My name is Gennifer Bursett. I am a
designer (since April 2011) and minority co-owner (since April 2012) at Design
House Digital, and I am DigiSmacker.
After receiving an anonymous email earlier today, threatening to expose me if I did not shut down this blog immediately, I am coming forward.
I am choosing to post this for a few reasons.
- I am not at all a person who backs down from anonymous threats.
- Anyone who has “documented proof” (as they say they do) can share it whether I comply with their demands or not. Today, tomorrow, next year...
- Since the email was written from a “we” perspective, I can only assume that more than one person knows. The more that know, the more chances that it will be shared down the road.
Obviously, I would have preferred to stay
anonymous. They said, “We strongly feel that this information will have a
damaging effect on your reputation as a designer and store owner. We have a
great deal of sympathy for the designers who sell in your store, whose
reputation may be tarnished by their unfortunate and unknowing connection to the
owner of such a damaging blog.”
They may be right.
I think the bulk of you are like me. I think that the bulk of people reading and commenting here are talented people, who have a vested interest in the inner workings of our industry. And as much as the people who composed the threatening email to me say the comments are hateful and hurtful, I believe that (for the most part) this is a constructive place where we can anonymously share insider information about the industry.
So, here I am. I have never deleted comments, as much as I wanted to (Ahem, Aly!), I’ve never promoted my own store, or my own name, and the multiple disappearing posts today went directly into the spam folder.
I will say this: I was DigiSmacker before I was a store owner. I did it on my own, and it had nothing to do with anyone else. I have been fair in what I’ve posted here, and I have no regrets. I’m not sure at this point if I will keep this blog going. Unfortunately, it may have an effect on people I know, so it’s not a decision I will make lightly, and (in the end) it will not be because someone decided to blackmail me.
So, anonymousdigismacker@hushmail.com... you can shove it up your ass.
216 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 216 Newer› Newest»The email I received:
"Dear Gennifer Bursett,
We have discovered and have absolute and undeniable proof that you are the owner of the the Digital Scrapbooking Smack blog at www.digismack.blogspot.com. We feel strongly that the hateful, hurtful posts at the "smack blog" have gone on for far too long and have hurt far too many people. Because we do not want to further the hurt and see the blog responsible for bringing down yet another designer and store owner, we are giving you this opportunity to immediately and permanently delete the blog. We insist that no link be posted to a new smack blog, all comments be deleted and future comments be disabled.
We have documented proof that you are the owner of digismack.blogspot.com and if you do not take appropriate action, we are prepared to provide the proof of your ownership of this blog to several individuals including, but not limited to: your designers at Design House Digitals, the store owners of the major digital scrapbooking stores (including the stores you have listed on your blog), the administrators of MSA, DST and The Daily Digi, Creating Keepsakes Magazine and several paper and digital designers and scrappers around the community.
We strongly feel that this information will have a damaging effect on your reputation as a designer and store owner. We have a great deal of sympathy for the designers who sell in your store, whose reputation may be tarnished by their unfortunate and unknowing connection to the owner of such a damaging blog. For their sake we hope that you will heed this warning and delete the smack blog immediately.
We hope you realize that we are giving you an incredible opportunity to walk away from this. Please take it. If the blog is not deleted by the end of the day, we will assume you wish for us to release the proof and information regarding your ownership of the blog and we will proceed accordingly."
Also, to reiterate, I said in the last post that I would add stores to the abbreviation list as they were requested, which I did. No ulterior motive as to why my store was not listed, when others were.
remind me to go buy some stuff from you. This is free speech everyone. If we all hated it so much we wouldn't have followed over to here from the last one.
Wow, do those people realize they blackmailed you which is highly illegal. Yay you on not letting them. I don't know why they bother, I suspect they are one of the people who were smacked recently and took great offence. I have already forgotten who those people were. Sure this blog may close down, but they are idiots if they think someone else won't start one and no one will find it regardless as to whether the link is posted here.
I have more respect Gennifer than I have for the people trying to BLACKMAIL her. Guess what blackmailers, you failed.
Wow what over-dramatic asshats. Do they really think that Creating Keepsakes Magazing could give a flying fuck who runs a digi smack blog?
I respect you for coming forward instead of letting their bullying tactics take away our voice too. And I hope they'll have the balls to come out of anonymity though I highly doubt it.
question...did they sign it and send from their own email account? Or did they wish to stay annoymous LOL
I'd love to know who tried to blackmail you. I think that would do more damage to their reputation than yours. Long Live The DigiSmacker!
They did not sign it, and the email address was anonymousdigiscrapper@hushmail.com.
They did have a valid point, though... I have no idea how they figured out who I was, but they didn't just pull my name out of a hat. I have no desire to know any of your identities (regardless of what they implied in their comments on the last post) but they figured mine out somehow. Be warned.
Sorry but I am laughing my ass off. So these people ANONYMOUSLY email you so they can blackmail you with EXPOSURE? Good luck taking THAT to court. Seems hypocrisy & idiocy like to run hand in hand with these people.
Wow wonder what your designers are going to think when they find out.
Wow wonder what your customers (or friends) would think if they found you posting here. Unless you're the blackmailer(s) and I think they'd be embarrassed for you about that too.
Why do these people want you to take down the blog? Because it's hurtful and harmful? Why not take down sites like Yelp and Trip Adviser too?? People have the right to talk about poor quality, poor customer service, bad experiences etc. There really isn't a neutral forum for doing such with any real anonymity (it's a small industry). I say smack on ladies, smack on, and don't let some bitter old hags stop ya.
LOL I love it. I think it's fantastic. Hurtful? Welcome to the internet bitches. I wonder how they found you though... (not that I am worried, I'm purely a customer and I very highly doubt any of the stores I shop at are going to ban me for being here)
Think again Bitch!
Good for you! I have respect for you Gennifer.
I have read and participated on digi smacker for the past 3 years. I tip my hat to Gennifer for having the guts to stand up for what she believes in. I will now continue to support her and her store. I would like to know who the cowards are that would try to blackmail this site into non existance. This is FREE speech here ladies, if you dont like it , leave. You have no intergrity nor a higher moral ground. You lost all that when you attempted blackmail.
We insist that no link be posted to a new smack blog, all comments be deleted and future comments be disabled.
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Who the fuck do they think they are? The law? I loathe little dictators.
Last time I looked, people getting hurt by negative comments and opinions is not illegal, however, blackmail mostly certainly is.
Think again Bitch!
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Which bitch are you referring too?
I wonder now they have had a respone from Gennifer that the so called "we" will be game enough to come here and support their position?
I will take bets that they run or rather slither away like the snakes they are...!!
I have no idea how they figured out who I was, but they didn't just pull my name out of a hat. I have no desire to know any of your identities (regardless of what they implied in their comments on the last post) but they figured mine out somehow
Is it possible they sent this email to every store owner & person they suspected until someone responded, to try & flush out the owner? Did anyone else receive this email?
Gennifer I'd like to say that I appreciate you stepping up when the other blog owner asked someone to take over. I've read this blog for years and yes, sometimes it gets a bit mean, but for the most part it's harmless conversations on things like quality issues and customer service.
I appreciate that you didn't close the blog and I resent whomever 'we' are who think they can 'insist' that no other links to other blogs be posted and all comments be deleted. I'm incensed that someone, or a group of someones, think they have the right to take away our right to comment on a blog.
When it's payday, I'm coming shopping. I don't know what you even design, I've never spent at DHD, but I'll find something.
It looks like their comments on the last post are back. Check the last page of the last blog entry.
What a bunch of drama queens.
I'm curious, they said they posted screen shots - what were they of? how did they track you down?
Not that I care - I'm just curious how they figured it out.
If you want to step away from this blog I can start another one if you like.
Ginnifer will be fine. This blog may be ridiculous (AND a good read!) but I guarantee that there is gonna be more support for her than criticism. We may smack each other but we also support each other. We ain't going nowhere!!
"we" bitches BEWARE!
"We have also noticed that your own store has been “anonymously” praised and promoted on this blog"
where? , I read here year after year and dont recall seeing any bias for DHD and I have no doubts that Gennifer was and is scrupulously fair. She has got more intergrity then those super "We" bitches....
Lol I just read the comments that "the We" left. Man alive she's a self-important dip wad. I'm sorry you got smacked. I'm sorry you have nothing better to do then harass Gennifer. I'm sorry that you are so obsessed with this blog that you would take online sleuthing to a whole new and creepy level and then use that information in an attempt to damage someone's livelihood. If anyone is nasty it is clearly you. Please just slither away, you're not even worth our time.
So a few people cried into their pinnies because they had their feelings hurt and they think it's okay to completely destroy your reputation. Wow, just wow.
Unfortunately, we are in a business prevalent with people who should not be doing it. If your quality is bad, it will be talked about. If your manner is unprofessional, you will be talked about. And, sometimes, if you're just plain awesome, you will be talked about.
If your digi image quality is good & you are professional, don't worry about this blog. However there is no reason why people shouldn't be allowed to share their opinions when they receive poor quality products from a designer or poor customer service. There are music, movie & restaurant reviews - digi scrapbooking shouldn't be any different. I am just as appreciative when people share their bad experiences as a customer (ie. jagged edges on images), as when they share about their favorite designers. The more information you know, the better informed you can be.
read this blog for years and yes, sometimes it gets a bit mean, but for the most part it's harmless conversations on things like quality issues and customer service.
Agree that some comments here are mean & unconstructive, however there have been some informative & interesting discussions on here too. I try to contribute constructive feedback here when I can.
No anonymous hushmail.com emailer is going to dictate to me which blog I can read. Thanks Gennifer for providing the blog space. In case you didn't see it before, I posted recently that I really liked your In The Garden kit I downloaded from one of the blog trains - I haven't used it yet but hope to use it soon, thanks. :)
#26 and #27- you're both hypocrites. The 'Anonymous We' went directly to Gennifer with proof of her ownership of this blog (or so they say). They didn't release it to a smack blog and damage her reputation unnecessarily. LIKE MOST PEOPLE HERE DO, PROOF OR NO PROOF!!! In my opinion, they did something they believe in, trying to close down a blog that HAS damaged reputations, that purposefully rips people apart, their reputations and as we've seen, their families too.
If the 'Anonymous We' had posted their evidence on the smack blog instead of emailing Gennifer, there would have been a major scandal with everyone adding their 2 cents worth and Gennifer would have been ripped apart by the piranhas that stalk this place. Granted not everyone who participates here is the same but the piranhas are the ones who give smack blogs a bad name - and ultimately they are the reason someone has gone above and beyond to find out Gennifer's identity to stop bullying and cruel, vicious comments.
^^^^^^^^^
Shut the fuck up.
I'm sorry WE no matter how much you try to justify it, two wrongs don't make a right. There is no moral high ground for blackmailers.
It's best for your mental health that you pretend ithis blog doesn't exist.
In my opinion, they did something they believe in, trying to close down a blog that HAS damaged reputations, that purposefully rips people apart, their reputations and as we've seen, their families too.
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Your opinion is just that, opinion. Why are you entitled to yours, and no one else? Why are you allowed to call me a hypocrite and that's fine, but I can't tell you, for instance, that your designs suck. How come? Hmm?
People who blame this blog for their failures and whatnot are unable to accept the consequences of their own actions. They should grow the fuck up and deal with their problems like an adult, not a kid in the playground.
And yeah, I've been smacked before and guess what? Nothing happened because I handled it like an adult.
#28 and still your here! if its so important to you to have truth and transparency have the BALLS to post as yourself!!
I want to see their proof.
#28 - what families have 'we' seen ripped apart? I haven't see any.
"they did something they believe in, trying to close down a blog that HAS damaged reputations, that purposefully rips people apart, their reputations and as we've seen, their families"
____________
#28
The only person that can ruin someone's reputation is oneself. If someone's reputation is ruined because of something said on a smack blog, then that person must be living in such a way that people believe what others are saying.
Ultimately people ruin their own reputations, not stupid things said on a blog. Families deteriorate because of poor communication and relationship problems, not because of things said on a blog. Businesses fail because of poor customer service, lack of bussiness/ marketing knowledge, lack of involvement and poor business practices. They do not fail because of things said on a blog, which is mostly read by designers and maybe 1% of digi scrap customers. Designers fail because of poor design quality, lack of marketing, poor customer relations and lack of drive/motivation—not because of things said on a blog.
I think that people need to be more honest with themselves, and stop looking to pass the blame onto others. Life is so much easier and happier when we are honest with ourselves.
Families are being ripped apart? Only if they spend all their time checking up on what's being said here on the smack blog instead of tending to their relationships.
If you read it then you are just as guilty as anyone who posts to it. If you tell someone else about it then you are just as guilty as anyone who posts here. Don't mistake a lack of response for non-participation. You are just as bad as the rest of us.
I have a lot of respect for you coming forward when you did not have to, Gennifer. I'll be honest, I had to google you to see who you are and what your shop is all about (so clearly I missed all that self promotion too), but I am officially in love your work!
I can tell that you are a strong and confident person so I know that you most likely do not need this advice, but forget the haters. Isn't that kind of what we all learn here? What starts out as constructive criticism can easily turn into a catty hate fest and whoever is the topic that week generally learns to get over it (or should). Most people come here for the constructive criticism, the common ground, and to feel that we have some sort of control over the happenings of this industry. Sure, we get a little extra entertainment along the way...but we obviously keep coming back. Does it get out of control sometimes? Absolutely. Doesn't life? You can't just sensor out things you don't like about life, just like you were awesome enough as a blog leader not to sensor the topics of discussion.
I am tired of blabbing on and writing a book so I will leave you with this -- if you have an influx in sales this week, rest assured that some of them are from me.
I didn't mean that families are being ripped apart, just that family members are dragged into it and ripped verbally for the sake of being nasty. It may not be anybody that's posting right now but there are a bunch of people on this blog that DO drag family members into things - ugly baby, Dawn's tragic loss of her son (I think that's her name) and so on. It's THOSE people I have a problem with, name calling, attacking people personally and I think the 'Anonymous We' were probably spurred on to track Gennifer's identity because of them.
I like to read about design quality, customer service, the debates on certain topics, who is moving where and the whys etc. I don't think there is any need whatsoever for the offensive language and behavior that a select few choose to use.
If I got smacked, which I haven't as I'm not a designer, then I would look at the issue (product, cs etc) and try to fix the problem. That's completely different to being called all the names under the sun though and I do completely believe that that is why someone has gone above and beyond to try and get this blog closed down.
As for hurting your design team, if they aren't willing to stick by you in this then you deserve better. And down the road should you be looking to add designers I know I would be honored to be a part of your team, as I am sure others here would as well.
Now that Gennifer is out in the open and most of you are sitting here defending her, why not take to using your own names? You guys won't because you know most designers, stores and customers aren't ok with this blog. Plus if you use your own names, you know damn well you would lose customers and people would smack the hell out of you.
#39- Why not tell us who you are so Gennifer can send you an invite to DHD.
#38- I agree! I don't mind reading about shitty products, customer service or stores. Most times I don't mind reading about designers atttitudes but some of this personal crap doesn't need to be tossed in with all this. I know Aly brought all that on herself, but still, it was a bit much.
LOL- I just saw Hummie's World listed as a store. Really? Must we?
#38 - maybe that was the idea behind the one asking for a "discussion blog" a while ago. Discussion is the keyword. Name calling is really not needed. Opinions can be shared, if stated as such. Saying something "is not to my liking" is one thing, but saying "it's ugly" is different. It is all in the perception.
Unfortunately, I cannot say I support Gennifer. Yes, she stood for what she believes, but in the process, it has allowed bullying, and some form of abuse by some. If bullying is not legal, it would make her accessory. Probably not what she intended, but nevertheless the end result.
Makes you wonder how many designers that you buy from sit here and talk smack. I mean we know of one who does, Gennifer.
Honeslty, this reeks of Aly. She is very good at finding personal information about people (as evidenced by her behavior at Baby Gaga) and she has been very quiet the last few days. Yes, I am outright accusing her. Not that she'll admit it- she doesnt care about this industry, remember?- but she tends to write in this threatening style when she thinks she has something to hold over you. Yes, I have proof to compare it too, but I am not willing to share that publicly just yet. I will however forward it to Digismacker privately.
I for one plan to buy some stuff I dont need at DHD today.
I rarely post here- I have a vested interest in paying attention though. And I have learned a lot about what I want to do to improve my shop and my designs because of some of what has been written here. Yes, some of it is hateful and nasty too. And I do not like that. But like I said, I have learned a thing or two along the way.
Pot Kettle #40.
#45 - who cares? I know I don't
#40 - why don't you start, seeing as you are so eager for others. Pave the way.
I was smacked personally and still had no desire to have the blog shut down. Funnily enough no one had issues with my product.
As for Gennifer allowing the bullying, look to yourself, by your participation, you did too
I would love to know what Maya or Kami have to say about just patting Gennifer on the back and saying "good job".
#46- I'm not sure Aly is that smart.
48- Do you still design now?
Aly is smart. Sociopathic and smart. Don't underestimate her.
51- I know. I'm just trying to figure out how someone realized it was Gennifer. I didn't even know Gennifer owned DHD. There are tons of store owners out there.
Kami is a regular reader and commenter here. I don't know about Maya, but it has been said she comments here, too. I doubt they're off patting her on the back, but they are hardly anyone to say anything bad about someone who posts here.
Why is it ok for a designer to own this blog but it's not ok for a designer to post here as themselves? Well maybe now it might be ok since Gennifer came out.
#53- I had no clue Kami commented here. Good to know.
Until Gennifer comments as herself and not Digismacker, I'm not sure why anyone would believe it's even her. I'm not saying she should and I'm definitely not saying I care (because I don't), but it would be very easy for the owner of this blog to say she is ANYONE since it is online and there is nothing connecting Digismacker to Gennifer.
All of this is such crap. Anonymous blackmailers emailing an anonymous blog owner. Have businesses really been ruined and reputations really destroyed? Unless your sales REALLY suffered - documented suffered - you have no grounds for anything.
Saying someone's baby is ugly isn't bullying - it's an OPINION. Threatening to do something awful to the baby is the only time it breaches on breaking any laws - and even then, nothing can be done to anyone unless someone DOES harm the baby (for example).
If you have proof of anything, share it, and share it as YOURSELVES. Otherwise, sit down, shut up, and get on with your sad lives. You can say one or two people here are bullies, but those anonymous blackmailers are terrorists.
I'm pretty sure the blog post was Gennifer posting as herself. Or at least it was Digismacker logged in saying she was Gennifer.
I feel like "We" should have signed with their own names as well. Don't feel like they speak for everyone. I think there is a very real need for a blog like this. Maybe it gets a little childish at times, but we need to be able to discuss what's going on in the industry, without fear of it hurting our business. I hope this doesn't hurt your store, Gennifer. Almost every designer and store owner I know reads here and that would be really hypocritical of them to tear you down for doing the same things they do themselves.
Been looking around for ways to find out who owns that email address...
http://www.spokeo.com/email-search?g=email_gs_A000040&gclid=CNb5_-fyzbACFQjf4AodmkqHVg
There's a small cost for the search results though.
Can also find out the IP address of the email then use that to find the street address...then you can either 1. whittle down the list with knowledge of where people live or 2. hand the address over to your lawyer or the police to have them charged with blackmail.
http://www.ehow.com/how_4808602_owner-ip-address-email.html
#58 and #59 here...I REALLY want to find out the identity of the blackmailer. At the very least I would like for them to *think* they can be found to give them the same anxiety attack they tried to give Gennifer. Assholes.
(I think it's only one person though.)
I'd chip in to find out who the "WE" is. That person could use a taste of their own medicine.
Just to make it perfectly clear that I am who I say I am. I did release all of the comments from yesterday that went into the spam folder, which is why they are there now. I don't think anyone else needed to be posting as themselves, because the reality is that there are some people who will judge me, and anyone else who does.
I didn't see their proof, and don't know what actually exists. I think the screen shots they talked about were referencing the posts they thought I was deleting.
I'm not sure if I want to know who was behind it, but it is good to know there are options. I will definitely keep them in mind. Also, thanks for the support... You guys rock.
*needs. Damn touchscreen!
One last thing... As a store owner, and as a designer, I have found things discussed here that we're beneficial to me in both capacities. I hope that that will continue to be the case, and that people won't feel like I, or DHD, is "off limits".
A lot of horrible things have been discussed here. This is NOT just a place for constructive criticism. People can say "deal with it like an adult," but adults do have feelings! That is the way adults deal with it. Being hurt IS a response to hurtful comments, and that IS dealing with it. We've all heard the stories of teens that have been hurt by online comments that have committed or attempted suicide because words do hurt. I don't think this is a productive place for the digi-community; it is a mean-spirited platform for gossip in its lowest form. I am not "WE." I'm just learning about all of this now, but I am one of the many that do share their opinion.
Gennifer, I love DHD and will continue to post and shop there even if your Digi Smacker. While I don't always agree with they way this blog can take a nasty turn, I don't really think you can do anything to stop that and not get smacked yourself for only posting nicer comments. I wish it was more about the way things are in the community rather than personal attacks. Although Aly brought that on herself.
Agree with #65 This is a mean place,if you did not allow the rude hurtful comments it might be ok but you do.
Wow and not get smacked yourself HAHA Everyone else can get smacked But her? WRONG!!!! She is no different...
If I censor any comments, my credibility is shot. How will you know that I'm not pushing my own store, or trying to bring someone else down? My only option is to allow all comments, whether I agree with them or not.
#68- I'm not saying she is.
People can choose to ignore the nasty comments.
I think blackmailers suck, digi smackers carryon
Gennifer Bursett is awesome! :) Love you honey!
xo
Candi
To post #11, I am a customer of Gennifers and ya know what I think??? I think she rocks! Now, yesterday and forevermore!
Yay Gennifer! Wish we knew what the blackmailers names were. I'd like to do some mass-ass talking to them. Loooosers!
xo,
Candi
I find it soooooo humorous that ppl talk about how bad this place is, but yet they're here....posting nasty stuff about how bad it is here. DUH! Oxymoron for sure. Dumbasses!
#73 "Candi"- You already posted how much you think she rocks and is awesome. 2 times.
Any chance we could get a place going that is the opposite of this? No ass-kissing, but genuine support for the fact that we are all here trying to have fun and possibly earn a little money doing something we love? I know... dumb question, huh? LOL
And actually support, help, and encourage each other. Good idea!
76- What kind of place do you mean?
That would be DST. You should have the place all to yourself.
Support blog, not smack blog. We all started out as newbeez at some point and are all striving to get better. Why not help each other out instead of trying to take each other down. What goes around comes around. Karma. Seems like a better marketing plan than trying to destroy each other.
That would be DST. You should have the place all to yourself.
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My point exactly. Cuz more people are interested in being bitches instead of friends. There is probably more people reading this than DST. Sad.
because a) no one really wants to help a newbie and b) some newbies just become total leeches with no desire to try to figure anything out on their own. No one wins.
I absolutely would not mind helping a newbie that I thought showed promise. The thing is, the ones that demand help are usually the ones that just want things handed to them. Helping and mentoring should be a more organic process in my mind. If you are looking for help, find a designer that you admire, and send them an email with some specific questions that show you're THINKING, not just wanting to be told you're amazing.
And some newbies do NOT want to learn or change. I have seen that before; some newbies (and veterans alike) will not take criticism, will not admit they can improve. They think they already know it all, they do it perfectly well already and they should make big money because they should be already recognized.
It is sad that this industry is so easy to get into, even if you do not have enough "qualifications, skills and knowledge". Not all newbies are like that, of course, but they are not all trhiving to learn either! Sad.
I've been designing for less than a year and take very seriously everything people have said on this blog about products, conduct and other things regarding stores, CT's and the like.
If there were a more creative place to enrich each other's abilities (newbie and vet alike) rather than merely taking what they will that'd be awesome!
Gennifer. I feel for you right now. It had to be hard to out yourself as the digi-smacker. I don't condone much of what is said here. A lot of it is very hurtful and totally unnecessary. I don't blame you for what others say and do though. I've only been reading for a couple of weeks. I had no idea this place even existed before then. The world will go on without a place like this if you decide to shut it down. I hate that blackmailers can cause havoc though. We still do have freedom of speech, and I pray that never goes away. If we don't stand up and protect our rights they will go away-a little at a time. For your decision not to let a blackmailer bring you down, I salute you.
I miss Simon. I learned a lot from her, and took her up on her offer to give CC. Too many people get offended by what they read here and convince themselves that it can't be true because it wasn't said tactfully - well, it CAN be true, and a good long hard look at what you're doing can be very constructive. The most significant changes I have made in my designing have been a result of things I have read on smack blogs. Do I smack? No. But I learn LOTS.
87-I guess we all have a different reason for being here in the first place. I don't smack either. Because some people have been so mean at times I've been disheartened by things said. When a designer or store was mentioned unbecomingly at times I've looked them up and found some new favorites. I'm sure that wasn't the plan of the poster. So, strange things have happened.
I miss Simon too. Even though I never had my work critiqued, I did learn. There is nothing else like this in the digital community. People are not willing to help others very often. I would love to have a mentor or even just someone to talk to about things at times. Unfortunately, it just doesn't exist - even in our own stores. I think we can do without the hatred and still have this be a place of information.
I've never heard of you or your store either (sorry) but I support your right to freedom. If you people think this place is bad - go read the NSRB forum at 2 Peas. Those women are ruthless and they use their real names. If some of us prefer to be anonymous, that's our choice - freedom of choice. If you prefer to put your name to it - go to DST or 2 Peas.
AND TO CLARIFY - NO ONE EVER DEMEANED OR SAID ANYTHING NEGATIVE ABOUT DAWN'S SON. It was pointed out that she lost her son in a tragic accident. How is that being hurtful? That was shared (by me) to let others on here know that someone is going through an incredibly difficult time so cut her some slack and be extra sensitive to her pain. And no one said anything negative about her family or her as a person. Only her designs were criticized by one person.
Aly - I firmly believe she posted the rude comment about the baby herself. Her "friend" came and outed her and is apparently taking legal action against her and then she quietly disappears. Followed by all this...
To anyone wondering how the "We" figure out who owned this blog: my best guess is that it was a combination of tracing the monetization (ads) on this blog backward to an owner... and using IP addresses on posts. I'm not going to say more than that because I don't think it's wise for the masses to figure out how to trace poster's identities on this blog. But I do think I know how they did it. I wish I had the kind of free time that it would take to do it en masse. But I don't. Lucky everyone.
While I do post anonymously, I don't post anything I would be ashamed of were my name attached. I don't see reading and posting here as the crime some seem to think it is. It's the nasty ones that should be ashamed (but probably never will be).
People are not willing to help others very often. I would love to have a mentor or even just someone to talk to about things at times. Unfortunately, it just doesn't exist - even in our own stores.
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89-you're not in the right store. In the store where I sell, we have a very helpful and educational atmosphere, and even have a forum devoted to designers asking other designers for help/advice in a private setting. So it does exist, and it doesn't have to exist on a smack blog. That said, I do see why it would be helpful to have anonymous input because you know you're getting the truth and not a courtesy response out of politeness.
Regarding the disappearing posts issue in the past few days: anyone who thinks that the blog owner was doing that obviously wasn't around last fall when the former smack blog had the same thing happen. I remember having posts disappear constantly, for a period of a week or two. They'd show up (and I could have screenshot them if I'd wanted), and then disappear as soon as I refreshed. It's a Blogger issue, because Blogger sucks. I'm laughing that anyone here thought that this blog's owner would have been taking the time to delete posts that weren't inflammatory at all (for instance, I posted a few to test it out, and they're not the kind of posts that she would have deleted).
Chill pill, people. Take the conspiracy theory shit down a notch, eh?
93 said: That said, I do see why it would be helpful to have anonymous input because you know you're getting the truth and not a courtesy response out of politeness.
That is totally different than some of the hurtful things that have been said on this blog. It IS hard to tell someone their product isn't as good as it could be. Even posting anonymously, people could still learn to be tactful. Rather than saying "your product stinks or is crappy" you could answer by saying something like "There are a lot of ways you can improve your product"--and then list those ways.
93 - I wish I knew which store you were in.
93 said: That said, I do see why it would be helpful to have anonymous input because you know you're getting the truth and not a courtesy response out of politeness.
That is totally different than some of the hurtful things that have been said on this blog. It IS hard to tell someone their product isn't as good as it could be. Even posting anonymously, people could still learn to be tactful. Rather than saying "your product stinks or is crappy" you could answer by saying something like "There are a lot of ways you can improve your product"--and then list those ways.
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My first thought was, "And there is something wrong with being polite and courteous?" It doesn't even need to be about mentoring, and it doesn't need to be about hand-holding or getting your ego stroked. What would be wrong with simple and positive answers to random questions without having to always find the negative in everything? Are people that petty that they can't provide an honest and sincere answer to something without being a bitch? Why do people feel so threatened by helping or providing encouragement to others? If someone doesn't have the talent to do this, it'll show in the end. I doubt most great designers started out great. You were all a newbee at one time too, remember? Are we so shallow we can't support each other when possible? I've been designing for a few years now but I wouldn't have gotten where I am without the support and encouragement of some other designers. I'm very grateful there are a few thoughtful and generous ones out there. And I don't mean generous with their time, or that they needed to hold my hand, but generous with their thoughts and words. I still don't consider myself the greatest designer by any means, but I would certainly be happy to pay it forward any way I can because it's good karma. Skills and talent aside (for anyone in general), I attribute the success of some designers I know to their attitudes and the way they treat people in general. I'd be really sad to find out that some of the people I really respect were actually some of the bitches on this blog.
96 - "I wish I knew which store you were in."
The one I'm at is very much like that but God forbid we say that out loud on here and start another smacking. Hence the reason I totally agree with 97 above.
97, I'm guessing that gracious people are most always gracious. Although even the best get frustrated and speak out of line sometimes.
On the other hand, some are just mean all the time.
Not to mention the fact that I'd rather take politeness from someone and not know whether they'd really love to say something less nice, than to believe every bit of smacking that goes on here knowing that there is a good chance that what is said on smack blog has just as much a chance of destroying someone out of spite than because it's really true. How is it any different?
96, if you're not in a store like that, I suggest you start looking for another store.
Overall, I think this blog is a good thing. People ask questions and get legit (and kind) answers all the time here. People also post very rude things. It's the nature of the beast, and you will get out of this what you put into it.
I wish I could move to another store. However, there is no guarantee a new store would be like that, which is why I said I wish I knew which stores were like that. I've been in several stores and have also guested in several stores and have yet to see that kind of learning/sharing environment among its designers.
14 papers - 40 elements for $7.99 - you are kidding right!
http://www.designhousedigital.com/digital-scrapbooking-kit/gennifer-bursett/summer-girl-part-2?cPath=18_20
#103- Right up there with Dani's $8.99 price tag.
Don't like the price? Don't buy it.
102: Unless 93, 98, 101, and I are in the same store, there are obviously some out there. Have you tried networking with designers you know?
You get a digital supply, that you can use over and over again, that you can resize, colorize, and not run out. Compare that to paper supplies where you have to purchase each copy you have. I am still surprised that the digital supplies are so inexpensive, yet, people complain they are TOO expensive.
Off topic but Mscraps is slower than usual. Didn't they just do a server upgrade?
90, I've seen Gennifer on the NSBR board, so maybe it all correlates.
#107- That depends on how many of the elements are recolored. For $7.99 and 40 elements, there should be little or no recolored elements.
People are cheap, and talentless designers sell themselves for a pittance because they are just trying to make any money. It devalues the products in our industry and its a shame. I wish all designers and shops had the self-respect to price their products for what they are worth (and not overload kits with garbage in order to hit higher price points)
#111- Get over it already. Designers who price their products to what people can afford make more money.
Looks to me like the only recolors are the bows.
I am just a customer who loves the soap opera aspect of this blog. I am like to hear which store owners are bitches and the reasons designers supposedly left one store for another. Do I believe everything posted? Of course not. But I'm sure there are bits of truth here and there. Designers are slammed on here, but they know if their stuff sells or not. If you're doing OK, who cares what people on this blog think. Gennifer, I hope you don't face a negative backlash at your store from coming forward. As others have said, I am now more inclined to buy from you.
SO do you have a limit to what you'll spend on a kit? I only buy on sale and will go to like $ 5.50
#112 how do you know what people can afford?
I think someone's looking for something to smack Gennifer for. Is your middle name "WE", and perhaps things didn't go down the way you thought they would?
103-Yes, kits seem to be up there in price at DHD. I don't shop there much due to that fact. The things I have bought there have been on sale. I like more things in a kit if I'm going to spend that much for one. I'll pay that much for a bundle once in awhile. I don't have a million dollars. I have to stretch my hobby money.
#116- How do you know what people can afford either?
#112- People who price their kits higher don't need to sell as many to make more money.
112 that is the problem. Good designers deserve to be paid for their work. Its only $.14 an item.
Here is a kit for $6.50 for 9papers and 16 elements. http://shop.scrapbookgraphics.com/Wish-Page-Kit.html This one is $.26 per item.
#117- So everyone else in the community is fair game but Gennifer? Not everyone thinks her prices are amazing.
I've posted a new topic, for those who want to get back to normal. I'll leave this one open to comments, in case someone wants to come back here and complain about my pricing tomorrow, or next week, or next year.
Chances are people won't buy your stuff as much if you price it higher. I'm not saying it's wrong to do that but they can get the same amount in a kit for $5.50-$6.99. Alot of scrappers shop that way.
Not 117, but I dont think they are unfair. I think they are inline with the other prices in her shop.
#120 because I've sold some very expensive kits and large quantities of them.
If I really like a kit and it has a good amount in it a $ won't keep me from buying.
#126- I agree that the prices reflect the ones in the shop.
#127- 2 shots for me. Someone bragging about what they sold. Now tell me, did they have more than 40 elements?
124-Gennifer, I wasn't actually complaining about your prices. You do what you want. I was just saying why I don't shop in your store much. I just can't afford it. I'll shop where I can afford the kits. I'm not like the government. I have to live within my means. I can't print my own money.
Rather than saying "your product stinks or is crappy" you could answer by saying something like "There are a lot of ways you can improve your product"--and then list those ways.
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You could say that or you can just say the truth. Your stuff stinks. I've been asked to help or mentor a few designers and what it always comes down to, is I can teach you to work your program, I can show you what's trendy, I can show you where and how to market, but if you don't have the eye to look at a color palette and say "that's gross" or the ability to choose a good pattern or include usable elements in your kits, it doesn't matter how much helpful advice I give you, you still suck.
That's why I get so mad at people who say we're just recolorers. Well, sure, my kit has a lot of cu, but I can give the same cu to 6 different people and we'll all make something different. And some things will be good and some will be crappy and it's not all about what you know or where you bought it. It's about finding colors and patterns and style. So, there are people, who don't have the ability to make a good kit and they just need to stop. And it's not fun to hear, but it's the truth. And you can't say the truth with your real name, so we need this blog. If you're so offended by it, then maybe it's time to look at yourself and ask why?
I don't think 90% of what happens on here could be described as cyber bullying. Saying your designs suck is no different that going online and saying the burger at Moe's down the street is crap. You put yourself in the public eye and you're going to get people's opinions. You should be lucky that most stores don't actually have a review system, like online retailers.
I too, have learned a lot from this blog, from Simon and other reviews. I've learned a lot about how stores work too.
130- I think the pricing more or less reflects the whole shop. They do have sales over there every so often too.
Fair enough, 130. I'd pay quite a bit for a digi kit where I could print my own money, though! ;)
Gennifer isn't it weird we all know who you are but you don't know who anyone else is?
Kind of. It's like you guys are the anonymous one-night-stands I never had. All at once.
Plus, I've had a few people come out to me today in various forms, so I'll just think you're them.
You take the good, you take the bad....I would hate for this blog to go away. I am nobody, not a store owner, designer or CT so I would be happy to start a new one if necessary.
Facts of Life song stuck in my head now. Thanks.
#118 I think someone's looking for something to smack Gennifer for. Is your middle name "WE", and perhaps things didn't go down the way you thought they would?
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Nope, I have nothing to do with "WE", I'm just stating my opinion the same way that everyone else does here. I've never heard of Gennifer before so I checked out the store and her design and I just don't think that kit is worth that kind of money. I don't have a problem paying that kind of money for a kit but not one that small with no wow factor. I'm sorry that you don't like my opinion but it is my opinion and that is what this blog is all about. It wasn't meant to be mean and I certainly didn't do it in a vulgar manner like some have done. I just simply stated my opinion.
Almost every designer and store owner I know reads here and that would be really hypocritical of them to tear you down for doing the same things they do themselves.
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Strange, none of the designers and store owners I know reads here.
I'm 130 again-Gennifer I thought of some very good features at your store. I like that once I buy a kit, it stays downloadable forever. I like that when a customer is shopping in the store, and if they are checked in, each kit that you click on will tell you whether you already bought it or not. Thank you for those perks. Sometimes I don't remember what I already bought. That has saved me some money. You can see that even though I can't afford to buy much there, I have bought some. I do like your store. I also like the forum. Even though I don't come often, I'm always treated nicely. I like several of the designers at the store also. See, I really can be nice.
#141- They have alot of $1.00 items each week. I think it's everday? Not sure though. You can try out a designer really cheap before you would spend the $7.99 first.
I'm 130 again.
Gennifer, even though I don't do a lot of shopping in your store I have shopped in your store on occasion. I wanted to share a few things that I really liked about it. First off, I like the friendly forum. I'm not there much, but was greeted nicely, and made to feel at home. Second, I like many of the designers. Third, I like that when I'm logged in as a customer, and click on a kit, it says whether I already own it or not. Fourth, and most important to me, since I'm not very organized, I love that the kits links stay active forever. Thank you for these things.
Strange, none of the designers and store owners I know reads here.
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Wanna bet?
#143- I think you already posted this in comment #141, unless there are 2 of you posting as #130?
I'm just learning about all of this now, but I am one of the many that do share their opinion.
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Convenient and then you came to preach.
This is a mean place,if you did not allow the rude hurtful comments it might be ok but you do.
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It's called life! There are mean, rude and hurtful comments all over the place about all sorts of people. Why should this 'place' be any different just because it's digi or just because it doesn't suit some people?
I'm so tired of the nice brigade. What the heck do you tell your children? That the world is filled with rainbows and unicorns?
145-sorry. When I posted the first one, it said there was an error and that my message didn't post. I looked at the comments, refreshed the comments again, and it wasn't there, so I rewrote it.
What goes around comes around. Karma.
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No, it fucking doesn't. If one more person is going to say Karma, I'm going to hunt you down and shoot you. How's that for fucking Karma.
Cuz more people are interested in being bitches instead of friends.
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You included I'm guessing.
See what I did there?
149-Looks like you have anger management problems.
If there were a more creative place to enrich each other's abilities (newbie and vet alike) rather than merely taking what they will that'd be awesome!
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There is. It's called on-line classes. Go and take some. Not being snarky, just tired of people asking for a creative and enriching environment that involves thousands. It's never going to work. Never! Not even in Churches. Ever see how some people behave in those big church communities?
152-Besides online classes, there are tuts on utube, also free classes available at several stores if you can't afford the classes at sites that charge. You can google subjects you're having problems with, and you can usually find an answer to your questions also.
Too many people get offended by what they read here and convince themselves that it can't be true because it wasn't said tactfully - well, it CAN be true, and a good long hard look at what you're doing can be very constructive.
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Can I just say I love you? You are spot on. Just because something is said in a way that doesn't suit, it's instantly labeled as bullying. I feel sorry for them, they must never have had any criticisms in their lives. I blame the parents. Constantly praising your child for everything they do, irrespective of what it is, is only doing them harm, not good.
149-Looks like you have anger management problems.
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It does? It looks like you are an idiot armchair psychologist without one original thought. Am I right? See how easy it was to judge by one post? I was so impressed with what you did, hat I thought I would try too.
You get a digital supply, that you can use over and over again, that you can resize, colorize, and not run out. Compare that to paper supplies where you have to purchase each copy you have. I am still surprised that the digital supplies are so inexpensive, yet, people complain they are TOO expensive.
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Irrelevant argument on so many levels.
155-Good for you. You better watch the label on your own back. You might find IDIOT there.
That is totally different than some of the hurtful things that have been said on this blog. It IS hard to tell someone their product isn't as good as it could be. Even posting anonymously, people could still learn to be tactful. Rather than saying "your product stinks or is crappy" you could answer by saying something like "There are a lot of ways you can improve your product"--and then list those ways.
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Interesting that you and others would be willing to take a nice comment from an anonymous person at face value, while dismissing the negative ad nasty ones. How do you know that the nice comment wasn't someone yanking your chain?
158-Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down.
155-Good for you. You better watch the label on your own back. You might find IDIOT there.
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Whatever dude. You started it. You had to tell me I had anger issues. Why did you need to do that?
And now I'm done.
158-Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down.
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It also leads to diabetes and other health issues. That's why medicine is bitter, so people don't become addicted.
I am just a customer who loves the soap opera aspect of this blog. I am like to hear which store owners are bitches and the reasons designers supposedly left one store for another. Do I believe everything posted? Of course not. But I'm sure there are bits of truth here and there. Designers are slammed on here, but they know if their stuff sells or not. If you're doing OK, who cares what people on this blog think.
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Exactly.
160-I'm sure I'm not the first one in the world that told you about anger problems. Think about it--a sane person does not threaten to shoot a person over a stupid blog post.
152-Besides online classes, there are tuts on utube, also free classes available at several stores if you can't afford the classes at sites that charge. You can google subjects you're having problems with, and you can usually find an answer to your questions also.
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Yep, I am aware of all of that, thank you :) However, those places won't provide an enriching environment. You are just learning on your own, which is why I suggested classes.
Gennifer. Am a big fan of you and DHD and that will never change, DHD is a top notch store with designers that actually have formal training and crazy talent. This is what digital scrapbooking should be if any of you needed an example of how to design or how to run a great store. Hire the best talent and the customers will come and purchase their products regardless of the price. Success in this industry is all about location. You can choose to shop at Walmart or Neiman Marcus. It is all a matter of taste.
160-I'm sure I'm not the first one in the world that told you about anger problems. Think about it--a sane person does not threaten to shoot a person over a stupid blog post.
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Why does everyone take everything so literally? This is the problem. It was not meant seriously. It's just words, not real.
So now I have anger issues and I'm insane? Wow, just wow.
No wonder so many people get their panties in a wad. You can't just read it without reading other things into it.
Sometimes a post is just a post. Nothing more, nothing less.
165-They will buy if they can afford it. Sometimes it's a matter of pocketbook.
166-I'm glad to see that you really weren't ready to shoot anybody. Thank you.
If I post a negative review on Amazon, no one hunts me down and threatens me. If I am going to buy a product I read reviews first and then make a decision about the product. That is what I read this blog for, to see what people say and make my own decision about scrap products, stores, or designers. I am not sure why those like "we" seem to think digiscrap should be exempt from that process.
167- I would rather save up my money for something great than buy something that is less than what I want. but that is just me.
If I post a negative review on Amazon, no one hunts me down and threatens me. If I am going to buy a product I read reviews first and then make a decision about the product. That is what I read this blog for, to see what people say and make my own decision about scrap products, stores, or designers. I am not sure why those like "we" seem to think digiscrap should be exempt from that process.
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THIS. And smart companies read those reviews and improve their product. Or their customer service. Or even their attitude.
Aly is back. GREAT! At least she's anonymous this time.
170-167 here--believe me, I have plenty of very nice kits that I love. I've bought things at DHD (as I already stated). I wait for sales. But I do that in real life too, not just for digi products. That is the only way I can afford to buy things for my hobby. I'm far from public welfare, but I do watch my purchases. I don't shop at Neiman Marcus. I can't afford that either. I'm fine with that. I'm not complaining about my status in life. I'm satisfied with what God provides for my life. I live a simple life, and I love it.
173- Neiman is over-rated anyway. Just like some of these high priced kits. Not worth the money.
172-who do you think is Aly?
I don't shop at neimans either. Just an example. But I do believe in quality over quantity in everything I purchase.
175-Then I do the same as you. I buy the best quality I can afford. There is nothing that says just because you pay more for something though, that automatically means it's better. I buy the 7.00 kits when they are on sale for 1.00.
176- I love $1.00 sales. Guess I'm cheap.
I love when people talk about God on a smack blog. It's like claiming your a virgin while you work in a whorehouse.
Been gone for a while but
91 no...I did not call my own baby ugly. Lol.
172 I will never be anonymous, ever, I have nothing to hide!
178-I'm not a virgin, and I don't work in a whorehouse. I also haven't done any bashing.
Aly, I cried myself to sleep every night for a week when you said you didn't like how my name was spelled. And then I got over it. ;)
I don't like Aly spelled with an A.
182 it was a joke in the other post. No need for the sarcasm. It's not your fault your name is spelled that way. But I really do think the g looks weird.
183 neither do I
So Can I get my own post?
Even if u do close the blog, someone will start another one. People have no balls without being anonymous
People have no balls without being anonymous
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I don't like balls, they look weird on a girl.
Haa haa
Ok so here is a question for designers. I have been a designer for awhile and I just don't have the time for everything I need to do. I have a full time job and kids. It is hard to balance everything. For those who also work outside of the home how do you do it?
Gennifer ya that is stupid,who is stupid to spell there kids name that way anyway?
Most parents like to name their kids something different.
#190 Probably the same parents that taught you how to fucking type English. I see at least 4 mistakes in that run on sentence. If you're going to insult someone's intelligence, please try having some of your own before doing so.
BTW "ya" is short for YOU not YEAH.
192- Maybe they are from another country or better yet the south.
The typo police have arrived.
Hardly a typo when your entire sentence is for shit.
Too lazy to log in, but it's because Ginnifer Goodwin and I are practically twins. It's not just the name.
#189 I'm right there with you. Crumbling under all the things that need to get done in my real life and I never get to design ... but I really, really miss designing and then when I open photoshop it feels like a stranger because it's been so long. When I wasn't so busy in the real world I barely bother to CLOSE photoshop, now I can barely get it opened and then I just stare at it. It makes me sad.
189 - I've learned to live on very little sleep, and my house just isn't as spotless as it used to be.
Ditto. I've also got most of the takeout places on speed dial.
Oooh yes, digismacker, give aly her own post and then she might realize just how little everyone is interested.. there will be......crickets.....crickets and .....more crickets and we can carry on in the real threads and leave her to her own devices and own dramas.
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