Convention 2013, Manchester

Evening everyone.  Just had to share a few photo's from my amazing weekend at my first, 2013 Manchester Stampin'Up Convention.  I really wasn't too sure what to expect apart from learning new techniques, improving my business plan and how to make it profitable.  But it was SO much more.  I hadn't anticipated how friendly and welcoming everyone was.  I really believe I've made some new great friends/demo's and what's so special is that if it wasn't for my current carding ladies and you for holding hostess parties, this weekend wouldn't have been possible.  So just want to say a HUGE 'Thank You ' for making this a dream weekend.
I'd love to share this experience with you and sneaky peak its going to be in Brussels next year on the 16th October -18th October 2014, Yippee!

There was over 800 people present at this event and part of the experience is sharing ideas with each other which we call swaps.  I made 100, with help from my mum, Auntie Christine, Auntie Pam, Sally, Katie, Ann, Chris, Gwyn and Sarah.  So a big 'Thank you' ladies. I was as far as I'm aware the only demonstrator to have done bags. I've been absolutely amazed by some of the swaps I've received and the humbling comments I've had back from the fab bags.

I spent the last few days getting to know my up-liner Donna very well and found it very reassuring that the worries and concerns I had as a demonstrator were the same things she'd also experienced along the way and was able to tell me ways to elevate my worries.

To sum this weekend up

• Made great new friends
• Goals in place to grow my Stampin'Up Business
• And learnt it's OK to love what you do and earn a little money as a plus!

The biggest change I now need to make, is my TIME MANAGEMENT!  I need to be able to prioritise 

1. Work and Stampin'Up
2. Carding Classes
3. Home Life Balance

Reason I'm sharing these with you is...if you feel i'm going off task slightly, please remind me what my goals were for 2014!  

Thanks everyone for being to special!

Now to the photos.  

Donna my upliner and myself at the award evening, such fun!

You can't go to Manchester without going to the Christmas Markets...They are AMAZING!  and it's obviously a must to have a mulled wine or two!

The Notebook and frame I made for my Upliner.  Sorry about quality and position of photo!

  

                                                     

         Fame at last! My swap BAG on a display board!

        

          

Hope you enjoyed looking at some of the swaps from the convention and soon I'll be sharing some of the Make and Take's we created too!

Take care and Happy Crafting.