Susan Neal
As I travel and teach for Paper Crafts magazine, the most common question I hear is “how can I get your job?” I thought I’d take this last opportunity to answer with the long version, basically a synopsis of my time here at Paper Crafts… let’s go back in time!
In 2001 I started a relationship with Creating Keepsakes magazine. I had entered a few contests, one of which I won, and the other which led me to doing some design work, including this first cover:
The July/August 2001 issue of Creating Keepsakes magazine
In conversation with the CK editors, they discovered I was a designer/painter. They quickly got me in contact with the managing editor (Jennafer Martin, who is now the editor-in-chief of CK) of their new sister publication Crafts magazine. Literally, within a few days I had design assignments. I spent the next few years designing and painting for Crafts, but my heart was turning to paper. I was done with wood!
Fortunately, Crafts magazine and Valerie Pingree (the founding editor of Paper Crafts) also made such a change and in February of 2004 Paper Crafts magazine was launched and I was along for the ride. And what a ride it’s been!
Here's where it all began: the February 2004 issue of Paper Crafts.
At the time I had just sold a paper crafting retail store/web site I had started in 2002. I suddenly had two very important things necessary to contributing to Paper Crafts magazine in a big way: time and plenty of paper crafting supplies.
In short order I was asked to fill the role of Paper Crafts Pro for the magazine. It was very much a job that evolved over time, and one that was exciting and creative and really, just fun. We (the PC Pros) became contributors not only in design, but at editorial boards meetings; we helped to critique past issues and plan for new ones. We researched trends, brainstormed and got super creative.
Early on, I conceived a special issue idea that turned into Card Fashion; using fashion to inspire card design. I got to concept, write, assign, organize and I loved every moment of it. I have to thank Jennafer M. and Stacy C. for giving me that opportunity.
Card Fashion, 2006
It was such a joy to work for Paper Crafts that I don’t think I’ve ever said no to any request in all the years I’ve worked there. I’m sure I’ll hear about it if I did!
We soon got opportunities to teach; which has been one of my most beloved responsibilities and one that I’ve carried through to a new business I started last fall, Q’s Creative Card Classes. I love to travel, meet new people and share in our mutual paper crafting passion. I was just in Valley Forge a few weeks ago and will be in Tulsa again this weekend – hopefully I’ll see some of you there!
CKC-Valley Forge, 2009
We travelled to CHA and other industry conventions, representing the magazine, doing research and creating relationships with manufacturers. Many great memories are associated with these trips and I dearly miss them.
In 2006 I was asked to represent Paper Crafts on a local morning show KSL Studio 5. I clearly remember the butterflies that first day, but oddly enough they quickly disappeared and I left the show that day thinking, “I think I can do this.” I’m sure a large part of this was the ease of interaction with the hostess of the show, Brooke Walker.
Here's one of my appearances on Studio 5. Love that Brooke Walker!
Surprisingly, the most intimidating thing I’ve been asked to do is video tape instructional videos. I know this sounds very similar to live TV, but actually, it’s much, much harder, as you have nothing but a camera (or two) to relate to. No cute hostess to play off of or fill in your blanks – just you and the camera. Fortunately, I was very prepared and despite my nervousness, was able to create some successful teaching segments. The second time I did this was much easier, which just goes to show you that some things just have to be done to be learned.
Practice makes perfect!
You can see me in this video!
It has been my absolute joy being an ambassador and cheerleader for Paper Crafts Magazine and one I don’t plan on stopping. I continue to devour each issue and share that love with anyone I come in contact with. As a founding PC Pro, I’m hoping you’ll still see me on occasion.
Working for Paper Crafts has given me a whole new set of skills that I want to use. Q’s Creative Card Classes has become a huge part of my life. I’ve also continued my relationship with Studio 5 and am now a regular cooking and paper crafting contributor for them. I still freelance design and consult in large part because of the treasured friendships and valuable relationships I’ve gathered over the years.
I’m sure it’s easy to see the opportunity part of this equation. I want to thank every one of you who gave me those moments… you know who you are!
I prepared for those opportunities by working. Really, it’s that simple. I love this hobby so much that work for me was a joy, but it was still work. Lots and lots and lots of design, educating myself on techniques and even creating some along the way. And of course, staying on top of trends and reading Paper Crafts magazine! The editors at Paper Crafts are so good at communicating just what they need, so read closely and don’t give up! Keep submitting and persevere. I’ll be looking for your name soon!
Your Founding PC Pro,
Sue Neal
P.S. If you’re intrigued by the concept of Card Fashion, I just happen to have three copies from the secret Paper Crafts vault. Leave me a comment and I’ll pick three random winners to receive their very own copy! All comments must be received by midnight on Thursday, August 20.
What a great story! Seems that you are uber talented and your hard work has paid off again and again. Kudos to you! My dream job would be working for a craft magazine or to do any type of crafting job. I can dream, can’t I? Thanks for the cool gift. Hope I’m a winner!!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us! Very interesting story. I need to check out your card classes since I am new to card making.
You are very talented, and I have enjoyed the classes I have taken from you. Thanks for sharing.
Well OF course I would be interested! Thank you for sharing a part of you!!
What an exciting journey – thank you for sharing!
Pick me!
Card Fashion sounds awesome – I can’t wait to check it out! THANKS!
I’m intrigued by all the magazines mentioned and would love to have a copy of Card Fashion.
Blessings,
Christine
Congratulations for following your passion, working hard, and bringing so much fun to PC readers!
It’s amazing to hear a tidbit of our story on how you got the job. I find it so amazing how crafters gain there positions and they were not really looking for it. That’s very encouraging to me and I had a similar experience. Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
Thanks for all the info about your journey. And the encouragement to continue on our own journeys! I would love to take that blog candy into my home where it would get some great TLC!
Very cool reading about your journey, especially about taping videos.
Sure glad I will still be able to enjoy your work through your card classes.
Wow everyone has a story!
that is what I learn over and over every day. I just subscribed to Paper Craft Magazine because of your talent and creativity! Sorry it is your last.
Keep inspiring all of us!!! I will keep my fingers crossed hoping to win!!! Lisa
I have always wanted to get into the business but never knew exactly how to do it. Your story was very cool. I love when you are on Studio 5 you always to such fun things.
I really enjoyed reading about how you got started in all this wonderful craftiness. I love coming to your card classes and creating wonderful new things!
I LOVE your classes – because of the tips I have learned there, and the chance to create something beautiful, I now have confidence that even a ‘granny’ can make lovely cards. I’ve subscribed to Paper Crafts for years but haven’t been able to make things look as good in reality as in the magazine as I now know I can. Thanks so much!
Intrigued???? Of course, I am intrigued. Thank you for the trip down your memory lane. Isn’t it wonderful and amazing how God guides our footsteps with out us even realizing it sometimes???
What an amazing story. You definitely earned your position. I’ve been subscribing to PaperCrafts for a long time now. At some point I started a subscription to Cards. Although the books look cute, the content is no where near the caliber of PaperCrafts. My PaperCraft magazines are all tattered from use, while my Cards magazines just look nice on the shelf. Thanks for sharing. Would love a copy of the Card Fashion magazine.
What an awesome journey that you are on – thanks for sharing your story with us!
What a great story! I’ve enjoyed all your designs and hard work!
Isn’t it great to love your job! Thanks for the story and a great magazine. I’ve been a long time subscriber of Paper Crafts and always look forward to getting a new one! Thanks for the chance to win.
Love it all! Such a GREAT magazine! Thanks!
Thanks, Susan, for an informative article! My first reaction was “How lucky is she?!” but after reading, I realize “luck” doesn’t have a whole lot to do with it! It’s kinda like those in the music business who take a number of years to be an “overnight success”! ~k
It’s so great when you can do what you love!
Loved hearing how you got into the business. Thanks for the chance to win a great resource!
Robbie
congrats on your retirement??? I has been great fun in your classes
Loved reading about how your career developed; all that work certainly paid off! Would love to own a copy of that magazine.
congrats on all your hard work! sure paid off!
Congratulations – you must be so excited! So happy for you! Thanks for the chance to win!
Wow, thanks for sharing your journey with us! I’m so glad to have benefited from it! You’re amazingly talented and I appreciate you sharing it with all of us!
Before I even finished your post, I was thinking that I need to get my hands on a copy of Card Fashion…oh please let me be one of the three lucky ones!
Sue,
You amaze your fans again and again. Oh the PANIC we felt when we heard you were “retiring” – we thought that meant no more Q’s classes!!! I’m so glad that this career has brought you success and happiness. Most of all, I’m glad that it gave you an opportunity to inspire us all.
Congrats and best of luck in your next adventure!
~ Monica
You have the dream job of a lot of women out there. I love your style and your creativity. Thanks!
I posted on your blog page also, but would love to receive this special magazine if I am lucky enough.
Have enjoyed reading your ‘history’, didn’t know all this about you. Just knew what wonderful classes you do, though I have had to miss the last couple and really hope to be in town for the next one. You are such a talented gal!
WOW, Sue!
You are awesome and have done it all in our hobby! 
I loved reading about you and loved how you let us know that you love your job because you love the craft so much, but you also let us know that it is work! 
Thanks so much! 
Thank you very much for your story. It was inspiring to me. Paper Craft’s magazine is the best!
What a great read. Thank you so much for sharing. Oh please please let me win one of the mags. I treasure my mag collection like you cannot believe. It would have a happy home with me!!!
Thanks for sharing. This magazine would be such a treasure to have.
Hope I win !!! Yes .. I want to know more …
Kiss
What an interesting journey! Your creativity along with a strong work ethic have helped many of us. Good luck in the next step of your journey!
Thanks for sharing your story! I love PaperCrafts!
Thanks for sharing your story. I always love the special editions of Papercrafts magazine more than any other! Keep them coming!
Thanks ladies for all your warm & wonderful comments.
I love to hear how women get started on something they love and it turns into a big adventure! Thanks for inspiring me!
Thanks for sharing your story. I love all things PaperCrafts – there are always new, dynamic ideas.
You have had such a fun journey with PC.
I’m so amazed at everything you’re able to accomplish! You’re awesome!
Hi Susan, what a fun blog. I learned even more great things about you! I love contests. So I’m in for the Card Fashion drawing! Brooks
What a fantistic story. Thank you for sharing and keep up the great work.