Color Me {Happy} Designs

2010 Christmas Designs

2010-11-18T15:26:00.006-05:00

The Christmas season is about to begin and with that brings several new Color Me {Happy} Holiday designs! Here are three brand new designs that will be available for digital purchase customized with your photo and wording of choice (*some wording alterations are dependent on the design selection- ask for more info). You may view all the available designs by clicking on the button in the left sidebar. I have a couple more designs in the works that may or may not make it out by Thanksgiving, so check back until then! :) Thanks and Happy Holidays!

Melissa

*New ones added! (11/19)

Cheer:

Wonderful:

My Cup of Teal:

Purple Wish:

Peppermint:

One of my goals in designing cards for you is to create beautiful, unique options that don't cost a fortune! Just wanted to give you an idea of how you can get a gorgeous holiday design from Color Me {Happy} for much less than it would cost you to order them from a popular online site.

I provide you with a digital image, completely customized with your photo(s) and wording for a flat fee of $25. You can then take your high-resolution image to the photo printing company of your choice to order your prints. Most 4x6 prints run around 8-12 cents each depending on where you go, but you can often get an lower price than that with holiday specials or larger orders!

So for 100 cards designed by Color Me {Happy}, for example, it would cost you (for 10 cents a print) a total of around $35 plus shipping.

For the most basic, flat photo card on some of the most popular photo websites offering cards you will pay an average of around 70 cents apiece, with a lot of them totaling over $1.00 each when you break it down! That doesn't even include shipping! So for 100 cards at the average price out there you will pay $70 plus shipping! That's double the cost of Color Me {Happy} for a design that is more generic!

I'm sure there are many very low-cost options out there for basic cards, but I'd like to provide you with an afforable option for something special and memorable!

Planning a Party?

2010-06-07T08:25:00.003-04:00

Got a specific theme or color scheme in mind? Create the perfect invitation by requesting a custom design, like my friend JoAnna did for her daughter's 4th birthday party!

Why Should Eggs Have All the Fun?

2010-03-25T15:46:00.006-04:00

Why should eggs have all the fun? This Easter season, send a colorful {Happy} Easter greeting with a personalized card!

3 brand new designs available in the Multi-Seasonal Greetings gallery!

He is Risen:

Pink Tweety:

Rejoice!

A 2010 Special!

2010-01-10T19:11:00.004-05:00

My new little guy arrived safely just before Christmas, we are all doing very well, and I am ready to accept new orders again! Thanks for your patience and flexibility. Please let me know if there is anything I can help you with.

Also, to celebrate the new year I am offering a 2010 special! For the month of January, I am offering any design selection from my galleries for $20 (reduced from $25) and any custom design for 10% off (regularly $30, reduced to $27)!

Maternity Leave

2009-12-10T17:03:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let you know my maternity leave is officially starting. Unless you have already talked with me about an order, I will not be taking any new orders until after the holidays. I will let you know in January when I am ready to start back up again! Thanks!

Christmas Order Deadline!

2009-12-05T12:50:00.004-05:00

Today is technically the last day to get your holiday design orders in! I can take a few late orders next week, but in order to have adequate time to get your prints ordered and mailed in time for Christmas (and to ensure I don't go into labor beforehand), I recommend getting them in by tonight!

Merry Christmas everyone!

New Button Codes

2009-11-21T08:03:00.002-05:00

If any of you have purchased a blog from me in the past, or has my button displayed on your site, and needs help changing the code over to the new link, please let me know and I would be happy to assist you! Thanks so much for your support! Much love!

Fresh Start

2009-11-13T06:41:00.003-05:00

Many of you know I took a break from designing this summer, and you may have noticed my design blog has been set to private for awhile now. I've spent much of the summer and fall processing the future of my business. I have known for awhile now that I needed to make some changes to it, for several different reasons:

First, it really is a hobby for me more than it is a business. I am not at the stage where I am ready to put a lot into advertising and getting as much business as possible to make a huge profit. I do it because I love it, and I enjoy being able to add that special touch for those happy occasions, not because I need to make an income off it.

Second, I am a designer not an accountant, and I really detested the bookkeeping part of it. It really took some of the fun out of it for me. And on top of that, the state made some changes to the system that makes it a lot harder for me to do what I'm doing.

Third, in the process of organizing and de-cluttering my home, I am also prioritizing things in my life, especially with a new baby coming. I do tend to take on too much and have already cut way back on how many ministries and activities I am involved in this year. I know what my priorities are, and I need to eliminate or refine the rest so I can focus on those. So I am restructuring the services I am offering to reflect that.

So here is what I have decided:

1. I am still offering custom card designs and will charge an upfront, flat fee that will cover my time to consult and create a digital image for each occasion. Right now I feel that $25-30 is a fair price for my time to do this and very affordable.

2. I will only be dealing with digital images. I will no longer print or ship hard copies of the cards, nor provide envelopes. I will only be creating the personalized digital image, which would be received by you as a final, printable version in an email. The digital image would need to be saved to your computer and uploaded to your favorite online photo processing company (Snapfish, Shutterfly, Walmart, etc). You would order your own 4x6 matte prints, which run about 8-10 cents per print. I can also provide a complimentary, "email-friendly" version of the image if desired.

3. I currently only have the Holiday Design Gallery open. I plan on adding more galleries, but that will take a bit of time and when that happens is very dependent on our adjustment to the new baby, so I appreciate your patience. I do have designs available in several different categories, and if you are interested in viewing these options, or purchasing a custom design, please contact me.

4. You may have noticed I have a slightly different web address (no dash! not sure why that wasn't available originally...) and new buttons on the side. If you are already using a button code, it will automatically update on your site. If not, please be sure to update the one you are using with the new button and especially the new site link. Thanks so much!

5. I am still open to doing blog designs as a part of this, but I still haven't worked out the details of that yet and it will probably be awhile before I reincorporate that service. However, if you have ordered a blog from me in the past that needs updating, I am more than happy to work with you on that, so please contact me.

If you have any questions about these changes, please let me know. I love designing and I hope to continue working with those of you who have been such awesome, supportive customers over the last 2-3 years!

2009-11-12T22:05:00.012-05:00

Cheer:

Wonderful:

Peppermint:

Purple Wish:

My Cup of Teal:

Cheerful Christmas:

Christmas Wishes:

Retro Joy:

Simple Snow - blue:

Simple Snow - red:

Snow Blossom:

Winter Bliss:

Warm Wishes:

Vintage Christmas:

Let it Snow:

Red Bow:

Peace on Earth:

Mocha Christmas:

Mint Chocolate Christmas:

Merry Little Christmas:

Merry and Bright:

Joy:

Golden Christmas:

Stormy Christmas:

Cool Wishes:

Classic Christmas:

Christmas Star:

2009-11-12T21:21:00.002-05:00

It's easy! You chose the design and email me your wording and original, high-resolution photo(s). I will take care of any minor photo editing (cropping, red eye correction, b/w or sepia) and create your personalized, high-res digital image. I charge a flat rate for the design, which allows you to print an unlimited number of cards at the photo-processing site of your choice. Designs are created in a 4x6 format and a matte print finish is recommended. Prices do not include envelopes. Your design image is sent via email after approval of the final proof. There is no shipping cost!

4x6 High-res Design Image - $25 per image
4x6 High-res HOLIDAY Design Image - $25 per image

I also offer custom design consultations if you are looking for something other than what is offered in the galleries. I'd be happy to create the perfect, custom card for your occasion. Custom designs can be created in a 4x6 or 5x7 size (please specify when ordering - the default is 4x6).

High Res CUSTOM Design Image - $30 per image

Please contact me with any questions. I look forward to working with you and being a part of creating those {happy} memories!

Copyright Color Me {Happy} Designs 2008-2009

2009-11-12T15:35:00.008-05:00

"Thanks again for creating a unique gift. My friend loved the cards and said they looked very professional." ~ Leah

"I was quite impressed! Thank you!" ~ Kristen

"Highly satisfied with my order! The announcement was beautiful, we were very happy, and the people who received them loved them! Very quick service. Would definitely order again! Great customer service, quick responses to emails and creative suggestions to make a beautiful announcement!" ~ Sara V.

They are even better than I thought they would be. My family and friends are going to love them! Thank you for everything you did! ~ Stephanie

"Melissa's designs are unique and personal. She is very professional and has a great turn around time. Looking forward to seeing the Christmas designs!" ~JoAnna

We ordered invitations to our son's baptism from Color Me Happy and they are so perfect! Everyone loves them, we couldn't ask for better invites! We'll definitely be ordering again in the future. Thanks again! ~ Sara H.

We absolutely LOVE what you have done--they are EXACTLY what we envisioned. Thanks for all your work on our project! We intend to recommend you to our newly engaged friends. ~ Tammi

You did an awesome job...thank you sooo very much!! ~ Jen

It looks better than I even pictured it could or would look and I am in disbelief at how quickly you put it together - thank you for sharing your God given talents!!! ~ Terri

Thanks for helping us make the milestones during this first year of Carson's life extra special with the creative touch of the personalized cards! :) ~ Sara

Bridal Design Gallery

2009-11-05T14:04:00.000-05:00

Kimberly:

Dandelion - brown:

Elegant - Brown and rose:

Tie the Knot:

Red Love:

Green Love:
Licorice:

Fresh Love:

Multi-Seasonal Greetings Gallery

2009-11-05T13:54:00.001-05:00

He Is Risen:

Pink Tweety:

Rejoice:

Sunflower:

Pink Blooms:

Pumpkin Kisses:

Harvest - light:

Harvest - dark:Fall Moments:

Fall Florals:

Happy Halloween:

Sweet Halloween:

Winter Wishes - blue:

Winter Wishes - pink:

Birth Announcement Gallery

2009-11-05T13:15:00.001-05:00

Peaceful Moment:

Delicate Moment:

Charming Moment:

Golden Moment:

Turquoise Classic:

Pretty In Pink:

Sky and Sand:

Rose and Earth:

Little Angel:

Golden Garden:

Floral Monogram: Blue and Brown
Floral Monogram: Pink and Brown
Floral Monogram - green/blue

Floral Monogram: green/pink

Watermelon Burst baby:

Lime Burst baby:

Denim Baby:

Rose Baby:
Sage Baby:

Pink Licorice:

Chocolate Mint baby:

Perfectly Blue:

Perfectly Pink:

Purple Polka Blanket:

Pink Polka Blanket:

Tangerine Polka Blanket:

Blue Polka Blanket:

Little Monkey:

Fairy Girl:

Maggie:

Precious Gift: - Blue:
Precious Gift - Pink:

Blue Sky:

Violet Sky:

Birthday Gallery

2009-11-04T15:56:00.003-05:00

Tyler Blue:

Kiera Pink:

Levi Birthday:

Lily Birthday:

What a Knight:

Pretty Princess:

Peyton Birthday:

Sophia Birthday:

Birthday Bubbles - blue/green:

Birthday Bubbles- pink/melon:

MORE COMING!

Frequently Asked Questions

2009-11-01T21:17:00.003-05:00

1. WHERE DO I START?

I want your Color Me {Happy} experience to be enjoyable and affordable. The best place to begin is by browsing the galleries. Select one or two that you would love to see personalized. If you do not see a design that meets your needs, contact me with details about what you are looking for and we can work together to create the perfect custom design for you!

Second, contact me with your design choice. Email your highest resolution photo(s) and text/wording to colormehappy(dot)designs(at)gmail(dot)com.

When I have your personalized image ready, you will be able to view your proofs before purchasing. Look them over carefully for spelling and let me know of any changes you would like made before approval.

Once you have approved the final design, pay by either check or PayPal (I only accept checks from people I know personally).

You will receive your high resolution jpeg image by email once payment is received.

2. HOW DO I SEND YOU MY PHOTOS?

You can send them to me as an attachment in an email. Please do not resize or crop the photos. I do touch-ups on all photos that need them, including red-eye correction, color enhancement, cropping, etc. This will ensure you get the best quality. Please note any specific requests when ordering. You have the option of color, b/w, or sepia with all designs.

If you will be scanning photo prints, please do so at 300 dpi or greater and save as a jpeg image before emailing them to me.

You may use a professional photo, but you are responsible to acquire permission from the photographer. By submitting the photo to me, you take full responsibility for the copyrights of the photo.

3. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE UNTIL I GET MY FINAL IMAGE?

Proofs will be ready for preview within 24 hours. However, please remember that I am first a wife and mother of 3, so when life happens I will contact you if additional time is needed. Please allow extra time for custom orders. You will receive your final image once you approve the proof and payment is processed.

4. CAN I SEND MORE THAN ONE PHOTO OR PREVIEW MORE THAN ONE DESIGN?
Yes. If you are undecided between a couple photos, feel free to send more than one, but please keep it reasonable. Try to narrow it to 2 or 3 favorites before sending them to me. If you would like to see more than one design I would be happy to do that as well, but with a limit of 3, so again please select your top favorites before requesting.

5. CAN I CHANGE THE COLOR, FONT, SIZE?

I am happy to make any simple adjustments to a preset design for no extra charge. Any of the wording can be changed (such as Merry Christmas to Happy Holidays). Photos can be changed easily between color, black & white, and sepia. Many of the designs can easily be changed from a birth announcement to a shower invite, for example, by simply changing the wording. Any major changes to the design CAN be made, but you will be charged the custom design fee. If you don't see a design in the gallery that meets your needs I would be happy to create a custom design for you from scratch.

6. CAN I CHANGE ANYTHING ON MY PROOF?

Yes! This is your personalized card! If you want something changed then reply and I will change it for you. I will not request payment or send your final image until you are 100% happy with it!

7. HOW DOES YOUR PRICING WORK?

For a personalized design selected from my galleries, I charge a flat fee of $25 for each design purchased. There is no additional tax and no shipping cost. This price is for a high resolution digital image that you receive by email, save to your computer, and upload to the photo processing site of your choice. This allows you to print an unlimited number of cards.

8. WHAT IF I AM LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC THEMED CARD OR WANT A CUSTOM DESIGN MADE?

I would be happy to work with you to create a card just right for your special occasion. For custom designs, I charge a flat fee of $30. There may be additional charges for a custom design, for example, if you choose to have me purchase a specific scrap kit to design your card. For example, if you are looking for a jungle themed card, I can let you know what selection of digital kits are available to me with that theme and you can choose whether or not to purchase the kit as part of your order. You will not receive the digital kit, but this allows me the commercial rights to use it for your design. I will not make any additions to your order without your permission.

9. HOW DO I PRINT MY CARDS? CAN I JUST PRINT THEM AT HOME?

1. Save the original file to your computer.
2. Select an online photo processing company. (Some I recommend are York Photo, Shutterfly, and Snapfish, but please choose your personal favorite).
3. Log in (you must create an account if you do not have an existing one) and upload your digital card.
4. Enter the quantity of 4x6 prints you would like to order.
5. For the best quality card, be sure to select your card finish as MATTE! (The default is usually glossy, but most offer matte finish at no extra charge).
6. Submit your order! You will then receive your beautiful, photo cards in the mail! (Some companies also allow you to order online and pick up your prints at a store.)

You can choose to print them at home, but for the highest, professional quality I recommend having them processed through a print company. If you do print them at home, the quality will depend on your printer, and the type of paper you use and color quality is not guaranteed.

Many online digital photo companies offer regular discounts and promotional deals, so unless you have a particular favorite, feel free to shop around.

10. WHAT KIND OF ENVELOPES DO I NEED TO GET AND WHERE DO I FIND THEM?
You will need invitation sized envelopes, size A6, 4 3/4 in x 6 1/2 in. I used to purchase the envelopes in bulk from envelopemall.com, but you should be able to find them at any local office supply store.

11. DO YOU DESIGNS OTHER THAN PHOTO CARDS?
Yes, I have designed non-photo cards, bookmarks, logos, business cards, blogs and blog buttons, and a few other things. If you are interested in one of these services please contact me for more information.

12. WHAT FORMAT AND RESOLUTION WILL MY IMAGE BE, AND IN WHAT COLOR PALATE?
All the images are created at 300 dpi which is required by professional printers and you will receive it in .jpeg format, unless another format is requested. I use RGB which works well with photo prints, but if you are placing a specialty order for something other than a photo card, most print companies will require CYMK. I am able to provide a CYMK copy of your image in .pdf format if needed.

*I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS! WHAT SHOULD I DO?*

Please contact me! You can reach me by email at colormehappy(dot)designs(at)gmail(dot)com.

About Me

2009-11-01T16:49:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Color Me {Happy} Designs!

My name is Melissa and I am a stay-at-home mom to 3 wonderful children. I am married to my best friend and am head over heels in love with my family!

Color Me {Happy} began after my second child was born. While pregnant with her, and at home with my son, I began learning digital design programs. I have always been into the creative arts since childhood, so this was a new and exciting field for me. This led to creating my own photo cards to share with friends and family and became something I was excited to share with others as well.

I started out by designing and selling physical cards and envelopes and progressed to include blog design as a service as well. After learning that I was expecting baby #3 in Dec 2009, I decided I needed to take a break and reevaluate Color Me {Happy}. This fall, I decided to make some changes and it was time for a fresh start. I now offer my design services as a purely digital product, which allows me to focus on the part I love the most (designing), and allows my customers more freedom in their printing and end cost.

I enjoy what I do, both as a homemaker and as a designer, and I am looking forward to developing Color Me {Happy} as the seasons in my life as a homemaker progress and change. Thank you to everyone who has been a support to me over the last few years in both fields!

I look forward to working with you and helping create an important part of those {happy} occasions!

Melissa

Thank You!

2008-03-18T14:18:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been so supportive and encouraging with my opening! I wouldn't be where I am today without the help and love of my friends and family. If anyone has any questions about anything, please feel free to contact me. I am planning on adding new designs on a regular basis, including anniversary, bridal/baby showers, holiday, and moving/new house cards! I will be posting news and annoucements about that here.