Wanted New Cards Extra – EMS / EMT Thank You
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs), emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, and paramedics play a crucial role in providing life-saving care during emergencies. Here are some ideas for cards and text to express gratitude and appreciation for these heroes:
Card Design Ideas
- An ambulance or emergency vehicle with a heart symbol
- A stethoscope forming a heart shape
- Hands reaching out to help someone
- A superhero cape with an EMS or paramedic symbol
- A lifeline or heartbeat monitor with a thank you message
Text Ideas
General Appreciation Messages:
“Your quick thinking and skilled hands saved a life. Thank you for being there when it mattered most.”
“In our darkest hour, you were the light of hope. Your dedication and compassion make all the difference.”
“Heroes don’t always wear capes – sometimes they wear uniforms and arrive in ambulances. Thank you for your service.”
“Your courage and commitment to helping others is truly inspiring. Thank you for being our community’s guardian angel.”
“Your dedication saves lives every day. Thank you for being our community’s heroes.”
“In emergencies, you’re the calm in the storm. Your skill and compassion make all the difference.” “Answering the call, day or night, you’re always there when we need you most. Thank you for your unwavering service.”
“Your quick thinking and steady hands bring hope in our darkest moments. We’re grateful for your incredible work.”
“From sirens to silence, your presence brings comfort and care. Thank you for your selfless service.”
Personal Thank You Messages:
“Words cannot express how grateful I am for your swift action and care. You gave me a second chance at life.”
“In my moment of crisis, you were calm, professional, and kind. Thank you for being my lifeline.”
“Your expertise and compassion helped me through one of the scariest moments of my life. I’ll never forget your kindness.”
“In my moment of fear, your reassuring voice and expert care gave me strength. I’m forever grateful for your help.”
“You didn’t just save a life – you saved a family. Your quick action and kindness will never be forgotten.” “When every second counted, you were there. Thank you for giving me a second chance at life.”
“Your compassion was as healing as your medical expertise. Thank you for treating me with such care and dignity.”
“In the blur of that terrifying day, your calm presence stood out. Thank you for being my anchor in the chaos.”
“You may not remember me, but I’ll never forget you. Your skill and kindness changed my life forever.” “From the moment you arrived, I knew I was in good hands. Thank you for your professionalism and empathy.”
“In those critical moments, your expertise made all the difference. I’m alive today because of you.”
These messages aim to capture the essence of gratitude for the vital work performed by emergency medical professionals. They highlight the impact of their skills, compassion, and dedication, which can be deeply meaningful to those who perform this challenging and often underappreciated work.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Wanted New Cards: EMS / EMT Thank You
Wanted Cards – EMS / EMT Thank You
A profession that helps in a time of need and emergency is that of an EMT / EMS and paramedic.
Please consider creating cards with thanks and appreciation for the person(s) that helped in the time of crisis. They should go here:
Occasions >> Thank You >> Occupation Specific >> Paramedic cid#33502
Occasions >> Thank You >> Occupation Specific >> EMT / Emergency Medical Technician cid#33500
Note: cid# is the speed entry method of adding a category to your card via category id number (cid#) vs using search terms or click and hunt. See here on the blog:
To expedite the review of these cards, please check Fast Track Review on the card image details page when you create your card and add a Note for Reviewers like “for BLOG– Wanted Cards”.
Consider using Stock Card Creations to create new cards quickly. These cards are automatically set for expedited review so no need to Fast Track. Remember, when you’re submitting your new stock card, add a little note about the intended category in your Notes to Reviewers.
Be inventive, be clever, be creative. Go for it!
Mindy Rosso
GCU Community Manager
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Card Sharp: Your Weekly Cut of Greeting Card Creativity – September
Card Sharp: Your Weekly Cut of Greeting Card Creativity – September
September has several sayings and proverbs associated with it, often related to weather patterns, nature, and the transition from summer to autumn. Here are some notable September sayings:
Weather-Related Sayings
“If the goose honks high, fair weather. If the goose honks low, foul weather.”
This saying suggests that the pitch of a goose’s honk can predict upcoming weather conditions.
“Squirrels gathering nuts in a flurry, will cause snow to gather in a hurry.”
This proverb implies that if squirrels are frantically collecting nuts, it may indicate a harsh winter ahead.
“The three days of September 21st, 23rd, and 24th rule the weather for October, November, and December.”
This folklore suggests that the weather on these specific September days can predict the weather for the following three months.
Nature and Seasonal Observations
“September tries its best to have us forget summer.”
This quote by Bernard Williams captures the transitional nature of September as it ushers in autumn.
“September is the month of maturity; the heaped basket and the garnered sheaf. It is the month of climax and completion.”
Patience Strong’s quote emphasizes September’s role in the harvest season and the culmination of summer’s growth.
Poetic Descriptions
“September days have the warmth of summer in their briefer hours, but in their lengthening evenings a prophetic breath of autumn.”
This quote by Rowland E. Robinson beautifully describes the dual nature of September, balancing between summer and autumn.
“September whispers to the soul, reminding us of the beauty in change and the joy in new beginnings.”
This saying highlights September’s role in inspiring personal growth and renewal.
These sayings reflect the unique characteristics of September, from its weather patterns to its symbolic representation of change and new beginnings. They capture the essence of this transitional month that bridges summer and autumn.
Major Card-Giving Holidays
National Grandparents Day (September 8)
This is one of the most significant card-giving occasions in September. It’s a day to celebrate and appreciate grandparents, making it an excellent opportunity for creating and sending heartfelt cards.
Patriot Day (September 11)
While not traditionally a card-giving holiday, some people may send cards to honor those affected by the 9/11 attacks or to express patriotic sentiments.
Other Notable Occasions
Labor Day (September 2, 2024)
While primarily celebrated with activities and time off, some people might send cards to recognize workers or colleagues.
First Day of Fall (September 22, 2024)
The autumn equinox could inspire seasonal greeting cards celebrating the change of seasons.
National Daughters Day (September 25)
This day offers an opportunity for parents to send cards to their daughters, expressing love and appreciation.
National Good Neighbor Day (September 28)
This could be an occasion for sending friendly cards to neighbors.
Monthly Observances
Several month-long observances in September could inspire themed greeting cards:
– Classical Music Month
– Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15)
– Self Improvement Month
– National Self-Care Awareness Month
As a greeting card artist, you could create designs that cater to these various holidays and observances, offering a range of options for customers looking to send thoughtful messages in September.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Wanted New Cards Extra – First Day at New School
Here are some greeting card ideas for the “First Day at a New School” category. These ideas are tailored to capture the excitement and nervousness of being the new kid, while offering encouragement and support.
General First Day at a New School (cid#24592)
- Front: “New school, new adventures!”
Inside: “Wishing you an amazing first day filled with friendly faces and exciting discoveries. You’ve got this!” - Front: (Image of a butterfly emerging from a cocoon)
Inside: “Just like a butterfly, you’re about to spread your wings in a new place. Enjoy your transformation!” - Front: “First day jitters? More like first day glitters!”
Inside: “Shine bright on your first day at your new school. You’re going to dazzle them!”
Name Specific (cid#24598)
- Front: “[Name], ready to rock your new school?”
Inside: “With your awesome personality, you’ll be making new friends in no time. Have a fantastic first day!” - Front: “Hey [Name], your new school is in for a treat!”
Inside: “They’re about to meet the coolest new student ever. Go show them what you’re made of!” - Front: “[Name]’s New School Survival Kit”
Inside: “Contents: 1 brilliant mind, 2 eager ears, 1 friendly smile, and endless potential. You’re all set for an amazing first day!”
Other First Day at a New School (cid#24594)
- Front: (Image of various school supplies arranged to spell “HELLO”)
Inside: “New pencils, new books, new friends to meet. Wishing you a wonderful first day at your new school!” - Front: “Warning: Awesome New Student Approaching”
Inside: “Your new school won’t know what hit it. Have an incredible first day!” - Front: “New school? No problem!”
Inside: “You’ve got the courage to try new things and the spirit to make them great. Enjoy your fresh start!”
Relationship Specific (cid#24596)
- Front: “To our amazing kid on your first day at a new school”
Inside: “We’re so proud of your bravery and can’t wait to hear all about your new adventures. Love, Mom and Dad” - Front: “Hey bestie, conquering a new school like a boss!”
Inside: “I know you’ll be making new friends, but don’t forget about your OG buddy back here. Have an awesome first day!” - Front: “To my favorite grandchild starting at a new school”
Inside: “Remember, you come from a long line of brave adventurers. This is just your newest expedition! Love, Grandma”
These card ideas aim to provide encouragement, boost confidence, and add a touch of humor to help ease the nerves of starting at a new school.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Nuts & Bolts – Estate Planning for Artists Rerun
Nuts & Bolts – Estate Planning for Artists Rerun
It is a difficult topic to approach but having a plan in advance will prevent family members or friends additional grief. Unfortunately GCU, as of late, has received notices of a handful of artists in our community having passed away.
Without any plan, GCU has no one to pay outstanding earnings to and has no other choice but to close the storefront.
Please see this prior posting for the suggested process at GCU to transfer your account after your passing.
The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
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Wanted New Cards: First Day at a New School
Wanted Cards – First Day at a New School
At any age, heading back to school is full of excitement and nerves especially when you’re the new kid on campus or the new kid in class.
Please consider creating new cards for any of these sub-categories in need of cards. They should go here:
Occasions >> School Days << 1st / First Day of School >> 1st / First Day at a New School …
General First Day at a New School cid#24592
Name Specific cid#24598
Other First Day at a New School cid#24594
Relationship Specific cid#24596
Note: cid# is the speed entry method of adding a category to your card via category id number (cid#) vs using search terms or click and hunt. See here on the blog:
To expedite the review of these cards, please check Fast Track Review on the card image details page when you create your card and add a Note for Reviewers like “for BLOG– Wanted Cards”.
Consider using Stock Card Creations to create new cards quickly. These cards are automatically set for expedited review so no need to Fast Track. Remember, when you’re submitting your new stock card, add a little note about the intended category in your Notes to Reviewers.
Be inventive, be clever, be creative. Go for it!
Mindy Rosso
GCU Community Manager
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Card Sharp: Your Weekly Cut of Greeting Card Creativity – Embrace the Autumn Spirit: Key Autumn Colors and Their Meanings
Embrace the Autumn Spirit: Tips for Designing Stunning Greeting Cards
Autumn is a season that captivates with its vibrant colors and cozy gatherings, making it the perfect inspiration for greeting card designs. This month, as part of the Greeting Card Universe design challenge, let’s explore how to create beautiful printed cards that capture the essence of fall. Here are some fun and informative tips to help you design cards that are both visually appealing and meaningful.
Incorporate Autumn’s Color Palette
Autumn, also known as fall, is a season characterized by its rich tapestry of colors that transform the landscape into a vibrant canvas. These colors are not only visually stunning but also carry deep psychological and cultural significance. Here’s a closer look at the real colors of autumn and what they represent:
Key Autumn Colors and Their Meanings
- Red: This color is often associated with warmth and coziness during autumn. It evokes feelings of motivation and comfort, making it less intense than its usual connotations of danger or passion.
- Orange: Known for its joyful and fun associations, orange is a positive color that can enhance mental activity. It is a staple in autumn, symbolizing the joy and energy of the season.
- Yellow: Widely recognized as the color of happiness, yellow is prevalent in autumn landscapes. It is the most visible color to the human eye and is known to radiate energy and hope, fostering optimism.
- Brown: This color is synonymous with stability, health, and comfort. It is prevalent in nature during autumn, representing the earth and providing a sense of safety and honesty.
- Green: Although less dominant in autumn, green symbolizes growth, health, and balance. It represents inner peace and wellbeing, adding a touch of freshness to the autumn palette.
The Science Behind Autumn Colors
The phenomenon of autumn colors, also known as fall foliage, occurs when the green chlorophyll in leaves breaks down, revealing the underlying pigments. Carotenoids produce yellow, orange, and brown colors, while anthocyanins contribute to red and purple hues. This transformation is triggered by the shortening daylight hours and cooler temperatures, leading to the breathtaking display of colors we associate with autumn.
Cultural and Artistic Significance
Autumn colors have long inspired artists and writers, symbolizing themes of transition, harvest, and celebration. The season is marked by various cultural festivals and rites, such as Halloween, which embrace the vibrant autumn palette. These colors not only enhance artistic expressions but also play a significant role in branding and design, influencing consumer preferences and emotional responses.
In summary, the real colors of autumn are a blend of warm, earthy tones that evoke feelings of comfort, joy, and stability. They are deeply rooted in both natural processes and cultural traditions, making autumn a uniquely inspiring season for artists, designers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Citations:
https://hypnotherapyandhealth.co.uk/autumn-colours-the-effect-on-the-human-psychology/
https://blog.bridgemanimages.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-fall-colors
https://morettiinteriordesign.com/blog/psychology/colour-personalities-wellbeing-and-the-home/
https://www.thebrandnewstudio.com/post/colour-psychology-an-autumn-colour-palette
https://www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk/blog/autumn-explaining-the-different-types
https://gabriellearruda.com/true-autumn-ultimate-guide/
https://www.luminarypersonalstyling.com/style-colour-analysis-uk-blog/luminary-autumn-colours-the-four-autumn-sub-seasons-types
Autumn Imagery Ideas for Greeting Cards
- Falling Leaves: Use illustrations or vector graphics of colorful fall leaves in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These can be arranged in a cascading pattern to symbolize the beauty of falling leaves during autumn.
- Pumpkins and Gourds: Incorporate images of pumpkins, gourds, and other harvest vegetables. These symbols of abundance and harvest are quintessential autumn motifs that evoke a sense of warmth and festivity.
- Cozy Patterns: Flannel and plaid patterns can add a cozy, rustic touch to your card designs. These patterns are reminiscent of warm blankets and flannel shirts, perfect for conveying the coziness of the season.
- Autumn Landscapes: Consider using scenic images of autumn landscapes, such as forests with trees in vibrant fall colors or a serene countryside with a setting sun. These images can create a peaceful and reflective mood.
- Seasonal Animals: Include illustrations of animals commonly associated with autumn, such as foxes, deer, or owls. These can add a whimsical and natural element to your cards.
- Thanksgiving Themes: For cards focusing on gratitude and Thanksgiving, use imagery like cornucopias, turkeys, or a festive dinner table setting. These elements can highlight the themes of togetherness and thankfulness.
- Abstract and Geometric Designs: For a modern twist, use abstract or geometric shapes that mimic the colors and patterns of fall leaves. This approach can create a unique and contemporary look.
- Seasonal Flowers: Sunflowers and chrysanthemums are popular autumn flowers that can be used to add a touch of elegance and color to your cards.
As the vibrant colors of autumn envelop us, there’s no better time to express warmth and gratitude through beautifully designed greeting cards. By incorporating the rich hues of the season, along with captivating imagery such as falling leaves, pumpkins, and cozy patterns, you can create cards that resonate with the spirit of fall. Whether you choose to evoke feelings of nostalgia with traditional themes or embrace a modern aesthetic with abstract designs, your autumn cards can serve as heartfelt tokens of connection during this special time of year. Let your creativity flourish and celebrate the essence of autumn in every card you create!
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Dash of Inspiration: SEPT 2024 Design Challenge
This month let’s be inspired by the gorgeous color palette of the Autumn season and all the upcoming gatherings and fun to be had this time of year.
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Theme: Autumn Colors
Requirements:
- Create a new design for ANY autumn themed category. Be unique and different. Since many of us work months in advance of the upcoming holiday season, ANY approved PID in the past 90-days will be allowed.
- Write your own verse/message, be creative and write a message that clearly speaks to your imagery, occasion and recipient.
- No Stock card creations will be accepted.
- Blank verse will not be considered for entry in this challenge.
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Entry Deadline: Monday, September 30th
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How to Enter: Post the PID (card number) and the URL (public storefront link – please WAIT for the card to be approved and available in the public marketplace, please DO NOT post a link to your Manage Cards area) as a post in the challenge blog. We’ll forward your entry to the jury.
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Category:
ANY Halloween or Thanksgiving category – AND/OR – ANY Autumn themed category:
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Rules:
- Submission must meet GCU’s Submission Guidelines and be Approved through the usual Review Cycle– Fast Track your submission with this in the Notes to Reviewer: September Design Challenge Submission and include the link to this blog post.
- Only ONE card per artist per challenge.
- Submissions must be NEW, no existing designs.
- Your entry must meet the Challenge Requirements or it will not be included in the challenge.
- Stock Card Creations entries will not be accepted.
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BLIND Judging: We hope each of you enters every month. Entries are submitted anonymously for judging by the GCU Challenge Jury which means that before and during the challenge, judges do not have any way of knowing what artist is behind each entry. This eliminates any and all concerns with ‘favoritism’. Results will post on the Community Blog. The jury will judge the entries on the following criteria:
- How well the card meets the Challenge Requirements and Theme.
- How well the card make over appeals to the marketplace.
- Creativity, Execution, Professionalism and Marketability.
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Winners: 1st Place:
- The winning designer’s card and store will be featured on the GCU Public Blog – the blog which customers view and follow.
- As well as featured on the GCU Public Facebook Page – over 55,000 followers, now THAT’S exposure!
- The winning card will be Design of the Day following the announcement of the winners (within 48-hours).
EXCEPTION: Horizontal (landscape) cards may not be featured as DOD due to GCU Home Page space restrictions. In these cases, GCU will choose a different vertically oriented card from your store to feature as DOD. Thank you for your understanding and apologies for this limitation.
- The winning card will be added to the Greeting Card Universe Design Challenge Winners Pinterest Board – currently GCU’s Pinterest Page followers: 13.34k!
- The winning card, should the artist choose, may be referenced in a new series by the winning artist and he/she may Fast Track all cards in the new series (being sure to give the Challenge URL and winning card PID in your Notes to Reviewer for each card in this series).
- Winning card will be included in a marketing email to over 100,000 customers!
- GCU will create a Meet the Team board for the winning artist under the Pinterest GCU account where the winning artist will be able to pin and promote her own storefront and all that makes them a unique card designer and one of GCU’s artistic community team member.
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Winning card will be posted on GCU’s Instagram with 10.6k followers and counting!
- GCU will create a Meet the Team board for the winning artist under the Pinterest GCU account where the winning artist will be able to pin and promote her own storefront and all that makes them a unique card designer and one of GCU’s artistic community team member.
- 10 free greeting card credits added to your GCU account. Apply them at checkout and they never expire.
- A Design Challenge GCU digital award for 2024!
2nd Place:
- Your submission will be Design of the Day the following week of announcing the Challenge winners (within 7-days).
EXCEPTION: Horizontal (landscape) cards may not be featured as DOD due to GCU Home Page space restrictions. In these cases, GCU will choose a different vertically oriented card from your store to feature as DOD. Thank you for your understanding and apologies for this limitation.
- Your card will be added to the Greeting Card Universe Design Challenge Winners Pinterest Board.
- Winning card will be included in a marketing email to over 100,000 customers!
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Winning card will be posted on GCU’s Instagram with 10.6k followers and counting!
- 5 free greeting card credits added to your GCU account. Apply them at checkout and they never expire.
- A Design Challenge GCU digital award for 2024!
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Tips:
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Be inspired to create and learn something new!
Doreen Erhardt©
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Nuts & Bolts – Update Winter Holiday YEAR specific cards
Nuts & Bolts – Update Winter Holiday YEAR specific cards
Get a head start on updating holiday cards! Do you offer Year Specific designs? Be sure not to miss out on sales or worse, have your card taken offline because you’ve neglected to update it for the new year.
Not only should images be updated but also card titles, keywords and artist notes. This even applies to custom front designs to make them more marketable and avoid shopper errors.
Please add this to your to do list and begin to update cards while you have time well before the holiday season.
Christmas cards should reflect the current year (2024) and New Year cards should reflect the coming or new year (2025). Please take the time now to update your designs before 9/15. After 9/15, GCU will take any outdated cards offline.
TIP: A quick way to pinpoint the bulk of your related cards is to search your storefront by entering in the search box “<holiday name year>” ie: “christmas 2023”, “new year 2024”.
The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
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Wanted New Cards: Vasectomy Reversal Cards
Wanted Cards – Vasectomy Reversal Cards
GCU offers plenty of surgery and medical procedure get well cards including those for a vasectomy. There is also a niche market for the opposite; a vasectomy reversal. The first procedure being fairly straightforward and the reversal, not so much.
Please consider creating Get Well, Good Luck and Congratulations on Vasectomy Reversal cards. They should go here accordingly:
Occasions >> Congratulations >> Surgery / Medical >> Vasectomy Reversal cid#38280
Occasions >> Get Well / Feel Better >> Vasectomy Reversal cid#38278
Occasions >> Good Luck >> Surgery / Surgical Procedure >> Vasectomy Reversal cid#38282
Note: cid# is the speed entry method of adding a category to your card via category id number (cid#) vs using search terms or click and hunt. See here on the blog:
To expedite the review of these cards, please check Fast Track Review on the card image details page when you create your card and add a Note for Reviewers like “for BLOG– Wanted Cards”.
Consider using Stock Card Creations to create new cards quickly. These cards are automatically set for expedited review so no need to Fast Track. Remember, when you’re submitting your new stock card, add a little note about the intended category in your Notes to Reviewers.
Be inventive, be clever, be creative. Go for it!
Mindy Rosso
GCU Community Manager
GCU Community 