Little Austin’s Life Was Saved…

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Nancy

March of Dimes

Their Research SAVED Austin’s Life!

The March of Dimes – March for Babies

This is a cause that is VERY DEAR TO OUR HEARTS!  You see, our little grandson, Austin Thomas Alexander, age 2, would not be with us today if it were not for the research and development of drugs used to save the lives of many preemies every single day!  Not one little life should be lose because of lack of funds in developing these new “Life-Saving” Treatments!

Our son, Andy, and his wife, Stephanie, along with our precious grandson,
Austin Thomas Alexander (age 2) have been named the…

“Ambassador Family” for the Anderson County March
of Dimes, March for Babies for 2012.

Austin has been named the Anderson County
March of Dimes 2012 “Ambassador”

We want Austin’s story to serve as an inspiration to others by helping spread awareness of the March of Dimes and all that they do to save “little lives”.  We have a family team called “Miles Into Miracles”, that will walk in the “March for Babies Walk”.  We feel every single mile walked and every dollar raised brings us closer to more miracles.

www.marchforbabies.org/MILESINTOMIRACLES

 Our Family Goal is to raise $3,300 for the 33 days Austin
spent in the NICU, but, of course, we would be
THRILLED to be able to raise much more!

  

 

 Pictures From Austin’s Second Birthday!

Austin’s Story:

Austin, born at 31 weeks, spent 33 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Greenville Memorial Hospital.  The March of Dimes and their research aided in the development of a new drug, surfactant, as well as other drugs which saved Austin’s life.

Austin Thomas Alexander
Just a few hours old:
Weighing 3 lbs., 5 oz.

Our sweet little baby on a C-Pap Machine

Austin was first diagnosed with Respiratory Distress Syndrome or RDS, a lung malfunction.  He was put on a ventilator for 6 days followed by 2 days on a C-Pap machine.  Austin had to receive 3 doses of Surfacant, a medicine which opened his lungs.

They discovered he had pneumonia as well as a hole in his heart, known as a PDA.  He was given a medicine to repair that hole.  This drug had side effects which could have shut down his intestines, so all feedings were stopped at that time.  Andy and Stephanie got to hold Austin just a few minutes for the first time right before this treatment was started.  After 23 days, test results showed that the hole had closed, and his intestines were fine.

When a bottle was started, it took him 30 minutes to drink 1/2 teaspoon of milk.  He couldn’t breath and eat at the same time, so several times he turned blue making him have to be put back on a feeding tube and oxygen.

If not for the Grace of God, and the March of Dimes, Austin would not be with us today.  Our goal as a family is to raise awareness and funds for the March of Dimes.

If you would like to read more about Austin’s Story, you can go to my blog:  http://www.NancysRamblings.com.

 

Our Personal Goal

As my husband, Steve, and I were thinking about what we could personally do to raise the much needed funds we have pledged to the March of Dimes, I came up with an idea.  I decided to give each of you who donates a minimum of $25.00 to our March of Dimes team:  “Miles Into Miracles”, two FREE gifts along with having your name entered into a drawing.  The winner of this drawing will have a chance of receiving a $200 Custom Wreath designed especially by me.

 

Drawing for a Custom Wreath

As you probably already know, Ladybug Wreaths’ Custom Designs
are VERY SPECIAL! So, I want to GIVE AWAY one
of these Very Special, Custom Designed Wreaths! 

 

This is just ONE of the ways Steve and I can contribute by
raising much needed money for the
March of Dimes – March for Babies!

Ladybug Wreaths will be holding the drawing on April 28,
2012, on the day of the “March For Babies” walk.

 

And…That’s Not All!

FREE WITH MINIMUM $25.00 DONATION

“Yard Sale Treasures” E-Book ($37.00 Value)
“Be My Valentine” How-to Video ($19.00 Value)


The Information is as Follows:

  • For every $25 donation, your name will be entered into our drawing.  For example:  If you donate $75.00, your name will be entered THREE times, etc.!
  • Checks must be made out to “The March of Dimes”
  • In the subject line put:  For: Miles Into Miracles Team
  • Checks must be mailed to: Ladybug Wreaths, 203 Regent Road, Anderson, SC, 29621
  • All Checks must be received BEFORE April 21, 2012
  • The drawing will be held on April 28, 2012… the day of the walk.
  • We will film my grandson, Austin, and I drawing the name for the “Lucky Winner”
  • The Winner will be notified by email as soon as possible, after the walk has ended.
  • Also after the walk, each of you who have made a donation of at least $25.00 will be sent the download links to the e-book and video!

A Lucky Winner Will Receive
a Brand New Custom Designed
Wreath Valued at $200.00

(shipping included)


 You can click on the link below which will lead you to my Etsy Store to see more Spring and Summer Wreaths which are for sale right now.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadybugWreaths

CHECKS ARE ALREADY COMING IN. DON’T FORGET FOR EACH $25.00 YOU DONATE, YOU RECEIVE A CHANCE AT A $200 CUSTOM WREATH IN ADDITION TO YOUR TWO FREE GIFTS FROM LADYBUGWREATHS!

 

 

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

NEW Wreaths for Spring; More Inspirations for YOU…

Posted on February 17, 2012 by Nancy

Color Inspiration Found in Food??

  Yes…That’s Where Karen Found Hers!

We talked in my last couple of newsletters about inspiration and ideas.  I am still getting responses by email from my newsletter list talking about inspirations, and how these discussions are helping them.

Today I received an email from Karen.  She says she has been taking my suggestions and looking around for color inspirations.  And she says she came up with a great color combo from cutting some kiwi fruit.  “The cool green, creamy center and brilliant black seeds look like I could pull something together that will be pretty”, she says.  “And I can’t forget the brownish green of the skin…”

Good for you Karen!  You’re getting it!  Way to go girl.  There are color combinations all around us every single day.  Karen found hers in food.  I normally find mine in nature or in a vignette, where different items have been arranged together because of their style or color.

Are there any colors which cannot be used together?  No, I think not.  But, (and yes, there is a but…) the shades of the colors are important, and whether you use one color as the primary one, and another as an accent.

I left this picture below so you could see the color combination in this bold piece of fabric.  Would you use the teal blue that you see below in the other brighter colors?  Probably not, but here is an example of whether you use it as a primary color, or just an accent.  It wouldn’t look as good if the teal was in one of the larger flowers instead of the accent flower now would it?

We are going to be talking about fabrics, paint, colors, decorating, inspiration and design for a while.  In the meantime, I want you to look around.  See if you can find colors which inspire you whether you are redecorating your home or picking out the colors for a new wreath!

Don’t forget!  Colors all around – textures all around – ideas all around – this is what  inspires me.  What inspires you??

Inspire – an Acrostic

I – Look “Inside” yourself…Your likes as well as your dislikes; the things that give you energy or take away the blahs on a rainy day.
N – “Nature” is where I’ve told you I get a lot of my inspirations.  Out in my yard or garden, a beautiful sunset or a flower or a tree…
S – Your “Surroundings” can put all manner of thoughts into your head when you’re searching for ideas.  Your home, a comfortable quilt, your favorite TV show, a stained-glass window, etc.
P – Other “People” can certainly give you ideas, too.  A co-worker or a customer, a teacher or just your best friend can suggest ideas that can put you off and running with inspiration!
I – “Investigate!” Don’t just sit there waiting for inspiration to find you!  You may have to get out and do something “Investigate” new places, ideas, things that may inspire you.
R – Maybe it’s time to go “Retro”.  Forget what you’ve been doing lately and check out some of your earlier work, or the earlier work of others that you admire.  Bring it back and use it today.
E – “Escape” your rut!  Go on a mini or weekend trip; visit friends; tour your own town.  Looking at new things and places will expose you to new ideas and different combinations.

 

Wreath Tips by Nancy
Wild Birch Wreaths

Just a quick note:  Wild Birch Wreaths are to be delivered this weekend.  Many of you have purchased them, and we will be sending them out next week.  The woman who makes those for me has been snowed in, but it is melting… thank goodness!  You will be notified through UPS when yours goes out.

For those of you who may still want to order birch wreaths, you still have time to place an order for those.  Please notify me if you want to place an order for more than one.

You can click on the link below to read more about birch wreaths as well as other wreath-making supplies, which Ladybug Wreaths makes available to their customers.

http://ladybugwreaths.net/supplies/

 

Nancy Recommends

Brand New Wreaths Coming
Out for Spring & Summer

 
 

 

You can click on the link below which will lead you to my Etsy Store to see more Spring and Summer Wreaths which are for sale right now.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadybugWreaths

 

Update of March of Dimes/ March for Babies Fundraiser

MARK YOUR CALENDAR:  The Deadline for Donations to be Received for the
March of Dimes/ March for Babies Walk is April 21.2012.  The walk will be held on
April 28, 2012.  On the day of the walk, and at the walk, we fill film me and my
grandson, Austin, drawing a name from the many we have received so far!

So, for every $25.00 donation sent to us by check, and made out to the March of Dimes,
You receive a change in the drawing for a $200 custom made wreath - JUST FOR YOU

For example:  If you send a check for $100.00 payable to “The March of Dimes”, your name will be put into the drawing FOUR times
(once for each $25.00).

We thank all of you so much for your generosity to help save preemies, just like our
little Austin who was born at 31 weeks weighing only 31 lbs.!

God Bless… Nancy

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A $200 Wreath for $25.00? Yes, I AM Serious…

Posted on February 11, 2012 by Nancy

Inspirations Surround Me…

 Decorating, Inspiration & Design

We talked in my last newsletter about where you get your ideas.  I got a lot of emails and responses back from that newsletter.  Apparently many of you are having problems getting inspired with color and design.  This would not only affect how you make a wreath or an arrangement and what colors you use, but it can certainly affect how you decorate your home.

First, I want to delve a little more into how you can choose flowers in your wreath or floral design.  I have already talked about what inspires me, such as nature all around me.  To take a walk outside in my yard, or a park, or garden does so much for the creative side of me.

We also talked a little about magazines, and my obsession for them.  I NEVER throw away a good magazine.  I may tear out pictures which are appealing to me for that particular day, but I still hold onto special issues, because other items will appeal to me on other days.  I suppose it just depends on what project I am working on at that time, and what I am really looking for on that day.  Things I look for include pictures of several items with a mixture of colors, like beautiful bedding with floral (or other) patterns on it, upholstery fabrics, and beautiful rugs.

Another of my inspirations is my photography.  Even if you are not a novice or professional photographer, you can still use beautiful pictures to inspire ideas for style and color.  You can always use the work of someone else to awaken the creative side within you!  

I want to point out a few more things about style, color, and decorating today.  Do you know where to begin when you want to re-do a room in your home?  Now, I am talking about changing everything – or at least the colors and fabrics, and not necessarily the furniture itself. 

I always start with a sofa.  That is a major piece of furniture, and normally, along with a rug, is the focal point in any room. Ask yourself, is it in good shape; sturdy, still comfortable, the right size for your room?  Maybe the only thing wrong with it is just the upholstery.  If so, don’t replace it!  Just recover it, and you’ll save money and be much happier!

First, go to a nearby upholstery or fabric store.  All of these have fabric samples hanging on rods.  Plan on spending some time flipping through these sample booklets.  You may not have any idea what you want, so keep an open mind. As you find a pattern, style, or color which catches your eye, leave it open, or hold it aside.  Go through this process until you have eight or ten options.  You may find several in one book, or they may all be in different books.  

Check these out, take them home with you.  I then open the books to the appropriate samples and space them all around whatever room I am working on at the time.  I don’t try to make a decision right then — just leave them.  Glance at them when you walk through, glance at them when the sun is shining brightly, and also at night when it is darker.  Turn on the overhead lights, they try it with just lamps on.

You’ll be surprised how various patterns and colors look different as the light changes throughout the day.  You’ll also find that some patterns suddenly seem too small for that area, while others seem too large and bold for your room.

It may take several trips, while trying different books each and every trip.  But you will finally decide which pattern you like in your room.  Make sure it is one which makes you feel good – warms your heart – brings a smile – that’s the way you’ll know it’s the right one!

You now have a couple of options.  First of all, if you are not REALLY sure this is the right pattern – design – color for you, order just two or three yards of it.  Sometimes they already have it in stock, which is convenient.  If not, it is worth it to place your order.

This fabric won’t be wasted if you end up not covering your sofa with it.  You have picked out one with colors you like.  You have picked out a style and design you like.  So, I’m sure you’ll certainly use it somewhere in your home (that is if you change your mind about the sofa).  BONUS HINT:  Two or three yards of fabric like this come in handy making throw pillows, covering an ottoman, etc., if you have it left over.

Stay tuned for next week’s newsletter, when we’ll continue in our current series about decorating, inspiration and design.

 
Don’t forget!  Colors all around – textures all around – ideas all around – this is what  inspires me.  What inspires you??

Feedback From Fans

I received this note from Carol:

“Just finished watching your “Buds & Blossoms” video and loved watching you work.  You said something about God sending special people into your life just when you need them, and I have found that to be true — He sent you into my life.  I have no idea how I happened to see one of your videos on YouTube, but there is no such thing as coincidence.  Please don’t stop doing what you do so well.”

I received this email from Carolyn:

 “I look forward to your advice, and since finding your website, look forward to going to it to see what you are going to show us.  I appreciate your stand for your faith to all that visit your sites.  Your wreaths are gorgeous.  I want to be just like you when I grow up.. Ha Ha.
In going through your “Secret Vendor List” I can’t believe all the work you have done and are willing to share with others.  So many people would not be willing for anyone else to have all of this information.
May God help me to bless others as you have blessed me.”

 

IMPORTANT NOTE: We have just added a new section to the forum in our coaching site: www.BestOfNancy.com. It is called “Critique Corner”. Our students have been requesting this – so I will be giving advice on the wreaths my students post there. This should be fun and informative!!


Wild Birch Wreaths

Just a quick note:  My latest shipment of Wild Birch Wreaths have not arrived yet.  The young woman who makes those for me has been snowed in and has not been able to harvest everything she needs to finish those.

I will begin shipping as soon as they arrive, and you will be notified through UPS when yours goes out.

For those of you who may still want to order birch wreaths, you still have time to place an order for those.  Please notify me if you want to place an order for more than one.

You can click on the link below to read more about birch wreaths as well as other wreath-making supplies which Ladybug Wreaths makes available to their customers.

http://ladybugwreaths.net/supplies/

March of Dimes, March for Babies:
An Organization Close to my Heart!

Ladybug Wreaths is hosting a drawing
for VERY Special Custom Wreath
Designed Especially for ONE LUCKY WINNER!

This wreath is valued at $200.00!  It will be designed especially for YOU in any color, style, or design that you wish!  You may ask, “Why are you doing this?”  I am doing this to raise money for an organization which holds a VERY DEAR SPOT IN MY HEART!

 
 
 
 

The winner will receive an extra large wreath similar to the one above.  I know a lot of you support worthy causes, and this is certainly one of those.  For a minimum $25.00 donation to the March of Dimes, your name will be entered into the drawing once.  For every $25.00 you donate, your name will be entered into the drawing, i.e. for a $75.00 gift, your name will be added three times.  

The little boy below, our grandson, Austin Thomas Alexander, now 26 months old, is the reason this charity has changed our lives.  You see, Austin would not be with us today if not for the work of the March of Dimes! 

 

Austin, born at 31 weeks, spent 33 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Greenville Memorial Hospital.  The March of Dimes and their research aided in the development of a new drug, surfactant, as well as other drugs which saved Austin’s life as well as the lives of many other preemies.
 
If you wish to read more about “Austin’s Story”, you can click on this link which takes you to my blog, Nancy’s Ramblings:  
 
 
I would like to thank you all in advance for your generous gifts, knowing full well that other children will be saved through your generosity.  
 
Your checks need to reach me before April 21st, and should be made out to the March of Dimes.  Mail them to Nancy Alexander, 203 Regent Road, Anderson, SC 29621.  In the subject line of your check, add our family team name:  Miles into Miracles. 
 
The drawing will be held the day of the March of Dimes, March for Babies Walk in Anderson, which is April 28th, 2012.  At the walk, we will video me, along with my grandson, Austin, drawing the name of the lucky winner of this $200 custom wreath.
 
If you would like to view our personal family page in the March of Dimes website, click on the link below:
www.marchforbabies.org/MILESINTOMIRACLES

 

Posted in News | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Inspirations Surround Me

Posted on January 31, 2012 by Nancy

Overflowing My Senses…

 
Where do YOU get your ideas? I get that question all the time! Sometimes, I am still a little surprised, because ideas just come to me…in bunches. I shouldn’t be, I suppose, but I still am. JUST TOO MANY IDEAS — AND NOT ENOUGH TIME!

Let me explain to you why that question surprises me. My home is filled with magazines, and since I have absolutely NO time to read all the wonderful articles, I am a picture person. I can flip through my favorite magazines, which are a mix between “Country Home”, “Country Living”, and “Southern Living”, etc. Since I am a “visual” person, as I turn the pages, I am tearing out pictures of groupings and colors which inspire me.

These inspirations really never come from another wreath, or floral design. I am inspired by fabrics – rugs – collections – gardens – colors on walls, etc. In my mind’s eye, I can see a wreath with some of the same colors, items, and textures.

Just ask my dear hubby; I have torn out magazine pages and keep them all over. Sometimes, they are SO inspirational to me, that I tape, pin, or thumbtack them to the wall, a door, a mirror. Sometimes I even put them on my bulletin board. Yes… I know, that’s where they should really be, right?

And, then there is my accordion folder, with it’s tattered edges, and the rubber band which is so worn from use that I don’t know how many more times I’ll be able to wrap it around! This is where my favorite pictures retire when I need space for newer ones! But, I do always remember them and go back looking for particular ones quite often!

Another inspiration is my photography. It is so exciting (and relaxing) for me to walk around my yard, a neighbor’s yard, or to just be outside taking pictures. Close up pictures of a special bloom, long stems of leaves, a butterfly, or bees buzzing around my flowers inspire my thoughts to wander to which wreath design I want to make next!

Green sheet moss on our creek bank, sponge mushrooms growing on the side of a tree, the birdhouse on an old pine tree which has a green patina (actually slime, if you want to know the real truth)…all of these get my attention making me want to escape into my studio and get lost for a while being creative.

In my shop, not only will you find flowers of all types, shapes, sizes, and colors, but I have a row of Ball jars filled with different colors of paint which I mixed myself – only because I liked the color enough to have it sitting on my shelf. Something as simple as my jar of antique, colorful buttons inspires me to put colors together when coming up with a design. Then there are the flowers which I have painted on artist paper and cut out. They are taped to the wall, and pinned to the bulletin board along with pictures of sweet birds from magazines, or are hand-painted ones.

If you are just getting started making wreaths, and putting colors together, here is a great idea for you.

I used this trick many, many years ago when a friend worked in a home design store, which sold carpet and wallpaper. I know wallpaper is not as popular now, but she would save me books of patterns which had been discontinued. I’d tear out pages which were full of design and color and make a wreath or an arrangement to match the colors in the wallpaper. Try this with any of your decorating or floral projects. You’ll really be surprised at the confidence and boldness it will give you when putting colors together – colors that you normally would never have thought of using in the same design!

Colors all around – textures all around – ideas all around – this is what inspires me. What inspires you??

Raving Fans

Are you enjoying my newsletters? I really enjoy sharing with you. I strive to send one out every Friday morning at 9 a.m. But, last Friday, I had doctor appointments out of town, and computer problems at home, so this one is late.

Many of you watch for my newsletters every Friday. You email me to see if I am sick or anything is wrong if yours doesn’t arrive by Friday afternoon, so I am very sorry that sometimes circumstances prevent me from getting them out in a timely manner.

I suppose part of the problem is that I have so much I want to share with you and talk to you about, that a newsletter can take quite some time to put together, proof and send out.

I received this email this morning from Carol:
“I must tell you how eagerly your emails are anticipated. It’s like opening a Christmas present!!!! You are such an inspiration! Hugs and Blessings, Carol”
(Thank you Carol… Nancy)

 

My Students are Still “Wowing” Me

I am SO very proud of each of you ladies (as well as you few gents that are readers, too). I LOVE to hear of your successes, your accomplishments, and the fact that floral design can bring purpose and joy into your lives! Each of you inspire me more than you’ll ever know!

Malisia’s First Wreath: She did a GREAT job making a “Kitchen wreath with a stuffed flour bag, a loaf of bread, and a measuring cup!  Congratulations, Malisia!

 

Email from Russell:
Just to let you know the DVDs arrived safe and sound. I watched them as if they were a movie premiere!! Thanks again, and I appreciate all the stories you tell while teaching on the DVDs. Truly feels like you are right in the room showing me what to do.

 

Email from Glenda:
I’m so glad I found your website. You are living my dream! I have 20 plus years experience in floral and visual design. I love being creative and teaching others to discover their hidden talents. I have spent HOURS online looking for a legitimate business that I can do from home. I am not sure that finding you is not a divine appointment by God. I have prayed and asked Him to guide me to find something to do to support myself. I was just about to give up when He guided me to your site. I am SO excited! God Bless You, Glenda

 

Email from Christine:
Thank you very much for creating such nice videos. I have always loved flower arranging and find your tips and tricks to be very helpful. Have a wonderful day! Christine ~

 

Keep on sending me emails and pictures. I have many more right now that I will be sharing, but I can never see or have enough!

I will have more emails and pictures from many of my students again! I absolutely LOVE seeing my students “awakening their own styles lying within”! Thank each of you so much for sharing! Keep up the good work!

If you haven’t checked out my Facebook Fan Page lately, here is the link:

http://www.facebook.com/workfromhomeideas2

 

Wild Birch Wreaths

HAND TIED WILD BIRCH TWIG WREATHS

Ladybug Wreaths has its own line of “Wild & Woodsy” birch/beech wreaths that are exclusive ONLY to us.  We have a young woman who lives up in the hills of Kentucky who harvests these fresh twigs and hand-makes these wreaths for us.

They are not tied; they are not wired; but they are made in such a way that they are very secure, and will last for many years to come.  The wild, airy, branches which radiate out from our wreaths can totally change the style or look at a wreath.

These have been hard to come by lately, so we have not been selling them to the public.  But, for the present time, we are making them available to you.  We just received a shipment, and every single wreaths was sold before I even got them PLEASE, if you want wreaths, email me as soon as possible so I can call and add yours to my next order which I hope to receive in the next couple of weeks.  (NOTE:  many wreaths from this next order are already sold – these quantities will be limited – so don’t wait if you want some of these very special wreaths.)

You will need to contact me, so I can figure shipping costs.  This CANNOT be done through my “Add to Cart” button on the page below!  Click on the link to read more about these wreaths, but if you want to purchase more than one wreath, please send me an email:  nancy@ladybugwreaths.com.

http://ladybugwreaths.net/wild-birch-wreaths-b/

Custom Made Wreath Easels

COPYWRITED WREATH EASEL DESIGN

Ladybug Wreaths designed a very special easel to be used by us and our customers.  This Copywrited design is one you’ll never find offered anywhere else – it is exclusive only to Ladybug Wreaths.  You may see copies available, but they are not the original “LBW Easel”!

This one is hand-build from “Swedish white-wood”.  It is fully adjustable for ease of use in raising or lowering the height of your wreath, and also the angle of your wreath.

Trust me, after using one of these, you’ll NEVER want to struggle to make a wreath lying flat on a table or hanging on the back of a door again.  These, also, have not been available on our site in quite a while, but are now available again.  Another shipment will be here in the next couple of weeks, and we are pre-selling those.   Supplies of these are limited!

Click on the link below to read more about these easels and how to purchase one:

http://ladybugwreaths.net/wreath-easels/

Honeysuckle by the roll – Now Available!

As you can see in the picture above..we LOVE to use honeysuckle in our creations.  The honeysuckle is the lighter colored loops and curls you can see in the picture above.  I get SO many emails from many of you who cannot find honeysuckle in your area, so I am really excited to be able to offer you this new product!

We have managed to get our “wreath lady” to start harvesting fresh honeysuckle again for us.  She used to bring me rolls of it (which I loved), and then she got so busy making wreaths, she had to stop.

But, she has agreed to start harvesting the fresh honeysuckle vines for us again.  I have received requests for pictures of the honeysuckle rolls and will provide one as soon as we receive our next shipment.

Please email me to receive an invoice for a roll if you would like one.  Each roll is $45.00 (shipping is included).  I cannot hold a roll for you unless payment is made in advance.  We should receive these in the next 2 weeks.  There is a good bit on each roll, so you’ll be able to accent many of your wreaths from your supply.

Please send me an email and I will send you an invoice so you can complete your purchase.  This will reserve your roll of fresh honeysuckle to be mailed to you as soon as it is received by us in the next 2 to 3 weeks.

nancy@ladybugwreaths.com

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Focus on My “Foilage Family”

Posted on January 20, 2012 by Nancy

My Students are Wowing Me!

I AM TOTALLY AMAZED at everything my students are accomplishing.  I receive so many emails every day from ladies who have purchased my DVDs, or e-Books, or are members of Best of Nancy.

These women are starting a new career – many – later in life… in your 60′s or older!  “You Go Girl” – is all I can say.  Well, I really CAN say more.  I can focus on just a few of “you today along with each of your accomplishments.  Here are some testimonials and stories below:

Email from Karen:
I used to make my own wreaths from fresh grapevines in the fields that were fallow. But I have had this style inside me that I could never grasp how to do. When I stumbled onto your site, I saw your free and airy style, and that you were willing to teach, well…I had to learn. I had a DVD player installed in my shop with a 32″ flat screen just so I could see your videos easily. I have made several wreaths for my store. They now have a free, airy style that is so “Me”! (Thank you for being willing to teach!)

 

Karen, You Certainly Have Found Your Free, Airy Style!
CONGRATULATIONS!

 

Email from Cee:
Thank you sooo much! I am excited beyond words. There are not enough hours in the day to take this all in! Today I stopped at Hobby Lobby and purchased discounted (75% off) Christmas decor. This was a savings of $325.00 !!! All the while I was wishing you were by my side for affirmation. It was SO much fun. All my life I was drawn to creativity. I have made wreaths, gift baskets, and florals. I have no formal training, so your offer was a Godsend. Again, thank you so much, Nancy!

 

Email from Susie:
I cannot tell you how you have blessed me with your free videos. I made 3 fresh Christmas wreaths out of my yard. The church took one, my sister took the other and I gave one away to a lady who has been very kind to me. I am disabled, but I am blessed with a God-Given talent just like you. Next season, I am going to start making wreaths again. Keep up the good work, and especially your work with the Lord.

 

Email from Linda:
I viewed your FREE video several times. I would watch it, try making a wreath and then watch it again. I ended up making several wreaths and giving them to friends for Christmas. Except for one wreath, I put it on Facebook and auctioned it off so the proceeds could go to the Senior Citizen Angel tree at church. It went for $80.00

 

I am SO very proud of each of your ladies.  I LOVE to hear of your successes, your accomplishments, and the fact that floral design can bring purpose and joy into your lives!  Each of you inspire me more than you’ll ever know!

Keep on sending me emails and pictures.  I have many more right now that I will be sharing, but I can never see or have enough!

I will have more emails and pictures from many of my students again!  I absolutely LOVE seeing my students “awakening their own styles lying within:!  Thank each of you so much for sharing! Keep up the good work!

Wild Birch Wreaths

HAND TIED WILD BIRCH TWIG WREATHS

Ladybug Wreaths has its own line of “Wild & Woodsy” birch/beech wreaths that are exclusive ONLY to us.  We have a young woman who lives up in the hills of Kentucky who harvests these fresh twigs and hand-makes these wreaths for us.

They are not tied; they are not wired; but they are made in such a way that they are very secure, and will last for many years to come.  The wild, airy, branches which radiate out from our wreaths can totally change the style or look at a wreath.

These have been hard to come by lately, so we have not been selling them to the public.  But, for the present time, we are making them available to you.  We just received a shipment yesterday which is already pre-sold.  And, we have another shipment coming in approximately 2 weeks which we are pre-selling now.  (NOTE:  these quantities will be limited – so don’t wait if you’re wanting some of these special wreaths.)

Click on the link below to read more about these wreaths, but if you want to purchase more than one wreath:

You will have to contact me so I can figure shipping costs.  This cannot be done through my “Add to Cart” button on this page!

Custom Made Wreath Easels

COPYWRITED WREATH EASEL DESIGN

Ladybug Wreaths designed a very special easel to be used by us and our customers.  This Copywrited design is one you’ll never find offered anywhere else – it is exclusive only to Ladybug Wreaths.  You may see copies available, but they are not the original “LBW Easel”!

This one is hand-build from “Swedish white-wood”.  It is fully adjustable for ease of use in raising or lowering the height of your wreath, and also the angle of your wreath.

Trust me, after using one of these, you’ll NEVER want to struggle to make a wreath lying flat on a table or hanging on the back of a door again.  These, also, have notbeen available on our site in quite a while, but are now available again.  We received a shipment of these last week, and those are already sold out.  Supplies of these are limited!

As with the wild birch wreaths, we are pre-selling these also. Another shipment of 6 will be here by the end of next week, so get your order in now.  (Note:  other shipments will be coming in at a later time.)

Click on the link below to read more about these easels and how to purchase one:

http://ladybugwreaths.net/wreath-easels/

Honeysuckle by the roll – Now Available!

As you can see in the picture above..we LOVE to use honeysuckle in our creations.  The honeysuckle is the lighter colored loops and curls you can see in the picture above.  I get SO many emails from many of you who cannot find honeysuckle in your area, so I am really excited to be able to offer you this new product!

We have managed to get our “wreath lady” to start harvesting fresh honeysuckle again for us.  She used to bring me rolls of it (which I loved), and then she got so busy making wreaths, she had to stop.

But, we have managed to get her to agree to start harvesting the fresh honeysuckle vines for us again.

I don’t have a sales page with a link up yet, but I will soon.

In the meantime, these rolls of fresh honeysuckle vine will sell for $21.97 per roll (shipping & handling not included).  There is a good bit on each roll, so you’ll be able to accent many of your wreaths from your supply.

Please send me an email and I will send you an invoice so you can proceed with your purchase.  This will reserve your roll of fresh honeysuckle to be mailed to you as soon as it is received by us in the next 2 to 3 weeks.

nancy@ladybugwreaths.com

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Happy New Years…

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Nancy

Getting Ready for 2012!

WOW!  I cannot believe it is 2012!  It has been such a busy year here for us!  God has blessed us immensely!  Last year, our older son, Matt, took an amazing job in Charleston, SC, moving his family (along with 3 of our grandchildren) with him.  But, with only a three to four hour drive, we now get to visit our most favorite destination often!  I won’t take up much of your time today.  You’re been busy these last few weeks taking down Christmas decorations, shopping for those wonderful bargains, and enjoying family.

While looking for bargains, I hope you didn’t forget to check with your local hobby stores, if you enjoy making wreaths, or other types of florals.  This is an amazing time to find GREAT bargains there.

Two years ago, we happened to go into a Hobby Lobby in a nearby town the first week in January.  They had literally JUST moved all Christmas merchandise which was left over to one isle — an unadvertised special — and reduced it to 90% off.

My husband, bless his heart, saw this first and pointed it out to me.  We loaded up THREE buggies with garlands, ornaments, and flowers, and paid $90.00 for it.  Folks, that was $900.00 worth of Christmas merchandise that I was able to pull out the following year and use.  Needless to say:  I WAS THRILLED!

I am in the mood for new spring wreaths!  I have been planning, and thinking, and looking at pictures of wreaths I have made in the past.  Boy, am I ready for it this year!

Looking Ahead!

Happy New Year’s Eve Eve!  I won’t take up much of your time today.  I know you’re probably taking down Christmas decorations, shopping for those wonderful bargains, and enjoying family.

The wreath above REALLY does something for me this time of year when it is still really cold and drab outside, and February is just a little over four weeks off.  This very special Valentines wreath warms my heart making me think of the sunny, spring days ahead, how about you?

If I have learned one thing from my mentor, Jim Cockrum, it is to give my customers what they want, and make it FREE when I can!  I am making YOU some more FREE videos to go along with the longer, more detailed videos I have for sale.  As a matter of fact, you’ll see one right down below this article!  MAKE SURE YOU DON’T MISS IT!  And, I literally have page after page of notes filled with new ideas, and things I want to offer you in the coming year.

We are so blessed!  I am so grateful for YOU, and that you chose to receive my weekly newsletters.  Stay tuned… I have some very exciting things in mind for the new year, so you don’t want to miss out on a single thing!

If there is anything you would like to see Ladybug Wreaths offer for the coming year, this is your chance!  Send me an email!  Tell me what you are interested in, what you might like to see in a video or an e-book, or even in coaching.  I promise you, I’ll see what I can do.  I am open to all of your suggestions, always.

My next newsletter of 2012 will give you a “peek” at some of the new and exciting surprises we have coming your way.

 

Honeysuckle Vine & Preserved Mushrooms

Enjoy this Special FREE Video
Nancy Made Just for her Subscribers!

http://bestofnancy.com/wreath-tips-honeysuckle-vine-preserved-mushrooms/

In this video, Nancy shows how she begins with a wild birch wreath and adds freshly harvested honeysuckle vines and preserved mushrooms.  She also will teach you how to anchor a clay pot into your wreath very securely.  These are good tips you will use every time you make a wreath.

 

BUT WAIT!  There is another video below…

How to Make a
“Valentines Day Wreath”


CLICK HERE TO WATCH ANOTHER FREE VIDEO and READ MORE


Just Released!

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

One More Day! Happy New Years!

Posted on December 30, 2011 by Nancy

Looking Ahead!

Happy New Year’s Eve Eve!  I won’t take up much of your time today.  I know you’re probably taking down Christmas decorations, shopping for those wonderful bargains, and enjoying family.

While you’re looking for bargains, please don’t forget to check with your local hobby stores, if you enjoy making wreaths, or other types of florals.  This is an amazing time to find GREAT bargains there also.

Two years ago, we happened to go into a Hobby Lobby in a nearby town the first week in January.  They had literally JUST moved all Christmas merchandise which was left over to one isle — an unadvertised special — and reduced it to 90% off!

My husband, bless his heart, saw this first and pointed it out to me.  We loaded up THREE buggies with garlands, ornaments, and flowers, and paid $90.00 for it all.  Folks, that was $900.00 worth of Christmas merchandise that I was able to pull out the following year and use.  Needless to say:  I WAS THRILLED!

I am in the mood for new spring wreaths!  I’m planning, and thinking, and looking at pictures of wreaths I have made in the past.  Boy, am I ready for it this year!

The wreath above REALLY does something for me this time of year when it is still really cold and drab outside.  I am READY for some COLOR!

And…I want to make YOU some more FREE videos to go along with the longer, more detailed videos I have for sale.  I literally have page after page of notes filled with new ideas, and things I want to offer you in the coming year!

We are so Blessed!  I am so grateful for YOU, and that you chose to receive my weekly newsletters.  Stay tuned…I have some very exciting things in mind for the new year, so you don’t want to miss out on a single thing!

If there is anything you would like to see Ladybug Wreaths offer for the coming year, this is your chance!  Send me an email!  Tell me what you are interested in, what you might like to see in a video or an e-book, or even in coaching.  I promise you, I’ll see what I can do!  I am open to all of your suggestions!

My first newsletter of 2012 will give you a “peek” into some of the surprises we have coming your way!

‘Secret Vendor List’ Pre-Release Price

Good for Only One More Day!…


 

The Revised Edition of my VERY POPULAR “Secret Vendor List” was released in November.  There are over 250 pages in this edition along with TONS of bonuses!

So many ladies are buying this Revised Secret Vendor List, that I can hardly keep up!  They are thrilled with the downloadable e-book (with free lifetime updates), filled with valuable information and tons of FREE bonuses.  Don’t miss out on yours at this reduced price!

I just wanted to let you know in this short newsletter today that the current price of $127.00 will be going back to the regular price of $147.00 on January 1, 2012… the start of a new year!

This will give you ONE more day to make your purchase of this amazing “Secret Vendor List” along with the unbelievable bonuses you’ll receive absolutely FREE.

 

PRE-RELEASE REVISED EDITION
SPECIAL PRICE OF $127.00
ENDS TOMORROW, NEW YEAR’S EVE
12-31-11 AT MIDNIGHT!

Posted in News | Leave a comment

Wonderful Christmas…Five Days Left!

Posted on December 26, 2011 by Nancy

We Had a Wonderful Christmas!

Exciting Plans for 2012!  I This has been an exciting year for Ladybug Wreaths!  We have worked long hours as we released many programs, e-books, videos, and new wreath styles!

Best of Nancy (www.bestofnancy.com) has grown by leaps and bounds with Linda and I filling this coaching club with videos, training modules, membership calls, website set-ups, etsy stores, facebook fan pages, facebook stores and…oh, and I could go on and on!

I can hardly wait for the new year to begin!  My brain is OVERFLOWING with all of the new changes we have in store for you!  Long lists of notes fill the spiral notebook which lies right beside me as I work at my desk.

But to look forward, we must also look back.  God has been so good to us, and has blessed us beyond measure!  We are truly grateful for these blessings, but, most of all, I am truly grateful for each of you along with the friendships we have formed.  As Linda and I have gotten to know you and shared with you as you reached your dreams fills my heart to overflowing!

I cannot tell you how exciting it is to be walking hand-in-hand with so many “special, smart and caring” women who are selling their products online as they become “Internet Entrepreneurs”!

So, Lind and I are thrilled to be able to start this new year, a very exciting year, along with YOU!

My first newsletter of 2012 will give you a “peek” at all of the surprises we have coming your way!

My Secret Was Revealed!

“Secret Vendor List” Pre-Release Price
Good for ONLY Five (5) More Days!

SECRET VENDOR LIST UPDATE!

http://www.LadybugWreaths.net/SecretVendorListRevised

The Revised Edition of my VERY POPULAR “Secret Vendor List” was released in November.  There are over 250 pages in this edition along with TONS OF BONUSES!

Many copies have been sold at this pre-release price.  As a “Gift” for my friends, customers, and followers, I have kept this revised version at this low price longer than I anticipated before raising it back up to its regular price.

I wanted to let you know in this short newsletter today that the current price of $127.00 will be going back to the regular price of $147.00 on January 1, 2012.

This will give you FIVE more days to make your purchase of this amazing “Secret Vendor List” along with the unbelievable bonuses you’ll receive absolutely FREE!

 

PRE-RELEASE REVISED EDITION
SPECIAL PRICE OF $127.00
ENDS 12-31-11 AT MIDNIGHT!

Posted in News | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Gifts, Gifts, and More Gifts…

Posted on December 15, 2011 by Nancy

Another Christmas Gift for YOU!

Each of you mean so much to me.  I have been selling on the Internet for 10 years now.  I have gotten to know many of you personally.  I know your likes and dislikes.  I understand the problems you face running a business and I certainly understand many of your health issues.  I love designing something special for your home that brings a smile, and… I love even more teaching you to bring out a talent or hobby that you didn’t even know was there.

Last week I filmed a FREE video for you and sent the link out in my newsletter.  I do so appreciate each and every one of you so much that I wanted to give you another special gift – how to make a fresh Christmas door wreath!

Christmas will be here soon.  My hubby is taking a few weeks off work, and I am going to take a little time off, too.  Actually, we’ll probably be working around the house, but we want to travel a little, too.  So, this is my last newsletter for 2011.

I most certainly will be back with you in January of 2012 with brand new ideas, videos, wreaths, training and more! 
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR!

 

ANOTHER CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR YOU FROM LADYBUG WREATHS:

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THIS CHRISTMAS VIDEO I MADE FOR YOU:
Another FREE Video on How to Make an XXL Fresh Christmas Door Wreath

http://bestofnancy.com/how-to-make-a-wreath/

I just loved reading all your comments on my last gift!  I answered each and every one!  (You can go to “How to Make a Beautiful Wreath With a Full Two Ribbon Bow” and read all the comments.)

Now, wouldn’t you love to be able to make the beautiful Christmas wreath above?  You certainly can…as a matter of fact, I AM SURE OF IT.  This one is so simple, you really won’t believe it.  And I do want to hear from you and see your pictures when you make these beautiful wreaths!

 

Another Christmas Surprise for YOU!
How to Wrap Christmas Presents with Pizzazz

A Brand New Video
“Presents With Pizzazz – Wrap it Up”
http://BestOfNancy.com/how-to-wrap-christmas-presents-with-pizzazz

 

This brand new hour long video shares my ideas and tips about wrapping “very special” Christmas gifts.  Wrapping presents is already fun and easy.  By using your creativity and a few extra minutes you can add that “Wow!” factor you’ve always wanted for your gifts.  This video is Vol 1 for Christmas, but more will be on the way for other Holidays and occasions!

With my new ideas, you will amaze your family and friends with extraordinarily beautiful presents.  It won’t be a chore, and you’ll be wrapping everything in sight!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON “Presents With Pizzazz”

This is a different type of video than any you have ever purchased from me before…Oh, the video is still of excellent quality, of course, and the information you receive in this video is filled with my best ideas.  But, I wanted this video to be accessible to you immediately – to make the process simple – no downloading – no waiting for the DVD in the mail.

 

THIS HOUR LONG VIDEO SELLS FOR ONLY $9.97
Instead of our normal $39.97 for a video of the same length!

When you purchase this video, you’ll receive your own personal link immediately.  You view it from your link at any time, any place, and from any computer.  How cool is that!  This is a NO-HASSLE LINK… and a NO-HASSLE VIDEO!  You will be watching and learning just moments after your purchase.

Beautiful Christmas Wreaths…
Free Shipping Through Etsy!

Lime Green and Red
So Beautiful for Christmas!
Such a wonderful welcome to friends & neighbors…
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadybugWreaths

The stiff gold ribbon in the Wreath above
is one of my favorites.
This one will last for many years!

All of my Wreaths in Etsy Have Already Been Marked Down
And… You Receive FREE SHIPPING on Each!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadybugWreaths

 

Nancy Recommends
Nana’s Caramel Cake

If you will check on my blog, http://www.NancysRamblings.com in the next couple of days, I am going to post Nana’s Famous Caramel Cake Recipe!  Honestly, it is the ABSOLUTE BEST CAKE you’ll ever taste.

Nana (Steve’s mother) has quite a reputation around her small town of Iva, South Carolina for all of her delicious baked goods.  Nana is getting older, and doesn’t bake like she used to, so I am going to have to learn to bake this cake.  It’s very hard when you have a reputation like hers to live up to!

 

Sara Alexander’s New Business
(Selling “Thirty-One”)

http://www.mythirtyone.com/110843/

I don’t know how many of you ladies have heard of a company named “Thirty-One“, but it is pretty popular in Anderson.  In other towns, many ladies have never heard of it.

“Thirty-One” has some of the neatest bags, totes, cases, organizers, luggage, and more than I have ever seen.  I found the perfect bag for me over a year ago.  Now, I normally would be changing bags quite often, but do you know that I haven’t changed since I received my “favorite!”

 

I just thought you might like to take a “peek” because I love mine so very much!  I am thrilled that my daughter-in-law is now selling it!

http://www.mythirtyone.com/110843/

The link above is to Sara’s website.  I just thought you might want to look around… who knows… I’ll bet you will LOVE it as much as I do.  Oh, and anything can come with a monogram, which is really great! 

Posted in News | Leave a comment

Hottest Topic in Best of Nancy

Posted on December 13, 2011 by Linda

Can you guess what the hottest topic is in BestofNancy this month?

In the forum, we see many different questions each week.  (We LOVE questions!)

Here are just a few of the topics:

  • Wreath ‘how to’ technique
  • Wreath supply question
  • Where to sell
  • How to sell
  • How to collect money
  • What is the best place to sell
  • How to ship
  • How to price
  • How to take pictures
  • How to setup a website
  • How to use Facebook
  • Should we use Google Places
  • How do we make videos
  • What is the best equipment to use
What is the top question this month? Is on shipping!!  (these ladies have wreaths flying out the door and want to ship in the most economical way…)
If you have have had these types of questions, what are you waiting? Don’t lose another minute trying to find this information on your own. Get the scoop from those who are selling every day!
Posted in News | Tagged , , | Leave a comment