00

Designs So Pretty is a fairly new blog sharing great design finds. They currently have a giveaway running for a $25 gift card to Sugarhouse Ink. Check it out!

New Christmas Designs!

2009-09-23T15:58:00.000-06:00

It's never too early to start checking off your long list of holiday to-do's! Start early this year by ordering your Christmas cards. Choose from any of last years designs, or one of the brand new designs (over 30 of them!) that were just posted. Use the code EARLYX20 to take 20% off any order received before October 1. Enjoy!

Halloween & Autumn Designs

2009-09-16T19:02:00.001-06:00

Can you feel the crispness creeping into the air? We're on the brink of autumn, so of course we have some great new designs for you! Whether you want to throw a halloween bash in style or send out a greeting to your favorite friends wishing them a happy harvest or great thanksgiving, one of our designs will be the perfect way to say it with style. Choose from our print-your-own designs or order professionally printed cards with envelopes!

All New Save The Dates!

2009-08-26T12:23:00.000-06:00

Check out some great new designs for save the dates! As always, colors and fonts can be customized to suit your needs. Check out the full gallery for all of the designs.

Giveaway: The Plumber's Wife

2009-08-25T14:26:00.001-06:00

Check out this fun blog, The Plumber's Wife. While you're there, be sure to enter to win their giveaway for a Sugarhouse Ink gift card!

Ooodles of New Designs!

2009-08-18T14:50:00.000-06:00

We've got tons of great new designs going up in the shop and on etsy! Here's just a peek at some of the new birth announcements for baby boys and girls.

Facebook Fan Giveaway

2009-08-18T06:47:00.000-06:00

Are you a fan of ours on facebook? Now's the time to become one! This week we're hosting our first ever Facebook Fan giveaway! One facebook fan will be chosen at random on 8/21 as winner of a $50 gift card to the shop!

Digitals on Etsy

2009-07-30T08:29:00.001-06:00

Hello friends! It's been a while since a blog update, but lots of great things are in the works! Lots of new designs (more on that later), gearing up for the holidays, and some great new products are just around the corner.

For now, check out our Etsy shop where Sugarhouse Ink is currently selling digital print-your-own designs. For $15 you can purchase a custom photo card design and have a high-res print quality jpeg emailed to you to print to your hearts content! This is a great option if you're looking for a quick turnaround and low cost.

Fell In Love Review + Giveaway

2009-05-21T07:36:00.000-06:00

Yet another review and giveaway! All Because Two People Fell In Love recently reviewed a sample selection of Sugarhouse Ink cards saying, "They are really quality cards with crystal clear images and bright vibrant colors! The photo cards arrive ready to be slipped into a frame!"

Enter to win here.

Latte Review + Giveaway

2009-05-14T08:26:00.000-06:00

Another great chance to win! Check out the latest review and giveaway at A Latte In The Morning.

Getting Married?

2009-05-01T07:53:00.000-06:00

When I was getting married, I followed a myriad of wedding blogs on my google reader. Now one of them is hosting a giveaway for invites designed by me.

Seriously. Best. Giveaway. Ever.

Hop on over to 2000 Dollar Wedding to enter to win..... (drum roll, please) 120 4x6 photo card wedding invitations or save the dates! With envelopes! And shippping! FREE!

See, best giveaway ever, right? Also, tons of great wedding planning tips and ideas, so check it out!

And, be sure to tweet to all your buds about the giveaway going on at twitter right now. All you have to do is follow Sugarhouse Ink on twitter for your chance to win. A winner will be chosen at noon (MST) today.

1 Stop Mom Review + Giveaway

2009-04-30T07:19:00.000-06:00

1 Stop Mom recently reviewed my products and had great things to say! Here's a snippet from the review:

" You should have seen me when they arrived in the mail. I could not stop showing them to people!"

For the full review, hop on over to 1 Stop Mom, where a giveaway is also currently taking place. Enter for your chance to win one of three $20 gift cards to the shop!

Mormon Mommy Blogs Giveaway

2009-04-29T13:16:00.001-06:00

Head on over to Mormon Mommy Blogs' April Giveaway for tons of great prizes, including a chance to win a $35 gift card to Sugarhouse Ink! Hurry - you need to enter by Thursday at midnight (MST). Good luck!

Baby Boy in Blue & Green

2009-04-28T10:22:00.000-06:00

This birth announcement is great if you're looking for a clean, sytlish, straight-forward design. The colors are changeable, but these greens and blues in hushed and bold tones make a sweet statement.

twitter giveaway

2009-04-25T10:46:00.000-06:00

Start following us on twitter and you'll be entered to win our first Twitter Giveaway! One follower will be chosen at random on Friday (5/1) at noon MST as the winner of a $50 gift card to the shop! No additional participation required, you just need to be following us on twitter!

Tweet Tweet

2009-04-25T09:23:00.001-06:00

Sugarhouse Ink is tweeting! Follow us on twitter and see what we're up to. Plus, you'll have access to even more discount codes and specials only available to twitter followers. Click the icon below to start following us today!

Birth Announcement - Baby Girl

2009-04-22T13:22:00.000-06:00

Here's a birth announcement I did recently for a sweet baby girl. So feminine and cute! Black and white photos complement the rosy pinks so well and make it even more sophisticated. The detail photos below focus on those tiny lovable baby parts. :)

New Graduation Designs

2009-04-10T14:07:00.000-06:00

Check out the gallery for lots of new graduation designs! Sugarhouse Ink graduation announcements are a great way to show your personality or break away from the more traditional invitations in a unique way. Use your own photos, fonts and school colors to make graduation announcements completely your own! Be sure to check the gallery for even more new designs. Blog readers can save 20% on any graduation invitation or announcement ordered before May 15th. Just use the code GRAD for your discount to apply!

A Call for Photos!

2009-04-08T08:04:00.001-06:00

Here at Sugarhouse Ink we're always in search of excellent photos to show off our sample designs in our gallery. Right now we need the following:

portraits of older teens/graduating seniors (high school or college)
interesting engagement photos
newborn multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)

We've decided to hold a photo contest! For each photo you submit to photos AT sugarhouseink DOT com, you'll be entered in a drawing to receive one of ten $20 gift cards to the shop. Send your entry in today! Submissions will be accepted until April 30, 2009.

*Please note that all entries become property of Sugarhouse Ink and we therefore have permission to use them in sample designs, advertisements and other promotional materials. Please ensure that you own the rights to your photos before submitting.

Giveaway: The Gift Closet

2009-03-31T08:31:00.000-06:00

Today Sugarhouse Ink is being featured on The Gift Closet. Check it out for a chance to win one of four $25 gift cards to my shop. :) Also a great place to get ideas for cool gifts in general.

Custom Birthday Invites

2009-02-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

I recently got an order for some custom invitations for two little boys' birthday parties. The first invitation was a football theme and since the star of the show is a huge Seminoles fan, we ran with it!The other little boy was turning one, and his mom wanted to feature some favorite photos from his first year.
If you're interested in having a custom invitation created especially for you, you can find more information about the process on our custom orders page.

Love Is In the Air

2009-02-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

Here is some recent wedding work we've done. Green seems to be quite the color for weddings this spring. Here's a photo card wedding invitation that was done for a wedding coming up soon.
For this Save The Date, the client wanted a Brady Bunch style postcard. Postcards are great for Save The Dates - they're quick and easy and require less postage! Reports back indicate that these were a hit!

Little Birdie Secrets

2009-01-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

Little Birdie Secrets is currently hosting a giveaway for three $25 gift cards to the shop! They also provide a great and inspiring blog of fantastic crafty projects and ideas. Check it out!

Just Added :: Bridal Shower Invitations

2009-01-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

We've just added some great new designs to our invitations gallery! These bridal shower invitations include an assortment of photo card invitations and elegant paper designs. Hop on over to the gallery and check 'em out! With some special travel-themed shower invitations, we feature one design that is modeled after a passport. Great for a travel-themed or honeymoon-themed bridal shower, or to gear up for a travel-themed wedding.

Mom Giveaways Review + Giveaway

2009-01-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Mom Giveaways just posted a review of our products and is currently hosting a giveaway! Visit Mom Giveaways and comment for your chance to win one of five $20 gift cards to our shop!

New Gallery :: Valentines!

2009-01-07T15:08:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know it's not even February yet, but if you want to send your child to school with the coolest Valentine's in the class, it's going to require a little planning. I'm happy to announce an all new gallery of Valentine's Day photo cards! These are not only great for kid-to-kid valentining, but provide a great chance to redeem yourself it you forgot/didn't have time to send out your Christmas/Hanukkah/New Year's greeting this year either. No need to fret. Valentine's Day can be a great time to spread the love and send an unexpected greeting to brighten someone's day. Check out these new designs and be on the lookout for more. They'll be popping up all month long.

Photo Tip of the Week :: Shooting Christmas Lights

2008-12-24T06:15:00.000-07:00

(image via)

Everything is so pretty this time of year, all lit up and festive. But capturing your decked out tree or home can be a challenge! Here are a few tips to help you get some great shots.

Outdoors

Try and shoot around dusk, when it's not completely dark yet, so you can still have some good contrast between the subject and the sky.
Grab your tripod! Lights will inevitably blur if you try to steady the camera with your hands alone.
Try some shots on an auto setting for night or low light. If those don't turn out great, turn the ISO way down (200 or 100), turn your flash off, and set the aperature to f5.6 or f8. Play around with the shutter speed until you get the right shot.

Indoors

Use a tripod
Don't use a flash unless you are shooting people in front of the tree (even then, you don't have to)
Slow down the shutter speed just a tad to let the camera soak in the ambient light from the tree

(image via)

Happy shooting!

Photo Tip of the Week :: Digital Cameras

2008-12-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

It's that most wonderful time of the year, when many of us are shopping for friends and family. A gift to consider for someone special is a gift that keeps on giving: a digital camera. I was old school and held out for a long time before purchasing my first digital camera in June of 2006. Digital cameras have come a long way and at this point I'm almost ready to bid farewell to my film SLR. Some of you might be debating between a point-and-shoot and a DSLR... if you're in the market for a new digital camera, here are a few things to consider:

Will you use mostly automatic settings, manual settings, or a mix? Most Point and Shoot and DSLR cameras provide options for both auto and manual settings, but DSLR cameras provide more control and are more advanced in general.
How much zooming will you need? DSLR cameras allow you to use various lenses, while point and shoot cameras come with a built in lens that usually cannot be changed. It's important to note that some extreme zooms (digital zooms) produce a lower quality image.
Does the camera fit in your hands? If you or the person you are buying for has large hands then a small camera may be hard for them to operate and adjust. Point and shoot cameras are typically smaller, while the DSLR cameras are larger and require you to carry them by hand or in a case.
Is the screen big enough? Larger viewing screens allow for easier viewing and shooting but may not always be necessary depending on the situation. Viewing screen sizes vary on both camera types.

New Year's Designs

2008-12-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

If Christmas just came too fast this year and the clock ticked too fast, worry not. We've got plenty of hip New Year's photo cards that you can send out. Don't forget that *any* design can be converted to a New Year's design. And if you ask me, New Year's cards are completely valid to send out through the end of January.

Custom Design :: Scrapbook Christmas Card

2008-12-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

This customer wanted a "scrapbook-ish" look for her Christmas photo card.

Digital Special Discount

2008-12-13T10:14:00.001-07:00

We've recently restructured some of our pricing and are excited to offer even bigger discounts to our blog readers! From now until midnight on December 31st, all digital design orders will be just $18 (originally $45, now $25). Just use the coupon code DIGI18 at checkout and the discount will be applied. When you order a digital design, you get a high-res digital image of the design of your choice (5x5, 5x7 or 4x6). Your options with a digital design are endless! You can:

print as many as you want at your favorite local photo lab
send a digital greeting (tell your friends you've "gone green")
post it on your blog, facebook, or myspace
print one for your scrapbook

Custom Moving Announcement

2008-12-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

I loved designing this card! My client's instructions were: "bird in a nest would be cute - yellowy-gold, greens, and browns with some cream or white maybe." Moving announcements are a great chance to show off your new abode as well as your cute family. This photo card did both. Here's what I came up with.

Cyber Monday Special!

2008-12-01T05:44:00.000-07:00

December greetings to you! To kick off the festivities of the month, take 25% off your purchase at Sugarhouse Ink! Just use the coupon code CYBER25 on your order form. This offer is valid today only (12/01/08) until 11:59 PM mountain time. In order to qualify for this discount your photos must be in no later than December 4th, 2008.

Happy online shopping!

Peanut Butter & Pickles Review + Giveaway

2008-11-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Peanut Butter & Pickles is a great little "mom blog" that recently did a review of our products and is also hosting a giveaway. Visit the blog and enter to win a $25 gift card to Sugarhouse Ink!

An Island Review

2008-11-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

Kailani over at An Island Review has done a review of our products and is also doing a giveaway! Three $20 Sugarhouse Ink giftcards are up for grabs! Check it out, friends!

More Giveaway Goodness

2008-11-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today Posh Little launched yet another Sugarhouse Ink Giveaway - this time for five $10 gift cards. Hop on over and enter to win!

Photo Tip of the Week :: Photographing Newborns

2008-11-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Taking pictures of newborns can be very frustrating! A lot of professional baby photographers recommend taking photos within the first two weeks of life. Regardless of when you choose to shoot photos of your baby, it's best to time your photo session for when baby is fed, well rested, and alert. If your baby is not enjoying the photo session, it will definitely be apparent in the pictures! Take a break and try again at another time.

Photo Tip of the Week :: Group Photos

2008-11-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

This week we are thrilled to have guest photographer Megan Stay here to give us a great tip. Megan has an extensive background in photography: she's worked for photography studios in NYC, galleries in Las Vegas, got a BA in Photography from BYU, and does professional shoots in Las Vegas, California and Utah. She blogs at Mrs. MRS and A Life in Polaroid. Be sure to check out her photography site as well.

It can be so hard to place people well in group photos. Well is the key word. Anyone can tell people to get in close and smile but when taking a family photo, especially larger ones it can be hard to make sure everyone is seen and most important you don't have any totem poles.

Totem poles?!

I'm sure you're wondering what this crazy photographer is talking about. This happens when you have two people standing one in front of the other and their heads line up exactly one on top of the other.

This picture has a purposeful totem pole, but you get the idea.Try to make sure everyone has their own space. Bring people in close together. Remind them they like each other. And don't be afraid to get close to your subjects with the camera.
Now get out there and shoot!

The Not So Blog Review + Giveaway

2008-11-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

We're doing giveaways galore these days! I guess 'tis the season! The Not So Blog just did a lovely product review and is also hosting a giveaway. Two lucky winners for this one, and multiple ways to get additional entries.

C'est Jolie Write-up

2008-11-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

A little shout out to C'est Jolie, thanks for the mention yesterday!

If you don't read C'est Jolie, it's a great little stop in the blogsphere for pretty/cool/interesting things.

Custom Order :: Irish Themed Birth Announcements

2008-11-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

A custom order came in recently that I had a great time working on. I love the ideas that my clients come up with, they are totally inspiring sometimes! This mom-to-be wanted the announcement to have an Irish theme, and also wanted to incorporate her three other children. We worked through a few ideas, and decided to introduce the new baby girl as the "fourth leaf of our clover" (you know, for good luck!) - so cute!

Rocks In My Dryer Writeup + Giveaway

2008-11-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

The hugely popular blog Rocks In My Dryer did a sweet little write up about Sugarhouse Ink. Plus they're hosting a great giveaway - four $25 gift cards! Enter to win!

Say Hello to the 5x5

2008-11-07T20:09:00.001-07:00

We've got good news! Today we've added the 5x5 to our product list. Square is hip and since hip is what we aim for, it seemed like a natural fit. Look for 5x5 cards in all of the galleries... they'll be popping up throughout the month. For now they're only found among our new collection of Autumn/Thanksgiving greetings. Check our pricing page for details about that.

Rockin Mama Review + Giveaway

2008-11-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

Rockin Mama just gave us a rockin review! They're also hosting a giveaway for three $25 gift cards to Sugarhouse Ink. Hop on over and check it out!

Photo Tip of the Week :: Scanning Photos

2008-11-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

When scanning your photo, scan it at a resolution of at least 300 dpi for the maximum size you would like to reproduce. Save as a .jpg or .tif file. This will ensure that you have a digital image of high quality.

Photo Tip of the Week :: What to Wear

2008-10-29T13:11:00.000-06:00

When you're having your portrait taken, wear clothes that are solid colors, and avoid loud patterns or busy designs. When dressing a baby for a photo shoot, keep it simple. Try only a solid onesie or just a diaper. You never want clothing to be a distraction to the subject itself.

Leelou Blog Giveaways

2008-10-25T13:52:00.000-06:00

I'm sure you've seen some blogs with the great Leelou designed layouts. They are custom, cute and free! On Monday, Leelou is having a re-Launch Party for the new site - complete with tons of giveaways. Sugarhouse Ink is participating, so hop on over to Leelou Blogs to win!

We Have A Winner!

2008-10-24T06:27:00.000-06:00

Congrats to our randomly chosen winner, Chrissy, who said, "Wow, these are great- so nice and not your run of the mill holiday cards. Thanks!" I'll be contacting you to give you the details of your prize. :)

To thank everyone for their participation, I'm offering you $10.00 off ANY order over $85.00 within the next week. Just use the code GIVE35 and I'll automatically make the deduction for you. To qualify for this discount, orders must be in by 11:59 PM on Friday, October 31st, and photos must be received by November 10th. Happy shopping!

Only 12 More Hours

2008-10-23T11:53:00.000-06:00

You've got twelve hours to enter to win $35 off of your holiday card purchase! Be sure to enter if you want to win. Go here to and make a comment to enter.

Photo Tip of the Week :: Lighting

2008-10-22T09:39:00.000-06:00

Every week, Sugarhouse Ink is pleased to bring you a quick and easy photo tip! Every now and then we'll have a guest photographer to give us special instruction. Today's tip is about lighting.

Most photos (especially digital) turn out the best when they're taken in natural light. If you take a photo with a flash and then take the same photo with the flash turned off, you'll see a huge difference in the natural appearance of everything. When considering natural light, it is important to avoid direct sunlight by taking pictures in the morning or late afternoon. This will keep those harsh shadows away from your beautiful subjects. Another way to achieve great lighting is to take a picture near a bright window. The window can diffuse the light, while still adding depth to the subject.

Christmas Card Giveaway -$35 Sugarhouse Ink Gift Card

2008-10-15T12:29:00.001-06:00

Tis the season to be giving, so Sugarhouse Ink is giving away one $35 gift card (for Christmas/Hanukkah designs only) to one lucky winner. Entering is easy, just follow the steps below:1. Visit Sugarhouse Ink's Christmas Card gallery and have a look around (so you can get familiar with what you'll order when you win!)
2. Leave a comment on this blog post, letting us know what you think of the designs. (one entry per person)
3. On Thursday, October 23, 2008 the contest will close at 11:59 pm MST.
4. A winner will be chosen at random and announced on Friday, October 24!

Yay! So check out the gallery and post your comment today!

New Christmas Card Designs!

2008-10-13T09:03:00.000-06:00

New designs have a way of popping up in our galleries. Early this morning three new Christmas card designs made their way to the Christmas gallery. Check them out below!

Opening Offer - Only Three Days Left!

2008-10-09T23:39:00.000-06:00

If you're hoping to save 50% by being the first order from your state, act fast because this offer is not going to last. 50 Deals for 50 States will officially end at 12:01 am MST on October 12th.Just think: if you get your holiday cards done now, you won't have to worry about them when the true chaos begins!

One other note, keep an eye on the Christmas card and Hanukkah card galleries. New designs are popping up all the time!

Grand Opening Special!

2008-10-08T07:47:00.000-06:00

Well folks, the day has finally come. Sugarhouse Ink has transitioned from a favors for friends-and-family gig, to a blog, to a full-fledged online business!

We're so excited about launching the site (today!) that we're offering an insane, election-inspired promotion to kick things off. 50 Deals for 50 States! Be the first from your state to order and get 50% off your entire order. Crazy, I know. But happy times call for happy discounts. So there ya go. Check out the site and pass it along to a friend or two! www.sugarhouseink.com