Redbud Designs Blog

accepting new orders again!

2012-01-09T08:00:00.012-06:00

It's true! I am finally able to start accepting new orders again. If you are interested in grabbing an available spot, please take a look around the shop first, as some of my blog design packages and design policies have changed. When you're ready to talk about your new design, use the contact tab above or send me an email at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible with a deposit invoice. The current estimated wait time for an initial preview is around 6 to 8 weeks. Thank you to all of you who have shown interest in a new Redbud design over the past couple of months. I look forward to hearing from you again!

a little Redbud update

2012-01-02T13:21:00.000-06:00

I hope you had as great of a Christmas as we did! We just returned from Texas this morning, and I'm excited to get back to Redbudding. :) I hope to open the wait list back up within the next week or two. I'll be making some changes to my services, catching up on some projects that I wasn't able to get to before Christmas, and updating the premade shop with invite and announcement designs - and once everything is ready, I'll start taking new orders again! Thank you so much for your patience until then.

In the meantime, here are a few of my custom Christmas card designs from this past month...

I'll share a few more over the next day or two. Happy 2012!

happy christmas from my family to yours!

2011-12-24T10:14:00.002-06:00

CYBER MONDAY SALE!

2011-11-28T09:17:00.001-06:00

Today only I'm having a $5 sale on all premade Christmas card designs!

At checkout, use the discount code CYBERMONDAY.

Go HERE to see all of the designs. Merry Christmas, lovelies!

before and afters

2011-11-16T08:00:00.006-06:00

Recently I had the privilege of doing blog designs for a baker, a crafter, and a photographer. Here are their designs before and after Redbudification.

Bridget of Bake at 350 is just about the sweetest Texan ever. And she is the ultimate when it comes to cookie decorating. She's a genius, really.

Here is what her design looked like BEFORE:

and AFTER:

Melissa of Polkadot Chair is one creative gal! One of my goals is to make a quilt someday, and when I do, I will definitely be referring to her blog.

Here is her blog BEFORE:

And AFTER:

Colleen is a talented photographer from Ohio. She recently took the sweetest pictures of my friend Danielle and her beautiful babies that you can see here (and down below in the after pic).

Her blog BEFORE:

And AFTER:

Thanks for the inspiration, ladies!

Redbud recently got a little makeover, too, but I forgot take a screen shot of the before! I know this throws off the little theme I have going for this post, but here is the AFTER:)

Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to check out Redbud's shop full of premade Christmas card designs. Check out the post below for details on how yours could be free! And, if you'd like a card design that is unique to ONLY you, there are still a few spots available for custom Christmas card design. Go HERE for details on how to get on my list! Thanks, lovelies!

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Redbud's premade Christmas card shop is open! (and I'm giving THREE away!)

2011-11-15T21:39:00.001-06:00

The premade Christmas card design shop is open for business! All designs are on sale for $8 for the month of November!

To celebrate the opening of the shop (and Christmas in general), on November 30th I'm going to draw three names from those who have already bought cards. These three customers will receive refunds for their card designs! Oh, and the first name I draw will not only get their design for free, but they'll ALSO receive a fun package in the mail from me...my current favorite Christmas album, A Very She & Him Christmas!

I've already listened to this album no less than 53 times, and I think a loyal Redbud customer should enjoy it, too.

So, take a look around the shop and see if there is anything you'd like to send out this year. You just might get your design AND some fun and wonderful music for FREE!

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christmas card design giveaway WINNER!

2011-10-31T11:05:00.000-05:00

Congrats, Jen!!! Send me an email, and I'll let you know what the next step is!

Thank you so much to all of you who entered and not only helped spread the word about the giveaway, but also my little business. I truly appreciate it! If you'd like a custom Redbud design of your own this Christmas, go HERE and follow the instructions to pay your deposit. Thanks, again!!

custom christmas card design GIVEAWAY!

2011-10-26T11:55:00.003-05:00

---UPDATE: This giveaway has ended. The winner will be announced shortly!---
In the post below, you'll see the details for this year's custom Christmas card design. Now that I have it posted, let's give one away, shall we?

WHAT:

one custom Christmas card design, emailed to you in JPEG form so that you can print however and wherever you'd like - $50 value

WHO:

You may enter for yourself or for a friend!

WHEN:

The giveaway will end this Sunday, October 30th at midnight central time.

HOW:

- To be entered in this giveaway, simply leave a comment telling me one thing that is on your Christmas list this year!

- You may do any of the following to gain more entries. Please leave a separate comment for each:

Follow this blog.

Like Redbud on Facebook.

Follow Redbud on Twitter.

Share the link to this giveaway on Facebook.

Tweet the link to this giveaway.

Post about this giveaway on your blog.

You can be entered up to 7 times! Best of luck and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

P.S. I'll let you know as soon as I have my premade Christmas card shop up and running.

P.P.S. I'll post another giveaway for a premade design once the shop is up!

custom christmas card design!

2011-10-26T11:36:00.003-05:00

Christmas is one thing in life that always gets me giddy. Christmas cards are no different! I really enjoy creating custom designs that will be unique and unlike any other that your friends and family will receive in their mailbox.

I am running a tad behind on getting my premade shop up and running (I'll update when it is ready!), but if you know that you will be wanting a custom Redbud design this year, you can go ahead and get on my list!

Here's the deal:

COST

$50, payable through Paypal

WHAT YOU GET

a design unique to you and your family with up to 3 revisions (any edits made after the third proof will be $10/revision)

the final design in jpeg form so that you can print however and wherever you'd like, and/or add it to your blog, facebook, email, etc.

WHAT TO DO

I will have 15 spots on my waiting list for custom designs.

To reserve your spot, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of $30, which will go toward the total cost of the design. You can do so by clicking on the Paypal button below, or the one in my sidebar.

I will also need you to fill out the form below and email your picture(s) to me. First come, first served. Once I have received your deposit, your design form, AND your pictures, I will let you know your estimated wait time for your initial proof.

I will be taking orders from now until the 15 spots are full, or until Friday, November 18th.

Click the Paypal button below to pay your $30 deposit.

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more invites! (and wait list news)

2011-09-22T10:46:00.000-05:00

I recently did three invite designs for three sweet baby girls. Each of their mamas are friends of mine from all parts of my life. I was honored that they all thought of me to design invites for their girls' parties! It is one of the best parts of this job.

I've known Debby since I walked into my new elementary school classroom in first grade. We were in the same class a few times throughout elementary, and I still have so many good memories of her! Facebook reconnected us, and she asked me to design a Mickey-themed invite for baby Rachel's first birthday.

Erin is one of my best friends in life, and I've known her since college. She had an ice cream-themed party for little Ellie. You can see the details of her party HERE.

Lindsay is a friend that I met here in Tennessee. We got the privilege of being pregnant together last summer, and I can't wait for August and Claire to grow up together!

Happy birthday, little ladies!

Thanks you so much for your response to my open wait list. I have now filled all of the spots available for blog design until January, so I will partially close the wait list to blog design only. If you have another project in mind - invitations, business cards, birth announcements, etc - get in touch with me and I'll let you know if I can squeeze you in!

come one, come all!

2011-09-01T10:11:00.000-05:00

Happy September! Redbud's wait list is now open again! The estimated wait time right now is around 6-8 weeks. If you are wanting a blog design, be sure to contact me soon as I will close the wait list to Christmas card designs only around the first of November. So, let me know how I can help you. Email me HERE or use the contact tab above, and we'll get started!

invited

2011-08-24T17:12:00.000-05:00

Recently, my little August Rose turned ONE! We celebrated with a vintage yellow rose party. You can view all of the party details HERE on my other blog, but here are the invites I designed and made for the occasion...

And here are some other recent invite designs. Definitely one of my favorite things to do...

(go HERE to see how Bennet's mama, Melissa, threw a perfectly precious pinwheel party for Bennet!)

busy busy

2011-06-20T17:14:00.000-05:00

If the lack of blogging over here at Redbud has been any indication, things have been a little crazy at my house lately. I had to go a week without my computer back in May, and I am STILL catching up from that. So, I am going to close my wait list for a while so I can focus on catching up with my current projects.

Here are a few of the designs that I have completed lately. Click on the pictures to go see the designs live (and maybe discover a new blog to follow!).

my first design with a rotating header for a fabulously creative client, Simone

my own little family's blog

a fun lifestyle blog that features REALLY great photography

my first blog in a foreign language for a client who lives in Portugal

I'll let you know when I decide to open things back up. As always, thank you so much for your support of Redbud!

spring is here and the wait list is OPEN

2011-04-08T09:58:00.000-05:00

I am not a cold weather kinda gal. I do like the cold and snow if it is Christmastime, or if I happen to have a pair of skis under my feet. But other than these rare occurrences, I say bring on the heat.

And the pretty flowers.

And the bare (and edible) baby arms.

And hours spent outside with my girls.

Spring has arrived here in Tennessee, and I couldn't be happier about that. An open wait list has arrived here at Redbud, which I hope brings one or two of you some happiness. My estimated wait time is still around 6-8 weeks, but check out my products page and let me know if I can help you in any way.

In the meantime,

via

ah!

2011-03-11T21:01:00.000-06:00

I have just discovered this evening that the order form on the new site hasn't been notfying me of new entries since February 1st. If you have sent me an order form and haven't heard back from me, I am doing my best now to respond. Because of this new discovery of several new design orders, I will be closing my wait list until further notice so that I can accomodate those of you who haven't heard from me. I am so sorry for any inconvenience this has caused those waiting and those who are interested in a design at this time. Thanks so much for your patience and understanding!

my fave present (and WINNER) revealed!

2011-03-07T11:53:00.001-06:00

I have loved reading over the comments on the giveaway and seeing what all of your favorite birthday presents have been! I had a really great birthday this year. My super cute and thoughtful husband Kevan got me what I think might be one of my favorite presents ever. A Texas necklace! If you know me at all, you know that great state is near and dear to me.

Some of my dearest friends spoiled me with some great gifts, too. Look - there's Texas again (with a heart over my hometown!). Such a sweet and perfect embroidery by my friend Penny. Do yourself a favor and check out her Etsy. She's so creative and talented. Melissa gave me the super cute mug, and Jen gave me that beautiful soap dish! Thanks, lovelies!

Enough about what was given to me - let's get on to what I'm giving to one of you! We have a winner!

Yay! I've known Jessica since college and she has always been such a dedicated Redbud fan. She enters all of my giveaways (and usually has her hubs enter, too), so I am beyond thrilled to give this gift to her! Shoot me an email sometime, Jessica, and we'll talk about how you'll be using your $80!

Thanks to all who entered. I am honored by and grateful for each one of you!

birthdays on the brain

2011-03-04T12:26:00.000-06:00

In my family, there are several birthdays within a couple of weeks at the end of February and beginning of March. About a week ago, my precious nephew celebrated his first birthday. I was honored to design the invite for his first party!

My niece's birthday was yesterday, mine is today, and my brother's is in a few days. Up at the end of March would be my little girl Merit's THIRD birthday. I've been working on her invitation design, and we had a backyard photo shoot yesterday to try to get a good pic for the invite. These four are my favorites...how will I ever choose??

Speaking of birthdays, don't forget to enter the birthday week giveaway for $80 Redbud shop credit. You don't have to use it toward a blog design...maybe you also have a birthday celebration coming up that needs an invitation! OR maybe you could give it as a birthday present to someone you love. Whatever you'd choose to do with it, you can't win if you don't enter. Feel free to do so before the end of the day Sunday!

giveaway!

2011-03-01T16:59:00.002-06:00

-- this giveaway has closed --

It's my birthday week, so to celebrate I thought a giveaway was definitely in order. This giveaway is for $80 toward any Redbud service. Feel free to keep all of it for yourself, give it all to a friend, or split it between you and a friend or two. Take a look at our products page HERE and see what you might want to spend it on if you're the lucky winner.

To enter, simply leave a comment telling me what one of your favorite birthday presents has been.

If you'd like to be entered more than once, feel free to do any of the following and leave SEPARATE comments for each:

- Follow this blog.

- Like Redbud on Facebook.

- Share this giveaway on Facebook.

- Follow Redbud on Twitter.

- Tweet about this giveaway.

So, you can be entered as many as 6 times. This giveaway will end Sunday, March 6th at midnight central.

Best of luck, and as always, thank you so much for your support of Redbud!

blog designs...

2011-02-07T16:32:00.000-06:00

Recently I was given the privilege of designing the site for a craft market that is run by two sisters, Mique and Jessica, in the San Diego area. The Queen Bee Market sounds like such a fun event, and with these two girls running it I don't see how it could be anything short of fabulous. I designed a splash page - something that is becoming more and more popular, especially for business blogs - in addition to the actual blog design. A splash page acts as a sort of home page and is especially helpful if you want to give your readers some options when first coming to your site. (I also have a splash page for Redbud's new site.) If you are interested in adding a splash page to your existing design or a new design, shoot me an email, and we'll talk!

QBM's Splash page design

QBM's Blog design

To see this site in action and learn more about the Queen Bee Market, go HERE.

I was also honored to get to do Jessica's new design for her Allora Handmade blog. She makes the most beautiful accessories out of handmade rosettes that I've admired forever. (I have my eye on these for my babies and this for me!) You must go check out her shop after you go and follow her blog! Jessica already had a splash page for her site, so she needed something that coordinated and helped her splash, shop, and blog feel cohesive. Go take a look!

This last design was for a friend of mine that I've known since elementary school. Brandie was actually with me at a church retreat in junior high when I first started crushin' on the boy who is now my husband! (We also may or may not have performed a routine together in the school talent show to the tune of Garth Brooks' "Papa Loved Mama".) So thankful to still be in touch with her and loved getting to design her cute family's blog!

new site!

2011-01-21T22:40:00.001-06:00

I've been working hard this week on lots of new designs, including this one here for Redbud! Not only does Redbud have a new look, but finally, also a new site! This here blog will now only be used as just that - a blog about recent designs and other happenings here at Redbud. You can visit the new site by going to www.redbuddesigns.net. Take a look around the shop and let me know what you think!

more 2010 Christmas card designs...

2011-01-04T21:47:00.000-06:00

wait list update / christmas card review!

2011-01-03T17:25:00.000-06:00

I have truly appreciated your patience over the past few months as I've adjusted to being a mama of two and spent some time designing Christmas cards. My wait list is now OPEN for all services. Let me know how I can help you!

I'll share this year's custom Christmas card designs over the next few days. Thank you to all of you who gave me the honor of designing your card this year. I absolutely mean it when I say it is an honor. And SO much fun!

Here are a few...

merry christmas!

2010-12-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

sale!

2010-12-15T14:40:00.001-06:00

Still haven't decided on a Christmas card? It's not too late to order a premade design from the SHOP. And they are now only $10!! I'll accept orders right up until Christmas day so even if it's too late to print and mail your design, you can still email, blog, or facebook your Christmas greetings!

(for 5x7 printing tips, go HERE!)

christmas card talk

2010-12-01T22:03:00.002-06:00

A new Christmas card design was added to the shop today using one of my favorite patterns.

I have extended the current sale through Sunday, December 4th. Just enter the code

MERRYREDBUD30

at checkout to receive 30% off your order!

redbud... photography?

2010-11-18T14:28:00.001-06:00

Recently a friend of mine asked me to take some pictures of her adorable family at her son's birthday party. I assured her that I am NOT a photographer, but I was honored that she let me pretend to be one for the day! I had a great time, and after this experience, I just may add this to my list of services someday when a new camera comes into my life. And I learn a thing or two - anything, really - about true photography. Until then, enjoy some pics from my first-ever photo shoot.

Thanks, Aaron family, for being my guinea pigs, and Happy 3rd Birthday, Jack! Jenn hopes to use one of these pics on a custom Christmas card design. TOMORROW is the last day I will take custom orders, so place your order quickly!

you won!

2010-11-08T16:35:00.000-06:00

Congrats to...

Michaela is one lucky Redbud fan because this is the 2nd giveaway that she has won! Congrats! Email me when you get a chance and let me know which card design you'd like to use this year!

Thanks to all who entered. Be sure and check the shop often. I'll be adding a new design or two soon!

recent-ish blog designs

2010-11-07T13:41:00.000-06:00

Here are a few blog designs I finished up before August came...both the month and the baby.
A crafty blogger, one of my best friends, a photographer, a quilter, and a newlywed. Click each picture to visit the actual sites.

Don't forget to enter the latest Redbud giveaway to win a premade Christmas card design for you OR a friend. You can view my Christmas cards HERE and enter the giveaway HERE. Good luck!

grand opening and a giveaway!

2010-11-05T12:04:00.000-05:00

I am excited to announce the grand opening of the new Redbud Designs Shop! For now, it is filled with premade, print-yourself Christmas card designs, but eventually I will have invitations and announcements available as well. All payments are made through Paypal.

I will be adding a few more designs in the next week or two, so check back often by clicking on the Shop button in my sidebar!

I think it is only fitting to announce the shop's arrival with a premade Christmas card GIVEAWAY, don't you? To enter for you OR a friend, please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

For one entry, simply view all of my pre-designed cards in the shop and let me know in a comment which is your favorite.
If you are a follower of this blog, you get an extra entry.
And another if you are a Facebook fan.
one more if you follow Redbud on Twitter.
And ANOTHER if you mention this giveaway on your blog.
Oh, and yet another if you link to it on Facebook.
Want one more entry? Tweet about this giveaway.

The giveaway will end Sunday, November 7th at midnight central time.

As always, I appreciate all of your support of Redbud Designs. If you think you may want a custom design instead, be sure and pay your deposit soon as the spots are filling up! (But go ahead and enter the giveaway for a friend!)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

happy halloween!

2010-11-01T11:10:00.000-05:00

Hope your Halloween was as fun as ours was! (More pics HERE.)

And don't forget about getting on the list for custom Christmas cards. The spots are filling up!

it's time!

2010-10-25T18:25:00.003-05:00

You can view my premade designs in the Redbud Shop, but if you know that you will be wanting a custom Redbud design this year, you can go ahead and get on my list!

Here's the deal:

COST

$40, payable through Paypal

WHAT YOU GET

a design unique to you and your family with up to 3 revisions (any edits made after the third proof will be $10/revision)

the final design in jpeg form so that you can print however and wherever you'd like, and/or add it to your blog, facebook, email, etc.

WHAT TO DO

I will have 20 spots on my waiting list for custom designs.

To reserve your spot, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of $20, which will go toward the total cost of the design. You can do so by clicking on the Paypal button below, or the one in my sidebar

I will also need you to fill out the form below and email your picture(s) to me. First come, first served. Once I have received your deposit, your design form, AND your pictures, I will let you know your estimated wait time for your initial proof.

I will be taking orders from now until the 20 spots are full, or until Friday, November 19th.

On November 19th, I will take the names on my wait list, and do a drawing for a lucky winner to receive the design for FREE, including a refund of the winner's deposit.

Thanks so much and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Click the Paypal button below to pay your $20 deposit.

remember me?

2010-10-24T21:42:00.000-05:00

Hey there! I think it is finally safe to say that all of us here at the Albright household are beginning to adjust to life with baby sister. The dust is clearing from the couple months that were admittedly a little harder than I was expecting! Little August Rose is doing well, and we are all so in love with her! You are welcome to keep up with my little family through our blog HERE.

I must apologize to those of you who have emailed me for any reason in the last couple of months. I WILL get back to you soon! I appreciate your patience with me as I'm easing back into business here at Redbud. One of the things I am going to do first happens to be one of my most favorite things to do ever:

CHRISTMAS CARDS!

I will be posting more info about both custom and premade Christmas card designs tomorrow, so please stay tuned!

2010-08-14T07:20:00.003-05:00

August Rose

born on 8-13-10 at 12:39pm

7 pounds, 11 ounces

19 inches

PERFECT!

redbud/gracey may giveaway winner!!

2010-07-30T17:09:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much to all who entered Redbud's Christmas in July Giveaway, featuring Etsy seller Gracey May!

We have a winner...

Comment #103 was...

CONGRATS, JENNY!!

Get in touch with me sometime when you're not busy snuggling that new baby, and we'll go from there!

THANK YOU again to all of you who continually support Redbud. I encourage you to do the same for Gracey May! You had a favorite item, and now I think you need to go get it! :) She is already offering free shipping through tomorrow, July 31st, but she has graciously offered to extend free shipping for one more week (through August 7th) to all of you who entered this giveaway. Message her before the sale to get a price adjustment, or she can refund the shipping once you have paid.

Congrats again to Jenny!

nesting, nesting...

2010-07-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

Mostly everyday I work on Redbud projects during Merit's nap time. That is some of the only free time I get some days, and as much as I love my work here at Redbud, sometimes I need a little break from design - at least of the graphic kind. I have always loved doing creative things, especially with my hands. With the new baby coming very soon, I got an itch last week to sew. (This was between my itch to scrub the bathroom with a toothbrush and the itch to vacuum the carpet again.) It felt amazing to sit at my sewing machine, listen to some old Dave Matthews, and create things for my girls.

Merit recently moved to a toddler bed, so I made her a couple of new pillow cases. I also made a few burp cloths and decorated a couple of onesies with iron-ons for the baby. Nothing too complicated as I'm still a novice seamstress at best (I can sew rectangles with the best of 'em!). But I felt renewed and excited after my little sewing (and ironing-on) session.

And I'm sure after I quit sewing I used that excitement to go wipe down a baseboard or something. I encourage you to slow down and do something that you truly love to do every once in a while.

Speaking of things you love to do - be sure to enter Redbud's latest giveaway - a $50 Redbud Gift Certificate and $20 Gracey May shop credit. This awesome giveaway ends Thursday night!

christmas in july GIVEAWAY

2010-07-23T12:25:00.003-05:00

---This giveaway has closed. Thanks so much to all who entered! I'll announce the winner by Friday night, July 30th!---

Etsy, the site we all know and love, has been having quite the Christmas in July sale this month. It inspired me to host a giveaway here at Redbud. Mainly because it is never too early to think about Christmas, and also because giveaways are FUN!

In honor of Etsy, I decided to ask my dear friend Penny from Gracey May to join me in this little giveaway. Oh, my goodness, is she talented. Her embroidery is uniquely creative, perfectly vintage, absolutely beautiful...I could go on and on.

Here are some things she made by hand for my girls. I cannot wait to see them wear their Best Friends necklace shirts and take entirely too many pictures. And that sweet little bird picture? It is so sweet that the only place it could possibly belong is above the bed of a sweet sleeping baby girl.

So, for this giveaway, the lucky winner will be come away with a

$50 Redbud Designs Gift Certificate

and

$20 Gracey May Etsy Shop Credit!

Imagine the possibilities. Keep them for yourself or use them as gifts for those you love. As you know, my wait list is closed for a bit, but that Redbud gift certificate might come in handy for this year's Christmas card design...or maybe a fresh fall blog design.

To enter, go visit Penny's shop and leave a comment here telling me what item (or items!) that you love.

For additional entries, you can do any of the following:

- Become a follower of this blog/let me know that you are a follower

- Follow Redbud on Twitter / let me know that you follow Redbud on Twitter

- Become a fan of Redbud on Facebook / let me know you are a Facebook fan

- Mention this giveaway on your blog

- Share this giveaway on Facebook

- Tweet about this giveaway on Twitter

- Heart Gracey May on Etsy

- Follow Gracey May on Twitter

- OH! And the first one to correctly guess the movie that the quote on the blue embroidered hoop in the top right corner is from gets their entries DOUBLED!! **update: yes, Jenna, it is "Say Anything"! way to go! :)

That is up to 9 entries (18 if you guess the movie)! Please leave a separate comment for each entry.

This giveaway will end Thursday, July 29th, at midnight central time. Thanks so much for stopping by and good luck!

new looks

2010-07-18T17:02:00.002-05:00

Redbud got a new look today. Here are a few others who have received a new look lately...

(Click on each picture to visit their blogs.)

As you may have seen, my wait list is closed for a while, but be looking for a GIVEAWAY to begin in the next day or two for a $50 Redbud gift certificate to be used once I open the wait list again!

the wait list has closed!

2010-07-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

The open spots on the wait list have now been taken. Thank you so much to everyone who showed interest. I will be busy wrapping up all of my current projects right up until it is time for little sister to make her debut! I'll be taking some time off from Redbud after she gets here, but I'm not quite sure yet when I'll start taking orders again. I have an amazing boss who lets me have as much maternity leave as I want! :) In the meantime, check back often for recent design updates, as well as news about some new things going on at Redbud. (For instance, ~~my husband made me get~~ I finally got a twitter! I'll let you know when I get that going so you can follow along if you'd like.)

Until next time, here are a few recent Redbud blog designs...

for a limited time only...

2010-07-07T18:14:00.000-05:00

I am now taking orders again! Unfortunately, I can only take on THREE new projects (blog design or print design) before I close the wait list again to go have a sweet baby girl and get used to life with TWO little girlies.

If you are interested in getting on my wait list, please email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com. (Or if you are placing a blog design order, you can go ahead and fill in THIS form and send it to me - either way.)

FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED - To be placed on my wait list, the $20 deposit must be paid. I will send a deposit invoice to those who contact me.

I will update this blog and my Facebook page as soon as the spots are filled. Thank you so much to all of you who have been and will be keeping me busy!!

merit's 2nd birthday...

2010-05-29T11:41:00.000-05:00

...was a while ago, but I just remembered that I never shared about her party here at Redbud. We had a candy-themed party, and I had a blast putting this party together for her.

the invite

inside decoration details...

I love that her birthday falls around Easter time. Easter candy is the most fun! The other parents loved me when their children left with a treat bag full of sugar. :)

outside decoration detials...candy lanterns, Dots trees, PB & J lollipops, and yard lollipops

I have a TWO YEAR OLD, y'all! (I'm still in denial.)

For more party pics, go HERE.

And don't forget to go on over to Susie and Kelly's blogs to enter my latest giveaway for a COMPLETE BLOG MAKEOVER for you or a friend! The giveaway ends Tuesday night, June 1st!

blog design giveaway!

2010-05-25T08:47:00.001-05:00

Recently I was invited to participate in "Build a Beautiful Blog Week" on a couple of blogs written by Stacie and Kelly. A Redbud giveaway has been posted today on both of their blogs, and I highly recommend that you go and enter! My giveaway is for a COMPLETE BLOG MAKEOVER, an $85 value, for you or a friend! You can enter on both of their blogs and double your chance of winning!

Go HERE to enter on Kelly's blog, and go HERE to enter on Stacie's blog. The giveaway will be open for one week, ending on June 1, 2010 at 11:59 pm EST. Best of luck, friends!

recent blog designs

2010-05-04T22:20:00.001-05:00

Here are a few samples of what I've been up to lately here at Redbud. Click on the pictures to visit each blog. You are sure to find a new blog or two to love and follow.

blog designs for good friends...

for new friends...

for giveaway winners...

and for my own little blog...

Stay tuned for more info about my next giveaway. I will participating in a COMPLETE BLOG MAKEOVER giveaway hosted on another blog in a couple of weeks. It will most likely be my last giveaway before I take some time off when the new baby comes, so you'll want to be sure and enter! I'll post more details here as they come along!

babies, babies, babies

2010-04-08T14:55:00.000-05:00

I have had the privilege several times lately to help dear friends celebrate the births of their babies. I have to admit...this is my favorite kind of work.

Lisa and I grew up going to the same school and church. Her new baby Sophia was SO easy to stare at while designing this announcement! (It's no surprise...her beautiful mama is a professional model.)

My friendship with Annalee goes back to college. I found myself rooming with her my freshman year on a spring break campaign, and we were instant friends. We talked even that week about being mamas someday. She was most definitely meant for such a role. I recently designed an announcement for her second squeezably cute baby, Graham.

Jaymie is another close friend of mine from college. She makes me laugh like no one else, and is my hero when it comes to mothering. She also recently had another baby. She wanted a bit of a western feel to Quinn's announcement. Don't you just want to jump in that picture and cuddle with him?!

Leigh Ann is one of my oldest and dearest friends. She taught me everything I know about hair and make-up. :) She had her sweet baby boy THIS MORNING (!), and I was honored to design a baby shower invitation for her. Since I wasn't able to attend (can someone please pick up Texas and move it closer to Tennessee? Thanks.), this made me feel like I was a little part of her special day. Holt's nursery is decorated with Ugly Dolls, so the shower went along with that theme as well.

Speaking of babies, we recently found out some fun news about our newest addition, coming in August...

You can read more about my little family HERE. Thanks for stopping in. As you can see, things have been busy around this little business and around my little house!

miss oklahoma usa

2010-03-03T15:35:00.002-06:00

Recently I had the pleasure of designing a blog for the current Miss Oklahoma USA, Morgan Woolard. And wouldn't you know that she's as nice as she is pretty? I absolutely loved working with her.

She will be competing for Miss USA live on NBC April 18th. I told her that although I'm from Texas, and now live in Tennessee, I will definitely be rooting for her!

But I may have spoken too quickly because how could I root against this pretty little thing??

I wish you all the best, Morgan! Thanks for letting me be a small part of your Miss USA experience!

!!!!!

2010-02-16T09:55:00.000-06:00

Thank you so much to all who entered and helped to get the word out about Redbud Designs and the giveaway! Because you were so generous, I decided that this giveaway needed not only one winner, but TWO. Don't you think that was a good idea? Me, too. I guess that is why we're friends.

The first winner...

Comment #127 belonged to...

And the second winner...

Comment #13 belonged to...

Yay! Congrats to you both!! Please email me within one week to claim your prize.

Thanks again to all who entered. Hope you are having a fantastic week!

catching up - a few blog designs from the fall

2010-02-13T13:48:00.001-06:00

Here are a few of the blog designs that I completed before the holidays...

Don't forget to enter the GIVEAWAY below! You have until Monday night, midnight central time!

giveaway!

2010-02-12T16:59:00.001-06:00

WHAT: a giveaway for a Simple Blog Design OR a $50 Redbud Designs Gift Certificate, your choice

WHO: you may enter for yourself or for a friend!

WHY: because giveaways are FUN

WHEN: Friday, February 12th through Monday, February 15th, midnight central time

HOW: For one entry, simply leave a comment.

For additional entries, you can:

- mention this giveaway on your blog.

- mention or link to this giveaway on facebook.

- become or remind me that you are a follower of this blog.

- become or remind me that you are a fan of Redbud on facebook.

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY.

As always, thanks so much for your support of Redbud Designs. Have a great Valentine's weekend, and be sure to tell someone that they are loved!!

more Christmas card designs...

2010-01-22T14:35:00.001-06:00

a few 2009 Christmas card designs...

2010-01-18T15:40:00.000-06:00

guess who's back...

2010-01-15T16:37:00.000-06:00

It's true! I am finally able to open my wait list. The current estimated wait time for most services is about 4 weeks.

Please be sure to check out my Products and Pricing, as well as Ordering pages for updated info. All services now require a $20 non-refundable deposit before you will be placed on the wait list. I will send you a Paypal invoice following your initial contact with me, and the deposit will go toward your final design cost. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com.

For those of you like me, who are already missing Christmas, I will begin posting some of my custom Christmas card designs soon, so be sure to check back for those! Thanks for your patience and your support!

merry christmas!

2009-12-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

LAST MINUTE CHRISTMAS CARD SALE!!

2009-12-15T00:17:00.001-06:00

Ten more days until the most wonderful day of the year! If you have yet to get a card in the mail (like me), then maybe you should browse my pre-designed cards! They are on sale for $10 for the remainder of the month. You still have time to get them printed and hand-delivered to the mailboxes of the ones you love. But if gathering addresses and sticking stamps can't be squeezed onto your holiday to-do list, you could always post it to your blog or facebook, or send as a digital card through email. As always, feel free to email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com with any questions!

Merry Christmas, my dears!

just in time...

2009-12-10T22:52:00.001-06:00

A few new arrivals just in time for Christmas...

Redbud now offers gift certificates in the amounts of $5, $10, $20, and $50. Choose your amount and click the button below to order. For a custom amount, simply email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com and I will send you an invoice. Once payment is received, I will email you a personalized gift certificate in jpeg form so that you can either print it or send it via email to the recipient!

Also, some new pre-designed Christmas cards...

I have been designing Christmas cards for over a month now, and they are so much fun to do I just can't stop. I know it is nearing time to have your cards in the mail (I haven't even designed my own family's yet!), but with one-hour printing, you could have these in your hands in just a couple of days.

You can view all of my pre-designed cards HERE. I will be taking orders all month!

and a free custom Christmas card design goes to...

2009-12-01T18:01:00.000-06:00

I have stopped taking orders for custom Christmas cards, and as promised, I am going to refund the payment of one person who already placed an order. My little assistant and I have been busy moving and traveling across the country, so I haven't been able to get her to draw a name, but I asked Redbud's Facebook fans to pick a number for me.

Brandy chose number 3, and since Katie was the third person to pay her deposit, she is the lucky winner!

Katie, you will be receiving a refund for your deposit soon! Thanks to all of you who ordered a custom design. I am having such a fun time with them! For the rest of you, be sure to check out my pre-designed card designs HERE. I will be accepting orders for those right up until Christmas!

5x7 print and envelope tips

2009-11-16T07:42:00.005-06:00

Most of my designs that are for invitations, birth announcements, or Christmas cards end up being printed as a 5x7 photo. Sending the design file to a digital photo lab is always easy, and a 5x7 card, in my opinion, looks best. If you will be printing a Redbud Christmas card or another design in the future, here are a few price comparisons for 5x7 prints:

Sam's Club - 38 cents each for one hour / 34 cents each for multi-day
Costco - 39 cents each
Shutterfly - on sale now for 50 cents each, normally 99 cents each
Walmart - 58 cents each
Snapfish - as low as 59 cents each for 50+ prints
Walgreens - $1.59 each (although I think they go down to $1.00 if you order a certain amount)

5x7's are a bit high maintenance when it comes to finding envelopes, but there are several options. Envelopes that fit a 5x7 perfectly are called A7, but they are hard to find in stores. Something I have done in the past is buy a cheap box of generic Christmas or greeting cards and use the envelopes from that box, as they usually fit a 5x7 perfectly. I have also bought "invitation" envelopes from an office store. They are a bit bigger than a 5x7 print (5-3/4" x 8-3/4"), but they work just fine, and are relatively easy to find. My friend Annalee just happened to ask the salesperson at Walgreens about getting 5x7 envelopes with her prints, and he told her that he would give them to her for free as long as she printed her cards there. (As Annalee told me, it never hurts to ask!) Just in case your Walgreens worker isn't as friendly, here are some options and price comparisons for invitation envelopes:

Office Depot - $8.99 for 100
Staples - $12.39 for 100
Office Max - $13.99 for 100

My goal is to eventually provide printing services (complete with free envelopes with your order!), but until then, I hope this is helpful! Feel free to leave a comment if you have any other helpful tips or suggestions. As always, thanks for your support of Redbud Designs!

winner!!

2009-11-09T16:50:00.003-06:00

Merit chose...

Here's how it all went down...

Congrats, Chelsea! Email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and we'll get the process started!

Thanks to all of you who entered and helped spread the word about Redbud's card designs. And don't worry if you didn't win! You can still get your hands on a Redbud Christmas card HERE!

working on it...

2009-11-08T20:27:00.001-06:00

That may just have to be my motto for the time being. I am thankful to be crazy busy with designs at the moment. I have just begun designs for custom Christmas cards, and oh, is it fun!! Thanks so much to everyone who entered my recent Christmas card design giveaway! I am "working on" getting my little assistant to draw a name and will announce the winner tomorrow. While you wait, here are some samples from the many projects I have been working on lately for friends, family, and strangers alike...

blogs...

business cards...

t-shirts...

cutie baby announcements...

...and invites.

(Zoey is my sweet little niece whose birthday is TODAY! Happy Birthday, ZoZo!)

Check back tomorrow for the giveaway winner!!

pre-designed christmas card GIVEAWAY

2009-11-02T23:57:00.001-06:00

I finally have a few pre-designed cards ready to go! You can view the details and designs by going HERE and clicking on the Horizontal and Vertical links at the bottom of the page. I will be adding a few more designs in the next week or two, so check back often by clicking on the Christmas Card button in my sidebar!

a couple of my faves

I think it is only fitting to announce their arrival with a GIVEAWAY, don't you? Here is how to enter:

For one entry, simply view all of my pre-designed cards and let me know in a comment which is your favorite.
If you are a follower of this blog, you get an extra entry.
And another if you are a Facebook fan.
And ANOTHER if you mention this giveaway on your blog.
Oh, and yet another if you link to it on Facebook.
Want one more entry? Grab my Christmas card button over there in my sidebar and place it in your sidebar.

The giveaway will end Friday, November 6th at midnight central time.

I appreciate all of your support of Redbud Designs. Christmas card designs are some of my FAVORITE things to do. I would be honored to do one for YOU!

because sometimes words are not enough

2009-10-05T22:01:00.001-05:00

I like being creative. In fact, I love it. It is a part of who I am, so when I started Redbud, I don't think I really thought about how difficult it might be to be creative for a living. I'm not gonna lie, it carries a little bit of pressure! Most of my designs are for people I don't know personally, yet each design must reflect each client's personality, and, especially in the case of a blog design, their life. I sometimes find myself lacking inspiration, and it is in these moments that I turn to music (my favorite Pandora stations to design to being Beyonce, the Weepies, Meiko, Patsy Cline...), a favorite site, or in the following cases, a clients' inspiration or mood board.

Jamie was one of my first blog design clients, and she was the first to make a mood board for me. She gathered images that captured not only her, but also the colors and overall feel that she had in mind for her blog design.

Jamie's board

and her design

Jamie has sent many of her friends my way, and a couple of them have followed her lead and created a mood board of their own. Amy felt the first design I presented to her didn't quite fit, so I suggested she create a mood board. She ended up having a lot of fun with it, and, in the end, we ended up with a design she loved. Success!

Amy's board

and her final design

Lindsay Ann sent her board first thing. It was extremely helpful to have from the get-go, and helped me capture her personality although we have never met in person.

Lindsay Ann's board

and her blog design

Kate didn't create a mood board for me, but she did decide to show me what she wanted for her sweet baby's announcements, instead of just tell me. She liked the feel of Amy Butler's Faded China line of fabric, specifically, Grey Lacework.

(photo via amybutlerdesign.com)

And here is baby Eydie's announcement (is she not SOOO cute?!!)

Mood boards can come in handy for many occasions, whether you are planning a party, designing a room in your home, or putting together an outfit for a special occasion. To put a mood board together, you could use a website like Scrapblog, or, especially if you are into fashion, you could check out Polyvore.

This is, of course, not something that I expect from all of my clients, but it is something to think about if you are thinking of getting your hands on a Redbud design. Speaking of, I'm off to create another. Thanks for checking in with what is going on at Redbud!

wait list update

2009-09-29T21:57:00.000-05:00

So that I can get caught up before Christmas card season, I will not be taking any new orders until further notice. I will continue to accept Christmas card orders and will let you know when the wait list is open for all other design services. Thanks for keeping me busy!

winner!

2009-09-24T22:21:00.000-05:00

Congrats, Krull Family! Email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and we can get the design process started! Don't forget to include your t-shirt size and shipping address for your super cool Dry Bones t-shirt.

Thanks again to all who entered and donated to Dry Bones. Next month is Redbud's first birthday and a week full of giveaways is in the making...

the giveaway has ended...

2009-09-23T21:33:00.000-05:00

...but, of course, the donating can continue. :) Thank you to all who entered, and especially to those of you who donated to Dry Bones. I will announce the winner sometime tomorrow, right after my little assistant picks a name. If you're lucky, she just may pick you...

giveaway for a good cause

2009-09-16T08:20:00.003-05:00

WHAT:

A giveaway and donation drive, benefiting Dry Bones Denver

The winner will receive a complete blog makeover for you or a friend ($60 value!), as well as a Dry Bones t-shirt!

WHO:

Dry Bones is a ministry that is run, in part, by my brother and sister-in-law, Matt and Nikki Wallace, but that is not the only reason that it is near and dear to my heart. Dry Bones exists purely to facilitate relationships with and provide resources and nutrition to homeless teens on the streets of Denver, Colorado. Through these gestures, they show the love of Christ. The ministry is operated solely on the generous donations of others, so through this giveaway, you will have a chance to help their efforts in Denver. If you have a chance, be sure to take a look around their website. You are sure to be encouraged.

WHEN:

Wednesday, September 16th - Tuesday, September 22nd, midnight central time

HOW:

To enter the giveaway, simply leave a comment letting me know that you are either a FOLLOWER of this blog, and/or a FACEBOOK FAN. (If you are both, you will begin with 2 entries!)

As always, you can earn extra entries by:

Mentioning the giveaway on your blog
Grabbing the Giveaway button to the right ----> and placing it in your sidebar
Linking to the giveaway on facebook

Here is how you can help Dry Bones...

If you would like to donate at least $1 to Dry Bones, I will DOUBLE your total amount of entries. (That means that you could have your name entered up to 10 times in the drawing!)

To donate to Dry Bones, just click on the Paypal button below, and then let me know either in your comment, or through email that you have donated to Dry Bones (the amount donated does not need to be disclosed).

I am so thankful for your support of Redbud, and I especially appreciate your interest and support of Dry Bones.

Now get to entering! (and donating!) :)

countdown to giveaway: one day!

2009-09-15T18:45:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I will be announcing Redbud's newest GIVEAWAY! The winner will receive a complete blog makeover, and you will even have a chance to help one of my favorite organizations. Check back tomorrow for details. Here are the designs from my last two giveaway winners...

a helpful suggestion...

2009-09-07T12:27:00.005-05:00

This morning I did something that doesn't happen all too often. I bought something for me. (And my way-too-long hair.)

When my friend Jenny announced that her etsy store, Liberty and Lace, was having a Buy One, Get One sale for Labor Day, I just couldn't resist her pretty hair accesories. I mean, can you blame me?

I came away with this little lovely, called Guinevere and Arthur......and snagged this cutie for free. It is called Johnny and June, which could have been half the reason I wanted it. I know, right? Here is another I have my eye on, being modeled by another sweet friend, Melissa.Her sale ends this evening, so hurry and check out her shop! And even if you miss the sale, I see no reason why one of these shouldn't be atop your pretty head or the head of someone you love very, very soon.

photos by Jennifer Waldrop

it's the most wonderful time of the year...

2009-09-01T22:33:00.000-05:00

Every year, on December 26th, I start looking forward to Christmas. So it is no wonder that it's September 1st, and I already have Christmas on my mind. What will we be getting our then 21-month-old for her second Christmas? Which new Christmas CD will I have on repeat? Which song will I sadly get tired of after listening to 24-hour Christmas music radio stations in between playings of the aforementioned CD? These are the things that keep me up at night, smiling giddily.

One of the main reasons that I have been thinking about Christmas is because I have already been brainstorming ideas for my custom Christmas card designs. Last year, I had just started Redbud when the holidays came around, and admittedly, I got in a little over my head with Christmas cards! This year, I am going to get a head start and if you would like a custom Redbud design, you can, too!

Here's the scoop:

COST

$40, payable through Paypal

WHAT YOU GET

a design unique to you and your family with unlimited revisions

the final design in jpeg form so that you can print however and wherever you'd like

WHAT TO DO

I will have 20 spots on my waiting list for custom designs.

To reserve your spot, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of $20, which will go toward the total cost of the design. You can do so by clicking on the button below, or the one in my sidebar.

I will be taking orders from now until the 20 spots are full, or until Friday, November 20th, on which I will officially be married for 5 years.

But that is beside the point.

The point is, on November 20th, I will take the names on my wait list, and do a drawing for a lucky winner to receive the design for FREE, including a refund of the winner's deposit.

Feel free to email me with any questions. I am so looking forward to helping you create a unique and fun Christmas card that represents you and your family!

If you have hung with me until now, congratulations are in order. Talk of Christmas gets me all excited and wordy. Stay tuned for some fun Redbud announcements, including a blog giveaway, and an update on some of my recent work, including details about my very first album cover design!

lately

2009-08-01T15:27:00.011-05:00

I am very thankful to say that lately I have been busy here at Redbud. Just designing away, all the while, chasing a cute, pigtailed 16-month-old.

I told you she was cute. And I wasn't lying about the pigtails, either. Another thing I wasn't lying about is the designing part. See?

These first two blogs were for two groups of Business students from ACU who studied abroad this summer. As you can see, one group studied in Oxford, and the other in Germany.

I have known Hunter and Jennifer since we were kids. Now, they have one very cute kid of their own, Benton.

Jacquie and I were at ACU together, and I interned for a youth group alongside her husband, Jason (aka Spruce), who also happens to be one of my brother's best friends. I am not sure why I feel the need to document how I am connected to my clients, but well, I do. :) Jacquie was one of my guinea pigs in the beginning of Redbud, and I was excited to re-design her blog.

Natalie approached me a while back about giving Redbud some publicity by doing a giveaway on her fun blog in exchange for a blog design. Well, of course!
(By the way, she is hosting a fantastic baby shower giveaway right now--go enter HERE!)

Erin works in New York City for HBO. She is all sorts of talented, and writes, edits, and produces commercials for the network. She uses her blog to showcase her work.

For a complete update of recent designs, be sure and visit my newly-updated blog portfolio page.

And be looking for a giveaway here very soon...

birds are the new black

2009-06-20T09:56:00.004-05:00

Some new designs featuring the feathered friends...

This was for my friend Reb's etsy shop. She and I were in club together at ACU, and she now works with my brother and sister-in-law in Denver with an organization called Dry Bones.

Danna is my cousin, was my maid of honor, and will always be one of my greatest friends. She and her family recently moved, and I got the honor of designing their moving announcement.

I didn't know Sara before designing her blog header, but I felt a sort of kinship with her because we both have musicians for husbands. :)

* * *

2009-06-15T11:25:00.002-05:00

Congrats! I love that you were one of the only ones who mentioned that you were entering for a friend. Have your lucky friend email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and we'll go from there!

Thanks again to everyone who entered! I will now offer 10% off on all future orders to anyone who is a Follower of this blog or a Facebook fan. I truly appreciate your support!

giveaway time...

2009-06-08T22:17:00.004-05:00

In honor of the summertime, Redbud's new look, and Redbud's new Facebook page, I am hosting a blog makeover giveaway! The winner will receive a COMPLETE BLOG DESIGN ($60 value!) for you or for a friend!

To enter, you will need to add yourself as a follower of this blog or a fan of the Redbud Facebook page. For two entries, you can do both! For an additional entry, mention this giveaway on your blog. For ANOTHER entry, link to this giveaway or the Redbud Facebook page from your Facebook. Just leave me a comment letting me know you are entering and how many entries you qualify for. (If you are already a follower, you will still need to leave me a comment letting me know you would like to be entered.)

This giveaway will end Friday, June 12th, at midnight central time. Thanks for your support and good luck!

Update: You can also go HERE to enter Natalie's contest for a custom Redbud sidebar button for your blog! Thanks, Natalie!

recent non-blog designs...

2009-06-03T23:01:00.003-05:00

Now, don't get me wrong. I love to design blogs. But sometimes, HTML code and I don't get along. This is why when I am given the opportunity to design an invitation or announcement, I secretly do a little "yay this doesn't require any HTML coding" dance. Here are a few invites that I was able to do for events in May...

These first two were for McKinley and Davis, the two absolutely adorable kids of my cousin, April. I had a lot of fun designing these, and Merit and I were lucky enough to be in town for McKinley's gymnastics/Hannah Montana party. SO fun!

This next design was so easy to work on because I got to stare at this little face while I designed! I mean, really? How cute is she?!

And here is an invite I designed for Kate, a friend of mine from college. She is due any day now with sweet Eydie!

recent RBD blog designs...

2009-05-17T23:42:00.010-05:00

Here are a few of my recent blog designs...

Linde Browning Designs - AMAZING custom room and furniture design. I mean, AMAZING.

Great Oak Circle Designs - a fun and extremely helpful Do-It-Yourself design blog

Cheery Disposition

My Place in the Sun

At Home in the Hill

the Price Family
Roses All Around

go make a bid!

2009-04-30T21:39:00.004-05:00

I am honored to be a part of an online auction going on at my friend Cassie's blog. She will be participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and all proceeds from her auctions will go to support the cause. Currently, she has a super fun birthday package auction for a custom bib, cupcake picks, and a Redbud invitation design. Go HERE to start bidding! It ends Friday, May 1st, at 10pm. Good luck!

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to participate, Cassie!

etsy!

2009-04-15T18:11:00.007-05:00

Two of my good friends here in Nashville have precious etsy stores, and I was honored to design their banners. Please visit their stores, and have your credit cards handy because you are sure to find something irresistible.

Penny's shop is called Gracey May. She makes and sells the cutest hand-embroidered things with the perfect vintage feel. If I could, I would have her come add a sweet little embroidered design to every curtain, pillow, and towel in my house.

Jennifer's shop is called Wee Little House. She sells adorable handmade felted items, as well as lovely vintage novelties and fabrics that she finds on her routine thrift and antique outings. She also has a Wee Little House blog. I am eyeing this sweet "found" thing and can't get enough of this cute "felted" thing.

Thanks, Penny and Jenn, for letting me design your banners! Both of you are so talented and creative...your shops are sure to be successful.

small world...

2009-04-07T14:12:00.016-05:00

One of my favorite things about having this business so far is hearing how I am connected to each client. Most of my designs recently have been for people I don't know personally, but because of the way the internet works these days, I always find a connection.

This design was for Devin, the winner of one of my giveaways. She went to college with my cousin.

As I've mentioned before, when it comes to Redbud clients, Devin is probably my most loyal! I recently did this design for her husband's birthday.

Allison lives in ABILENE, my hometown. I will always be excited to do designs for fellow Abilenians!

Kelly and I both attended ACU. She was there a few years before me and knows both of my sisters-in-law.

Another Abilene connection...I recently did this birth announcement for a girl named Betsy, whose husband is a Jeep man!

I went to ACU and was in club with Abbe and her sister, Linde. Abbe's son, Avery, just turned one!

These next few designs hit a little closer to home. Lindsay has been one of my best friends since we were in 3rd grade. I am so thankful for her friendship and was excited to give her a new blog design.

Even closer...my first niece, Macy, turned five last month. I can't believe she is already five. She celebrated with a swimming princess party!

And, finally, this is about as close to me as one can get...I carried her for 9 months! My baby girl, Merit, turned ONE a couple of weeks ago. We had tons of fun at her party, and I am already brainstorming for next year!

baby blog addict giveaway

2009-03-18T20:42:00.002-05:00

I am excited to share with you that Redbud Designs is being featured this week on Baby Blog Addict. If you visit BBA and leave a comment on the post about RBD, you will have an opportunity to win a Simple Blog Makeover with added signature. Go check it out and be sure to enter the giveaway! Thanks, BBA!

recent blog designs

2009-03-07T14:30:00.009-06:00

I have been really busy lately with blog designs! Here are four that I have recently completed.

Jamie lives in New York City. She wanted a blog with bold colors that reflected her big city life. She was so fun to work with, and I really appreciate all of the inspiration she gave me from doing this design.
Serena is a super fun mom of three. She wanted a funky blog with an "old-school scrapbook" feel. Thanks for letting me design your blog, Serena!
April lives in Arizona and found me through Jamie. She wanted a contemporary, but vintage feel to her blog with neutral colors. Thanks, April!
This last design was just completed today. I went to ACU with Jane and her sister, Jill. Jane and Joel are expecting their first baby next month. They gave me some freedom with this design, which is always fun for me. :) You'll have to check their blog soon...I don't think they've posted anything yet. Congrats, Kindbergs! I can't wait for that baby girl to be here.

i was invited...

2009-02-09T15:38:00.006-06:00

...to do invites for 3 parties in January celebrating 3 adorable kids. The first was for my good friend Annalee's baby girl's first birthday. Is she cute or what? For the finished product, Annalee placed this card on glitter cardstock...too cute. The font I used was Annalee's actual handwriting, which made it extra special.

This next invite was for the fourth birthday of my lucky blog giveaway winner Devin's little girl. She had a baking-themed party. Fun!

The last invitation was designed for Jake's first birthday, the baby boy of a Nashville friend of mine, Jen. He had a vintage circus-themed party, and I can say firsthand it was tons of fun.

Happy Birthday, Adelaide, Londyn, and Jake!!!

someone's getting a new blog design...

2009-02-05T17:12:00.003-06:00

Thank you, thank you to all of you who entered the giveaway!

As with my first giveaway, I had my assistant draw a name for me. Due to some miscommunication between my assistant and me about only drawing one name, I decided the winner would be the last name left in the bowl...

Congrats, Devin!!! Devin earned 4 entries for this giveaway, and it paid off! I have only been in business for a little over 3 months, but Devin is already my most loyal customer. I did her Christmas card, an invite for her little girl's birthday party, I am currently working on a project for a women's retreat at her church, and now I get to design her blog! Woo-hoo!

Devin, email me and we'll get started on your blog's new look!

2009-01-29T19:10:00.005-06:00

**This giveaway has ended. Thanks to all who entered! The winner will be announced Thursday afternoon!**

Recently, both of my blogs got makeovers, which always gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling. I thought I would share the love and host a giveaway for a FREE COMPLETE BLOG MAKEOVER! This makeover can be used for your own blog, or if you don't have a blog or are not in need of a makeover at the moment, you can share the love, too, and give the makeover to a friend! To enter, all you need to do is leave me a comment, letting me know you dropped by.

And of course, there are ways to be entered more than once. If you have RBD linked on your blog, that is another entry. If you mention this giveaway on your blog or facebook page...another entry! If you become a follower of this blog...woo-hoo! Another entry! If you do more than just leave a comment, let me know in your comment so I can be sure to give you the right amount of entries.

The giveaway will end next Wednesday night, February 4th, at midnight, central time.

Thanks for stopping by and good luck!

more blogs...

2009-01-29T17:42:00.006-06:00

The Idea Farm is a community blog created by my friend, Amanda. Inspired by a class she took in high school (which my husband Kevan also took), she encourages others to share any creative endeavors in which they have taken part recently. Anyone can be added as an author on this blog, and I think that is such a cool thing. I am actually a contributor, but the blog design is all I have contributed so far. Check it out. You are sure to be inspired.

I also recently redid the design of my personal blog. I love the way it turned out. The lyric is from a song called "You Can't Go Back Now", written by The Weepies--whom I cannot get enough of these days. To me, it exemplifies what being a family is all about...the freedom to reach for your dreams knowing that those whom you love the most will be close behind, cheering you on.

leslie and erin

2009-01-28T10:27:00.003-06:00

I recently did blog designs for two really fun girls. This first design was done for Leslie. She wanted something vintage, but not too contemporary. Her blog will make you laugh and think, which is always a good combination. Thanks, Leslie!

This design was done for one of my very best friends in all of the world, Erin. I have known her since college and am so thankful for her friendship. She wanted something with an antique and whimsical feel. Her blog is hands-down one of my favorite reads. Thanks so much, Erin!

card designs for the day...

2009-01-14T14:14:00.005-06:00

christmas card time

2009-01-10T12:28:00.010-06:00

I honestly hadn't even thought about the possibility of doing Christmas cards this year until I had a couple requests come in November. As you may know, I did create some pre-designed cards to choose from, but most of my orders ended up being custom designs. I really enjoyed doing them, and I felt a little creatively exhausted by the time I did my last card, which was actually for my own little family. But I love that I can say that I was exhausted in such a way. It felt good (...especially since I got to spend hours creating CHRISTMAS cards!!). I don't know that I have ever pushed my creativity to such limits before. I can only hope that these cards were able to bless others as much as creating them blessed me.

I will be posting a couple at a time over the next few days, as well as some invitations I have done recently. If you're interested, come visit again!

crystal's cute as a button creations

2009-01-09T12:24:00.005-06:00

Before the holidays, I was asked to do a blog for Crystal's cute embroidery business. She wanted something curly and fun. I had fun with this blog, and hope that it helps her generate lots of business. You should definitely check out her blog if you are ever in need of a cute and unique gift! Thanks, Crystal! I wish you the best with your business!

header

one of her sidebar buttons

...and her signature!

good news!

2009-01-07T20:07:00.002-06:00

I am now able to take new orders! My amazing parents are letting me borrow their computer for a couple of months so I can continue to build my business (and save up for a new computer!). I will be updating with some of my recent designs over the next couple of days. I am really enjoying my work and feel so blessed to not only have an outlet for my creativity, but also to be able to spend my days at home with Merit. If I can help you in any way, let me know!

portfolio

2009-01-01T01:34:00.002-06:00

Click the links below to view Redbud design samples.

BLOG DESIGN

layered and "scrapbooky"
clean and simple
________________________

PRINT DESIGN

bad news...

2008-12-09T18:57:00.002-06:00

Well, unfortunately, I will not be able to take any new orders as of today, Tuesday, December 9th, until further notice. My computer has decided to go out on me, and I am unsure of when it will be fixed. I am completely bummed!!! I do have some good friends and family who are letting me use their computers in the meantime, so I WILL be processing the orders I do already have. I hope to begin taking new orders again very, VERY soon. Please don't forget about me! :) I will be posting some new designs I have been working on, including some fun Christmas cards, so be sure to visit again soon!

and the winner is...

2008-11-16T19:24:00.008-06:00

Thanks so much to all of you who entered my first giveaway! (Double thank you to those who linked to my blog in some way--so nice!) My goal was to have 20 entries, and I ended up with 23. First Redbud giveaway--success!

When it came time to draw a name today, I had my assistant designer, Merit, draw a name for me. I placed the bowl at the end of her crib.

She quickly headed straight for it. (The girl loves paper.)She reached right in, and surprisingly came out with just one.

But she wanted to eat it. (While also displaying her snotty nose...sorry about that.)I managed to salvage most of it...Congrats to Mindi Womack! :) Mindi, email me when you can with details of what you have in mind for your custom Christmas card!

Thanks again to the rest of you who entered. For participating in my first giveaway, I'll give you 15% off your first order from Redbud Designs!

yesssss. giveaway time!

2008-11-14T11:52:00.008-06:00

In honor of Redbud's existence and the fact that there are only 13 more days until the light rock radio stations start playing 24 hour Christmas music, I want to give one lucky commenter a free custom Christmas card design! Speaking of Christmas cards, take a look at the post below if you have not already. Even if you don't win, you can still have a fun and unique design for your card this year. Yes. It's true!

To enter, simply leave me a comment with your favorite Christmas song. Or... movie, that would be fun! Oh, what about your favorite tradition? Reindeer? Okay, just leave me a comment with anything regarding Christmas because every bit of that holiday is absolutely wonderful. You can comment until Sunday, November 16th, at noon (central time). I will draw a name and announce a winner that afternoon.

Oh, by the way, if you let me know in your comment that you have Redbud Designs listed in your links on your blog, I will put your name in twice. Yeah! And, OH, if you let me know in your comment that you have Redbud linked AND you mentioned this giveaway in some manner on your blog, I will put your name in THREE times.

Don't have a blog? That's okay--you can still enter! But, I do know someone who could design a blog for you... :)

Good luck, and let me be the first to say, Merry Christmas!

christmas card design

2008-11-14T10:18:00.012-06:00

Before the holidays come and go, I have decided to offer Christmas card design services! I would love to add your special pictures and/or messages to one of my pre-designed cards, or design a completely custom card unique to your family. All cards are 5x7 in size. I will send you a JPEG of your finished design so that you can have them printed however and wherever you'd like. You could also use it on your blog or as a digital card sent through email. (If you would be so kind to link back to my design site if placed on your blog, I would greatly appreciate it!) These would also be great for holiday party invites!

Pre-designed Card - $12

Custom Card (up to 3 pictures) - $20

Payable through Paypal

If you are interested, email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com and let me know what design you would like to go with, or what you have in mind for your custom card, and we'll discuss!

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Here are the pre-designed cards. I will add your picture(s) and/or your unique message, but the design stays "as-is". Your pictures can be color or black-and-white on any design--whichever you prefer. If you would like any other changes to be made, it will be considered a "custom" card. Have I confused you yet? :) Please let me know if you have any questions!

1. Merry and Bright - Brown (I will add a picture to this at no extra charge, if desired...)
2. Merry and Bright - Gray
3. Oh, By Golly
4. Joy!
5. Merry Berries - Brown
6. Merry Berries - Green
7. Fancy Christmas - Brown
8. Fancy Christmas - Black

Yay for Christmas!!!!!!!!

the pierce family

2008-11-07T13:00:00.007-06:00

I recently completed my first full blog design! Cara is the cousin-in-law of my good friend, Kyla, and I was so honored that she wanted me to do her design. She has two handsome boys and is a fellow wife of a musician. :) I really liked the way her blog turned out and hope she does, too! Her blog is a private blog for now, but here is a taste of her design.

header...

signature...

one of her sidebar buttons...

Thanks so much, Cara! I LOVED doing this for you, and I appreciated all of your patience as I finished my first complete design!

RBD print design samples

2008-11-05T11:58:00.010-06:00

invites

announcements

t-shirt design

ordering process

2008-10-21T18:17:00.009-05:00

BLOG DESIGN

If you are interested in any type of blog design,

please click here to proceed to the design form.

Once I have received your answer form, I will get back to you in less than 2 days with a Paypal invoice for a non-refundable deposit of $20 (applies toward your final design cost).
Once this is paid, I will place you on my list and give you a wait time estimate. Please remember that wait time estimates are just that - an estimate.
I will send the invoice for your remaining balance when I send the preview of your finished design.
Once your design is final and your invoice is paid in full, I will install your design. Installation is included in the price of all services.
If you are ordering an etsy banner, or any single item or add-on, please email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com and we'll go from there!

PRINT DESIGN

If you are interested in any other design service {invitations, birth/moving/exciting news announcements, t-shirt design, etc.}, please email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com with details of what you have in mind.
I will get back to you in less than 2 days with a Paypal invoice for a non-refundable deposit of $20 (applies toward your final design cost).
Once we have discussed all of the details and your deposit has been paid, I will begin your design.
I will send the invoice for your remaining balance when I send your design preview. All print services receive unlimited revisions.
After you have approved the final design and your invoice is paid in full, I will send it to you in .jpg form so that you may have your design printed however and wherever you wish!

products and pricing

2008-10-19T21:39:00.031-05:00

BLOG DESIGN

Go here to see my blog design samples.

{Currently, I am only designing blogs that post through Blogger.}

Simple Blog Design {$65}

Includes custom header with matching background, color-coordinated text, titles, and links. Also includes up to 3 revisions after the initial preview is sent ($10 per each additional revision), as well as installation of the final design.

Complete Blog Design {$85}

Includes custom header with matching background, post signature*, color-coordinated text, titles, and links, and up to 6 sidebar buttons**. This package also includes unlimited revisions to the initial preview, as well as installation of the final design.

Small Business or "Website" Blog Design {$100}

For small business owners, etsy sellers, or anyone who may want their blog to function and look more like a website. Includes everything that comes with the Complete Blog Design, as well as a horizontal navigation menu bar that can be placed above or below the header, and a matching blog button with "grab me" HTML code box. Includes unlimited revisions to the initial preview, as well as installation of the final design.

:::SINGLE ITEMS AND ADD-ONS:::

custom header {$35}

custom post signature* {$7}

custom sidebar button/title** {$7}

custom sidebar framed picture {$10}

custom blog button {$12}

custom blog button with "grab me" HTML code box {$15}

horizontal navigation bar with text only (like the one on this site) {$10}

horizontal navigation bar with images {$18}
3 column blog layout {$10}
storage of header design file and free picture updates for a year {$15}
-I will no longer be storing design files once I install a final design. If you think you may want to switch out your pictures at any time, please add this option to your total design cost.

Etsy Store Banner {$25}

*A post signature is a picture that will automatically appear at the bottom of each new post. It will match the overall design of your blog and can say whatever you would like for it to!

**Sidebar buttons are pictures that you may see in the side columns or at the top of a blog. They can be "clickable", like mine are at the top of this blog, so that they lead the reader to another page or website. They can also be simply for decoration, or "decorative". For instance, I could replace the title of your about me section with a sidebar button that says, "About Me", or I could replace the title of your blog archive section with a sidebar button that says, "Blog Archive".

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PRINT DESIGN

Go here to see samples of designs intended for print.

Prices listed are for the design only (given to you in JPEG form).

custom invitations + announcements {starting at $45}

t-shirt design {starting at $50}

business card design {starting at $25 for a one-sided design, $35 for a two-sided design}

business brochure design {starting at $50}

If you have an idea for something that is not listed, please feel free to contact me and we can discuss options and price estimates. (Logo design is temporarily unavailable.)

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10% discount for all Followers and Facebook fans!

(The customer is responsible for indicating that you are a follower or Facebook fan when placing your order.)

-all prices updated on 1/1/10-

redbud blog design samples - layered and "scrapbooky"

2008-10-18T22:04:00.028-05:00

about sharon and redbud designs...

2008-10-18T14:04:00.012-05:00

I'm a native and very proud Texan, but I now live in Franklin, Tennessee. I've been married to my talented and handsome husband, Kevan, for five years. We have a sweet almost-two-year-old little girl named Merit, and another precious baby girl coming this summer. I am so proud of my little family. I taught elementary school for 3 years, but chose to stay home with Merit when she was born. In an effort to not only contribute a little bit financially to my family, but to also give me an outlet to use my creativity, I created Redbud Designs.

Redbud Park is a park in Abilene, Texas, where Kevan proposed to me. That park is, essentially, where this family began. Kevan and Merit are at the heart of what I do--this is for them.

I love all things creative and am as sentimental as they come. Because of this, I will do all I can to help you create a unique blog you will be proud of, a custom invitation you can't wait to mail out, or a precious birth announcement you'll want to keep and look back at for years to come. I love the challenge of making each project unique and look forward to working with you!

photos by ethan luck / www.ethanluck.com

::::

2008-10-14T19:40:00.005-05:00

Thank you for visiting my new design blog! I am excited to be in the process of getting it up and running. In the meantime, if you would like to request information about pricing and ordering of custom blog design, invitations, announcements, etc., please email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and we can discuss how I can help you!

Come back soon for updates!

:::

2008-10-14T12:28:00.005-05:00

Thank you for visiting my design blog! I am excited to be in the process of getting it up and running. In the meantime, if you would like to request information about pricing and ordering for custom blog design, invitations, announcements, etc., please email me at sharon.redbud@gmail.com, and we can discuss how I can help you!
Check back soon for updates...

redbud blog design samples - clean and simple

2008-10-12T15:40:00.005-05:00