Message from Nina 
In the past three weeks, the paper crafting industry has received some heartbreaking news. Photoplay, My Colors, and Avery Elle have all gone out of business. We’ve also learned that Creative Scrapbooker Magazine and Scrapbook & Cards Today have each published their final issues.
I know many of you are as sad as I am. These were small companies—run by people who poured their hearts and souls into their craft, just like so many of us do.
The current economic climate is incredibly tough on small, creative businesses. The rise of direct-to-consumer sales, increasing costs, and fierce online competition have created real challenges for local retailers. So often, people come into the shop asking about products, and we take the time to research, explain, and offer to order them—only to hear later that they bought them online or from a big-box store instead. It’s disheartening, to say the least.
Small businesses are special. We carefully choose the products that line our shelves. We design classes, create projects, and work hard to make our shops welcoming, inspiring spaces for our communities. But right now, many of us are struggling. Sales and class participation are down, and the pressure is real.
As we head into the holiday season, please take a moment to think about the small businesses in your community—the ones you’d truly miss if they were gone. This year, consider shopping small and local. Support the independent stores, restaurants, and creative spaces that make your town unique.
Your support really does make a difference. 
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