5 years ago I shared my first post as a design team member for Avery Elle Stamps.  I can’t quite believe it’s been that long and so today I’m sharing a post to say “THANK YOU” to Jamie for having such faith and trust in me and to the rest of the team for being just so damn awesome!

I thought I’d share that first card again – I still love that set although it’s now retired.  It was one of the first sets I bought, along with Bonjour (the macarons set).  My photography skills have certainly improved a little in that time I think!!

Joining the Avery Elle team has not only given me so many opportunities (that I don’t think I would have had without it) but has brought so many new friends in to my life too.  Even though I didn’t know the first thing about designing stamps, I thought it would be something I’d like to try.  Without the encouragement from both Jamie and my fellow teamie, friend and talented illustrator Heather Campbell it would’ve probably ended right there – as a thought.  I’ve now illustrated 24 stamp sets and even a couple of die collections!  I still can’t believe it!

One of the things that has brought me so much joy has been getting the chance to attend Creativation (formerly CHA) for the past 4 shows.  Being in the UK and most of my fellow crafting idols being in the US, I never thought I’d get to meet so many of them in person.  It’s been such a thrill to work in the Avery Elle booth with Jamie, Heather Campbell, Karolyn Loncon, Katie Ghering and Amy Kolling.  I don’t think I laugh as hard anywhere else as I do when I’m with these exceptional ladies.  Not to mention all the other fabulous people from the crafting world – and it’s an incredible world to be part of.

Here’s a few pics of some of those happy times.

Look at us in those fabulous pinnies!  I just love these girls with all my heart.

It’s been an incredible journey and I truly hope I can stay a part of it for many years to come.  Long Live Avery Elle.