Queensland Scrapbooking Retreats

Kilcoy Retreat: 4-7 May 2012

2012-01-11T09:59:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone,

Happy New Year to you all. Well the Festive Season is well and truly over and many of you have settled back into normality with some getting ready for the school term to begin at the end of the month.

It also allows us to devote a bit time to our scrapping and thoughts of how we can spend some quality time doing what we love best - relaxing at a weekend retreat with scrapping friends, enjoying lots of time to scrap, eating yummy food, learning new techniques and having lots of fun over the weekend.

Our next Retreat at Kilcoy promises that and much, much more!! Plus, it offers three whole days to scrap!! Sounds like heaven doesn't it? It is being held on 4-7 May 2012 (the Labour Day long weekend), so if you have been thinking of coming along, then don't think about it too much longer as spaces are booking fast. If you are new to scrapbooking, or you are thinking of coming along on your own...don't stress....we make you very welcome and you will be laughing along with your new scrapping friends very quickly. Everyone is more than happy to pass on their knowledge and ideas. We have such a great group of scrappers!!

Just check the website for all of the details www.qldscrapbookingretreats.com.au and you can book your place there and then with a small deposit and the balance can be paid off in easy instalments.

I am going to be busy over the next few months with all of the plans for the class, demos etc, but I am really looking forward to it - I just love getting together with all of you and seeing your gorgeous creations.

If you need to know anything further that the website doesn't cover at this time, or you want the weekend tailored to your specific requirements (for example day packages only), just contact us via email info@qldscrapbookingretreats.com.au or call Ann on 0413 21 6096. Local residents are very welcome to attend.

Take care for now, Ann :-)

My son's wedding

2011-12-05T06:38:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
For the ladies from the Noosa Retreat who mentioned that they wanted to see some photos of my son's wedding, I am finally getting around to posting them. I still have to see the official photos yet; can't wait for that.

The day was just perfect; beautiful weather, gorgeous location. Congratulations to the happy couple.

TFL, Ann :-)

Another Retreat over.....but here comes Kilcoy!!

2011-10-30T20:25:00.006+10:00

Hello everyone

Well we had a fantastic time at Noosa - thank you to everyone who came along and made the weekend so much fun!!

The class with Suzanne Tonga was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone - her layout was just beautiful and all of the ladies had fun learning the new techniques and sewing - some for the very first time!! It was so good to see some of the ladies digressing with the design a little and putting their own personal touch to it - they all did a wonderful job....and Julie finished the layout too...she was soooo excited!!

The Western night was a hit.... a little bit of boot scootin' "with a twist" was done....just to have a bit of a break and do something a bit different. Many had fun "shootin' up the place", posing for their Wanted photos and taking on the Mexican cowboy up in the bar area!! We all had a great laugh....it was good to just take some time out and have some fun.

It was great to see so many gorgeous layouts being done over the weekend...some only did a few but there were other ladies who did 20+ layouts.....good on you. Some were pampered with massages from Sonya.....sooo nice. We will get Sonya back again.

Here are some photos of the weekend:-

As you can see, we had such a jam packed fun weekend!! I just love spending time with my Retreat ladies - you are such a delight to be with and I thank you all for making the weekend so special.

I hope that many of you will join us at Kilcoy next May; if that doesn't suit you, we have two other Retreats next year....one at Cleveland in July and the other at Kallangur in October. I hope to see you there for more fun and frivolity.

Take care for now, Ann :-)

Photo requirements for the Retreat

2011-09-10T14:22:00.004+10:00

Hi ladies

I hope you have all managed to keep your feet firmly on the ground with this windy weather!! I just wanted to give you a bit of a heads up regarding photo requirements for the challenges and Suzanne’s class that we have organized for the weekend, over and above what you plan on bringing to do your own layouts.

1. One of the Challenges will be a Christmas theme – typically Christmas colours with the papers that you will be given, and the sizes of the photos required are:-

One 6 x 4” landscape orientation photo,

One 2 x 2” photo, and

One 3 x 2.5” landscape orientation photo (approximately) :-)

2. For Suzanne’s class, you will need the following sizes:-

Three 3 x 4” landscape orientation photos with a feminine/vintage theme (but who says you can’t put flowers on a masculine page!)

Here is a sneak peek of the layout you will be doing:-

So blue and cream tonings as well as some tealy green and a hint of lilac!! Sounds interesting doesn’t it – it is just gorgeous and true to Suzanne’s style.

More info regarding the Retreat to come so check back soon for regular updates.

If you have been thinking of coming along to the Retreat but haven't yet done so, there is still time to book so visit the website (link on the side bar) or email me at info@qldscrapbookingretreats.com.au for further information.

Take care, Ann

2011-09-08T07:08:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone

Well it is only 5 weeks away until the Retreat and everything is coming together nicely. There are a couple of things I need to tell you about in order for you to be organised for the weekend, as follows:-

Firstly, we have a Theme night on the Saturday night and this Retreat the theme is “Wild Wild West”. So have a think about a costume for the night – it can be as simple as a western style hat, or you can go all out as a Saloon gal if you want to – it all adds to the fun of the night! Prizes are available as usual including one for the Best Costume, so put your thinking caps on – let’s see what zany costumes we have on the night! Yeehah!!!

Secondly, we have a masseuse organized for the weekend to pamper us. Unfortunately the lovely Brigitte couldn’t join us this time were her magic fingers, but I have another lady Sonya coming along and she provides relaxation massages as follows:-

1hr Full Body Massage $55

1/2hr Full Body Massage $30

20min Neck & Shoulder Massage$25

Sounds divine doesn’t it?? Now if we get more than 10 participants, Sonya applies a Group Rate being a $5 discount. Please let me know if you would like to participate (believe me, you will just love it!) This is an additional cost and payment is made directly to Sonya on the day, so please make sure that you have the cash available. If you can let me know asap, it would be appreciated; that way we can organize the timetable to commence just after lunch on Saturday and work around meal breaks etc.

In the next couple of weeks time I will provide a sneak peek of Suzanne’s class on Saturday morning – it is just gorgeous!!

If you haven't booked your place for this Retreat, I can still take bookings - either visit the website or contact me via email info@qldscrapbookingretreats.com.au to make your booking or enquiry. Day participants are very welcome to attend.

Take care, Ann :-)

2012 Retreat details now on website....

2011-09-03T14:59:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone

Well the long awaited details of next year's Retreats are up on the website. I am still awaiting pricing from the caterers for the Cleveland Retreat, but should have those in about a week or so. Bookings can be made via the Paypal options on the website or you can contact me regarding other payment arrangements directly.

If you haven't already booked for the Noosa Retreat, it is only 6 weeks away, so book now to save your place. Suzanne Tonga has created a gorgeous layout for her class on Saturday morning; I know you are going to just love her style and techniques. I will post a sneak peek of the layout soon.

I hope to catch up with you soon at either Noosa or one of our Retreats next year.

Take care, Ann

Getting prepared for the Noosa Retreat

2011-08-29T20:57:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
Well it has been a little while; hubby and I have been away on our annual holiday in Central & Outback Australia - what a fantastic country we have - so many fascinating and beautiful places we have here in Australia! I have lots of photos to scrap at the Retreat and can't wait to show you some of the amazing places we saw!

Anyway, the retreat is not too far away now....Suzanne has designed a gorgeous layout for the Saturday morning class - so many great techniques and ideas in her page that I am sure you will use over and over again.

We will be having a theme night on the Saturday night again....this time it will be a Wild Wild West theme. So put your thinking caps on for your costume - it can be as simple as a cowboy (or cowgirl) hat or go all out as a saloon girl. I'd love to see what your group can do on the night and I'm sure we are going to have a lot of fun!

As usual, I will be bringing shop supplies with me but I ask that if there is anything in particular that you would like me to bring in the way of stock, if you can please let me know asap so I can get orders in on time.

There will be more news coming leading up to the Retreat, so check back regularly for updates.

If you haven't already booked your spot for the Noosa Retreat, don't leave it too much longer - you don't want to miss out! I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Take care for now,
Ann :-)

2012 Retreat Dates

2011-07-03T15:42:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone
Well I have been busy organising next year's Retreats and can tell you that we will be having three Retreats next year!
We will be going back to Kilcoy on the May Day long weekend for some wonderful country hospitality and yummy food from the RSL Ladies Auxiliary.
October we will be going to Kallangur on 12-14 October - only 2 fun-filled days though, but a great weekend is assured.
I am in the process of organising one for July and hoping to have a Christmas in July theme - I am hoping to be on the southside of Brisbane for this one around the Cleveland area if I can arrange it. I will keep you posted on that one soon.
So keep checking back on the blog regularly for that one and I will put the details up on the website soon for the costs of the upcoming Retreats.
Take care for now, Ann :-)

Sketch challenge reminder....

2011-05-26T06:09:00.002+10:00

Hello
I just wanted to remind you about the Sketch challenge that is being run by Multi-Photo Scrapbook layout blog. You have until the end of May to submit your page so check out the blog http://multiphotoscrapbooklayouts.blogspot.com for further information and inspiration!
TFL, Ann :-)

Noosa Retreat Tutor...... Ta Daaa....

2011-05-24T06:23:00.004+10:00

Hi Everyone
I am so excited to tell you that our tutor for our Saturday class at the Noosa Retreat is the gorgeous Suzanne Tonga. Suzanne has a beautiful style of scrapbooking and I know that you will just love her class.

Here is a little bit about Suzanne:-

1. How did you start in Scrapbooking & when?

I have been scrapbooking for about 7 years. I have a background in science but after maternity leave with my second child, I decided I was ready for a change and started working and teaching at my local scrapbooking store.

2. What do you enjoy most about Scrapbooking?

I have always loved photography and stationery, so scrapbooking was a perfect fit for me! I love that we can enjoy the arty process while creating precious memories about our children and our lives. I hope that they will look back on the albums one day and smile and perhaps will be reminded of things that they had forgotten.

3. What is your scrapbooking style?

I always find it hard to define my scrapbooking style but my layouts usually involve multiple small photos, lots of layers and definitely stitching! I cannot create a layout without stitching! The inspiration for me, really starts with the photos. I mainly scrapbook photos of my children, Bailey 10, and Lily, 7, and also of my nieces and nephews.

4. What are your favourite products at the moment?

Working in a scrapbooking store gives me access to a lot of beautiful products and I have many, many favourite brands. At the moment, I would say that Pink Paislee and Crate Paper are the ones that I look to most when new products are released but there are many others that I love and use regularly.

5. Where do you find inspiration for your layouts?

I read lots of blogs and many of them are fashion, photography and decorating ones. The colours and patterns really inspire me and get my mind in a creative mood. I also love to visit our local markets as the atmosphere is really conducive to creativity.

6. How do you get through Scrapper's block?

If you are feeling frustrated during the creative process, my advice is to take a break. Go for walk or do something completely different. Chances are, when you come back you will be ready to try again. I usually take a lot of time to create a layout. It sits on my desk and each time I walk past, I look at it with fresh eyes until I work out what it 'needs'.

7. What is the best advice you would give to newbie scrapbookers?

If you are just starting out in scrapbooking, it can be a little overwhelming. My advice is to take it slowly. Find your style by using other peoples' work as inspiration and you will eventually discover what works for you.

Suzanne adds "During my scrapbooking journey I have been fortunate enough to be published in many scrapbooking magazines and work on several design teams. At the moment I am a design team member of Aussie Scrap Source, a company who is fantastic to work for. The Australian scrapbooking industry consists of many talented people and I feel very lucky to be a part of it."

Suzanne is teaching at the Brisbane Scrapbooking Convention in June and her classes "sold out" very quickly! So I am really looking forward to having her for our Retreat and learning more about her style and technique.

I hope to see you there.

Take care, Ann :-)

Sketch Challenge

2011-05-22T08:48:00.004+10:00

Hi everyone
I thought I would just let you know of the Sketch Challenge that Multi-Photo Scrapbook Layouts blog is running this month. The sketch used is from Got Sketch? and has been created by Janna Wilson.

You have until the end of May to submit your layout and as usual a nice prize is on offer for the winner. You can send your layouts to mealin@optusnet.com.au.

Have fun with it and don't forget to check out the blog for some multi-photo layout inspiration! http://multiphotoscrapbooklayouts.blogspot.com

Take care, Ann :-)

We had a great time.....

2011-05-04T06:27:00.004+10:00

Hello everyone
Well sadly our Retreat has come and gone, but what an awesome time we had!! Thank you to each and every one of you for making the weekend what it was and a special thanks to the ladies from the Kilcoy RSL Women's Auxiliary who looked after us so well with our meals - my goodness we were spoiled.
Here are a few photos of the weekend:-

The class with Michelle Jamieson was so inspirational for many - it was great to see many of the ideas learned in the class applied to some of your other layouts over the weekend. Here is a photo of her layout:-

I hope that we can catch up with many of you at the October Retreat in Noosa - fun is guaranteed!!

Take care, Ann :-)

Today's the day....

2011-04-29T08:22:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone
Well today's the day!! I am soooo excited that our weekend is here and looking forward to seeing you all this afternoon at 5pm.
Check your lists that you have everything and drive safely.
See you soon, Ann :-)

Last minute things to bring....

2011-04-22T10:18:00.002+10:00

Hi ladies
I hope you are all enjoying your Easter break; not long now before our Retreat - I'm getting quite excited!!

Just a few last minute bits and pieces to let you know about... in addition to the items you have already been requested to bring along, can you also bring the following please:-

Your craft mat(s)
Cuttlebug/Big Shot (or similar) machine, only if you have one (just would be helpful for the class to save some time)
Clear stamp block 15x7cm (only if you have one)
an extension cord if you are planning on bringing any electronic equipment
a champagne/wine glass for Saturday's Glitz & Glam night

The items above that I have marked in orange are just for the class use; we will have these items available, but if we could have a few more, it will save some time getting around to everyone so if you don't mind sharing, it would be fantastic if you could bring these with you.

By the way, for our group photo on Saturday, can you wear blue/green/purple tonings in your clothes - that would go well with the papers we have chosen for the Photo Challenge.

I will send emails out to you all directly regarding this,but for those of you who regularly visit the blog then you have this info sooner.

Anyway, that's it for now, chat soon
Ann :-)

Only 2 weeks to go.....

2011-04-15T09:24:00.006+10:00

Hello everyone Well my house has turned into a warehouse at the moment with all of the boxes of stock piling up. Kits are being prepared and the last minute touches are being done to ensure that you all have a great time at Kilcoy in exactly two weeks time! You all have the information you need for the weekend at this point in time; don't forget to bring your craft mats too and perhaps a cushion for your seat - have to be comfy when we scrap!! The lovely Brigitte will also be joining us to give us some pampering if you so choose it; this is an additional cost, but sooooo worth it. Let me know soon if you wish to partake in a lovely massage/reflexology treatment - you won't regret it, believe me. There is still time for you to book a place at the Retreat if you want to come along, even if it is just for part of the weekend or to attend the fantastic class with Michelle Jamieson. You can call me on 0413 21 6096 or email info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au for more information. By all means, contact me if you need to know anything about what to bring for the weekend - happy to help. The countdown is on!! Take care, Ann :-)

Retreat news update

2011-04-05T07:02:00.004+10:00

Hello there
Well for those of you who are attending the Kilcoy Retreat at the end of this month, you would have received an email from us giving you all of the details of the weekend...where we are staying...what to bring....and all the fun things that we have planned!! If you didn't get your email and you are registered to attend, please let me know.

We have a Glitz & Glam night planned for Saturday evening; so dust off your blingiest jewellery, get out your feather boas and get ready for a night of Glam Frivolity!! It will be so much fun!!

If you haven't booked yet, you better get in quick and do so as places are now limited. Email us on info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au for more info or call Ann on 0413 21 6096.

It won't be long now!!

Take care, Ann :-)

Class layout sneak peek.....

2011-03-31T05:38:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone
I'm so excited to show you a sneak peek of the layout that Michelle will be teaching us on Saturday 30 April at the Kilcoy Retreat. Here it is:-

She will be showing us lots of techniques and tricks with this one which we can apply to future pages. Lots of colours - so click on the image to see it a bit closer and that will help you to look through and find some suitable photos to apply to it. Otherwise, black & white photos always look good.

I will contact you all directly with instructions, information and your requirements for the weekend shortly, so keep an eye out for an email from us soon.

The Retreat will be here before we know it - I am really looking forward to it!!

Take care for now, Ann :-)

It's here.....

2011-03-30T14:45:00.004+10:00

Hello everyone, I would like to let you all know that I will post Michelle's class layout on the blog later today - it's a fantastic layout - lots of elements and techniques, so check back tonight for a sneak peek. In the meantime, it seems that I haven't received a couple of emails of late; if you have emailed me at all in the last week or so and I haven't responded, can you try again please or give me a quick call on 0413 21 6096. Don't you just hate technology sometimes!! I ALWAYS respond quickly to emails so please let me know if you don't hear from me pretty much same day. Chat soon, Ann :-)

Sneak Peek coming....

2011-03-19T16:03:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone

Well, Michelle has received the kit for the scrapbooking layout class on Saturday 30 April at the Retreat, so we will have a sneak peek of the layout very soon - I'm sooo looking forward to seeing what Michelle will be creating. She will be showing us how to make some embellishments as well - something to keep our scrapping costs down and save money.....so we can spend on other scrapping stuff!! :-)

I've also got some goodies to show you soon as well, that will be available at the retreat shop which I will post shortly.

If you are thinking of coming along to the Retreat, please contact me or book via the website soon. By the way, if convenient to you, I am happy for day participants to attend and give the local residents an opportunity to come along. You can come along on any day and stay as long as you like (until closing time) then go home if you want to. You can just come along for Michelle's class if you want to - no problem. Just drop me a quick email if interested - you would be surprised as to how cheap it can be!!

The Retreat will be here before we know it, so make your booking soon.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Take care, Ann :-)

Day participants welcome...

2011-03-04T06:13:00.004+10:00

Hello there

If anyone is considering coming along to the Retreat at Kilcoy, I can offer day participant rates if you live close-by and would prefer to travel to and from the Retreat on a daily basis over the weekend.

The rates would include your scrap pack, the class & kit for Michelle's class on the Saturday morning (if attending), and all meals. Please contact me if this is a preferred option for you.
I'd love to see you at the Retreat, even if it is only during the day (and part of the night!).

My email address is info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au, or you can call me on 0413 21 6096 - we can tailor a package to suit you.

Take care, Ann :-)

A profile on Michelle Jamieson......

2011-02-05T06:53:00.003+10:00

Hi
I'd like to share with you a Q&A session that I have had with Michelle Jamieson, who will be teaching our class at the Kilcoy Retreat in April......a bit of a "get to know you" session........

1. How did you start in Scrapbooking and how long have you been doing it?

I started as a Card maker when I was about 18yrs old, by my Mum. She ran a weekly card class and I loved participating in it. Then after going to a Craft Show many years ago, I found my niche…Scrapbooking. I loved everything about it and have been hooked ever since. So, I’ve been scrapbooking about 15 years now.

2. What do you enjoy most about scrapbooking?

The quiet creative time to myself. I scrap mainly at night when everyone has gone to bed, as I have young children. That becomes “my time”, at the end of the day. I’m a bit of a night owl too, which sees me up into the wee hours at times, so I can just finish that layout off!

3. What is your style?

My style is always changing, so to describe it best I’m an eclectic scrapper. I love bright colours, paint and I usually scrap with more than one photo on a layout.

I love trying new designs and techniques and will give just about anything a go!

4. What are your favourite 3 products at the moment and what can’t you do without?

My favourite products would be washi tape(a Japanese washi paper in the form of tape). I love the stuff and use it on everything of late!

I love chipboard lettering, as it gives such great dimension and it comes in so many colours and styles.

Lastly would be bakers twine. I love tying bows and knots and adding texture to my layouts!

5. Where do you find inspiration for your layouts?

I love looking through online galleries, magazines and what’s in style. You can get a lot of inspiration from what you see around you.

6. How do you get through Scrappers block?

It happens to everyone and when it does strike pull out those Scrap magazines or look at online galleries and find something you like. It could be a design, the placement of a flower or they may have used glimmer mist for example. Start with something and expand on it. Get out the cutter and start cutting paper and pushing it around your page. You’ll eventually like what you see

7. What is the best advice you would give to newbie scrapbookers?

Invest in a good cutter and pair of scissors! Don’t expect to create what you see in magazines next week. It’s a process and your journey as a scrapbooker will evolve in time. We all had to start somewhere.

I hope that you have learned a little about Michelle here. I'm sure her class will be an exciting one and she will be sharing lots of tips with us and showing us how to make some handmade embellishments as well, similar to what she has available in her Etsy store at Chelley Bean Designs. I hope to see you at the Retreat.

Take care, Ann :-)

Earn yourself a voucher to spend at the Retreat....

2011-01-25T06:10:00.002+10:00

Hello again
I hope that you are all well and got through the school holidays ok. I can't believe it is a month ago since Christmas - I can see another year flying by!!
We already have participants registered for the Retreat in April and as an added incentive, I will give you a $5 voucher for each person that registers for the Retreat and mentions your name as a referee. You can then spend the voucher at the next Retreat. So if you have friends who mentioned that they would like to come along to the next weekend away, then why not contact them and organise your group to register soon - don't forget to tell them to mention your name when they do so.
I look forward to hearing from you. Have a great week.
Regards, Ann :-)

and our class tutor is.....

2011-01-18T07:19:00.002+10:00

Hello
Just a quick post to let you know that the lovely Michelle Jamieson will be joining us at Kilcoy to teach our class on Saturday morning. I am soooooo excited and can't wait to see what she has store for us.

So book your place for the Retreat soon so that you don't miss out on learning some great techniques from Michelle. All you need is a $50 deposit - see the website www.qldscrapbookingretreats.com.au for the payment options available.

TTFN, Ann :-)

Retreat Bookings now open....

2011-01-16T13:11:00.004+10:00

Hello everyone,
Well for those of you who reside in Queensland, actually throughout most of the eastern side of Australia, I hope you have all managed to stay safe and dry during these terrible few weeks of flooding and disaster. I apologise for the delay in posting details of the next Retreat, but telecommunications have not been good in our household due to the floods, but we are getting back to normal now and I have managed to update the website with all of the costings for the next retreat at Kilcoy at the end of April.

Please check out the website for this information and by all means make your bookings for the package that suits you. Please remember that numbers are limited so you need to get in quickly to avoid disappointment. Web address is www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au

If you need to know any further details about the weekend, please let me know.

Chat soon, Ann :-)

Next Retreat.....

2011-01-06T11:18:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
I just wanted to let you know that we are getting closer to finalising the costs for the Retreat at Kilcoy and even planning the next one for around mid October. Just waiting for other parties to get back to me.
Will hopefully have this up on the website in the next week.
Stay tuned and take care, Ann :-)

Class layouts

2010-12-05T19:53:00.005+10:00

Hello everyone
I thought I would share with you the layouts that were produced as a result of Angella Peardon's class at the Retreat last weekend. Even though we all had the basic layout to do, the end result from the ladies was just fantastic. So many different pages, but all with a common theme. Both Angella and I were really impressed with the results and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the class.

The paper we used was from the Bella! Ancestry range. This one is called Origin and we used two pieces; one as the background and the other we cut the design from and foam mounted them to give some dimension. A combination of Green Tara paper flowers and lace flowers along with some velvet buttons, Kaiser pearl flourishes and pearl strips, leather findings made from the Tim Holtz Findings Sizzix die, Dusty Attic vintage clock were the basis for the layout.

This was Angella's layout:-

Here are the pages that were completed:-

Aren't they great!!!

More layouts from the weekend to come soon. Take care, Ann :-)

Back home after the Retreat....

2010-12-02T06:10:00.003+10:00

Hello there
Well we all had a wonderful weekend away on our Retreat at Brookfield and now it is back to reality and thinking about the coming festive season.

Thank you to all of you who came along and made the weekend so much fun; I hope to see you all at the next one in April at Kilcoy. More information to come when costs finalised.

In the meantime, here are some photos of the class with Angella; it was a big hit and many of you learnt something from her class which was FANTASTIC.

I will post some more photos of the layouts etc shortly, especially the class layouts....they are so diverse which was great to see.

Enjoy your week, Ann :-)

Here's the sneak peek.....

2010-11-12T11:18:00.004+10:00

Hello everyone

Well here is the layout we have all been waiting for and I must say that I really like it. Angella will be teaching this class at the Retreat on Saturday 27 November commencing at 9:30am, so if you haven't already booked to come along to the Retreat or the class, then now is the time to do it!!

Lots of inking, distressing, layering and background stamping. It is very much a male inspired layout which is something that we all seem to struggle with at times but you can apply it to a feminine page as well as the embellishments will suit both if you so desire.

Let me know what you think - I know you will enjoy this class.

Looking forward to catching up at the Retreat - only 14 sleeps to go!!

Day participants welcome....

2010-11-03T06:11:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
Now that we are getting closer to the Retreat, I am now able to provide spaces for day participants to come along and attend Angella's class on Saturday morning.
The cost will be $45 which includes the class kit and morning tea; should participants wish to stay for the day, the can do so for a cost of $70 which will include Angella's class, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
So if you have been thinking of coming along but can't do so for the whole weekend, then this may be an option for you.
Please call Ann on 0413 21 6096 or email info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au to let me know of your interest to attend for Angella's class.
Sneak peaks of Angella's layout will be posted soon.
Not too far away now.........

Counting down....

2010-10-18T10:47:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
Well November is fast approaching and it will be only weeks away before the Retreat. For those of you who haven't yet registered to come along, please don't leave it too much longer before you book as places are limited.
It would be lovely for you to organise your group to come along and we can guarantee that you will have a lot of fun and keep occupied the whole weekend and go home with lots of goodies and inspiration.
Visit the website for further information and make your booking, or email us on info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au and we can provide further information and direct deposit details if you would like them.
If anyone has any ideas for the Retreat to add a bit more fun to it, please let us know.
TTFN, Ann :-)

Photoshop Basics 101 - Top 10 Class

2010-10-07T15:21:00.002+10:00

Hello everyone
Well the time is counting down to the Retreat and I would like to remind you that as well as the great activities we have planned scrapping, the challenges, workshops, eating and having fun, we also have the gorgeous Melissa from Point, Shoot, Play coming along to teach her fantastic class Photoshop Basics 101 - Top 10.

Melissa provides the laptops, tablets and pens required to help you learn how to use Photoshop Elements and enhance your photographs to make them look fabulous on your layouts. This class is an additional cost to that of the Retreat weekend and will be held on the Sunday morning at 9am. The cost for this class is $55 which is great value for a 3 hour class especially considering all of the tools are provided and the class content is quite extensive.

Please email me if you are interested in attending this class via email address info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au You will love what you can do with your photos!!

See ya, Ann :-)

Only 5 days to go...

2010-09-26T18:42:00.003+10:00

Hello scrappers
Just a reminder to let you all know that you have 5 days to book your place for the Retreat in order to receive your $10 voucher to spend at the Retreat shop. You need to book by 30 September to get your voucher.
The date for the Retreat is 26-28 November and will be held at the beautiful QCCC at Brookfield. So if you live in the S.E. Queensland area, it will be a short trip to Brookfield for a great weekend away scrapping and being taught a wonderful class by Angella Peardon.
For more information have a look at the website www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au and book your place. Numbers are limited so don't hesitate any longer.
We would love to see you there. Welcome to my new follower Tina - I hope that I can meet you at the Retreat.

TTFN, Ann :-)

2010-09-18T16:08:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone
Here are some pics of some gorgeous feathers that I will have available at the Retreat shop. Lovely ostrich & peacock feathers that will look fantastic on your layouts. I can see some great vintage pages done with these.

Great colours available......and something different for your pages.

TTFN, Ann :-)

2010-09-14T06:03:00.002+10:00

Hello
I have some gorgeous feathers to show you soon - oh my goodness, I can see some fabulous vintage pages coming up with these....check back in a couple of days to see them.

In the meantime, Multi Photo Scrapbooking Layouts Gallery is going to be conducting a challenge in a couple of days so you might like to participate. The Blog details are http://multiphotoscrapbooklayouts.blogspot.com.
Would love to see your layouts here.

TTFN, Ann :-)

New Blog....

2010-09-08T20:51:00.002+10:00

Hi there

I'd like to let you know about a blog that is now available showcasing multi-photo layouts. If you would like to contribute to the blog, please have a look. It is brand new and just waiting for your gorgeous pages to be uploaded.

http://multiphotoscrapbooklayouts.blogspot.com

Let's show our talents to the world!

2010-09-04T16:57:00.005+10:00

Hello everyone
Here are some more goodies that will be available at the Retreat. I hope you like them. Keep checking back as I will post more items as they come in.
Enjoy your day.
Ann. :-)

These cute yo-yo flowers are 6cm in diameter.....

These stick pins are 12.5cm long......

www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au

2010-09-04T08:44:00.003+10:00

Hello there
I will have some more goodies to show you over the weekend of items that will be available at the Retreat shop.....very pretty goodies!! Stay tuned.

To those ladies who have earned themselves a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat.....congratulations.....I am sure you will find some lovely things to buy with it. If you wish to earn a voucher for yourself and you haven't already booked your place at the November Retreat, do so by 30 September and you will receive a $10 voucher to spend there. All you need to do is pay your deposit to book your spot, so check the calendar and make your booking - a great time is planned for all!!

Chat soon, Ann :-)

2010-08-30T07:05:00.009+10:00

Hi everyone
As promised, I would like to show you some samples of stock that will be available at the Retreat shop. These are a little different to what you would usually find in your LSS, so if you are looking for something out of the norm to add to your pages/OTP projects, then you might find something here.
Enjoy your week, Ann. :-)

Gorgeous acrylic flower with a rhinestone centre

4mm & 6mm pearl in cream, white & irridescent....

Fibre ribbon.....lots of different pages with this product.....

Great for whimisical style layouts.....

Adds a pretty touch to your feminine pages...pearls & rhinestones...don't you just love those rhinestone butterflies......

Lot of colour combinations with these raffia flowers....

Bright chenille flowers for kids layouts, 70's themes, or just to had a fun touch to your pages....

These acrylic flowers would look fantastic placed on top of a few paper flowers to finish them off....adding gorgeous dimension to your layout....

More bright coloured raffia flowers......lots of other colours coming....so many different applications for them too.....

2010-08-26T07:46:00.003+10:00

Hello there
You might want to keep an eye on the blog over the weekend as I will be posting images of stock that will be available at the Retreat. My mission is to have some items available that you won't usually see at your LSS. I'm shopping tomorrow for some more goodies. So check back on the weekend and have a look.
The end of the month is almost here; so if you want a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat Shop in November, you need to book your spot before 31 August.
Take care. Ann. :-)

2010-08-20T09:42:00.005+10:00

Hello everyone

I thought it would be good to get to know our guest tutor for the November Retreat, Angella Peardon, so I put some questions to her about her scrapbooking and would like to share her responses with you:-

Q. How did you start in Scrapbooking and how long have you been doing it?

A. I think we are born with Scrapbooking in our blood; from an early age I started making Scrapbooks but about six years ago, a friend invited me to a Creative Memories party and I discovered there was so much more. I still to this day remember walking into a Scrapbook store; I was in awe of it all!

Q. What do you enjoy most about scrapbooking?

A. I love taking photos, then making the story come alive onto a page.

Q. What is your style?

A. Shabby whimsical best describes my style....

Q. What are your favourite three products at the moment?

A. Pretty papers, flowers and mixed mediums

Q. Where do you find inspiration for your layouts?

A. Magazines, online, ads, patterns in paper....actually everywhere

Q. How do you get through Scrappers Block?

A. I pull out some of my favourite layouts, turn them in a different direction and scraplift to a degree. Also, sketches are good to get you going again.

Q. What is the best advice you would give to a newbie scrapbooker?

A. I think the best advice is to have fun and be adventurous. Always remember to not get too stressed about it all - Scrapbooking is a fun, stress free hobby.....and always scrap copies of your good photos so that you always have the original.

So there you have it, a brief profile of Angella who is really looking forward to coming along to teach at the Retreat. I'm sure you won't be disappointed with the class that we have planned and we will be giving you some sneak peeks of the layout a little closer to the time.

In the meantime, I thought I would show some samples of Angella's work below.

Just a reminder too, that the end of August is fast approaching and if you want to receive a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat shop in November, you need to book your place by paying the $50 deposit via the website www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au. Then you can pay off the balance at your leisure as long as it is all paid by 26 October.

I would love to hear from you if you have any ideas or requests for the Retreat. You can either leave a comment or email me at email address info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au.

Have a wonderful weekend, Ann :-)

2010-08-12T06:42:00.003+10:00

Hello again
I just wanted to recap on the Retreat happenings - a wonderful class with Angella Peardon, challenges, demonstrations, a couple of workshops that will add to your Xmas gift stash, lots of scrapping and wonderful food, a fun theme night on Saturday evening, prizes and surprises....as well as some fabulous pampering by indulging in a massage, a great digital enhancement class (both at an additional cost).......so what are you waiting for? Remember that you will receive a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat shop if you book your place before 31 August - that's free product as well as the very generous scrap pack that you will receive at the Retreat that contains all of the goodies for the challenges...and a whole lot more!!
The weekend is guaranteed to be a lot of fun - to book, go to the website link below; all you need is a $50 deposit and you can pay the balance off in $50 increments. Easy!! Just as long as the full payment is received by 26 October.
Have a chat to your friends and organise a group or come along on your own - it's a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and learn new things about the craft.
Welcome to Tracy - I hope you enjoy following the blog and hope to meet up with you again soon.
Until next time, take care, Ann. :-)
www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au

2010-07-29T06:37:00.003+10:00

Hello there.

Well all is going well with plans for Brookfield. For the lovely ladies who have already booked their place at the Retreat, you have earned yourself a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat shop! Don't forget, to earn this you need to book your place and pay the $50 deposit by 31 August 2010;it is almost August already.....my goodness where has the year gone...... so if you are thinking of coming along then don't hesitate to book your spot soon! Organise a group or come along on your own and make new friends - retreats are ALWAYS a lot of fun!!

If anyone has any ideas for a theme night, or workshop/demonstration, please let me know.

Welcome to Phillipa and Vicki.....thank you for following my blog...I would love to hear your comments/ideas regarding the Retreat.

Have a great week.

Take care, Ann. :-)

2010-07-19T11:10:00.003+10:00

Hello and welcome to another week, doesn't the weekend go quickly!!

I forgot to add the early bird special for August - silly me...doing too many things. Anyway, for anyone who books a place at the Retreat by 31 August, they will receive a $20 voucher to spend at the Retreat shop...or by booking by 30 September, they will receive a $10 voucher to spend at the Retreat Shop. So check out your calendar ladies and circle the Retreat dates on it so you have the weekend free to attend and then pop on to the website and book your place by paying the small deposit. The earlier you do this, the more you get to spend at the shop.

I have some great gift workshops organised for the weekend, just in time for Christmas; I will post details of the kits closer to the date, but knowing that you will go away with at least two Christmas gifts from the weekend is a bonus and all included in the cost!!

By the way, I would like to welcome the lovely ladies who are following my blog. To Debra, Shell, Sue, Nina and Kylie....welcome....and I hope that you enjoy my blog and that we can catch up some time soon at a Retreat.

Take care, Ann. :-)
Website: www.queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au

2010-07-16T20:27:00.002+10:00

Hello

I hope you have had an enjoyable week.

I thought I would let you know that there is an early bird special for anyone who books their place at the Retreat before 30 September 2010. You will receive a $10 voucher to spend in the Retreat shop on the weekend.

The masseuse has been booked for the weekend, so if you are up for a bit of pampering with a massage or reflexology session (or a mix of both), then let me know when you make your booking.
Her rates are:-
Massage - $30 for 1/2 hour and $60 for 1 hour massage; and
Reflexology - Feet $20 for 1/2 hour and for Feet, hands and facial $50 for 1 hour.
Sounds good doesn't it?

More news to come soon.

Take care, Ann :-)

2010-07-11T20:49:00.003+10:00

Hello
Well things are moving along quite nicely with the Retreat. We have a fantastic major door prize available - the lucky recipient will just love it!! Stay tuned for more details.

We have also been thinking about having a theme night on the Saturday night where we can all dress up in something relevant to the theme, play a few games and scrap the night away. Prizes will be given for the best dressed and winners of the games. It will be a lot of fun - don't forget the camera...oh that's right, we are scrapbookers...the camera is never too far away!

I thought I would also mention that bookings need to be made and fully paid for by 26 October, 2010. Don't hesitate to make your booking as places can fill fast. If you haven't been to a Retreat before well now is a great time to find out what you have been missing out on. You will go home from the weekend enthused and counting down the days until the next one.

I have also been asked whether we will be doing card-making workshops throughout the weekend. I will certainly consider it if there are a few interested in doing this. By the way, just because it is called a Scrapbooking Retreat doesn't mean that card-makers can't come along for the weekend. I'm sure you would enjoy the scrap class we have planned. Please leave a comment via the link below and let me know your thoughts.

Have a great week and happy scrapping.

Take care, Ann :-)

2010-07-05T06:16:00.000+10:00

Hello again.
Well all the costs are now finalised for the November Retreat and the Buy Now carts are available for you to make your booking to attend. I have decided to keep this Retreat to 2 days, but what a two days it will be! There will be plenty to keep you occupied and you will go home with a bag full of goodies; lots of layouts that you have scrapped and some wonderful memories of the weekend as well a learning a new technique or two to apply to your future pages.

Keep checking back for updates on the blog and in the meantime let your friends know about the Retreat and organise a group of you to come along.

I have been looking at a number of great venues to hold future Retreats at - some of them are just fabulous! I would love you to post a comment and let me know just how far you are prepared to travel to a Retreat. I am trying to keep them at no more than 2 hours travel from Brisbane, but if you are prepared to travel say three hours, well that just opens up the venue possibilities even further. Please click on the link below to leave your comments.

Chat soon, take care, Ann :-)

Welcome to Queensland Scrapbooking Retreats

2010-06-27T00:21:00.000+10:00

Hi there and welcome to my Blog.

I conduct several Scrapbooking Retreats in the South East Queensland area a year and the next one is scheduled for 26-29 November 2010. It will be held at QCCC Brookfield and I am offering 2 and 3 day packages.

The Retreat commences at 5pm on Friday evening and concludes at 2pm on Monday afternoon (5pm Sunday for those on the 2 day Retreat). All meals and accommodation are included in the cost, as well as a class taught by the very talented Angella Peardon who has had her work published in Scrapbook Creations and Scrapbooking Memories magazines as well as being a member of several Design Teams.

We are also offering you the opportunity to learn the basics of digital enhancement of your photos by attending a class conducted by one of the fantastic tutors of Point, Shoot, Play teaching the Basics 101 Top 10 class. This will be an additional cost and is completely optional, but if you want to learn some fantastic techniques to make your photos look that much better, then this is the class for you.

Final costs are being worked on in the next week or so; please check the blog for further updates soon. In the meantime you can register your interest to attend this Retreat by emailing info@queenslandscrapbookingretreats.com.au.

If you would like to get away on a fantastic weekend scrapbooking, eating yummy food, having lots of laughs and learning some great techniques and ideas with like-minded scrapbookers, then come and join us.

Stay tuned for further info soon.

Take care, Ann. :-)