starting the new year with a blank palette

There's something refreshing about starting the New Year with an empty sketchbook or journal. That's why I decided to give my clients a "blank palette" or a special marigold journal as their holiday gift this year. It's a perfect size to fit in a briefcase or purse—to jot down ideas or to-do lists. I don't know about you but I can't survive my week without having a to-do list sitting beside my computer!

As you all know, I tend to obsess over my holiday gift every year. It has to be extra special because my clients are extra special! Last year's gift was a calendar based on a color wheel. It was very unique but not very practical. But it looked great hanging on a wall and it won a Silver ADDY locally and in district. I don't know if I can top that but that's OK because I think this year's gift is just as special and a bit more practical!

The journal is simple and elegant with only the embossed marigold's mark on the front—nothing else. It is enclosed within a belly wrap and mailed in an orange (marigold's signature color) square envelope and sealed with a marigold sticker.

The main message is on a separate tag and tied with an orange ribbon to the coil binding on the inside. The tag could be used as a book marker. It contains various icons on the back—simply drawn to represent inspirational things such as planning a trip, writing, drawing, etc.

I hope my clients enjoy their special journal and I'm already thinking about next year's holiday gift. But in the meantime, here's to new beginnings in 2012!