Wanted New Cards: Birthday Like a Son / Daughter to US
Wanted Cards – Birthday Like a Son / Daughter to US
GCU allows variances in the same design to make a meaningful difference in the recipient or sender of the card. For example: Me (singular) and Us (plural) are both permitted and considered different cards as long as this difference is on the cover text. This does not count as one of the 3 times usage of the same image.
See helpful posts here on the blog for Leveraging Designs and My and Our Variations.
Please consider creating cards for the following sub-categories “to US”:
Birthday >> Like a … to me >> Like a Daughter to Me / Us cid#4815
Birthday >> Like a … to me >> Like a Son to Me / Us cid#4816
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”.
To simplify reviews, if your new submission is based on an existing approved card please add a Note to Reviewer like “based on approved card PID#123456”.
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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Wanted New Cards Extra: Celebrating Unconventional Grandparent Figures on Grandparents Day.
Celebrating Unconventional Grandparent Figures on Grandparents Day
Grandparents Day is a special occasion to honor not just biological grandparents, but also the many other grandparent-like figures who enrich our lives. These relationships, while unconventional, are no less meaningful or important. Let’s explore the various forms these connections can take and how we can celebrate them through greeting card designs.
Unconventional Grandparent Figures:
- Step-grandparents: With blended families becoming more common, step-grandparents often play a crucial role in children’s lives.
- Great-aunts and great-uncles: These relatives frequently step into grandparent-like roles, especially when biological grandparents are not present.
- Family friends: Sometimes called “honorary grandparents,” these individuals may have known the family for generations.
- Neighbors: Elderly neighbors can form strong bonds with children, offering wisdom and support.
- Mentors: Teachers, coaches, or community leaders may take on grandparent-like roles, guiding and nurturing young people.
- Adoptive grandparents: In cases of adoption, children may form bonds with their adoptive parents’ parents.
- Foster grandparents: Volunteers in programs that connect seniors with children in need of additional support and love.
Celebrating These Relationships in Greeting Card Designs:
- Inclusive language: Use terms like “Like a Grandparent to Me” or “Grandparent of the Heart” to acknowledge these special relationships.
- Diverse imagery: Include illustrations or photos depicting various types of grandparent figures and family structures.
- Personalized options: Offer cards with blank spaces for customers to fill in their own terms of endearment.
- Focus on shared experiences: Highlight activities that grandparent figures often engage in, such as baking, storytelling, or teaching life skills.
- Emphasize qualities: Create designs that celebrate the wisdom, love, and support these figures provide, rather than focusing solely on biological connections.
- Cultural sensitivity: Recognize that different cultures may have unique terms or roles for grandparent-like figures and incorporate these into your designs.
- Gratitude-centered messages: Craft messages that express thanks for the unique role these figures play in one’s life.
Here are some text examples to help you on your way:
“You may not be my grandparent by blood, but you’re certainly one by heart. Happy Grandparents Day!”
“To the one who’s always been there, just like a grandparent would. Thank you for your love and guidance.”
“Family isn’t always about DNA. It’s about love, support, and you. Happy Grandparents Day to someone truly special.”
“Your wisdom, your stories, your love… You’ve given me a grandparent’s gift. Thinking of you on Grandparents Day.”
“For all the times you’ve been there, all the lessons you’ve taught, and all the love you’ve given… Happy Grandparents Day to my honorary grandparent.”
“Age is just a number, but your impact on my life is immeasurable. Celebrating you this Grandparents Day!”
“To my grandparent in everything but name – your love and support mean the world to me. Happy Grandparents Day!”
“Life gave me you instead of a traditional grandparent, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thinking of you today and always.”
“Your love knows no boundaries, just like a grandparent’s. Thank you for being you. Happy Grandparents Day!”
“To the one who stepped into the grandparent role and made it their own – you’re cherished more than words can say.”
By recognizing and celebrating these unconventional grandparent relationships, we can create more inclusive and meaningful Grandparents Day celebrations. Greeting card designs that acknowledge these special bonds not only validate these important relationships but also help to strengthen the connections between generations.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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(a little extra on Mindy’s GCU forum post of July 25th about Olympic Intellectual Property)
Navigating Trademark Restrictions in Design: The Olympic Challenge
As designers, we often draw inspiration from major global events. However, it’s crucial to be aware of trademark restrictions, especially when it comes to high-profile events like the quadrennial international multi-sport event held in different cities around the world. Let’s explore some commonly protected terms and elements, and how to work around them creatively.
Protected Terms and Elements:
1. Event Names: The terms “Olympic Games,” “Olympic,” “Olympics,” “Youth Olympic Games,” “Olympiad,” and “Olympian” are all protected.
2. Mottos: Phrases like “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together” are trademarked.
3. Specific Event Names: “Paris 2024,” “Milano Cortina 2026,” and “LA28” are protected.
4. Symbols: The famous five interlocking rings symbol is off-limits.
5. Other Elements: Mascots, emblems, torches, and medals associated with the event are also protected.
Working Around Restrictions in Greeting Card Design:
1. Use Generic Terms: Instead of “Olympics,” consider phrases like “international sports competition” or “global athletic event.”
2. Focus on the Host City: Rather than mentioning the event directly, create designs that celebrate the host city’s culture and landmarks.
3. Emphasize Sports: Design cards featuring various sports without directly referencing the event.
4. Utilize Color Schemes: While you can’t use the exact ring symbol, you could incorporate the colors (blue, yellow, black, green, and red) in a different arrangement.
5. Celebrate Athletes: Create designs that honor athletic achievement in general, without using protected terms.
6. Play with Time Zones: For a subtle nod to the international nature of the event, incorporate clocks showing different time zones.
7. Use Metaphors: Depict concepts like unity, excellence, and international friendship without direct event references.
8. Word Play: Create phrases that evoke the spirit of the event without using protected terms. For example, “Go for the gold!” or “World-class performance.”
Example Greeting Card Ideas:
1. A card featuring various sports equipment arranged in the shape of the host city’s skyline.
2. A design showcasing clocks from different time zones with the text “Time to celebrate global unity!”
3. A card with the phrase “Reaching new heights” alongside illustrations of athletes from various sports.
4. An illustration of a torch-like object made up of smaller drawings representing the host city’s culture.
5. A card featuring the colors associated with the event in an abstract pattern, with text like “Cheering for international excellence!”
Remember, while these strategies can help you create event-inspired designs, it’s always best to consult with a legal professional if you have concerns about potential trademark infringement. By being creative and focusing on the spirit of athletic achievement and international unity, you can create compelling designs that celebrate major sporting events without running afoul of trademark restrictions.
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Nuts & Bolts: Reminder July 2024 Design Challenge
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Nuts & Bolts – Reminder July 2024 Design Challenge
Wednesday, July 31st is the last day to submit your entries for July’s Design Challenge. Don’t wait until the last minute in case your submission requires edits and you may not have time to complete them before the deadline. See July’s 2024 Design Challengehere.
Theme: Christmas in July
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The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
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Wanted Cards – Grandparents Day for Like Grandparents to me
There can be many circumstances for having grandparent-like figures in your life. Grandparents Day is a wonderful time to share the importance of that unconventional relationship.
Please consider creating new cards for this category. They can be grandparents, grandparent, grandpa, or grandma specific and all reside in this catchall category:
Holidays >> Grandparents Day >> Like Grandparents to me cid#2273
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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A customer was asking for a cat adoption anniversary card, and I think this a category that can use some love. New cards go here:
Occasions >> Gotcha Day / Adoption Anniversary Day >> For Pet >> For Cat cid#34280
Consider submissions for these other sub-categories in need of cards:
>> General for Pet cid#34276
>> For Dogs cid#34278
>> For Horse cid#34282
>> Other Pet cid#34284
“Gotcha Day”: Celebrating Pet Adoption Anniversaries
Gotcha Day is a heartwarming celebration that marks the anniversary of when a pet joins their forever home through adoption. While the term originally gained popularity among families adopting children, it has since expanded to include our furry, feathered, and scaled companions.
Origins
The exact origin of Gotcha Day for pets is unclear, but it likely emerged alongside the growing awareness of animal adoption in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. As more people chose to adopt rather than shop for pets, the desire to commemorate this special day naturally followed.
Celebrating Across Species
Gotcha Day isn’t limited to dogs and cats. Families celebrate this occasion for all kinds of adopted pets, including:
– Horses rescued from neglect or retirement
– Rabbits from animal shelters
– Birds rehomed from sanctuaries
– Reptiles from specialized rescue organizations
The celebration serves as a reminder of the bond between pets and their human families, regardless of species.
Gotcha Day Traditions
Common ways to celebrate include:
1. Special treats or meals for your pet
2. Extra playtime or attention
3. Donating to animal shelters
4. Sharing your pet’s adoption story on social media
Greeting Card Text Examples
Here are some ideas for Gotcha Day cards:
1. “Happy Gotcha Day to the best furry friend I could’ve asked for!”
2. “One year ago today, you chose us. Here’s to many more years of love and cuddles!”
3. “From shelter to beloved family member – celebrating the day you came into our lives.”
4. “Pawsitively thrilled to celebrate another year with you. Happy Gotcha Day!”
5. “You may not have been born into our family, but you were born in our hearts. Happy Gotcha Day!”
Conclusion
Gotcha Day is more than just an anniversary – it’s a celebration of second chances, unconditional love, and the unique joy that adopted pets bring into our lives. Whether you’re marking this occasion with a dog, cat, horse, or any other animal companion, remember that you’re not just commemorating the day you got a pet, but the day your family became complete.
As we reflect on the importance of Gotcha Day, let it serve as a reminder of the millions of animals still waiting in shelters for their forever homes. Consider sharing your pet’s adoption story to inspire others, or even opening your heart and home to another animal in need.
Ultimately, Gotcha Day is about gratitude – for the furry, feathered, or scaly friends who have enriched our lives in countless ways. So the next time your pet’s Gotcha Day rolls around, take a moment to celebrate the love, laughter, and companionship they’ve brought into your world. After all, in pet adoption, it’s often hard to tell who rescued whom.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Nuts & Bolts – Vote for GCA Consumer’s Choice Card of the Year by 8/15The Consumer’s Choice Award is still up for grabs! By August 15th, vote for your favorite card of the year from the winners of the Greeting Card Association’s (GCA) LOUIE award winners.
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You can view the 35th Annual Louie Award Competition finalist and winner gallery here. (click on the category and then scroll to the bottom to see the three finalists and the winning cards.) There is still one final award to be given out – the Consumer’s Choice Award. The Consumer’s Choice Award is unlike any of the rest because our judges don’t choose who wins it – you do. Voting is open NOW! The winner will be recognized at next year’s award ceremony. Last year’s Consumer’s Choice Award winner announced this year is this Thank You card.
The 35th Annual Louie Award Ceremony took place on April 27th in San Francisco at NOTED and was an unforgettable evening of connection and celebration. See more about GCU, the LOUIE awards and the NOTED greeting card expo here. |
The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
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Wanted Cards – Welcome Back to School Janitor / Custodian, etc.
It is not only students that prepare to returnback to school. Many other roles in the schools will too soon see their summer time off in the review view mirror and returnback to the classroom, campus, administrative offices, etc.
Please consider creating Welcome Back to school for the following school professions:
Occasions >> School Days > Back to School >> For Janitor / Custodian / Caretaker cid#38260
Occasions >> School Days >> Back to School >> For School Principal cid#38202
Occasions >> School Days >> Back to School >> For School Vice Principal cid#38204
Occasions >> School Days >> Back to School >> For School Assistant Principal cid#38206
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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Rainbow Connection: From the Heart – Crafting Meaningful Thank You Cards for Organ and Tissue Donors
From the Heart: Crafting Meaningful Thank You Cards for Organ and Tissue Donors
I find our Occasions>Thank You>Organ/Tissue Donation category very sparse so I think it useful to give you some tips on how to tackle this category.
The gift of life through organ or tissue donation is perhaps the most profound act of generosity one can experience. For recipients, expressing gratitude for such an extraordinary gift can feel overwhelming. How do you adequately thank someone for giving you or your loved one a second chance at life?
While no words can fully capture the depth of emotion and gratitude felt by organ and tissue recipients, a heartfelt thank you card can be a powerful way to honor the donor and provide comfort to their family. This gesture not only acknowledges the immeasurable impact of the donation but also helps in the healing process for both the recipient and the donor’s loved ones.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 12 thoughtful ideas for creating sincere and meaningful thank you cards for organ and tissue donors. Whether you’re a recipient searching for the right words, or someone looking to understand the profound connection between donors and recipients, these suggestions will guide you in crafting a message that truly comes from the heart.
Let’s delve into these ideas and discover how to express the inexpressible – gratitude for the gift of life itself.
1. Expressing gratitude for the donor’s selflessness and generosity:
Organ and tissue donation is one of the most selfless acts a person can make. In your thank you card, emphasize the donor’s incredible generosity. You might write something like, “Your decision to donate has touched my life in ways I can never fully express. Your selflessness is a testament to the best of humanity.”
2. Acknowledging the profound impact of their gift:
Highlight how the donation has changed your life or the life of your loved one. For example: “Thanks to your gift, I’ve been given a second chance at life. Every breath I take is a reminder of your incredible generosity.”
3. Sharing how the donation has improved quality of life or given hope:
Be specific about the positive changes. You could write, “Before the transplant, I was unable to climb a flight of stairs. Now, I’m planning to run a 5K race. Your gift has not only improved my health but has also restored my hopes and dreams for the future.”
4. Reflecting on the courage of the donor and their family:
Recognize the bravery involved in making the decision to donate. “I’m in awe of the courage you and your family have shown. In a moment of great personal loss, you chose to give life to others. Your strength is truly inspiring.”
5. Mentioning how you plan to honor the donor’s memory:
If you’re comfortable, share how you intend to pay this gift forward. “To honor your memory and this incredible gift, I’ve decided to volunteer at my local organ donation awareness organization. Your legacy will live on through my efforts to help others.”
6. Discussing new perspectives or appreciation for life:
Share how the experience has changed your outlook. “This journey has given me a new appreciation for the fragility and preciousness of life. I promise to live each day to its fullest, always remembering the blessing I’ve received.”
7. Sharing a personal story about your journey or recovery:
A brief personal anecdote can make your thank you more meaningful. “The day I received the call that a donor organ was available, I was sitting in dialysis, feeling hopeless. That call changed everything. Now, six months post-transplant, I’m back at work and planning my first vacation in years.
8. Expressing your commitment to making the most of this gift:
Reassure the donor’s family that their gift is deeply valued. “I promise to honor this precious gift by living a full and meaningful life. Your loved one’s generosity will not be in vain.”
9. Acknowledging the donor’s family and their difficult decision:
Recognize the family’s role in the donation process. “I cannot imagine the difficulty of the decision you faced during such a painful time. Your strength in choosing to donate has saved my life, and I am eternally grateful.
10. Mentioning how the donation has affected your family and loved ones:
Extend the impact beyond yourself. “Your gift hasn’t just transformed my life—it has given my entire family a new lease on life. My children now have their parent back, and my spouse has their partner back. The ripple effect of your generosity is immeasurable.”
11. Including a meaningful quote:
A well-chosen quote can add depth to your message. Consider something like: “As Albert Pine said, ‘What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.’ Your loved one’s gift is the very embodiment of this sentiment.”
12. Adding a hand-drawn image:
If you’re including artwork, describe its significance. “I’ve included a drawing of a tree, its branches reaching towards the sky. To me, this represents the new life and growth your gift has made possible.”
Writing a thank you card to an organ or tissue donor’s family is an emotionally challenging but incredibly important task. It’s an opportunity to express your deepest gratitude and to show the donor’s family the profound impact of their loved one’s final act of generosity. While no words can fully convey the depth of emotion involved, a heartfelt, personal message can provide comfort and meaning to both the recipient and the donor’s family. Remember, there’s no “perfect” way to say thank you for such an extraordinary gift—the most important thing is that your message comes from the heart.
Happy Designing!
Corrie
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Nuts & Bolts: Create A Card Image Upload Page
The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
GCU Community 