Crafting, Celebrating, and a Few Fan Girl Moments!
Happy Friday, crafty friends!
What an incredible week! If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram (I’m a bit slow getting my YoTube video done), you already know that last Thursday, my team member, Belinda and I packed our bags (and probably way too many crafting supplies) and headed off to OnStage 2025 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. Three days of sneak peeks, crafting, prizes, swaps, table gifts, product playground fun, and celebrating demonstrator achievements—what more could a paper crafter want? Oh, and there may have been some serious chatting involved too… okay, a LOT of chatting!
OnStage 2025 is Stampin’ Up!’s version of a convention, but let me tell you—it’s unlike any other conference you’ve ever been to. Imagine over 600 passionate crafters all in one place, cheering, dancing, and having an absolute blast. The energy is contagious, and the inspiration is endless!
Onstage 2025 – Business (or Chat) Sessions? You Decide!
Yes, there are a few business sessions, but here’s the thing—you can totally opt out and just soak up the atmosphere, lounge on one of the many comfy couches, or browse the creative displays. Me? I always attend the business sessions because if I can learn just one new thing, it makes me a better demonstrator for you and a stronger leader for my team. Plus, let’s be honest—I never pass up a chance to chat with my fellow demonstrators!
One thing Stampin’ Up! truly excels at is celebrating demonstrator achievements. Whether it’s a stand-and-wave moment, a walk across the stage for a milestone anniversary, or a top achiever recognition, there’s always something to cheer for.
A massive congratulations to Jacqui Williams (New Zealand) for reaching an incredible 1.6 million career sales milestone—I’m in total awe! And a special shoutout to my wonderful team member, Belinda Tucker, who celebrated her title promotion and Quick Start achievement. Seeing my team thrive makes my heart so happy!
Personally, I had a few stage-walks myself, celebrating my 15-year anniversary, Top #7 Country Performer overall, leadership, sales, and team building achievements, plus the Incentive Trip! The highlight? Seeing my husband waiting for me when I walked off the stage after the incentive trip recognition. He’s as much a part of my Stampin’ Up! journey as I am, and I can’t wait to pamper him a little on our DisneyWorld incentive trip in May—only six weeks to go! Steve even caught the bus for 45 minutes each way just to see my two minutes of fame! That’s incredibly special! (Disclaimer: I’m required by Stampin’ Up! to say “less than 1% of demonstrators worldwide achieve these milestones.)
Surprise Fans & Fan Girl Moments!
One of the most unexpected (and hilarious) moments at OnStage was when a lovely lady came up to me, raving about a book I’d made on a recent Facebook Live. She had never met me before, but she knew all about me! It was such a sweet moment, and she even promised to follow my Facebook page and subscribe to my YouTube channel. (Yay for new crafty friends!)
Then, two delightful elderly ladies (yes they were over 70) rushed up to me, exclaiming, “Oh my goodness! It’s really you!” Turns out, they watch my weekly mystery stamping on replay and felt like they already knew me. According to them, I’m even lovelier in person! (Cue the happy tears and laughter! 🤣)
But wait—I had my own fan girl moments too! Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine standing between the incredible Claire Daly and Linda Dalke on stage. But there I was! And later, when they sat with me in the leaders’ lounge for a cuppa, I was so starstruck I barely formed coherent sentences. (Hopefully, they didn’t notice!)
OnStage 2025 – More Than Crafting: It’s About Community
At its core, Stampin’ Up! is about people. The friendships, the support, and the shared love of creativity make it more than just crafting. Whether we’re making and sending cards, donating to causes, teaching others, or simply connecting, we’re all part of something special.
I already can’t wait for the next OnStage in Sydney next March! Want to come along and experience the fun with me? Registrations open in November for all demonstrators—so join me and The FlamInks let’s make it a trip to remember! To find out more contact me.
Until next time… happy creating! 🎨✨
Chrissy xo
