Behind the Brand with Allison Connors

 

Q: How did you get started in this industry?

A:  I started out as a store owner in 1999 when I opened the first scrapbook store on Long Island (New York).  From there I wound up co-authoring a book, which led me to teaching at different shows, appearing on DIY Scrapbooking, writing another book and eventually I came up with an idea and a portfolio and approached Creative Imaginations.

 

Q: Which products from your current lines are the most popular?

A:  I think the Metal Flower Brads are the most popular, but now that I am getting into paper and coordinating extras…perhaps they will be popular too.

 

Q: What are some of the unique selling points of your products?

A: My products are hand made metal embellishments; no other company has that.

 

Q: How do you monitor trends in the industry?

A:  By going to shows, reading all kinds of magazines, perusing various boards, staying in touch with the consumer…and I am a paper crafter / scrapbooker too!

 

Q: How do you select color schemes for new products?

A:  I try to watch the trends for the upcoming seasons…I also have favorite color combinations that I like to try.

 

Q: What is the creative process behind the names for each collection?

A: That’s a funny one…sometimes the names I choose are not always what the product winds up being called. I create the product line and give it a name, if CI thinks there is a better name; we discuss it before it is finalized.

 

Q: When inspiration strikes what is the first thing you do to begin developing a new product?

A:  Start working! Sometimes I sketch it out, other times I just play until I like the final outcome.

 

Q: How do you introduce new product lines and/or new items to the consumer?

A: Well, Creative Imaginations takes care of that with the trade shows, however, I also put things on my blog about the products, and I try to make projects to include on my blog as well. CI also has a blog that highlights all of the artist’s lines, and the fabulous design team gets their work published in various Medias introducing product as well as giving ideas for its use.

 

Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of becoming a product designer for Creative Imaginations?

A: Hands down, the people! The people I have met as a result of my association with Creative Imaginations has been awesome…from staff to other artists, to store owners, to the consumers, to design team members…it has enriched my life immensely!

 

Q: What plans do you have for the year ahead?

A: To keep plugging away on my product lines…and hopefully find more time to scrapbook and paper craft for myself.

Join Allison Connors live on September 26th at 8:00 p.m. CST in Create My Keepsake's Chat Room»».