I find it ironic that some of you think it's shitty for insiders to post confidential P&CO information here when Gen herself created this blog in the first place, knowing that confidential info from other stores had been posted on the old blog and would continue to be posted here in the future. You know what they say about karma...
You can exactly tell who is posting the confidential information, because nothing was leaked when they all left DHD. It's all those bossy bitches I used to sell with.
No matter which way you look at it, it would appear that P & C, was or is a toxic environment. I think these posts don't do anything to enhance the credibility of either side in this fiasco.
13. It is equally ironic that people here complain about confidential information being leaked when for the most part that is what they all seem to come here for, often even begging others to screen shot and share that very info.
From what I can see, there are two clear stories out there (and a lot of wild speculation mixed in): Either the designers screwed over Gen or Gen screwed over the designers. You can believe Gen or you can believe the designers--Your choice. But looking at it only from a numbers standpoint, we have a ratio of 14 to 1 here; 14 very different people, all saying that they were kicked out after having an open discussion with Gen about things Gen was not delivering. And a lot of us saw that with our own eyes on the forums. We're not hearing other wild tales about the breakup here, so I'm pretty sure we can believe that was the designer's experience. On the other hand, it seems like the people posting on Gen's behalf (or even Gen herself) are feeling loyal to her and angry about what happened to their friend. That's where it's just getting catty.
What I think is shitty is that Gen opened the floor for discussion with her team and then fired them all because she didn't like how it ended. She asked for input. Her team responded. She couldn't change things to meet their suggestions, so she told them flat out at the end of her post to let her know if they needed to leave. They took her at her word and decided to leave. Then she shot herself in the foot by giving them the boot. (I say shot herself in the foot because how is she going to keep her site alive after this? How can she pay for the site? These sites are expensive--that's why they close so often.)
If she didn't want to see this happen, she shouldn't have started the discussion and she shouldn't have told them to leave if they didn't like it. They were just taking her up on her offer. But her emotions got the best of her. It's all very sad, but at least we know that digi will go on and we will always have something entertaining going on!
19: I see Gen because I see little comments here and there that sound just like her. And more specifically: no one else in the industry says that designers pay 80% commission. Just Gen.
Who else cares that much about what happened to Gen but Gen? The rest of us are just watching the drama. But the angry people here, they sure do love to defend her! Just saying.
I can see why PCo got rid of the designers when they resigned (instead of letting them stay for 3 more weeks). Why would PCo want to have all those designers promoting their new site while still working at PCo? That could potentially take customers away.
You can exactly tell who is posting the confidential information, because nothing was leaked when they all left DHD. It's all those bossy bitches I used to sell with.
__________
Or maybe nothing was leaked when they all left DHD because their former owner didn't have a penchant for drama and a tendency to, oh, run the smack blog? This time around things are different obviously.
19: I see Gen because I see little comments here and there that sound just like her. And more specifically: no one else in the industry says that designers pay 80% commission. Just Gen.
__________
This is so true and so funny. Well done, 21. She's the only person I have ever met who doesn't understand the definition of the word commission, and she always uses it backwards.
24, and the booting drama isn't? Come on. Look whose side most people are on. I think it would have been beneficial for her to keep them for the transition. Things were way too abrupt...so people are all now itching for their items, desperate for their store to open, and they didn't have to have a retirement/rock bottom price sale. And she didn't get the final 3 weeks of commission.
Either way, what she did was shitty. She didn't tell them what she was doing, she just did it. From what I've heard, a lot of them woke up to find out their shops were gone. That's just rude. And I'm pretty sure what she did violated their contract, but I guess Gen didn't really care anymore.
As a digi-scrapping customer, this is the kind of thing that worries me. It seems clear that something was badly mishandled, but I don't really care who was to blame (and I know I'll never really know, anyway). What I care about is continued access to high-quality digi-scrapping supplies.
Can P&Co survive the loss of two-thirds of its designers? Can these designers make a go of their new online shop? We've seen so many places shut down in the past few years. When I see abrupt changes accompanied by cryptic promises of something newer and better, I am not optimistic.
What Gen asked is not unreasonable. You are store CT member and you get paid in product to do exactly what she asked. It's a business. Shit happens in business. You want things to be more professional? Act that way. Don't wait for someone else to act that way before you do. Honestly, I'd fire my whole CT if it was anyone from my team that shared a post like you did. There's plenty of talent out there to pull from. I'd start over rather than know someone on my team wasn't trustworthy or professional.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use?
Shit didn't work out, contracts weren't able to be negotiated the way everyone wanted. Oh fucking well. It happens every single day in business. People didn't behave perfectly? Someone made an emotional business decision? Oh my goodness, these people might actually be human! The freakin' nerve of them!!
There is a reason they didn't share with you. It's business and the behind the scenes part of these store owners and designers is really none of your business. Contrary to popular belief, no one owes you a fucking explanation. You get the option of reacting with your dollars. That is the way it works.
Can P&Co survive the loss of two-thirds of its designers? Can these designers make a go of their new online shop? We've seen so many places shut down in the past few years. When I see abrupt changes accompanied by cryptic promises of something newer and better, I am not optimistic.
_______
If P&Co had lost 5 designers and kept 14, nobody would question their ability to stay afloat and survive as a shop. So I don't think anyone needs to worry about the group of 14 who left together and are re-forming a shop as one group. They will survive and do fine. If they had been the ones to stay at P&Co nobody would even be talking about this. I think, however, that P&Co is going to be dead before the end of 2015. Stores can't survive with only 5 or 6 designers, and Gennifer is going to have a hard time getting anyone worth a damn to come to sell there after 14 people all left together. I wouldn't touch it with a 10 foot pole if she offered me a spot after watching that happen. Way too big of a red flag.
I think Meredith Cardall is moving to P&CO. She and Gennifer are friends IRL and I think she agreed to move a few weeks before this all happened. I wonder if she is reconsidering that decision now? I know I would after watching 14 people run in the other direction.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use?
----
How much time and energy did you devote to writing that drivel in post 34? Seems like you have a lot of emotional energy going into this matter yourself.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use? _____ We'll exert just as much time and energy as we feel like exerting. You sound like that twit Harper Finch..trying to dictate what people post and simultaneously reprimanding them. If we want to post til hell freezes over about this we will. Unfortunately, for you, you have absolutely NO control over it. Instead of typing some long self-serving post, kindly go piss up a rope.
I think, however, that P&Co is going to be dead before the end of 2015. ___ I'd say before the end of this year unless she's going to pull some magic out of her ass somehow.
I have a friend in real life who got a job at a competitor of his current employer and gave his current employer 6 weeks notice. They decided to let him go that day instead. It's not unusual and even my friend said it was a good business decision. When someone who you highly value is moving to your competition, that is a big threat to your business and you have to take steps.
Where I live, employees give notice and the employer has the option to say 'no thanks, leave now' but they have to pay out the two weeks. If it was something that only happened in the digiscrap world (as suggested in a previous post) it wouldn't be written into labor laws. It probably happens all around you, it's just not talked about.
I would guess Meredith is going to P&Co or to the new store since she's announcing Black Friday as well.
I find it interesting how many posts state that Gen was right to just kick them out. Meredith is having a leaving sale, her store wasn't just closed.
Personally, as a customer, I am leery of P&Co. After all, 14 is a lot of change, and to say on top of it that "changes for P&Co are in store", but I won't know for 2 more weeks? Honestly, it sounds like scrambling. And I'm glad I couldn't shop DSD weekend. I would be frustrated, as people in the forums are, to have to chase designers to get my products. That's not fair to your customer base.
I don't have a problem with Gen kicking out the designers once she knew they were going to open a new store. My problem is that she did it with no notice. Waking up to find your store gone is just not acceptable. At the very least she could have allowed them time to run sales reports through xcart.
46 - they aren't chasing anyone for their products. You can't see their storefronts anymore but all of the product zips are still stored on the website and accessible to those who bought products to download.
The bottom line here is that any time 14 designers out of 20 all decide to leave a shop at the same exact time, there's a good reason and it isn't usually pretty on the store owner's side of things.
Women might be emotional at times and not make great business decisions because of it, but there's no way that 14 people all acted in haste and caused themselves so much trouble and drama unless there was something really unacceptable about their situation at Pixels & Co.
I'm 100% with the poster above who said they wouldn't touch that place with a ten foot pole as a designer in the future. Too many red flags.
they aren't chasing anyone for their products. You can't see their storefronts anymore but all of the product zips are still stored on the website and accessible to those who bought products to download. _____
55, Anyone who paid attention to the original announcement would know that, because that's exactly what the announcement said: all your previously purchased download links would be available to the 30th.
I find it ironic that some of you think it's shitty for insiders to post confidential P&CO information here when Gen herself created this blog in the first place, knowing that confidential info from other stores had been posted on the old blog and would continue to be posted here in the future. You know what they say about karma... Nov 13, 2014, 4:22:00 PM
Exactly. What goes around has finally come back around to Gennifer.
While I'm not a fan of a couple of the designers that jumped ship, I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events.
ITA with those who say that P&Co won't be able to survive much longer. I certainly wouldn't want to move over there after this fiasco.
Exactly. What goes around has finally come back around to Gennifer. _ Oh, get off your sanctimonious high horse, you bitch. Unless you're perfect, and we ALL know from your post, you are not, it might be wise to be respectful and attentive to your own karma.
While I'm not a fan of a couple of the designers that jumped ship __ My guess is the feeling is quite mutual from the sound of your post. Hell, I can't stand you and I've only read a few lines from you. Dealing with you in a social or business setting must be a real treat.
ITA with those who say that P&Co won't be able to survive much longer. I certainly wouldn't want to move over there after this fiasco. ______ Again, my guess is the feeling is mutual.
Shit didn't work out, contracts weren't able to be negotiated the way everyone wanted. Oh fucking well. It happens every single day in business. _________ It does NOT happen every single day where three quarters of the business staff walk out. You're high if you think this is the norm.
I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events. ___
I call bullshit on this. I've been reading the smack blog for years and haven't ever seen anything bad about her here. I haven't worked with her myself, but a few of my friends have and didn't say anything bad, either. When someone is a bitch, we know it here on the blog. Word gets out.
If Gennifer spent half as much time running her shop professionally as she does hanging out here and attempting to defend herself, things would be a lot different at P&Co right now.
I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events. ___
I second the calling of bullshit. I've worked with Gen for years, she's always been a pleasure. I'll believe in glittery unicorns before I believe this.
As for P&Co... bottom line - people couldn't agree on something - THAT happens every day. So, everybody got their ball and went home. I don't give a shit why. I like designers for their work, I don't care if they "play well with others". I hope everyone involved feels positive moving forward, and fares well.
Anyone who thinks Gennifer didn't act based on emotion and that her story about closing those designers' shoppes was a sound business decision because they were leaving to go start a competitive site is missing something important: the very day that she did this, before she had even closed down their shoppes, she unfriended every one of them on facebook. She also never responded to their resignation, and most of them haven't heard from her since. If you think that's taking the professional high road and looking out for your business in the face of competition, you're seriously high.
Just because emotions played a part in the decision, doesn't mean that automatically makes it the wrong decision. Lots of things go into making a decision. Maybe certain other things could have been handled a lot better from the sounds of it, including the execution, but that still doesn't mean it was the wrong decision.
If Gennifer unfriended people, it probably has more to do with this specific situation than the fact that they left PCO. I'm friends with her on FB and she's still friends with other designers who left.
74 - yes I bet that is what it was. I mean who ever thinks that so many people would leave at one time? It's unheard of for the most part.
Also, 71 & 73, you just made 70's point for her. It's exactly right that Gennifer is still friends with other designers who have left. She has also let other designers who have left for other shops stay for 2 weeks, and have departure sales. Don't be fooled, this has nothing to do with people leaving to become her competition. That's happened before, and she's never acted like such a psycho about it. This has completely to do with what 74 just said. Her ego took a hit when 14 people decided to tell her to shove off.
Facebook is 100% a business site, and has nothing to do with anyone's personal life. *eyeroll* ------ If you truly believe this, you're dumber than dumb. NOTHING could be further from the truth.
I've seen Gen act ugly-and not just in her shoppe. __ If she was acting so "ugly" why would you subject yourself to her presence? Are you not an adult and have free will?
55, Anyone who paid attention to the original announcement would know that, because that's exactly what the announcement said: all your previously purchased download links would be available to the 30th. Nov 17, 2014, 4:20:00 PM
Except: There are customers (Facebook and the forums) complaining that either their grab bag, or their download links aren't working. And so far, every newsletter I have received from a leaving designer has stated: If you are having a problem with your downloads, here's the best way to contact me. Just because the claim is there that it is working, doesn't mean it actually is.
^I guess you really have to want to be on the team! And my opinion is that designers get to decide what hoops they want applicants to jump through to join CTs. If someone doesn't like it, then they don't have to apply. And if the designer makes the hoops too difficult, then they won't have any applicants. But I don't think VP will have any problems.
I think a lot of the designers have been focusing on their Farmer's Market $1 releases for next week. __________________________________________________ I would guess so as well. It's always slow the week before a big sale. Every store is usually slow the week before DSD.
83, are you shocked by her request for uploading 3 layouts as your application to the call, or by the requirement to scrap 3 layouts per month if you are accepted as a guest? Or maybe you are put off by the fact that you have to apply publicly?
I'm wondering a little bit at her 3 layouts/month requirement for guest CT spots, but only a 1 layout/month for the permanent member - I've never seen a guest CT spot that required MORE layouts than a permanent spot. Although, it does say she asks the permanent member to advertise on their own blog/sites, so maybe that is a big factor for her.
But I think that her $100 voucher for the guest spots, in addition to new products, is very generous. If you are a fan of hers, it sounds like a great opportunity.
If you are a fan of hers, it sounds like a great opportunity. ------- I've never been a fan and have never understood the attraction to her work. I deleted her CRAP from the digifiles as soon as I saw it. Awful.
I'm 83. It's the 100% three layout to a public gallery that's the snag for me. I agree with you, if you're a fan it's an amazing opportunity! It's the risk of public rejection that is the deterrent. (As well as scrapping three fresh, new VP layouts if you don't already have them in your gallery.). I avoided SSD's call for the same reason, although the SSD call seemed like more of a popularity contest. Maybe VP is trying to beef up her gallery??
Nobody is even going to notice or care if you are rejected. I wouldn't allow the public aspect keep you from it. Create something you love and it will be worth it even if you don't make the team.
Personally I see no difference at all between a designer leaving to go to another store that already exists, and a designer leaving to go to a store that's being built as the designer leaves. Either way, that designer is leaving to go to a new opportunity that is in direct competition with the store she is leaving.
Don't fool yourselves, because acting as though these designers are doing anything other than what all designers do all the time is just blatantly wrong.
Gennifer should be ashamed of herself for treating these people any differently than she treated Amber Shaw when she left P&C for SSD, or Stolen Moments and Just Jaimee when they left for TLP, or any other designer who has ever left any store for another store. Anyone who thinks her freak out wasn't an emotional act due to the anger of having her entire team tell her to fuck off, isn't thinking clearly.
95, those AS and JJ didn't tell her to "f" off. They were simply moving to another store. They weren't requesting change, they were just moving on. Do you see how the circumstances are different?
I don't think Gennifer has anything to be ashamed about. It's her business and she doesn't have to treat everyone equally especially if the circumstances are different. Acting out of emotions is ok. Even store owners are human. Although, now she has some consequences to deal with because of her decision.
It seems the other designers that have left have moved on, why can't you? There's no need to fight for their cause.
93: if you look at the videos you'll see the two classes are very different. Traci's has 31 different scrappers scrapping 31 layouts so I view it as more of an idea book. Kelly's is geared more towards those who're in a rush to finish an album/ too busy to scrap from scratch. The class includes quick pages and such I think. Just pick what suits your needs.
Don't ever take advice (especially about SSD and/or Traci Reed) on this blog to be objective. It's a bunch of opinionated women who rarely take skill or talent into consideration when they're voicing what they think about a store or designer. If they would cite examples or specifics, maybe they'd be taken seriously but they never do. It's ALWAYS personal and NEVER objective.
93 - I'd take Traci's coz it looks like there'll be 31 ideas, sample layouts & tutorials included in the classes. Plus a collection of DYD kit. Would make scrapping Dec Daily a breeze.
102, it really depends on what colors and style you like. There isn't a BEST kit out there. It's subjective to your personal taste and what photos you take.
And we aren't your personal shoppers. Quit being lazy and go shop for yourself.
I have the same feeling as some previous commenters and I am really starting to think that P&CO will close down even before 2015. Why haven't they shared anything, not even a spoiler or something, about the "NEWS"? They are supposed to go live by Nov 28th.
I also think that the 14 designers are in a stronger position that P&CO right now.
I think P&Co has a chance even without adding designers. Remember it cost more in server and bandwidth space to support extra designers. If they reduce those costs and start releasing new products regularly, then they do have a chance to stay in business even without adding new designers. Same great designers remain at that store and there's no reason they can't make a go of it. They won't be a hugely popular store but sort-of along the lines of a designer's private store.
I don't see the point in comparing positions of the new store to P&Co. They can go bust too based on the same things above. (I hope they don't, though.) It's happen with stores full of popular designers. Remember 9th & Bloom, Funky Play Ground, Plain Digital Wrapper?
I'm sorry 107, but I'm kinda new to Digi-scrap. I agree with you, there are still some great designers in P&CO, Deena Rutter, for example, I think she's successful and her monthly kit is lovely and Gennifer kits too, they're lovely. They should do something to attract customers though, sharing sneak peaks or little hints or something.
Whatever happened at P&C, it has created a feeding frenzy for the ousted designer's new store that is opening on Black Friday. I am sure that is not what Gennifer would have wished for. They are marketing this situation to its fullest. They will be more successful than P&C however long either of them remain open. It certainly feels like DHD Deja Vu. I would not be surprised that the leaks of information about how they were mistreated was not strategic in light of them opening a new store. Bravo. Well played.
No, 110. I just know something about running a store. Small scale doesn't mean they are doomed. They don't have much of a chance if the current designers follow their trend of not releasing new items regularly. They will have to change their game plan and work harder. They have to make it happen since they don't have the broader support of other designers' releases and advertising.
So, just saying, but it's November 25th and we don't know anything yet. *UHM* _________ Well..since the announcement is projected to be on Black Friday, I'd say there's really nothing unusual about it not being made yet.
Well..since the announcement is projected to be on Black Friday, I'd say there's really nothing unusual about it not being made yet. _______
Of course, you are right, the whole P&CO announcement will come on Black Friday, but I expected some sort of sneak peak or tease or something that made me want to check out on the day, something like the video that the Escaping Designers shared last week :)
Remember one of the terms that the designers wanted changed was an advertising budget. The ball continues to be dropped on that one. Even though nothing has been promised until Friday, the silence is boring.
Remember one of the terms that the designers wanted changed was an advertising budget. The ball continues to be dropped on that one. Even though nothing has been promised until Friday, the silence is boring.
________
I do agree with you #116, the silence is super boring. Gen or someone of entourage / her CT could write something on Facebook at least -.-
I CT for a designer that released nothing on DSD, she only did the storewide sale and the FB train of the store (with no post on her wall!). Now she's releasing one kit for Black Friday. And now I see Bella Gypsy is having 20 new products, while Kristin Aagard 4 new kits. I guess some designers take it more seriously than mine does.
waiting to see if there are going to be any amazing deals for Black Friday. I only purchased a few items on DSD waiting for this, hoping I can shorten some of my wish lists this weekend.
it will be all the usual ones and before anyone makes a comment about me being jealous etc., I have no intention of applying not because I don't think I'm worthy. I used to do quite a bit of CTing, designer and stores but walked away as I was feeling chained to my computer and far prefer scrapping when I want, what I want and how I want. The free stuff just wasn't worth it any longer.
I'm with you 127. I know just what you mean about being chained to a computer and I don't think it's worth it either. I'm on several teams and apart from one lovely, appreciative designer I'm lucky to get a thank you, must less any positive (or otherwise) feedback!
I'm debating applying for the CT, but the short timeline of the call (opened yesterday, Thanksgiving and Black Friday to boot) with deadline for Sunday and "Must be able to work on short deadlines" makes me a bit hesitant - Is this the sort of timelines they're going to expect if one does get a place? (And I'm not saying I will, I'm just intrigued) If so, it feels like 127 and 128 said - chained to a computer and you have to be able to live life in order to get photos to scrap in the first place. Hmm..
I'm debating applying for the CT, but the short timeline of the call (opened yesterday, Thanksgiving and Black Friday to boot) with deadline for Sunday and "Must be able to work on short deadlines" makes me a bit hesitant - Is this the sort of timelines they're going to expect if one does get a place? (And I'm not saying I will, I'm just intrigued) If so, it feels like 127 and 128 said - chained to a computer and you have to be able to live life in order to get photos to scrap in the first place. Hmm..
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How much time do you need to fill out an application? Doesn't seem like it would take that long.
131 - sure, that's fair - its not that I expect CT's to be massively flexible, I think 3-4 days is normally is fair, and that's the policy of my current CT - This current deadline seems short, with the big holidays (but only for US, and not international crowds thinking about it), perhaps illuminating of further problems down the line. But I think you're right, I think I will give this one a miss and it is good they don't spring the short deadlines on you, that would really suck.
132 - The below (from their link) would take me 2-3 hours to do a proper application with tweaks etc, but that may just be me and my approach:
"Your application should include:
Your name and user name The position you are applying for Your qualifications for the position A link to your most complete gallery Links to at least 3 articles or tutorials you have written A list of your current creative teams Reasons why you want to join our team Any bribes and/or sweet-talking, chocolate and/or ice cream, and general awesome sucking-up you believe will help us get to know you better"
So I think it's a pretty intense application. I think a few more days would potentially give more candidates chances to demonstrate their best but I'm sure they'll have more calls at a later date.
Hope you guys have a lovely weekend if you are/aren't celebrating!
Sheesh, 133! That's nothing. Do you expect them to just hand it out to people for just sending in a gallery? Some teams require you to scrap for them. That's just answering some questions. You've spent more time complaining about it here than it would take you to apply.
Yep #134 Miss Tiina at the Digital Press and two new-to-me designers at P&CO. P&Co is having a sale, some kits are 2$, but I actually expected some new releases, BORIIIING :C
Well ... I see where all of my shopping budget is going this weekend. The Digital Press with 60% is going to get the biggest chunk for sure. I already knew I'd love the designers since I bought from most of them while @ p&co. Great start ladies!
I too will be hitting The Digital Press. I had an EHD fail while I was backing up to another EHD (extra backup) so I can replace some of the kits that weren't copied over. I will probably hit up TLP and have a see if SO has anything that I have to have in their Farmers Market.
It is kind of interesting to read some people saying that a store owner should not feel ok having designers be in their store while opening another store, and so on, and now, Gennifer is letting a a store owner in her store. Following that previous reasoning, shouldn't it be odd to have a designer in your own store who already OWNS another store? I guess Gennifer does not feel the same!
140, many store owners don't have a problem with designers having their own personal stores. That's different than owning your own consignment store which is in direct competition.
Unfortunately, for me Digital Press is so slow it is virtually a no go at the moment. Just to get a page up takes me about 3 minutes. I know they are working on it, so I'll come back in a day or so.
What a let down from P&C! No big announcement about 'going forward'. I feel today was Gennifer's chance to regain some credibility, but that hasn't happened.
It's late in the day for a Black Friday announcement. It's almost over. What the hell is taking so long? I want to know how they are going to change how I think about digital scrapbooking. This late, it should be BIG.
I don't see how you can say TDP is strong......it just opened!! I can't even get onto the site (forum or the store) it just times out. I don't think they did their cause any good by opening before they had all their ducks in a row. I notice the gallery is still to come sometime in the future. After all the fantastic marketing lead up, I can't help but feel slightly disappointed right now.
I'm guessing the price won't be impressive 150. Most of the stuff already in the shop at P&Co is overpriced anyway, this probably won't be any different.
And from reading that newsletter, it sounds like it's turning into a paid site. All of the benefits and things you got before for free, you have to subscribe to get now.
Yup, the subscription thing is not new, but I honestly like the pocket life cards in the Dec subscription. I also like the Pocket subscription at the Lilypad.
I didn't have any problems opening the pages at Digital press. Maybe they are too busy to load. I bought a couple of things, but probably won't be buying much there. Looks like same old same old to me.
I'm interested in the subscription. I can see how it's not particularly revolutionary but that it's a grab bag with designers you know and trust. I imagine there will be more perks for the subscription. I spend there at least once or twice monthly...so I'm sure it will have enough perks for my liking.
Is there anywhere to read about it other than the newsletter? I'm not a subscriber and I don't see anything on their site about it. The blog hasn't been updated in almost a month, and nothing in the forums.
They're doing a horrible job of promoting it but they did share some info in the newsletter yesterday. As #166 said, it's overpriced. $17.50/month for three months to $12.50/month for 12 months for the base kit. Journal/filler card pack sold separately ($13/50/month for 3 months, $10.50/month for 12 months). Too expensive all around and I doubt they'll still be around in 12 months.
Doesn't matter 168. It seems like Gen is heavily relying on this to keep the store going (because my guess is that after what happened, no one really wants to sell there). There aren't enough designers to keep the store going and I don't think this subscription thing is going to sell as well as she's hoping, so I have to agree with 167. P&Co is more than likely done.
Just curious 170, how long has it been? I ask because they've only been open for 5 days so I HIGHLY doubt you have anything to be 'NOT impressed' about.
I think they should promote the P&Co subscription better, it's a great product, but they are not advertising / pushing it. I really hope that someone subscribed to it. TDP designers, instead, are super strong on marketing, they keep on posting on FB and stuff like that BUT people are complaining about their service.
It seems that Sweet Shoppe is the only site offering daily downloads for Christmas this year.
P&Co pocket sub = 38 cards, unsure if they are in both orientations or not TLP pocket sub = 30 cards all in both orientations, 86 elements, 1 template, 1 alpha in 3 styles I do not see "way more" being offered by P&Co, despite it costing more.
I didn't really look at the kit at all since I like dimensional elements on my non-pocket pages and none of the designers besides Gen and Mere have any clue how to do those. They do papers and cards well. 3D stuff, no.
I haven't been impressed with the customer service at TDP, but as you say 172, it's still early, so "not impressed" is pretty standard and a far cry from disappointment. I was surprised they didn't have any obvious forum or contact form or something for CS issues, but I'm up for giving them slack since they had to throw a whole store together quite quickly.
P&Co pocket sub = 38 cards, unsure if they are in both orientations or not TLP pocket sub = 30 cards all in both orientations, 86 elements, 1 template, 1 alpha in 3 styles I do not see "way more" being offered by P&Co, despite it costing more.
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I was talking about the papers in that case, not about the number of cards. You are right, they do papers well, very well.
O Scraps is kinda doing one. I have gotten free templates in the last couple of days. Hopefully, that's not the entire color scheme of SO's. SSD's only download (Day 2) so far was great. JJ and Mommyish's have been good so far too. JJ did an awesome one last year. The Digital Press has shaped up (running wise) in the last few days and several downloads later, I can say buying and receiving from them went off without a hitch. P & CO, sadly, doesn't appeal to me any longer.
By the look of SSD's kit, it is huge so the one download shouldn't be missed that much. It was some doodles, a few papers and something else. I have it saved on another computer and can't remember.
I would never buy the TLP project life subscription because of the rip-off queen Sahlin Studio. But I agree P&Co is going to have a hard time surviving on an unoriginal subscription idea.
I think P&CO offers an expensive subscription without addons, while TLP subscription is cheaper but there are seven hundred add-ons to make you spend more. I think I like the P&Co better, but they must improve their marketing.
192, I also like the TLP memory pockets add-ons, but I didn't really see enough variety in the sets to be able to put together a kit-like collection at a reasonable price. I wish they had more kit-like element sets (with a good variety of pieces). I loved the colors and themes of both sets, but I've passed on buying any of them.
Jealous of what? Not that you'll believe me but I didn't apply. I never apply for CTs. I don't want to be a CT because I can afford to buy my products and prefer to scrap on my own schedule. They aren't even worth the gossip.
If you think CTs play a role in the community, then you might be interested in who is on site CTs. I think I see names that are also on TDP designer teams, some that appear to have left P&Co team, and some people who participated in Cropped. So I guess no real surprises there.
Even if they play a role in the community, they are just unknown online people that can create lovely layouts that make me want to buy product. It's just a list of random names to me. I either like the vibe of the website or I don't but it is rarely based on individuals, rather a collective feeling. I don't know too many stores that select CT based on their interaction with the online community. They usually choose them for their creativity. I guess those who are still focusing on the popularity factor would have an interest in "who's who" of digital scrapbooking.
I was #3. I see your point, 4, about teams being picked based on creativity and not their interaction in the community. I've seen a lot of CT layouts that have a pretty picture, pretty products, and no story. And I suppose some customers are just looking at the products and not really paying attention to the content (families, stories, etc) of the example layouts.
I'm on a few CTs, and I see layouts made by the same people over and over, and I often get a feeling of "getting to know them" even to the point of recognizing their children in a layout before even seeing who made it. I like that part of scrapbooking.
I think you are right, too, about the overall vibe of a site. I think the "vibe" is going to be most directly related to the strength of the leadership at that site, and what the leaders value, and how they dictate tasks to the team. But I also think that the individuals (CTMs) will have a part in that too, although a smaller part.
I don't think it's just about popularity. I'm interested in who is on CTs because I'm interested in people in general. Some of them might be my "digi friends." Some of them might be people that I've formed a poor opinion of because of forum interactions, etc. People watching is interesting and fun.
I recognized most of the names on the TDP CT as being people already on other CTs. I don't know that it's all about popularity or whatever, but I don't think it's *just* about the lovely layouts. Some of the people who seem to get picked for every team don't stand out to me more than other scrappers. It's not that they aren't good, it's just there are plenty of other good scrappers that don't get on teams. Whether it's community interaction, or having proven their advertising worth on other teams, or what, I think there's just more to it. (And no, I'm not jealous or upset or anything. Just observing.)
I want to do a shout out to Just Jaimee. I was rejected from her CT but she took her time to provide an answer and explain the reasons for her choice. That is, in my opinion, a professional behavior and I respect that.
I agree with #7. It's similar to what happens when companies are hiring. Sometimes it isn't necessarily what you know or how well you do it but who you know.
4015 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 2801 – 3000 of 4015 Newer› Newest»"There were people signing up for dec/jan promotions during the weekend, in an attempt to keep me from knowing"
9, where did you read "all"?
I find it ironic that some of you think it's shitty for insiders to post confidential P&CO information here when Gen herself created this blog in the first place, knowing that confidential info from other stores had been posted on the old blog and would continue to be posted here in the future. You know what they say about karma...
You can exactly tell who is posting the confidential information, because nothing was leaked when they all left DHD. It's all those bossy bitches I used to sell with.
No matter which way you look at it, it would appear that P & C, was or is a toxic environment. I think these posts don't do anything to enhance the credibility of either side in this fiasco.
13. It is equally ironic that people here complain about confidential information being leaked when for the most part that is what they all seem to come here for, often even begging others to screen shot and share that very info.
16-they are probably not the same people.
And it's not irony.
The thing I find hilarious about reading over these posts is how often Gen is showing up and revealing herself.
The thing I find hilarious about reading over these posts are the morons that think they know who is posting.
From what I can see, there are two clear stories out there (and a lot of wild speculation mixed in): Either the designers screwed over Gen or Gen screwed over the designers. You can believe Gen or you can believe the designers--Your choice. But looking at it only from a numbers standpoint, we have a ratio of 14 to 1 here; 14 very different people, all saying that they were kicked out after having an open discussion with Gen about things Gen was not delivering. And a lot of us saw that with our own eyes on the forums. We're not hearing other wild tales about the breakup here, so I'm pretty sure we can believe that was the designer's experience. On the other hand, it seems like the people posting on Gen's behalf (or even Gen herself) are feeling loyal to her and angry about what happened to their friend. That's where it's just getting catty.
What I think is shitty is that Gen opened the floor for discussion with her team and then fired them all because she didn't like how it ended. She asked for input. Her team responded. She couldn't change things to meet their suggestions, so she told them flat out at the end of her post to let her know if they needed to leave. They took her at her word and decided to leave. Then she shot herself in the foot by giving them the boot. (I say shot herself in the foot because how is she going to keep her site alive after this? How can she pay for the site? These sites are expensive--that's why they close so often.)
If she didn't want to see this happen, she shouldn't have started the discussion and she shouldn't have told them to leave if they didn't like it. They were just taking her up on her offer. But her emotions got the best of her. It's all very sad, but at least we know that digi will go on and we will always have something entertaining going on!
19: I see Gen because I see little comments here and there that sound just like her. And more specifically: no one else in the industry says that designers pay 80% commission. Just Gen.
Who else cares that much about what happened to Gen but Gen? The rest of us are just watching the drama. But the angry people here, they sure do love to defend her! Just saying.
Well said No. 20!
so who am I, 21?
I can see why PCo got rid of the designers when they resigned (instead of letting them stay for 3 more weeks). Why would PCo want to have all those designers promoting their new site while still working at PCo? That could potentially take customers away.
You can exactly tell who is posting the confidential information, because nothing was leaked when they all left DHD. It's all those bossy bitches I used to sell with.
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Or maybe nothing was leaked when they all left DHD because their former owner didn't have a penchant for drama and a tendency to, oh, run the smack blog? This time around things are different obviously.
19: I see Gen because I see little comments here and there that sound just like her. And more specifically: no one else in the industry says that designers pay 80% commission. Just Gen.
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This is so true and so funny. Well done, 21. She's the only person I have ever met who doesn't understand the definition of the word commission, and she always uses it backwards.
Who was the owner of DHD when they left for P&Co?
24, and the booting drama isn't? Come on. Look whose side most people are on. I think it would have been beneficial for her to keep them for the transition. Things were way too abrupt...so people are all now itching for their items, desperate for their store to open, and they didn't have to have a retirement/rock bottom price sale. And she didn't get the final 3 weeks of commission.
Yea. Shot herself in the foot.
Either way, what she did was shitty. She didn't tell them what she was doing, she just did it. From what I've heard, a lot of them woke up to find out their shops were gone. That's just rude. And I'm pretty sure what she did violated their contract, but I guess Gen didn't really care anymore.
29- agreed.
Wow are Gen and Kami one in the same?
they are supposedly friends. . .
As a digi-scrapping customer, this is the kind of thing that worries me. It seems clear that something was badly mishandled, but I don't really care who was to blame (and I know I'll never really know, anyway). What I care about is continued access to high-quality digi-scrapping supplies.
Can P&Co survive the loss of two-thirds of its designers? Can these designers make a go of their new online shop? We've seen so many places shut down in the past few years. When I see abrupt changes accompanied by cryptic promises of something newer and better, I am not optimistic.
192-
What Gen asked is not unreasonable. You are store CT member and you get paid in product to do exactly what she asked. It's a business. Shit happens in business. You want things to be more professional? Act that way. Don't wait for someone else to act that way before you do. Honestly, I'd fire my whole CT if it was anyone from my team that shared a post like you did. There's plenty of talent out there to pull from. I'd start over rather than know someone on my team wasn't trustworthy or professional.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use?
Shit didn't work out, contracts weren't able to be negotiated the way everyone wanted. Oh fucking well. It happens every single day in business. People didn't behave perfectly? Someone made an emotional business decision? Oh my goodness, these people might actually be human! The freakin' nerve of them!!
There is a reason they didn't share with you. It's business and the behind the scenes part of these store owners and designers is really none of your business. Contrary to popular belief, no one owes you a fucking explanation. You get the option of reacting with your dollars. That is the way it works.
^^
Wow, someone certainly seems angry, wonder who . . . ?
Like we need to guess.
It's ridiculous to assume you know who anyone is.
Wow 34 needs to take a Xanax.
Can P&Co survive the loss of two-thirds of its designers? Can these designers make a go of their new online shop? We've seen so many places shut down in the past few years. When I see abrupt changes accompanied by cryptic promises of something newer and better, I am not optimistic.
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If P&Co had lost 5 designers and kept 14, nobody would question their ability to stay afloat and survive as a shop. So I don't think anyone needs to worry about the group of 14 who left together and are re-forming a shop as one group. They will survive and do fine. If they had been the ones to stay at P&Co nobody would even be talking about this. I think, however, that P&Co is going to be dead before the end of 2015. Stores can't survive with only 5 or 6 designers, and Gennifer is going to have a hard time getting anyone worth a damn to come to sell there after 14 people all left together. I wouldn't touch it with a 10 foot pole if she offered me a spot after watching that happen. Way too big of a red flag.
I think Meredith Cardall is moving to P&CO. She and Gennifer are friends IRL and I think she agreed to move a few weeks before this all happened. I wonder if she is reconsidering that decision now? I know I would after watching 14 people run in the other direction.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use?
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How much time and energy did you devote to writing that drivel in post 34? Seems like you have a lot of emotional energy going into this matter yourself.
For me, this is just entertainment.
Maybe Meredith is the mystery designer at the new store.
To the rest of you, how much time and energy are going to devote to the gossip before moving on? What the hell does all this have to do with your scrapbook pages, other than knowing where to buy product you like to use?
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We'll exert just as much time and energy as we feel like exerting. You sound like that twit Harper Finch..trying to dictate what people post and simultaneously reprimanding them. If we want to post til hell freezes over about this we will. Unfortunately, for you, you have absolutely NO control over it. Instead of typing some long self-serving post, kindly go piss up a rope.
I think, however, that P&Co is going to be dead before the end of 2015.
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I'd say before the end of this year unless she's going to pull some magic out of her ass somehow.
I have a friend in real life who got a job at a competitor of his current employer and gave his current employer 6 weeks notice. They decided to let him go that day instead. It's not unusual and even my friend said it was a good business decision. When someone who you highly value is moving to your competition, that is a big threat to your business and you have to take steps.
Where I live, employees give notice and the employer has the option to say 'no thanks, leave now' but they have to pay out the two weeks. If it was something that only happened in the digiscrap world (as suggested in a previous post) it wouldn't be written into labor laws. It probably happens all around you, it's just not talked about.
I would guess Meredith is going to P&Co or to the new store since she's announcing Black Friday as well.
I find it interesting how many posts state that Gen was right to just kick them out. Meredith is having a leaving sale, her store wasn't just closed.
Personally, as a customer, I am leery of P&Co. After all, 14 is a lot of change, and to say on top of it that "changes for P&Co are in store", but I won't know for 2 more weeks? Honestly, it sounds like scrambling. And I'm glad I couldn't shop DSD weekend. I would be frustrated, as people in the forums are, to have to chase designers to get my products. That's not fair to your customer base.
Can P&Co survive the loss of two-thirds of its designers?
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No.
Maybe Meredith is the mystery designer at the new store.
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I was thinking Just Jaimee
I don't have a problem with Gen kicking out the designers once she knew they were going to open a new store. My problem is that she did it with no notice. Waking up to find your store gone is just not acceptable. At the very least she could have allowed them time to run sales reports through xcart.
Who says she didn't? Just because a store isn't visible to customers doesn't mean that they don't have full access in the back end.
I'm with 48. She's got a few friends in that group of 14. I bet if they asked her to, she'd join them.
46 - they aren't chasing anyone for their products. You can't see their storefronts anymore but all of the product zips are still stored on the website and accessible to those who bought products to download.
50 - Exactly
Oh Gen it's so cute to see you post as 50 and then agree with yourself as 52. You twat.
The bottom line here is that any time 14 designers out of 20 all decide to leave a shop at the same exact time, there's a good reason and it isn't usually pretty on the store owner's side of things.
Women might be emotional at times and not make great business decisions because of it, but there's no way that 14 people all acted in haste and caused themselves so much trouble and drama unless there was something really unacceptable about their situation at Pixels & Co.
I'm 100% with the poster above who said they wouldn't touch that place with a ten foot pole as a designer in the future. Too many red flags.
they aren't chasing anyone for their products. You can't see their storefronts anymore but all of the product zips are still stored on the website and accessible to those who bought products to download.
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How on earth would you know that? Oh...
55, Anyone who paid attention to the original announcement would know that, because that's exactly what the announcement said: all your previously purchased download links would be available to the 30th.
I find it ironic that some of you think it's shitty for insiders to post confidential P&CO information here when Gen herself created this blog in the first place, knowing that confidential info from other stores had been posted on the old blog and would continue to be posted here in the future. You know what they say about karma...
Nov 13, 2014, 4:22:00 PM
Exactly. What goes around has finally come back around to Gennifer.
While I'm not a fan of a couple of the designers that jumped ship, I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events.
ITA with those who say that P&Co won't be able to survive much longer. I certainly wouldn't want to move over there after this fiasco.
Exactly. What goes around has finally come back around to Gennifer.
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Oh, get off your sanctimonious high horse, you bitch. Unless you're perfect, and we ALL know from your post, you are not, it might be wise to be respectful and attentive to your own karma.
While I'm not a fan of a couple of the designers that jumped ship
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My guess is the feeling is quite mutual from the sound of your post. Hell, I can't stand you and I've only read a few lines from you. Dealing with you in a social or business setting must be a real treat.
ITA with those who say that P&Co won't be able to survive much longer. I certainly wouldn't want to move over there after this fiasco.
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Again, my guess is the feeling is mutual.
Shit didn't work out, contracts weren't able to be negotiated the way everyone wanted. Oh fucking well. It happens every single day in business.
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It does NOT happen every single day where three quarters of the business staff walk out. You're high if you think this is the norm.
lol, Gen sure is touchy lately!
I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events.
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THIS. She's a nasty bitch.
I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events.
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I call bullshit on this. I've been reading the smack blog for years and haven't ever seen anything bad about her here. I haven't worked with her myself, but a few of my friends have and didn't say anything bad, either. When someone is a bitch, we know it here on the blog. Word gets out.
If 14 out of 19 or 20 designers leaving isn't a big enough clue for you, 64, then whatever.
If Gennifer spent half as much time running her shop professionally as she does hanging out here and attempting to defend herself, things would be a lot different at P&Co right now.
I have seen Gennifer act ugly way too much to believe her version of events.
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I second the calling of bullshit. I've worked with Gen for years, she's always been a pleasure. I'll believe in glittery unicorns before I believe this.
As for P&Co... bottom line - people couldn't agree on something - THAT happens every day. So, everybody got their ball and went home. I don't give a shit why. I like designers for their work, I don't care if they "play well with others". I hope everyone involved feels positive moving forward, and fares well.
I've seen Gen act ugly-and not just in her shoppe.
What goes around has finally come back around to Gennifer.
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Yep, and it's certainly deserved.
Anyone who thinks Gennifer didn't act based on emotion and that her story about closing those designers' shoppes was a sound business decision because they were leaving to go start a competitive site is missing something important: the very day that she did this, before she had even closed down their shoppes, she unfriended every one of them on facebook. She also never responded to their resignation, and most of them haven't heard from her since. If you think that's taking the professional high road and looking out for your business in the face of competition, you're seriously high.
Facebook is 100% a business site, and has nothing to do with anyone's personal life. *eyeroll*
Just because emotions played a part in the decision, doesn't mean that automatically makes it the wrong decision. Lots of things go into making a decision. Maybe certain other things could have been handled a lot better from the sounds of it, including the execution, but that still doesn't mean it was the wrong decision.
If Gennifer unfriended people, it probably has more to do with this specific situation than the fact that they left PCO. I'm friends with her on FB and she's still friends with other designers who left.
Was is a shock to her that ALL 14 resigned when they finally gave her notice? Was she only expecting that some of them would leave?
74 - yes I bet that is what it was. I mean who ever thinks that so many people would leave at one time? It's unheard of for the most part.
Also, 71 & 73, you just made 70's point for her. It's exactly right that Gennifer is still friends with other designers who have left. She has also let other designers who have left for other shops stay for 2 weeks, and have departure sales. Don't be fooled, this has nothing to do with people leaving to become her competition. That's happened before, and she's never acted like such a psycho about it. This has completely to do with what 74 just said. Her ego took a hit when 14 people decided to tell her to shove off.
I don't see how she acted like a psycho. Those designers were nuts thinking they'd just be able to stay there while they built a competing business.
If they hid their intentions from her, she probably didn't trust them. I wouldn't either.
Facebook is 100% a business site, and has nothing to do with anyone's personal life. *eyeroll*
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If you truly believe this, you're dumber than dumb. NOTHING could be further from the truth.
I've seen Gen act ugly-and not just in her shoppe.
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If she was acting so "ugly" why would you subject yourself to her presence? Are you not an adult and have free will?
Meredith Cardall Designs leaving SO--haha! One guess where she is going. "Mystery Designer" come to mind?
55, Anyone who paid attention to the original announcement would know that, because that's exactly what the announcement said: all your previously purchased download links would be available to the 30th.
Nov 17, 2014, 4:20:00 PM
Except: There are customers (Facebook and the forums) complaining that either their grab bag, or their download links aren't working. And so far, every newsletter I have received from a leaving designer has stated: If you are having a problem with your downloads, here's the best way to contact me. Just because the claim is there that it is working, doesn't mean it actually is.
The new product offerings at SO were weak this week.
I think a lot of the designers have been focusing on their Farmer's Market $1 releases for next week.
Opinions on Vinnie Pearce's public gallery CT call? She's requesting 3 layouts!
^I guess you really have to want to be on the team! And my opinion is that designers get to decide what hoops they want applicants to jump through to join CTs. If someone doesn't like it, then they don't have to apply. And if the designer makes the hoops too difficult, then they won't have any applicants. But I don't think VP will have any problems.
I think a lot of the designers have been focusing on their Farmer's Market $1 releases for next week.
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I would guess so as well. It's always slow the week before a big sale. Every store is usually slow the week before DSD.
And now? What do you expect as news at P&CO? What will happen? Will someone new arrive? What about the CT?
Who's the mystery designer in the other store?
83, are you shocked by her request for uploading 3 layouts as your application to the call, or by the requirement to scrap 3 layouts per month if you are accepted as a guest? Or maybe you are put off by the fact that you have to apply publicly?
I'm wondering a little bit at her 3 layouts/month requirement for guest CT spots, but only a 1 layout/month for the permanent member - I've never seen a guest CT spot that required MORE layouts than a permanent spot. Although, it does say she asks the permanent member to advertise on their own blog/sites, so maybe that is a big factor for her.
But I think that her $100 voucher for the guest spots, in addition to new products, is very generous. If you are a fan of hers, it sounds like a great opportunity.
If you are a fan of hers, it sounds like a great opportunity.
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I've never been a fan and have never understood the attraction to her work. I deleted her CRAP from the digifiles as soon as I saw it. Awful.
And now? What do you expect as news at P&CO? What will happen? Will someone new arrive? What about the CT?
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Allow me to look into my crystal ball...
Unless there is a team leak, it'll be speculation.
I'm 83. It's the 100% three layout to a public gallery that's the snag for me. I agree with you, if you're a fan it's an amazing opportunity! It's the risk of public rejection that is the deterrent. (As well as scrapping three fresh, new VP layouts if you don't already have them in your gallery.). I avoided SSD's call for the same reason, although the SSD call seemed like more of a popularity contest. Maybe VP is trying to beef up her gallery??
Nobody is even going to notice or care if you are rejected. I wouldn't allow the public aspect keep you from it. Create something you love and it will be worth it even if you don't make the team.
And now? What do you expect as news at P&CO? What will happen? Will someone new arrive? What about the CT?
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Allow me to look into my crystal ball...
Unless there is a team leak, it'll be speculation.
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That would be HIGHLY appreciated :D
I'm thinking about taking a december daily class at scrapaneers- but can't decide if I should do Traci Reed's or Kelly Sill's. Opinions?
I would always avoid anything Traci does like the plague. So take Kelly's.
Personally I see no difference at all between a designer leaving to go to another store that already exists, and a designer leaving to go to a store that's being built as the designer leaves. Either way, that designer is leaving to go to a new opportunity that is in direct competition with the store she is leaving.
Don't fool yourselves, because acting as though these designers are doing anything other than what all designers do all the time is just blatantly wrong.
Gennifer should be ashamed of herself for treating these people any differently than she treated Amber Shaw when she left P&C for SSD, or Stolen Moments and Just Jaimee when they left for TLP, or any other designer who has ever left any store for another store. Anyone who thinks her freak out wasn't an emotional act due to the anger of having her entire team tell her to fuck off, isn't thinking clearly.
The posters here HATE TR. You won't get feedback on whether or not her class is any good, just on how they *perceive* her to be a total bitch.
95, those AS and JJ didn't tell her to "f" off. They were simply moving to another store. They weren't requesting change, they were just moving on. Do you see how the circumstances are different?
I don't think Gennifer has anything to be ashamed about. It's her business and she doesn't have to treat everyone equally especially if the circumstances are different. Acting out of emotions is ok. Even store owners are human. Although, now she has some consequences to deal with because of her decision.
It seems the other designers that have left have moved on, why can't you? There's no need to fight for their cause.
93: if you look at the videos you'll see the two classes are very different. Traci's has 31 different scrappers scrapping 31 layouts so I view it as more of an idea book. Kelly's is geared more towards those who're in a rush to finish an album/ too busy to scrap from scratch. The class includes quick pages and such I think. Just pick what suits your needs.
Don't ever take advice (especially about SSD and/or Traci Reed) on this blog to be objective. It's a bunch of opinionated women who rarely take skill or talent into consideration when they're voicing what they think about a store or designer. If they would cite examples or specifics, maybe they'd be taken seriously but they never do. It's ALWAYS personal and NEVER objective.
There is a massive difference between starting your own store and moving to another consignment store. Any business owner can see that.
93 - I'd take Traci's coz it looks like there'll be 31 ideas, sample layouts & tutorials included in the classes. Plus a collection of DYD kit. Would make scrapping Dec Daily a breeze.
Ok guys, what's the best digi kit for Christmas this season? What are you using for DD?
102, it really depends on what colors and style you like. There isn't a BEST kit out there. It's subjective to your personal taste and what photos you take.
And we aren't your personal shoppers. Quit being lazy and go shop for yourself.
102--I will just use bits and pieces from my stash or if there are any new things that catch my eye.
My goal is to actually complete one this year, I start out with good intentions and then give up have way through.
Cue a bunch of lame anon advertisements...
I have the same feeling as some previous commenters and I am really starting to think that P&CO will close down even before 2015.
Why haven't they shared anything, not even a spoiler or something, about the "NEWS"? They are supposed to go live by Nov 28th.
I also think that the 14 designers are in a stronger position that P&CO right now.
What do you think?
I think P&Co has a chance even without adding designers. Remember it cost more in server and bandwidth space to support extra designers. If they reduce those costs and start releasing new products regularly, then they do have a chance to stay in business even without adding new designers. Same great designers remain at that store and there's no reason they can't make a go of it. They won't be a hugely popular store but sort-of along the lines of a designer's private store.
I don't see the point in comparing positions of the new store to P&Co. They can go bust too based on the same things above. (I hope they don't, though.) It's happen with stores full of popular designers. Remember 9th & Bloom, Funky Play Ground, Plain Digital Wrapper?
I'm sorry 107, but I'm kinda new to Digi-scrap.
I agree with you, there are still some great designers in P&CO, Deena Rutter, for example, I think she's successful and her monthly kit is lovely and Gennifer kits too, they're lovely.
They should do something to attract customers though, sharing sneak peaks or little hints or something.
I'm so curious to see how things will go.
Whatever happened at P&C, it has created a feeding frenzy for the ousted designer's new store that is opening on Black Friday. I am sure that is not what Gennifer would have wished for. They are marketing this situation to its fullest. They will be more successful than P&C however long either of them remain open. It certainly feels like DHD Deja Vu. I would not be surprised that the leaks of information about how they were mistreated was not strategic in light of them opening a new store. Bravo. Well played.
I think P&Co has a chance even without adding designers.
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If you truly believe this, you're REALLY naive.
I think P&CO will not die silently, something MUST happen, c'mon.
The designers, though, are winning the marketing competition, at the moment. #109 is totally right!
No, 110. I just know something about running a store. Small scale doesn't mean they are doomed. They don't have much of a chance if the current designers follow their trend of not releasing new items regularly. They will have to change their game plan and work harder. They have to make it happen since they don't have the broader support of other designers' releases and advertising.
So, just saying, but it's November 25th and we don't know anything yet. *UHM*
So, just saying, but it's November 25th and we don't know anything yet. *UHM*
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Well..since the announcement is projected to be on Black Friday, I'd say there's really nothing unusual about it not being made yet.
Well..since the announcement is projected to be on Black Friday, I'd say there's really nothing unusual about it not being made yet.
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Of course, you are right, the whole P&CO announcement will come on Black Friday, but I expected some sort of sneak peak or tease or something that made me want to check out on the day, something like the video that the Escaping Designers shared last week :)
Remember one of the terms that the designers wanted changed was an advertising budget. The ball continues to be dropped on that one. Even though nothing has been promised until Friday, the silence is boring.
Remember one of the terms that the designers wanted changed was an advertising budget. The ball continues to be dropped on that one. Even though nothing has been promised until Friday, the silence is boring.
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I do agree with you #116, the silence is super boring. Gen or someone of entourage / her CT could write something on Facebook at least -.-
I CT for a designer that released nothing on DSD, she only did the storewide sale and the FB train of the store (with no post on her wall!). Now she's releasing one kit for Black Friday. And now I see Bella Gypsy is having 20 new products, while Kristin Aagard 4 new kits. I guess some designers take it more seriously than mine does.
waiting to see if there are going to be any amazing deals for Black Friday. I only purchased a few items on DSD waiting for this, hoping I can shorten some of my wish lists this weekend.
Do you think that BH will have a digital sale for Black Friday? Did she have it last year?
Who is BH? Go to her blog or facebook page and find last year's post.
"Remember one of the terms that the designers wanted changed was an advertising budget."
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what were the requests for change?
^page back a few days.
BH -- Cyber Monday sale.
The Escaping Designers are having a CT call, will there be a migration from P&CO?
It's just CT, who really cares? I don't even know who is on the CT.
it will be all the usual ones and before anyone makes a comment about me being jealous etc., I have no intention of applying not because I don't think I'm worthy. I used to do quite a bit of CTing, designer and stores but walked away as I was feeling chained to my computer and far prefer scrapping when I want, what I want and how I want. The free stuff just wasn't worth it any longer.
I'm with you 127. I know just what you mean about being chained to a computer and I don't think it's worth it either. I'm on several teams and apart from one lovely, appreciative designer I'm lucky to get a thank you, must less any positive (or otherwise) feedback!
Who are the "usual ones"? Are they already on the P&Co team? I thought their team members to be fairly exclusive to the site.
I'm debating applying for the CT, but the short timeline of the call (opened yesterday, Thanksgiving and Black Friday to boot) with deadline for Sunday and "Must be able to work on short deadlines" makes me a bit hesitant - Is this the sort of timelines they're going to expect if one does get a place? (And I'm not saying I will, I'm just intrigued) If so, it feels like 127 and 128 said - chained to a computer and you have to be able to live life in order to get photos to scrap in the first place. Hmm..
at least they let you know about short deadlines...
sounds like you need to move on and find a ct that is more flexible.
I'm debating applying for the CT, but the short timeline of the call (opened yesterday, Thanksgiving and Black Friday to boot) with deadline for Sunday and "Must be able to work on short deadlines" makes me a bit hesitant - Is this the sort of timelines they're going to expect if one does get a place? (And I'm not saying I will, I'm just intrigued) If so, it feels like 127 and 128 said - chained to a computer and you have to be able to live life in order to get photos to scrap in the first place. Hmm..
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How much time do you need to fill out an application? Doesn't seem like it would take that long.
130 here.
131 - sure, that's fair - its not that I expect CT's to be massively flexible, I think 3-4 days is normally is fair, and that's the policy of my current CT - This current deadline seems short, with the big holidays (but only for US, and not international crowds thinking about it), perhaps illuminating of further problems down the line. But I think you're right, I think I will give this one a miss and it is good they don't spring the short deadlines on you, that would really suck.
132 - The below (from their link) would take me 2-3 hours to do a proper application with tweaks etc, but that may just be me and my approach:
"Your application should include:
Your name and user name
The position you are applying for
Your qualifications for the position
A link to your most complete gallery
Links to at least 3 articles or tutorials you have written
A list of your current creative teams
Reasons why you want to join our team
Any bribes and/or sweet-talking, chocolate and/or ice cream, and general awesome sucking-up you believe will help us get to know you better"
So I think it's a pretty intense application. I think a few more days would potentially give more candidates chances to demonstrate their best but I'm sure they'll have more calls at a later date.
Hope you guys have a lovely weekend if you are/aren't celebrating!
"Surprise" designer at the new shop is Miss Tiina apparently.
Sheesh, 133! That's nothing. Do you expect them to just hand it out to people for just sending in a gallery? Some teams require you to scrap for them. That's just answering some questions. You've spent more time complaining about it here than it would take you to apply.
Yep #134 Miss Tiina at the Digital Press and two new-to-me designers at P&CO. P&Co is having a sale, some kits are 2$, but I actually expected some new releases, BORIIIING :C
Well ... I see where all of my shopping budget is going this weekend. The Digital Press with 60% is going to get the biggest chunk for sure. I already knew I'd love the designers since I bought from most of them while @ p&co. Great start ladies!
I too will be hitting The Digital Press. I had an EHD fail while I was backing up to another EHD (extra backup) so I can replace some of the kits that weren't copied over. I will probably hit up TLP and have a see if SO has anything that I have to have in their Farmers Market.
Stronger Shops at the moment = TLP and TDP (The digital press). Do you agree?
I am waiting for the P&CO newsletter to see if they actually have some news.
It is kind of interesting to read some people saying that a store owner should not feel ok having designers be in their store while opening another store, and so on, and now, Gennifer is letting a a store owner in her store. Following that previous reasoning, shouldn't it be odd to have a designer in your own store who already OWNS another store? I guess Gennifer does not feel the same!
Who owns a store that is at P&Co?
140, many store owners don't have a problem with designers having their own personal stores. That's different than owning your own consignment store which is in direct competition.
Unfortunately, for me Digital Press is so slow it is virtually a no go at the moment. Just to get a page up takes me about 3 minutes. I know they are working on it, so I'll come back in a day or so.
What a let down from P&C! No big announcement about 'going forward'. I feel today was Gennifer's chance to regain some credibility, but that hasn't happened.
It's late in the day for a Black Friday announcement. It's almost over. What the hell is taking so long? I want to know how they are going to change how I think about digital scrapbooking. This late, it should be BIG.
Stronger Shops at the moment = TLP and TDP (The digital press). Do you agree?
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Nope. Just because you like them doesn't mean they are the strongest. What does that even mean?
I don't see how you can say TDP is strong......it just opened!! I can't even get onto the site (forum or the store) it just times out. I don't think they did their cause any good by opening before they had all their ducks in a row. I notice the gallery is still to come sometime in the future. After all the fantastic marketing lead up, I can't help but feel slightly disappointed right now.
I wish TDP had gone with VBulletin for their forum. Whatever they are using, it is NOT user friendly!!
The big announcement from p&co is a subscription based option. I wouldn't call it new for digital since TLP already has two subscription options.
P&Co sent out their newsletter.
So revolutionary. :blank face: A subscription. Basically they're gonna change the way they release collabs. Got it. Thanks for the BIG change.
They make it sound like a store version of The Fix or Daily Digi...
But those stores make several FULL sized SEPARATE kits and charge one base price to get ALL of the SEPARATE full kits.
Idk...not extremely impressed I guess. Unless the price is impressive I'm not sold.
boring..................
Lame...
How's that breaking all the rules? I don't get it?
I'm guessing the price won't be impressive 150. Most of the stuff already in the shop at P&Co is overpriced anyway, this probably won't be any different.
And from reading that newsletter, it sounds like it's turning into a paid site. All of the benefits and things you got before for free, you have to subscribe to get now.
Can't get onto the digitalpress, the store just won't load for me. What a shame.
Same for me 155. I haven't been able to load a page since it opened.
Re: the designers that left PCo & started their own store ---> what changes did they want at PCo?
go back a few comment pages and read.
Yup, the subscription thing is not new, but I honestly like the pocket life cards in the Dec subscription. I also like the Pocket subscription at the Lilypad.
Variety is nice, not revolutionary, but nice.
Digital Press is working for me. I checked out with about $50 of product yay! Can't wait to get scrapping! Love Black Friday!
I didn't have any problems opening the pages at Digital press. Maybe they are too busy to load. I bought a couple of things, but probably won't be buying much there. Looks like same old same old to me.
It was yesterday that they had the problem. Fixed today...
I'm interested in the subscription. I can see how it's not particularly revolutionary but that it's a grab bag with designers you know and trust. I imagine there will be more perks for the subscription. I spend there at least once or twice monthly...so I'm sure it will have enough perks for my liking.
Is there anywhere to read about it other than the newsletter? I'm not a subscriber and I don't see anything on their site about it. The blog hasn't been updated in almost a month, and nothing in the forums.
I think and hope they are going to say something about it today, since it's 1/12.
Overpriced like everything else at their store. Yawn.
They're doing a horrible job of promoting it but they did share some info in the newsletter yesterday. As #166 said, it's overpriced. $17.50/month for three months to $12.50/month for 12 months for the base kit. Journal/filler card pack sold separately ($13/50/month for 3 months, $10.50/month for 12 months). Too expensive all around and I doubt they'll still be around in 12 months.
It's expensive for digital, but they offer way more papers / cards than other digital subscriptions I think.
Doesn't matter 168. It seems like Gen is heavily relying on this to keep the store going (because my guess is that after what happened, no one really wants to sell there). There aren't enough designers to keep the store going and I don't think this subscription thing is going to sell as well as she's hoping, so I have to agree with 167. P&Co is more than likely done.
Digital Press will go the same way unless they improve on their customer service. NOT impressed!!
what is wrong with the customer service at tdp?
Just curious 170, how long has it been?
I ask because they've only been open for 5 days so I HIGHLY doubt you have anything to be 'NOT impressed' about.
I think they should promote the P&Co subscription better, it's a great product, but they are not advertising / pushing it. I really hope that someone subscribed to it.
TDP designers, instead, are super strong on marketing, they keep on posting on FB and stuff like that BUT people are complaining about their service.
It seems that Sweet Shoppe is the only site offering daily downloads for Christmas this year.
P&Co pocket sub = 38 cards, unsure if they are in both orientations or not
TLP pocket sub = 30 cards all in both orientations, 86 elements, 1 template, 1 alpha in 3 styles
I do not see "way more" being offered by P&Co, despite it costing more.
I didn't really look at the kit at all since I like dimensional elements on my non-pocket pages and none of the designers besides Gen and Mere have any clue how to do those. They do papers and cards well. 3D stuff, no.
I haven't been impressed with the customer service at TDP, but as you say 172, it's still early, so "not impressed" is pretty standard and a far cry from disappointment. I was surprised they didn't have any obvious forum or contact form or something for CS issues, but I'm up for giving them slack since they had to throw a whole store together quite quickly.
P&Co pocket sub = 38 cards, unsure if they are in both orientations or not
TLP pocket sub = 30 cards all in both orientations, 86 elements, 1 template, 1 alpha in 3 styles
I do not see "way more" being offered by P&Co, despite it costing more.
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I was talking about the papers in that case, not about the number of cards. You are right, they do papers well, very well.
I missed the first two days of SSD Advnet - were they downloads? Today I see it is sale items.
I think SO will have a daily download starting in a day or so.
#177--only day 2 was a download
I saw the free alpha from SO and it looks to be a very pale colour scheme, baby blue and the like. Think I will be skipping it.
Just Jamie and Mommyish are doing an advent thing.
O Scraps is kinda doing one. I have gotten free templates in the last couple of days. Hopefully, that's not the entire color scheme of SO's. SSD's only download (Day 2) so far was great. JJ and Mommyish's have been good so far too. JJ did an awesome one last year. The Digital Press has shaped up (running wise) in the last few days and several downloads later, I can say buying and receiving from them went off without a hitch. P & CO, sadly, doesn't appeal to me any longer.
The Studio has an advent daily download.
The Studio? Yuck.
Thanks, 178 and 180. I'm glad I only missed one download at SSD. Too bad it was a good one!
By the look of SSD's kit, it is huge so the one download shouldn't be missed that much. It was some doodles, a few papers and something else. I have it saved on another computer and can't remember.
Scrapyrus is doing an advent thing.
182.....why do you say yuck? I think they have some good designers, some better than others obviously, but isn't that the case with most sites?
It is with a very heavy heart and great sadness that MSA announces it's closing on January 10th, 2015.
dang another one bites the dust
Have you guys seen this site? it's easier to navigate than Craft Crave and she lists daily downloads (and no, before you accuse me, I'm not Tammy)
http://tammytags.com/category/daily-top-ten-freebies/
I would never buy the TLP project life subscription because of the rip-off queen Sahlin Studio. But I agree P&Co is going to have a hard time surviving on an unoriginal subscription idea.
I would never buy the TLP project life subscription because of the rip-off queen Sahlin Studio.
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What does it mean?
I think P&CO offers an expensive subscription without addons, while TLP subscription is cheaper but there are seven hundred add-ons to make you spend more. I think I like the P&Co better, but they must improve their marketing.
I like the TLP one for the addons, by that I mean I don't subscribe because I don't do pocket scrapping but I like all the extras offered.
Have you seen the TDP creative team? What do you think?
192, I also like the TLP memory pockets add-ons, but I didn't really see enough variety in the sets to be able to put together a kit-like collection at a reasonable price. I wish they had more kit-like element sets (with a good variety of pieces). I loved the colors and themes of both sets, but I've passed on buying any of them.
Have you seen the TDP creative team? What do you think?
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Who cares? It's stupid to focus on the CT.
Who cares? It's stupid to focus on the CT
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How long is the rod that's stuck up your ass?
only jealous morons care about CT.
only jealous morons care about CT.
^^^
huh??
only jealous morons care about CT.
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got rejected, did ya?!!!
only jealous morons care about CT
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You're the only one who sounds jealous here and definitely you sound like a moron.
Jealous of what? Not that you'll believe me but I didn't apply. I never apply for CTs. I don't want to be a CT because I can afford to buy my products and prefer to scrap on my own schedule. They aren't even worth the gossip.
177 - If you don't want to miss a day, you should bookmark it: http://www.sweetshoppedesigns.com/index.php/25-days-of-december-delights/
That's what I do. The kit looks super nice & big. I don't want to miss any piece!
If you think CTs play a role in the community, then you might be interested in who is on site CTs. I think I see names that are also on TDP designer teams, some that appear to have left P&Co team, and some people who participated in Cropped. So I guess no real surprises there.
Even if they play a role in the community, they are just unknown online people that can create lovely layouts that make me want to buy product. It's just a list of random names to me. I either like the vibe of the website or I don't but it is rarely based on individuals, rather a collective feeling. I don't know too many stores that select CT based on their interaction with the online community. They usually choose them for their creativity. I guess those who are still focusing on the popularity factor would have an interest in "who's who" of digital scrapbooking.
I was #3. I see your point, 4, about teams being picked based on creativity and not their interaction in the community. I've seen a lot of CT layouts that have a pretty picture, pretty products, and no story. And I suppose some customers are just looking at the products and not really paying attention to the content (families, stories, etc) of the example layouts.
I'm on a few CTs, and I see layouts made by the same people over and over, and I often get a feeling of "getting to know them" even to the point of recognizing their children in a layout before even seeing who made it. I like that part of scrapbooking.
I think you are right, too, about the overall vibe of a site. I think the "vibe" is going to be most directly related to the strength of the leadership at that site, and what the leaders value, and how they dictate tasks to the team. But I also think that the individuals (CTMs) will have a part in that too, although a smaller part.
I don't think it's just about popularity. I'm interested in who is on CTs because I'm interested in people in general. Some of them might be my "digi friends." Some of them might be people that I've formed a poor opinion of because of forum interactions, etc. People watching is interesting and fun.
Number 5, I hope I know you in real life. And that we are friends.
I recognized most of the names on the TDP CT as being people already on other CTs. I don't know that it's all about popularity or whatever, but I don't think it's *just* about the lovely layouts. Some of the people who seem to get picked for every team don't stand out to me more than other scrappers. It's not that they aren't good, it's just there are plenty of other good scrappers that don't get on teams. Whether it's community interaction, or having proven their advertising worth on other teams, or what, I think there's just more to it. (And no, I'm not jealous or upset or anything. Just observing.)
Totally agree with you #7
I agree as well with #7. There's all sorts of reasons to pick someone for a ct and providing lovely layouts is only one.
I want to do a shout out to Just Jaimee. I was rejected from her CT but she took her time to provide an answer and explain the reasons for her choice. That is, in my opinion, a professional behavior and I respect that.
I agree with #7. It's similar to what happens when companies are hiring. Sometimes it isn't necessarily what you know or how well you do it but who you know.
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