Making the LSS Work for YOU — Cool Stuff This Weekend

Over the last few years I've posted about the importance of keeping local scrapbook stores open.

And just a couple weeks ago I posted about more stores closing and the importance of keeping more of your dollars in the local economy by shopping at locally owned businesses instead of the box stores.

But in the back of your mind, it is hard to resist that 40% off coupon from the box store and why would you spend more if you don't have to? I understand. Believe me!

Here are some ideas and ways to get your LSS to WORK for YOU:

• Ask them to carry your favorite manufacturer or line. They may not carry it for a while but once they notice interest picking up, they will order it. They don't know you would buy that item unless you tell them.

• Want a big ticket item? Silhouette, rolling tote, or other $100+ purchase? Ask the store to special order it for you. They can sometimes order items when a box store will likely refuse your request if the item is out of stock or instruct you to order online (and pay alot for shipping).

• Ask for a discount. I bet some store owners are cringing at this but hey, if you have access to the owner in a locally owned store, it can't hurt to ask. If you're spending $100+ at one pop or buying a big ticket item, especially something that has been sitting on the shelf for sometime, the store owner may just work a deal with you to move that product out so they can get new product in.

• Get great organizational tools. Lots of stores have fixtures they no longer use. Ask if they have any fixtures they'd be willing to make you a deal on. You can use these to organize your scrap room ;)

I know, this post is so text heavy and boring, right? But I just wanted to share some ideas on how you can get deals at your LSS ;) Hope you'll be out shopping your LSS sometime between now and National Scrapbook Day (May 1).

Today I am going to Scrapbook Oasis for Christine P.S.'s Crop to benefit Autism Speaks. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by!

Also this weekend Scrapbook Royalty is doing a Twilight themed event over at Jazi Crafts in Oceanside–check out if you're in North San Diego County.

And also in OC, Sizzix/Ellison will be at the OC Marketplace (otherwise known as the Swap Meet) at the OC Fairgrounds starting at 7am for a fabulous sale!!

And on Sunday I'll be teaching Bind It All BOOT CAMP over at Cool Scrapbook Stuff in Poway — there are still a few spots and we'd love to have you. Just call the store (contact info is on left) to sign up.

Hope you get tons of stuff accomplished this weekend ;)

Author: Jennifer Priest

It started with jewelry, beading, sewing, home decor, painting, basket weaving, pottery, and cross-stitch. Marry that to an entrepreneurial spirit & at 9 years old a girl is selling her wares at craft fairs as far as her parents and grandparents would drive her. These days, Jennifer enjoys crafts of all genres from sewing to scrapbooking to jewelry with a little dabbling in the mixed media world. Her style is approachable and she wants everyone who sees her work to feel that they too can embrace creativity and make their home and life beautiful.