Dolcetto Designs

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T13:32:00.001-05:00

From our family to yours...

Photo Wedding Invitations, Canada

2011-01-26T21:37:00.000-05:00

Bring on the 2011 wedding season! We're excited to be launching our new wedding invitation sets. All designs can be fully customized with your colours, photos, etc. The sets picture the front/ back images of the 5x7 invitation and a 5.5x4 RSVP/ information card.

Photography compliments of Clifton Saulnier Photography, http://cliftonsaulnier.ca/ (Halifax, Toronto and Victoria sets)

Photography compliments of Elizabeth Vanderbij Photography http://www.elizabethvanderbij.com/ (Edmonton set)

Our Valentines Cards

2011-01-20T10:23:00.004-05:00

We had so much fun taking pics for our Valentines Cards! I found these great lollipops in Walmart's Christams clearance section for just 50 cents each. Giving the kids something to do made it so much easier to take their photos. The result was fun photos, perfect for our Valentines cards!

Thought I would include some pics of the kids too.

100% of the sales from all Valentines cards will be donated to The Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Organization. The digital file is available for just $10. Costco.ca also has an amazing printing special at the moment, just .09cents per 4x6 print (ends January 16, I think). This Valentines Day, the kids can hand out beautiful and unique Valentines cards, while supporting a great cause. These Valentines are sure to be appreciated and won't be thrown in the trash like traditional Valentines cards often are.

Little Sarah's adorable flower is from BabyWisp, http://www.babywisp.ca/

Save the Date Photo Cards

2011-01-16T21:34:00.000-05:00

This is engagement season and therefore save the date and wedding invitation season are right around the corner! I love wedding cards! I'm not sure if it's the beautiful professional photography, the starry eyed lovers or the excitement of the promise of forever. Marriage is wonderful, not always easy, but wonderful! I have been so incredibly blessed to be married to my amazing husband for over 10 years already. He is my best friend, true love and the one I love experiencing life with. I always get a little shiver of excitement when I see engagement or wedding photos. It is such an honor to create a card to help people celebrate the promise of forever. Here are a few new Save the Date cards recently added. Photography compliments of Clifton Saulnier Photography.

Win Valentine Cards!

2011-01-11T11:01:00.002-05:00

We're currently having our January giveaway on our Facebook page. Head on over to enter to win 15 Valentine Photo cards or a digital image of your choice. Good luck!

Valentines Day Photo Cards 2011

2011-01-08T21:18:00.000-05:00

I hope that everyone had a great Christmas and holiday season! Hard to believe that Valentines Day is just around the corner. I just posted a bunch of new Valentines Day cards, several more to come. All profits from the 2011 Valentine card collection will be donated to the Now I Lay me Down to Sleep organization.

Christmas Photo Cards in Canada

2010-12-17T07:32:00.000-05:00

After a busy 2010 holiday card season, it's hard to believe that it's almost over. I plan and prepare for the season for many months ahead of time and then in a blink of an eye it comes to a close. But it's not quite over yet...we're gearing up for a BUSY weekend. Check back soon to see why!

Birth Announcement/ Holiday Cards

2010-12-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

I try not to add many new designs to the Holiday card page once the season is in full swing. However, sometimes I just can't resist. After a custom order for a client I posted the design and it's since been ordered several times in just a couple of days. I added a "boy" version as well to give you a better idea of what could be done. Keep in mind that most cards on the site could be customized to suit. Just find the layout that you like best and we'll do the rest.

Christmas Photo Cards in Canada

2010-12-07T21:28:00.000-05:00

There's still plenty of time to order your Christmas photo cards! If you're running behind the digital image option is perfect. Within hours of ordering you'll be sent a digital proof to approve. Once all the revisions are made (if there are any) you can take the image to any photo finisher or upload it directly to a photo shops website to be printed. Then it's just a matter of picking your cards up and stuffing them into envelopes to mail. Fast and easy!

Too much cuteness!

2010-11-25T21:36:00.000-05:00

So I thought I would take a little break from holiday cards...

I had the awesome experience of photographing this little bundle of cuteness last weekend. There's really nothing like a brand new baby (she was just 4 days new). This was my first time taking newborn pics and I loved it! I was amazed how much I learned in just a few short hours. Anyways, love how these turned out. Isn't she precious!?!

2 for 1 Starbucks Holiday Drinks!

2010-11-16T12:32:00.002-05:00

YUM! Beginning November 18th – 21st at Starbucks from 2-5 pm you can get a buy 1 get 1 free Holiday drink. Drinks Include:Caramel Brulee Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha, Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, Caramel Brulee Frappuccino blended beverage, Peppermint Mocha Frappaccino blended beverage. *FREE beverage must be of equal or lesser value!

Free Photo Book

2010-11-13T15:06:00.001-05:00

Offer valid from Friday, November 12 to Sunday, November 21, 2010. Limit of one free photobook per sign up at shoppersphoto.ca. Enter promo code PHOTO at checkout screen when prompted. I tried this and you have to install Microsoft Silver Light to upload your pictures. It only took about 10 seconds to install, no biggie. The photo books look really nice, you can choose your background and put captions on your photos. Remember that it’s the softcover 20-page 7×9 type that the promo code covers. If your photo book does not fit these specifications exactly, the promo code will not work. Once you finish making it you can choose which SDM location to pick it up. The retail value for the photo book is $14.99, great freebie!

I used to be an avid scrapbooker and then life got busy and then we had kids...and well no time for scrapbooking. I've become a big fan of photobooks. I love how I can upload photos directly onto the website. There's no mess, no printing, no cutting, etc. In the end I've found that ordering a photo book is actually cheaper than scrapbooking as well, bonus! I've only ever used Shutterfly and Picaboo (both are great), but I know there are many other photo book printing companies out there.

I just finished mine and haven't received it yet, so I'm not sure how great the quality is. However, since it doesn't cost anything, just some time, it's a great opportunity to find out. Since you pick up the book from a local Shoppers Drug Mart of your choice there also isn't any shipping fees. I didn't love the interface on the website, so it took a little longer than usual, but it wasn't bad. The photo upload time is pretty long, so I would suggest setting up all your pics for upload (you can do lots at once) and then walking away to do something else (multi task). Expect to spend about an hour putting your book together. Unless you just want it to be a whole bunch of random pics, no text or customizations. I love it when some pages are entirely a photo, this can be done by clicking the photo and "setting as background."

Here's the link, http://www1.shoppersdrugmart.ca/en/Shoppers-Optimum/All-Optimum-Offers/Free-photobook.aspx. Have fun!

Let me know if you have any questions/ issues.

Last Day for Early Ordering Discount

2010-11-10T05:39:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day to take advantage of our 15% off early ordering discount on holiday cards. The coupon code can be found on our Facebook page.

Holiday Photo Card Ideas

2010-11-07T21:46:00.002-05:00

Warmest Wishes: Cute Winter Theme

The most difficult part about ordering a custom photo card has got to be choosing a design. Even the design can be changed; no design is ever set in stone. When looking for the perfect design I would suggest looking for two things 1. your favourite theme/ look of a card (fun, classy, religious, traditional, etc) 2. have a look at your photos and see what layout would work best with them, thinking about vertical vs. horizontal layout. Do you like the look of a collage or just one or two photos? How many photos would you like to use?

Choose the best card layout for your photos (that's the one you would actually order). The design, colours, fonts, etc can all be adjusted. I often see orders that will say: the main font from the _______ design, the colour red from the _______ design, the circles pattern from the ________ design, etc. Feel free to customize and make it yours.

I've included several different examples of a single card layout to show how the theme of a card can be changed.

Nativity Theme

Love and Laughter: Fun and Trendy

Classic and Romantic

Modern and bold

Little Penguin: A fun winter theme

I hope this post was helpful in giving you some ideas on how to personalize your own custom holiday photo card. The possibilities really are endless. If you're looking for something that you don't see on the website, just ask. We will likely be able to make your idea reality. If you would like to order one of the designs seen on this post please send an email to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com or order any design and we will happily customize. Don't forget that the early ordering 15% off discount (earlyxmas) may be applied to any holiday card order until November 10.

Got a favourite? Let us know which one you love.

Just one more week...

2010-11-04T09:35:00.000-04:00

Until the early ordering discount is finished. If you have your photos together, this is the best time to place your order. Save 15% by placing your order before November 10. Discount code can be found on our Facebook page.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T08:20:00.001-04:00

Hope you had a great Halloween! We carved our pumpkin in the afternoon and enjoyed an evening of trick or treating with our kiddies. If only the kids would sit still for some decent pics!

Don't forget to send in your best Halloween pic to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com for your chance to win $25 towards a holiday card order and a $25 GC to Starbucks! Just 10 more days to receive the early ordering discount on your holiday cards (applies to digital orders as well).

Little Owl Christmas Card

2010-10-28T14:57:00.002-04:00

I just added this new design to the Christmas holiday card gallery. Love this little owl, hoot, hoot!

Halloween Photo Contest

2010-10-27T15:18:00.000-04:00

Submit a photo of your child in their Halloween costume for our Facebook "Cutest kid in Costume" contest. The winner will receive $25 to spend on holiday cards and $25 to Starbucks.

Getting Excited for Christmas!

2010-10-26T22:17:00.000-04:00

I know that Halloween is this week, but I'm just so excited for Christmas. I had three awesome family photo sessions this weekend, which provided me with a ton of new photos to inspire and plug into already created designs just waiting to be posted. These families are just too beautiful!

Christmas Early Ordering Discount

2010-10-21T13:47:00.001-04:00

If you're feeling a little ahead of the game, why not order your 2010 holiday cards a little early. If you order before Novemeber 10th we'll take 15% off your order! Just type "earlyxmas" into the coupon code (offer for Christmas/ holiday cards only, not valid for other photo card designs). We expect to be super busy at the end of November and beginning of December, so this is just our way of thanking you for beating the rush.

Crazy for Christmas Cards.. and Photography!

2010-10-15T13:43:00.001-04:00

I have always shyed away from photography. I do cards not take pictures. Don't get me wrong, I love taking photos, I have a professsional level Canon DSLR but am still learning how to use it well. This whole past year I have felt like I have had lots of design ideas but not much in the way of photos to work with. Sadly, the lack of great photos has been what's delayed me getting my 2010 Christmas card designs posted. Therefore I decided to face my fears, pick up my camera and look for some willing volunteers to be my subjects. Here's a few photos from my first photo session attempt. I know I have a long way to go, but I was happy with the results for my first time. Now I have four more beautiful families lined up for my practice. Stay tuned to see all their lovely faces on the last sets of Christmas cards. They'll all be posted soon... I hope.

Halloween Photo Cards and a life update

2010-10-14T20:07:00.000-04:00

I realized I haven't posted anything on here in a couple of weeks; time seems to be just flying by these days! Right now it's the crush time at the vineyard/ winery, so my husband has been working super long hours (16 hrs some days). This means long days for me and the kids. On the plus side, I've had quite a few full evenings to put orders together, design new cards and post new designs on the website. With Halloween just around the corner and the Christmas card ordering season just a few weeks away, I feel like I am in the "calm" before the storm. The calm isn't even that calm.

I don't really know what to expect this holiday season. Last year was busy but not unreasonably. Considering that the site was just 3 months old and it's now been a full year, I'm expecting life to be VERY busy! I've been buying Christmas gifts and getting things in order to that I won't have to worry about our own holiday preparations when I'm busy with eveyone else's. This year we also have several organizations that are having Dolcetto Designs Christmas card fundraisers. I'm super excited about this! I still have a couple of spots available, therefore if you're interested in this please contact me asap! This is the easiest fundraiser you'll ever come across!

Thank you Mrs. V for sending me so many adorable pics of your beautiful children to use in our Halloween costume cards!

Halloween Photo Costume Cards

2010-09-29T14:10:00.000-04:00

A few new designs posted today. This mama knows how to dress her kids for Halloween; too cute! The digital image for costume photo cards is just $14.00!

2010 Christmas Photo Card Designs

2010-09-28T15:55:00.000-04:00

Todway was a wonderfully productive morning for me. With one napping and the other at nursery school it's amazing how much you can get done. I feel like it's the calm before the storm these days. I've been working on 2010 Christmas designs since the end of July and got a whole bunch posted today. There are still a few more to come but I think the majority are up. I've left up the best sellers from last year and added the new designs throughout the gallery. I love these; I feel like they reflect my style so much more than last year. Lots of bright colours as well as natural earth tones like these cards. Stay tuned, as there will be an early ordering discount posted on our facebook page in the next couple of weeks.

Our Family!

2010-09-27T13:45:00.000-04:00

This past weekend my family headed out to the vineyard to get some updated family pics taken. I'm not sure if it's because I have a photo card business or if I just like photos, but I have this thing for getting updated pics often. Kids grow so... quickly, I always feel like I want to capture all the moments along the way. I'm thrilled to have our pics done (just have to finish editing) so I can get our family Christmas cards ordered. I know how busy I'll be on everyone elses's in a matter of months, so getting ours finished will feel good.

If you plan to get professional pics taken to use on your Christmas photo cards I would suggest booking your photo shoot asap as photographers get really busy in this season. Our pics were taken by my wonderful cousin, Kristi Lee and I've done my own post processing. If a pro photographer isn't in the budget, consider having a friend or family member take photos for you. Just pick a great location, the best photo time is a couple of hours before sunset, dress your family in coordinating outfits (dark colours work well) and have fun together! As you can see from our pics, not everyone is looking at the camera, that's ok.

Photo Moving Announcments: Canada

2010-09-21T10:50:00.000-04:00

Photo moving announcements have been added to our website! These photo cards are the perfect way to share your new address and information with family and friends. I've done a few of these in the past but never posted them. Thank you to Sarah's inspiration and request I was finally able to get these up.

Christmas is Coming!

2010-09-17T14:38:00.000-04:00

I know that Halloween hasn't even come yet, however, I've been busy with Christmas designs already. I've already had several people ask questions regarding Christmas designs, so I thought I would post a little reminder that 2010 Christmas designs will not be posted until October 1 (hopefully). I've got lots of goods just waiting for great photos before I can post them to the site. I'll be keeping the best sellers on the site as well as posting lots of new designs. I feel like I have grown so much this past year, in style and ability. I am truly excited for this years designs since I feel like they are a great reflection of who I am as an artist. Bright, bold, fun, are just a few words to describe what's coming. I also have several new classic looking designs with muted colours, damsk patterns, etc.

Get a FREE Halloween Costume Card

2010-09-14T13:11:00.000-04:00

Halloween is just around the corner. I know it's still a little early, but I'm working on putting together the 2010 Halloween costume cards. These cards are an excellent way to show off your little one's in their costumes, are great to give to family/ friends at Halloween AND make a wonderful keepsake.

I'm currently in need of photos of adorable kids in Halloween costumes. If I use your photo(s), you'll receive the digital image for FREE, as a thank you. I am looking for about 4-10 sets of photos. This offer won't last long. All photos must be submitted by October 1, 2010.

Please take photos in front of a plain, light coloured wall or outdoors. Less is more. I've included a few designs to give you an idea of the kind of photos that make great photo cards. I would suggest having a little photo shoot at home to get some great shots. Please submit photos to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com.

The Winner of our BIG Photo Conest!!

2010-09-13T20:52:00.000-04:00

We're thrilled to announce the winner of our big photo contest is Abbey and family (loveincuba). They're the winners of a $75 gift card to Costco, $75 to Dolcetto Designs, $10 to Starbucks and a case of wine from Megalomaniac winery. Thank you to all that submitted photos and/ or voted! It was a great week.

Fundraising Ideas Canada

2010-09-05T08:24:00.000-04:00

Looking for a great holiday fundraiser for your school, daycare, organization, etc? How about a fundraiser with...Dolcetto Designs

Why a Dolcetto Designs holiday fundraiser?
-It’s unique
It’s easy to organize and carry out with minimal planning
-Great financial rewards
-Is a sought after item. You won’t be trying to sell something that nobody really wants or needs.

Is perfect for the 2010 holiday season! We have over 50 different custom photo cards to choose from as well as a variety of other custom cards. Our holiday card gallery will be updated by October 1, 2010.

How it works:
Participants order custom holiday cards off our website directly. The customer fills in the name of your organization in the comments part of their order form. This notifies us that the customer is connected to your organization, therefore giving the organization a portion of the profits earned through the sale of the holiday card. 15% of all sales (not including shipping fees) are given back to your organization at the end of the fundraising campaign. That's it! Simple and easy.

We will give you a fundraising information form with our website information and a brief description of how it works. The form can be photocopied and/ or included as part of a newsletter. We also email you the form so that possible participants and their families can forward it to their e-mail contact list. Since the item for sale is e-mailed or shipped it does not matter where possible participants live.

Participants tell their family and friends about the fundraiser to increase awareness.

All holiday card orders are placed directly with “Dolcetto Designs.” Payment is made online through papal at our website. Orders are either e-mailed directly to the customer or shipped to their mailing address. At the end of the fundraising campaign the organization is given the earned profits from the fundraiser.

It’s easy, it’s unique and perfect for the 2010 holiday season!

For more information and/ or to see a sample packet please contact Shari at dolcettodesigns@gmail.com or by phone at 905-680-6284. I would be happy to speak with you further about a possible fundraising opportunity. Spaces are limited as we will only accept a limited number of partipating organizations.

Citefuzz Monkey Hat Giveaway

2010-09-04T07:40:00.001-04:00

Aren't these hats too cute for words!?! Citefuzz is generously giving away one aqua monkey hat with lime green trim. Don't miss your chance to enter the giveaway on our Facebook page (link to the left)

Check out the link, Citefuzz hats have been spotted on Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick's twins!
http://www.usmagazine.com/momsbabies/photos/growing-up-hollywood-2010223/9619

Giveaway from Baby Wisp

2010-09-02T09:46:00.001-04:00

It's a great giveaway from Baby Wisp, http://www.babywisp.com/. Baby Wisp is an excellent Canadian company that specializes in adorable hair clips, bows, ponytails, tutus, etc. If you've never heard of them and you have a special little girl in your life, I would encourage you to check out their site. Baby Wisp is graciously offering the lucky winner a $25 gift voucher to their shop.
"Like" our page and leave a comment on the photo post to enter the draw. http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=194868&id=116185642990&saved#!/pages/wwwdolcettodesignscom/Dolcetto-Designs/116185642990

Extra entries for "liking" the Baby Wisp FB page and posting a link on your own FB status.

Giveaway from Simply Colors.ca

2010-09-02T09:42:00.000-04:00

We've got another great giveaway posted on our Facebook page; $20 to spend on any personalized item in the http://www.simplycolors.ca/ online shop. They have got the cutest shirts, onesies, etc. These shirts are an awesome way to celebrate a holiday, special birthday, announce special news, etc.

"Like" our page and leave a comment on the photo post to enter the draw. http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=194868&id=116185642990&saved#!/pages/wwwdolcettodesignscom/Dolcetto-Designs/116185642990

Extra entries for "liking" the Simply Colors FB page and posting a link on your own FB status.

Win a Cake Topper from Cupcakes Under Cover

2010-08-31T20:25:00.001-04:00

The birthday celebration has begun! Today I posted the first of several giveaways on our facebook page. Cupcakes Under Cover (http://www.cupcakesundercover.com/) has graciously agreed to create a custom topper for the winner. Tammy is amazingly talented at what she does! You've got to check out her amazing cakes and cupcakes as well. The topper is made out of sugar paste and is totally edible. They can easily be shipped anywhere in Canada or the USA. We're also throwing in 15 custom 4x6 invitations to match. If you're a fan on our page you can easily enter by leaving a comment under the photo. Don't forget to "like" Cupcakes Under Cover's Facebook page as well for an extra entry, http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Oshawa/Cupcakes-Under-Cover/360973044318?ref=ts

To enter the contest, click here: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4810039&id=116185642990&ref=fbx_album

The prize is one cake topper (valued at aprox $15). Please note that wedding cake toppers are often more than one topper (bride and groom). For the contest, Tammy will need to be contacted 4 weeks prior to the date you will need the topper.

Win over $400 of goods!!

2010-08-30T09:53:00.000-04:00

This is our best and biggest photo contest ever!! To enter send a photo of a "special moment" to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com. We'll post it in our "special moments" photo contest album on our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/pages/wwwdolcettodesignscom/Dolcetto-Designs/116185642990.

The photo that receives the most votes/ comments wins the prize!

The prize pack:
$75 to Dolcetto Designs
$75 Costco Cash
$10 to Starbucks (or Tim Hortons)
1 Case (12 bottles) of wine from Megalomaniac Winery (delivered), http://www.megalomaniacwine.com/

All contest details and rules can be found in a "note" on our Facebook page. Contest closes September 12, 2010.

It's coming...

2010-08-26T20:28:00.000-04:00

Here's a sneak peak of some of the great giveaways that will be offered during our birthday week! Make sure you're a fan of our page so that you'll know when everything is happening. Our BIG photo contest details will be posted in the next few days. The prize pack is awesome!!!

Birthday Week

2010-08-25T14:37:00.000-04:00

Our big birthday celebration week is just over a week away! The fun will begin right after the long weekend on our Facebook Page. We've got a giveaway a day planned, discount codes and a great big prize pack photo contest. Can't wait! If you're interested in sponsoring a giveaway we still have a few days available. Just leave a comment of contact us directly at dolcettodesigns@gmail.com

Cash Back for Photographers

2010-08-18T10:24:00.000-04:00

We're excited to now be offering a 10% cash back referral program for photographers. It's easy. Photographers that refer clients to Dolcetto Designs will recieve 10% of the sale. Your client must mention your name (Photography business name) on the order form to qualify. This is just our way of thanking you for the referal. The cash back program is only available to professional photographers.

Wedding Photo Thank You Cards

2010-08-16T14:35:00.001-04:00

It's definetly wedding season! We've been thrilled to be getting lots of thank you card orders these days. Of all the cards to design and create, photo wedding thank you cards are some of my favourites. I LOVE seeing all the beautiful wedding pics! Anyways, just had to post a few of the many from the last while.

Custom Bridal Shower Invitations

2010-08-11T21:34:00.000-04:00

The last couple of days have been very productive for the wedding galleries. Today I posted a few new bridal shower invitations something that I've been meaning to do for ages. I look forward to adding several new designs to this gallery within the month. As always, every design can be customized to the bride's wedding colours, theme, etc.

Photo Save the Dates

2010-08-10T13:21:00.000-04:00

Photo Save the Dates are the perfect way to share your engagement photos with family and friends. Save the Dates can be purchased as photo cards or 5x7 post cards. All printed cards include envelopes.

Photo Wedding Thank You Cards

2010-08-09T11:17:00.001-04:00

Here's a few new wedding photo thank you cards just added to the wedding thank you card design gallery. We have an awesome selection of wedding photo thank you cards. Cards can be purhased as post cards (heavy 14 pt paper weight), fold over cards, cards printed on photo paper or the digital file. Simply write your personal note of thanks on the back for a unique and memorable thank you to your guests.

Please vote for us!

2010-08-03T20:56:00.002-04:00

I'm thrilled to be nominated for the Mom Entrepreneur of the year contest. I would be honored if you would leave a comment/ vote for Dolcetto Designs. Simply click the link, register and leave your comment. Thanks in advance, it's much appreciated!

All voters are entered in a draw for $500 CASH from PAYPAL!

http://momentrepreneur.savvymom.ca/entry/3072975

Farm Birthday Invitation

2010-07-28T10:05:00.000-04:00

Love this new farm birthday invitation! The design can be found in the boys and girls photo birthday card galleries.

Ladybug Birth Announcement

2010-07-27T06:19:00.001-04:00

Ladybug birthday invitations are popular, but what about a ladybug birth announcement!?! Love how this custom ladybug birth announcement turned out! The "Jolene" design was customized with a ladybug theme. "Cute as a bug, introducing our new little lady..." Just may have to add this one to the gallery.

Girls Photo Birthday Invitations Canada

2010-07-26T13:50:00.000-04:00

Just posted a great new birthday invitation design. I love how this one turned out! I look forward to posted a "boy" version shortly.

Little Updates

2010-07-23T10:55:00.000-04:00

Ladybugs and Flowers Custom Birthday Invitation

2010-07-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

Thought I would post this little cutie from a couple of weeks ago. I have so many cards that I could post, oh to choose just one! Layna's mommy wanted a pink ladybug and hibiscus flower theme with pink and lime green. Here's the final product! Selective colouring was also applied to this photo.

Win It!

2010-07-21T13:32:00.000-04:00

Today only! Win a free digital design, just "like" our Facebook page and leave a comment on the post about what you would use it for. The winner will be chosen by random.org at 10 EST Time.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/wwwdolcettodesignscom/Dolcetto-Designs/116185642990#!

Facebook Engagement/ Wedding Contest Winners

2010-07-16T06:25:00.000-04:00

A BIG congratulations to our Facebook contest winners! The above photo won first prize ($50 to our shop) and the below photo won second prize ($25 to our shop) Winners can use the money towards anything wedding related (invitations, thank you cards, etc). Both photos were taken by Trevor Allen Photography, http://www.trevorallen.ca/ out of Halifax, NS. Check out his site to see more of his AMAZING work! These photos look like they belong in a magazing, truly stunning!

Modern Baby Shower Invitations...Finally!!

2010-07-12T12:37:00.001-04:00

Baby shower invitations have been somehting that I've wanted to design and post for quite some time now. Not only was the gallery lacking in this area, but I had great photos given to me to use from Kim Cartmell, http://www.kimcartmell.com/, not to mention that there just isnt' much out there when it comes to modern photo baby shower invitations.

These days so many girls are getting maternity photos done to celebrate the miracle of pregnancy and birth. What better way to share your adorable prego pics, than with a baby shower invitation!?! Not the most comfortable in showing off that belly? A sonogram photo is also a great pic to use on a baby shower invitation. Since most labs don't give out the disc of the images, a sonogram picture can easily be scanned and sent over as a jpeg image. We can easily edit and crop the image to make it look that much more amazing on the invitation.

Bridal Shower Invitation

2010-07-12T06:06:00.000-04:00

This simple, yet unique bridal shower invitation features the photography of the amazing Melody Davis Photography, http://www.melodydavisphotography.com/. This was a custom design for a girly tea party/ lingerie shower. It included a little insert with the bride's "size details" and info on attire for the party. Cute!

Free Samples

2010-07-08T15:12:00.000-04:00

We are excited to now be offering a free sample pack! This is the perfect thing to request if you're ordering a lot of invitations/ announcements and want to get a better idea of what our paper quality and weight is like, as well as colour clarity and print. We know that you won't be disappointed!

The sample pack comes with 1 folded 5x7 wedding greeting card and 1 4x6 card printed on photo paper.

To request a sample pack please "contact" us through our website or send an email directly to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com. Please include your full name, mailing address and what type of card you are interested in.

My Little Man

2010-07-05T13:35:00.002-04:00

Amazing how fast time goes; I feel like it was just weeks ago that this little guy was born. My little man is already 8 months old! He gets around the house easily, crawling and pulling himself to standing. He's got an amazing smile and the cutest giggle. Love him to bits!

FB Contest: Wedding Giveaway

2010-06-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

The prize: $50 to spend on custom photo cards (save the dates, invitations or thank you cards)!

How to enter: Submit a great photo of you and your significant other to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com, subject "FB Contest." This could be an engagement photo, wedding photo or just a fun pic of the two of you." Please include your first names in the email. Photo entries must be sent by one of the individuals on the photo (not a parent, friend, etc).

How it works: All photo submissions will be included in an album on our facebook page. Our facebook fans (you included) will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite pics by leaving a comment on the photo of their choice. We suggest that you encourage your family and friends to become fans on our page in order to give you their vote as well. Only those that "like" our page/ are fans, are able to leave comments on photos.

Rules: An individual can vote on as many different photos as they like. However, only one vote (from an individual) per photo will count. Please do not leave numerous votes on a single photo. Comments must be left on the photo itself and not on the album comments section.

To enter, you must "like" our facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/wwwdolcettodesignscom/Dolcetto-Designs/116185642990?ref=ts

The photo entry with the most votes wins the $50 gift certificate to our shop.

The winner will be announced July 15.

Know someone that's engaged or recently married? Please feel free to send them the link to our page.

Have a question/ comment? Please feel free to contact Shari at dolcettodesigns@gmail.com

Good Luck!

Custom Wedding Invitations: Canada Wedding Invitations

2010-06-29T14:26:00.000-04:00

Horray for wedding season! I love the idea of a custom wedding invitation, since it can be whatever the couple wants it to be. Any colour, any font, any photo. Do you have an idea? We can make it happen! I am amazed how often I hear brides say that they can't find invitations anywhere since there wedding colours are unusual and not easily found in stationary. This is where custom invitations are the perfect solution!

Today I have attached three invitations of the "Laura and Shane" design.

These are just a couple ideas of what's possible.

Sears Baby Shower

2010-06-25T13:32:00.001-04:00

Do you live in the Niagara region? Are you pregnant or recently had a baby? Visit us at the Sears Baby Shower in St. Catharines, this Saturday from 11-2pm. We'll have a great giveaway you can enter. There will also be lots of goodies and prizes from a variety of vendors.

**As a follow up; a big CONGRATULATIONS to Rachel, the winner of a set of 15 4x6 birth announcements! All the best to you as you prepare for baby! We look forward to receiving your pics and details.

Boy Photo Baptism Invitations: Canada

2010-06-22T15:23:00.000-04:00

Believe it or not, a lot of our website hits come from people searching for baptism invitations. Therefore a large percentage of our sales are for baptism invitations and thank you cards. Here are a few new designs; some are brand new and others are variations of birth announcements on our website. I have to say that I've been on a roll these days when it comes to creating new designs. Collage designs continue to be my favourite, as each one is like a new puzzle to be accomplished.

Looking for a baptism invitation for your little one? You've come to the right place. We'd be thrilled to help you create a memorable keepsake to share with your loved ones.

Cherry Blossom Photo Birth Announcements: Canada

2010-06-21T15:50:00.000-04:00

A couple new girly photo birth announcements added to our gallery this past week. I love these!

Photo Birthday Invitations: Canada

2010-06-14T14:58:00.000-04:00

Today I thought I would post a couple new boy birthday invitation designs. Just a couple more weeks to order your birthday invitations to receive the free digital matching thank you card. Not actually ready to place your order? Not a problem, you can complete the payment now and send us an email with your ordering details later. Contact us with any questions.

Magnet Photo Announcements/ Invitations Canada

2010-06-09T08:52:00.000-04:00

We're excited to be launching several new products in the months ahead! The first being photo magnets! We have several sizes available to meet your needs and budget. Just like our photo cards, magnets can be fully customized.

Magnets are perfect for birth announcements, save the dates, thank you cards, etc.

One of my favourite ideas is to to go with a 3x 4 or 4x4 magnet, stick it on piece of cardstock with 2 sticky dots (can easily be removed). You can easily write a note of thanks on the cardstock AND the recipient gets a great photo keepsake as a thank you. Easy, cost effective and appreciated! The perfect combo. This would be perfect for a wedding thank you! Contact us for further ideas and details about magnets.

For the smaller sized magnets, we are currently only able to offer them at a minimum order of 100.

Best Place to Print 5x7's in Canada

2010-06-03T14:50:00.000-04:00

People are always asking my opinion on photofinishing, as the quality and prices vary greatly. Black's is one of the best choices for photo finishing in Canada. They have awesome print quality, colours, paper weight, etc. My only issue with them is that they tend to print a little on the dark side. However they are more than accomodating to lighten an image and will reprint any order if you're not 100% happy.

Here's the best part, they also just became the cheapest place to print 5x7's in Canada! At just 35 cents a print (regular price), they are now an even better deal than Costco (42 cents online, 49 cents in store). There definetly seems to be some competition out there between photo finishing labs.

Have a photo finishing question? Let me know, as I would be happy to help. I do my best to keep up on current prices, quality, etc from the leading shops (Blacks, Costco, Superstore, Walmart, Shoppers, etc).

Photo Card Gift Certificates

2010-06-02T12:44:00.000-04:00

This is just a reminder that gift certificates are available. This is a great gift if you know someone who is expecting (birth announcements) or is getting married (thank you cards). When ordering a gift certificate be sure to let us know what kind of photo card the gift is intended for and we can send a few samples to give the recipient more of an idea of what they're receiving.

Farm Girl Birthday Invitation and Thank You Card

2010-05-27T14:00:00.000-04:00

Theme birthday parties are indeed popular these days! Here's a custom invitation/ thank you card that I did up the other day. The request: farm theme with brown and purple. This little cow girl is just too cute; love how the set turned out!

Twins Birth Announcements

2010-05-26T22:06:00.000-04:00

This week I was given the opportunity to create birth announcements for these precious baby girls. Since there isn't a "twins" design gallery on the website, I did up several different proofs for the family. I look forward to adding the images to the website shortly.

FREE Birthday Thank You Cards

2010-05-25T14:48:00.000-04:00

Just a reminder that from now until the end of June, receive a FREE birthday thank you card (digital design) with the purchase of any birthday invitation order. Can be used at the time of ordering the invitations or after the party is over. Got some great cake smash or party photos? This is the perfect way to show them off! Have a question? Feel free to "contact" us with your thoughts.

The above images are the new zebra print birthday invitations. Just a little out of the ordinary!

Girl Photo Baptism Invitations: Canada

2010-05-24T21:53:00.000-04:00

Here are a few of our latest girl baptism invitations. These collage style invitations are a twist on the classic baptism invitation. The first "Mariah" invitation is retro inspired, whereas the "Teri" design has a modern chic style. Looking for an invitation that's different from the rest, well you've come to the right place! All designs are custom; anything is possible.

Modern Boy Photo Birth Announcements

2010-05-22T13:44:00.000-04:00

Here are a few new boy birth announcement photo cards. I was looking through the galleries the other day and couldn't believe how many birth announcement designs I've posted through the months. Between beautiful photos, brushes, graphics, fonts and custom designs I find that creating new designs just keeps getting easier. I would have originally thought that it would be the opposite, so I'm thankful that the creative juice continues to flow. I'm starting to wonder if I have too many designs in some of the galleries or is there never really enough? Hmmm... There are indeed many favourites, however selection and choice seem to be key as almost all the designs have been purchased at least once.

Free Birthday Thank You Card

2010-05-21T20:22:00.000-04:00

FREE Birthday Thank You Card (digital) with any birthday invitation order for Facebook fans. To become a fan/ like our page, you can easily connect through our blog side bar. On the order form please note that you like our page to receive the free image. The thank you card can be used anytime. What a great way to show off those great party photos and thank your guests at the same time! Offer expires end of June.

Photo Baptism Invitation

2010-05-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

Custom orders and baptism invitations continue to be the trend this week. It was difficult to decide on what to post today, as I feel like there are many new designs in my files. Anyways, I love how this baptism invitation turned out. Elegant and sweet. I love the delicate white floral overlay on the pink; it's tricky to see on the screen but printed beautifully. This design was created as a 5x7. I look forward to adding this photo baptism invitation to the deisgn gallery.

Last Days

2010-05-17T17:33:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow we leave BC and head back to Ontario. We've had a great time visiting family and friends but we're looking forward to returning to normal life and child friendly schedules once again. Please note that I will be unable to reply to email on May 18. All business/ orders will be back to normal as of May 19. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Cousins

2010-05-13T00:49:00.000-04:00

For the past week we have been enjoying spending time with family and friends in BC. It has been such a joy to watch our little girl interact with her cousin just 4 months younger. The girls are just too sweet together! I didn't realize how much I missed the mountains until yesterday. Vancouver and the Lower Mainland are truly beautiful!

I've been thankful that I've been able to take my work with me while we've been away. Thank goodness for laptops! I will be able to complete printed orders after the 20th once again, in the meantime I'm able to complete all digital orders.

Zebra Wedding Invitations

2010-04-29T14:45:00.000-04:00

The zebra print seems to be popular this wedding season. Here are a couple of ideas using the zebra print. Like the general design of a different invitation or card but still want to use the zebra print? We can easily customize to suit. The options are endless.

As a side note, all designs are back on the site. Thank you for your patience during the last few days. I'm so relieved to have everything back to normal again!

Up and Running

2010-04-28T09:41:00.000-04:00

After a few days of website/ server issues it looks like we're up and running again, phew! There are a lot of designs missing from the galleries, especially baptism and birthday invitations. These will all be restored by Friday. Thank you for your patience and sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Site Issues

2010-04-26T06:23:00.001-04:00

If you've been on the site or trying to get on it within the last 48 hours you may have noticed that there's been some upload issues as well as general "where did it all go?" issues. We've been working hard with our host provider to figure out what's going on and to restore the site. Neadless to say, it's been a bit of a stressful weekend. Hopefuly all the designs will be visible shortly and all will look as it once did.

Thank you for your patience. All questions/ concerns can still be emailed to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com

Photo Birth Announcment and Matching Thank You Card

2010-04-24T14:48:00.000-04:00

I just had to post this adorable custom design I did the other day. Isn't this little guy just too cute?!? In fact, many of this weeks orders have been custom, which has been fun for me. Sometimes people ask me about the matching Thank You card idea. It can be whatever you want it to be. In this case the family just asked me to create the thank you with one of this photo. Most people write their note of thanks on the back of the actual announcement, others like a seperate card. Anyways, here's an idea of what's possible.

WIN $50 to Spend in our Shop!

2010-04-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

1. Join our Facebook Page (link to the left on the side bar)
2. Send a Mommy and Me photo to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com, (any age, any number of kids, preggo photos are great too, have fun!)

Encourage your friends/ family to become fans of our page and leave a comment on your photo. The photo with the most comments from different people wins the prize. All submissions will receive a 15% off coupon code as well. Therefore, if you think you may order sometime (May 9-November 1) you may as well enter, you've got nothing to lose!

Good luck; we look forward to receiving your photo submission!

Wedding Wire

2010-04-16T15:27:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let you know that you can now find us on Wedding Wire. We have been on Project Wedding for sometime already, however Project Wedding is now under Wedding Wire. If you are a bride or newlywed that has used our services we would love a review! You can click the link on the left sidebar.

50 Free 4x6 custom photo cards: facebook page contest

2010-04-15T17:16:00.000-04:00

Send in your mommy and me photo to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com We've only got a few entries so far so odds of winning are high. All photos will be posted on our facebook fan page on April 17 (voting for favourite pics begins). All entry photos receive a 15 % off discount code as well. Awesome if you plan on potentially ordering anytime May- October.

Above photo compliments of Melody Davis Photography, Me and my first born (2 years ago almost to the day).

Mommy and Me Contest: $50 to spend on Photo Cards

2010-04-11T15:22:00.000-04:00

We're gearing up for our big Mother's Day: Mommy and Me contest. $50 to spend on custom photo cards (use anytime in 2010)! Submit your best photo of yourself and your child(ren) (prego photos work too) to dolcettodesigns@gmail.com, subject "Mommy and Me." Photo submissions taken until April 25.

We'll be posting your photos on our Facebook Fan page. Voting for best pic begins April 17. Encourage your friends/ family to become fans on our page so that they can give you their vote. Winner announced May 9 (Mother's Day)! Spread the word; can't wait to see your photos!

Damask Baptism Invitation Photo Cards

2010-04-11T14:50:00.000-04:00

Check out our latest beautiful damask baptism invitation photo cards. These boy/ girl cards are oh so classy! This design works best with a vertical photo of your child. Planning a baptism for your child? Contact us to put together the perfect photo baptism invitation.

My Baby is 2!

2010-04-10T20:00:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how fast time goes by. Today my little girl turned two! We had a low key kind of day since we already celebrated last weekend and will be having another party in May when we're visiting family. She's a spunky little girl with lots of character. We love her to bits!

Baby Memorial Cards

2010-04-07T22:12:00.002-04:00

We are pleased to offer infant memorial photo cards as keepsakes to help those who have experienced the loss of a child. The digital jpeg image is available at no charge. Printed photo cards are also available at a discounted price.

Just over a year ago, some of our dear friends baby was born stillborn. When you or someone close to you experiences the loss of a child, your life is never the same. When our second child was born I couldn't help but think of the loss that our friends experienced only a year previous. So many mixed emotions. Each new life is a gift and should never be taken for granted.

Our friends were blessed to be able to have their baby photographed by a Now I Lay me Down to Sleep photographer. NILMDTS is a not for profit organization of professional photographers that connects parents to a local pro photographer to have photos taken of their child. What an incredible gift for parents during such a sad time. I recently came across NILMDTS several times which made me think about what kind of memorial announcements are available to parents to experience such a loss. After much research I learned that there is hardly anything out there on the huge world wide web (at least not that I found). Most of what I found were questions in a variety of forums written by parents, all wondering where to find memorial announcemenets, infant bereavement cards for their baby. All babies are precious and should be announced. It wasn't long before I decided to make infant memorial cards available on the site. If you are interested in this service please contact me directly at dolcettodesigns@gmail.com, as I would be honored to help you create a special keepsake.

The memorial cards can be given out at a memorial service, sent out as thank you cards, etc. Join me in helping break the silence of infant loss/ death.

Kim Mallory Photography

2010-04-05T15:28:00.000-04:00

I am thrilled to post about an amazing BC Lower Mainland Photographer, Kim Mallory. Kim has been incredibly generous by allowing us to use a collection of her photographs for our designs. Yesterday I posted a bunch of new designs in both the boy and girl birth announcement galleries. These new designs are bright, fresh and perfect for spring. They can be found throughout the design galleries, therefore you will be unable to see them all by only going to the "what's new?" tab. When asked what my favourite design is I am at a loss for words, I simply don't have one anymore.

Kim specializes in newborn, child and family photography. She is also an incredible wedding photographer. Kim has a passion for photography which is evident in her beautiful work. Live in the BC Lower Mainland and are thinking of getting some photos taken? Check out her website at http://www.kimmallory.com/, she also has a blog (which you can connect to through the website) as well as a Facebook page.

Below are a few of the new designs featuring photography by Kim Mallory.

Thank you so much for the images Kim; they are truly beautiful!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T13:13:00.000-04:00

Wishing you and your family a blessed Easter season! We hope you have the opportunity to rest, relax and spend time with family. We've had beautiful weather here in Ontario, 27 degrees, can you believe it!?!

Wedding Invitations, Non Photo

2010-04-01T20:50:00.000-04:00

It must be wedding invitation season, since that's what this week has been all about! After many requests, and a growing portfolio, we are pleased to introduce our new line of non photo wedding invitations. These are modern designs with simple brush graphic images. All images can be customized with your wedding colours.

This is just a small sample of what can be created for your wedding invitation. Please contact us for more ideas, images, etc.

a Piece of Cake: Niagara, Canada

2010-03-31T21:30:00.000-04:00

I'm excited to post about a great business in the Niagara region, "a piece of Cake." Tammy can take your idea and put it into icing. The best part is that she can match the cake to your invitations. All you need to do is email Tammy your invitation image and she'll take care of the rest!

Ocean Photo Birthday Invitations

2010-03-31T10:27:00.000-04:00

The latest ocean/ under the sea theme birthday invitation photo cards!

Girls Photo Birthday Invitations

2010-03-30T12:18:00.002-04:00

Just a couple new girls birthday invitations recently added.

Boy Birth Announcement Photo Cards: What's New

2010-03-29T09:47:00.000-04:00

Just a few new boy birth announcements that you can find in our gallery.

Ladybug Birthday Invitation 4

2010-03-28T13:33:00.000-04:00

Introducing our newest ladybug birthday invitation.

Prince Birth Announcement Photo Card

2010-03-26T14:41:00.000-04:00

Ceck out the newest Prince Birth Announcement Photo Card posted in our gallery. So precious!

Princess Birth Announcements

2010-03-25T07:16:00.000-04:00

A couple of new additions to the birth announcement galleries, princess announcements. Both designs feature a pretty pink damask pattern, fit for your little princess. We have a large stock of crown graphics, all are interchangeable.

Cars Birthday Invitation Photo Card

2010-03-24T08:17:00.000-04:00

This was a custom order I did last week. I love the bright colours and transportation theme; perfect for this little guy's birthday. I have since added the desing to the gallery.

Flowers Birthday Invitation Photo Card

2010-03-23T13:06:00.000-04:00

I love how this girls birthday inviation turned out! So pretty and feminine and perfect for a spring/ summer party. This new design has been added to the girls birthday invitation gallery.

Ladybugs Birthday Invitation Photo Card

2010-03-22T15:26:00.000-04:00

Here's our latest ladybug birthday invitation photo card!

Monkey Birthday Invitation Photo Card

2010-03-21T13:53:00.000-04:00

It seems that so many kids are little monkeys; I know mine are! Here's another monkey birthday invitation photo card. This card easily works with one photo as well.

Easter Photo Cards

2010-03-19T15:58:00.000-04:00

The Easter photo card designs are finally up.

As always, each design can be customized, your photos, your colours, fonts, etc.

Easter Photo Card

2010-03-16T12:52:00.000-04:00

So I've been a little slow getting the Easter/ spring cards up. It's on the to do list, it just hasn't happened yet (and may not). Anyways, I thought I would post a custom order that I did for a fabulous family. I have now done their birth announcement, baptism invitation, thank you, Christmas card and Easter card. It's such a joy to work wtih repeat customers, to see their children grow and establish a relationship. Even though we've never met, I feel like I know this family. (all names were changed, as always).

Baptism Photo Inviations Canada

2010-03-14T13:33:00.000-04:00

There have been a lot of requests for baptism/ christening invitaitons these days. Please note that all baptism invitations can also be used as first communion invitations by simply changing the wording around. The Caroline and Robert invitaitons are acutally birth announcements redone as baptism invitations. I hope this gives you a better idea how most other designs on the website can be altered for a different occasion. When looking to see what other designs could possibly work, the main thing is to look for cards that have ample space for the invitation wording details. Not sure if the one you picked out will work? Just send us a quick e-mail and we'll let you know.