BIG THANK YOU!!! | Undated Common Planner B6 and A5 | November Flip | December Setup ..A long video

Website: sterling-ink.com
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[@VeganOrganizer]

I'm really sorry you've had to deal with so many complaints. I think that you did an outstanding job of communicating the process and you made it very clear when the orders would be shipped, how long the pre-order period would be open, etc. Congratulations on this incredible achievement and please ignore the nastiness - you've created an awesome product that has quickly become a favourite in the planner community!

[@rladyleo3]

I'm really sorry that you had to deal with difficult people and chargebacks. What I saw was you were completely clear, honest and gave numerous updates. The pre orders were open for a good amount of time, you were clear on the timelines and gave lots of updates, pictures and videos about the planner! Completely transparent! Unfortunately you can't please everyone and some people can just be irrational. The planner is beautiful, I'm looking forward to using it! Keep moving forward, you did a great job! Don't forget that!

[@pixie0714]

I don't understand people. Pre-order means it most likely will take months to get your order; however, getting your order is guaranteed. Congratulations on all the sells. I love the planner.

[@ssum92]

You really don’t have to apologize. If the people who complained really wanted the planner they should have ordered it during the 15 day long preorder. Like the rest of us. I think you made it very clear that the preorder would take a while and you didn’t plan to order excess as you own a small company. Don’t let negative people pollute the success of your first major launch. You did amazing work and you gave everyone an equal chance to get the planner if they really wanted it.

[@algilmer3608]

You are evolving SO QUICKLY for your customer base during such a busy time of year across these industries. That alone gets all of my respect. I know you must be working around the clock just based on the pace you have been updating us at. Customer service doesn't get any better than this. Thank you so much for such an amazing product! I am making this my all in one planner for 2023 and am so excited to jump in. You have opened yourself up to a very hungry & opinionated community with a whole new product in a short amount of time, and that is absolutely massive (and I know must also be stressful). What is it like having a dream become reality? Because creating a product from your brain to tangible and hopefully also profitable item is pretty cool in my book!!!

[@CozyHaru]

Catherine, for all the people that complain, please don't forget there are those of us that adore and love the planner you created. I greatly appreciate the careful planning and considerations you put in. The gilded edges are beautiful, and I also can't wait for it to turn vintage. The cover colors and flexible nature sets your planner apart. The light grid line is such a huge and beloved feature. As someone that gets stressed from too much "noise," the refreshing lightness and intentionally minimal design approaches to your planner does not go unnoticed. Please always remember there are those of us that truly appreciate all the energy, effort, time, thoughts, and heart you and your family put forth. Thank you so much!

[@linseyt7600]

Your planner is beautiful and so elegant! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the gilded edge, it makes it feel more special. I also love that the cover isn't stuff, as it makes it easier to flip through it. I know that you mentioned that the future planners will be stiffer, I trust in you and your judgement that it will still be perfect. Everything you do is so gorgeous. I do want to say though - no matter how busy you are, please do not cancel your Christmas for you and your family - even if your son isn't old enough to fully understand it yet. Your customer's are not going anywhere, the orders are not going anywhere - we will still be here ready, waiting and loving your work. Time away from work is important - and you have already been so overly busy with the releases and black Friday etc etc. Please take the time for you and your family you ALL deserve it.

[@sonjagohmann852]

I Love the gilded Edge soooooo much too. It is like the Louis Vuitton 😊 so elegant and special

[@shelbseroo]

I find it so irritating how people don't clearly read about things like cancellation policies when buying things. Chargebacks are brutal, when people can just sell it on a BST after.

[@ChristinaPlans]

Ugh I agree.

[@helloalicecraft]

I think that there were a lot of folks unaware of the planner until after folks started to post on youtube about getting their planners and did videos on the planner on youtube. That's how I found out about the planner. I had never heard of your shop before hand. But I think you were very very transparent about the product and the process. The folks charging back and such were just willfully ignorant in my opinion.

[@chelseag3365]

this!

[@joannavaldez]

I can't tell you how much I love my Common Planner. I honestly pre-ordered first day pre-orders were open and had forgotten about it by the time it came out. It is now my favorite planner of all time. I WILL be using it for perpetuity/until you no longer make them. 😉 Hopefully that doesn't happen. I think I'm definitely going to get the undated as soon as they're available. This is a great product and a great launch. I personally prefer the existing color and the gilded pages. I immediately ordered PVC clear covers for mine and that's what I'm using. What I'm saying is, we can make it work and there's no way to please everyone. There was a whole video explaining and detailing all aspects of the process and the planner. People had all the information, if they didn't pay attention, that's not on you. Still, super excited to see any and all improvements and future versions. ❤️👍

[@ChristinaPlans]

Catherine, congratulations on such a great release of planners. I haven't clicked in a video so fast. Lol. I don't know why folks don't understand preorder. I'm so sorry that you had to deal with that.

[@thiadavis1698]

It seems that folks have had a real misunderstanding of how it works? 🤷🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️

[@mldshelly12]

I don't get the confusion either, unless they didn't read.

[@LeaverWild]

Heavy is the head, Dear Catherine. ❤ This was THE planner release of the season, including Hobonichi. It’s the truth. People have been complaining about the the things this planner “fixed” in the Hobo for over 5 years. I’ll take the “for now” on the sizes, because personally I think the A5 people have the Cousin 😂 but I think your biggest mistake here (if any at all) it was underestimating yourself. I look forward to seeing what else you come up with. ❤

[@numberedpages]

I love the dated common planner in b6, and can’t wait for the undated versions! I’m so glad you’re continuing the half year versions, and improving things based on feedback. I hope the grid doesn’t get too much darker, the light grid is a feature!

[@SilverMoonyLuna]

As many have commented, I believe you did an outstanding job in communicating the pre-order timeline. You and your family were working extremely hard to fulfill orders and even got all the planners out incredibly fast. (I received mine in New Zealand 2 weeks after it shipped). As a growing business, it's expected there will be learning curves, and being your very first planner, it's unrealistic to have forecasted how successful the launch would be. The pre-order should've helped ease the risk on your side (unfortunately, it seems some people didn't understand the no-cancellation policy), and at the same time, everyone who wanted a planner was guaranteed one. I'm so glad I got one when I did. You've created a beautiful planner. Thank you! 🙌 (Of course, there are people who joined the party late and were unaware the Common Planner existed. But that can happen with any pre-order planner, not just yours!)

[@ChocolateVelvet93]

I really appreciate how hard you and your family have worked to make your products available! I think too many people don’t understand the difference between a small business, and a big corporate seller like Wal-Mart or sellers on Amazon. You don’t have unlimited resources, you can’t magically come up with more planners when the demand is bigger than you could’ve imagined. I ordered mine at the Friday launch - my order was complete 1 minute after launch, and I got my package very quickly. I think you are doing an amazing job, but it’s inevitable that some people will be disappointed when you make something that is far more popular than you anticipated. Hence the complaints about “manufactured scarcity”. The people saying that just have no idea how it actually works to launch a product. The exciting part is that next year, you will be able to sell as many planners as you want to sell! Congratulations on your success!

[@violetrosegold]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts in a kind and honest way and for your extreme thougtfulness! You've gone above and beyond! You're a small business... we need to keep that in mind when we have expectations. I can see you care from your videos and responses to emails and FB posts. Hope you, your mom, husband, and son take some time off for yourselves! Or at least only work regular hours and get some sleep and weekends off. I'm enjoying my Common Planner!

[@jessplansandwrites]

Hi Catherine! Let me just tell you I‘m so, so grateful you‘re going to come out with an undated B6 *and* A5 Common Planner! That‘s like a dream come true for me! (I don‘t know if you remember, but I was the one who was asking about an academic year version. I‘ll be perfectly happy with an undated one because that way, I can just make it an academic start.) I‘m happy there will be a version without gilded edges and that the grid will be a bit darker/better to see because that’s my personal preference. Also sticker sets for small monthly calendars, and clear covers, too! Sooo excited! 💙💙💙 I‘m very sorry you had to deal with cancellations even though you communicated way in advance that the Common Planner would ship in November. Also the people who were nasty because the spare planners sold out so quickly… 😔 In my opinion, you did the best you possibly could with your first planner launch, and you communicated all the details perfectly well. As an international customer, I‘m very grateful for your flat-rate shipping and your kind and quick customer support. Virtual hugs!! 🤗

[@ginamiller6754]

I absolutely love the Common Planner that you designed. I have no complaints! I love the gilded edges and I do understand that it could be problematic for you as you described. To me, it sets yours apart as special! Either way, I will be a return customer! Your attention to detail in your stickers is why I bought the Common Planner and you did not disappoint! My husband has his own business and I know that no matter how well you do, someone will complain. That is no reflection on you. You were up front about everything, cost, time to order and receive, size…. Everything!! It’s gorgeous! Your stickers are the highest quality and gorgeous! They go together beautifully!

[@lorelei_lee]

I observed your launch very closely because it's possibly the most interesting planner that came out in years. Unfortunately I was already set on my planner for 2023 and I didn't participate in the preorder but I'm looking forward to order next year! I am watching the planner community for about 10 years now and there never was a launch with such detailed information beforehand and so much consideration of your customers - like international shipping costs or the split launches in November! Really I'm more than impressed! I'm so sorry that people are so nasty - I've read some of the comments on your IG posts and was so shocked by the aggression! I can't imagine how you have felt! Sending you big hugs from Austria! While writing I am excited to hear there will be an undated version and in A5! OMG! I will order even earlier than I thought! 🥰 The stickers also sound very interesting! Also happy to hear the grid will be a bit darker - my old eyes will be very thankful! You are really doing a great job, Catherine! 👍🤗♥️

[@chanpersonal9582]

This is months late as I JUST discovered your planners. I have since bought about undated and subscribed to your sticker kits! Watching this video reassured me that my dollars are going to support such a wonderful small business. I can hear your passion for your products and your earnestness in trying your very best to make everyone happy. You've earned a long term customer!!!! Always remember your supporters and let them drown out the unreasonable and entitled!!!!

[@cherylldawnful]

Wow I can't believe ppl were complaining about the lead time. You made it clear from the start how long the pre-order would be and we actually got the orders earlier than anticipated. You should be so proud of yourself for creating a planner that we all wanted. No matter what you do, there will always be ignorant people online who will say nasty things. Just ignore them. The majority of your customers are exceedingly happy for this planner and all the work you do! 💜

[@noemigomez8113]

Catherine I am sorry that some people just gave you guys a hard time. It’s weird bc you explained during pre launch that planners wouldn’t ship until November. Also you gave two long weeks to preorder. I have my planner and love it. I love your products🥰

[@tinacampbell2610]

YAY!!! Darker grid & Date Kits❤!!! I love all of this... JUST TAKE MY MONEY NOW!!!! I love my B6, thank you for making this planner ❤I can’t wait to see the A5 undated and the date kits. I’ll also be pre-ordering your dated in A5 Size (more than one) when you offer it for 2024, so excited!!! I love the pre-order feature and love that once I’ve ordered I don’t have to worry.

[@kerritotty1844]

I APPRECIATE: your transparency; your hard work as a small business owner; your willingness to hear feedback and tweak the small things; trying to anticipate glitches as much as you can; beautiful artistic work that I can truly enjoy but would never be able to create on my own.

[@Ky-k]

The amount of care you put into your products really really shows. It made me tear up a bit hearing about how much work you put into this launch, thank you :)

[@gemmastatham3591]

I'm so sorry you've had to deal with horrible people, I ordered in the pre order and was completely happy to wait and its arrived within plenty of time for the new year, I'm completely in love with the common planner it's amazing, please don't let a few negative common take away the amazing book you have produced ❤️

[@keiralee]

I'm so sorry for all the stress you've endured through this launch. We are all grateful for your efforts and the communication you've given us throughout the process. Thank you for always being so open, transparent and caring. I'm excited about the updated B6 version, as I am rather an undated planner. I'm grateful you decided to do both half-year and full-year versions. I'll deff be in that preorder. I appreciate the small tweaks you have done so that everyone can use your beautiful planner. I think it can be easy to get caught in the excitement of the planner that some people lose sight of the person who made it, I'm glad you made this video expressing how you have felt through this progress. Thank you so much Catherine, for everything you've done.

[@staceyh8654]

I love my planner. I pre ordered the full year in Mauve and it is Beautiful both in construction and the looks of it. When I received my book I was very pleased with every aspect of it. I have really appreciated your videos & stickers you create for so long. Thank you for taking the risk of making the planners. Being that you are a small business I know it was a huge risk for you and your family.

[@Janet-lm2dl]

Can't wait to get started in my planner for next year! I found the preorder process a positive experience that was well communicated and seamlessly executed. My planner came in the exact time frame I expected. Looking forward to all the new additions and inspirational items that you are creating.. your work is beautiful and calming and in the end we will all have a precious keepsake for years to come. Please take care of yourself.. do not take on too much.. find a balance.. and have a wonderful Holiday season with your family!

[@sandrift]

I’m more of an art journaler than a planner person, so I wasn’t aware of the Common Planner until this last week. I was sorry to miss out on it, so am really glad to hear you’re releasing an undated version - I think it will be perfect for how I record my life. Love the mauve cover, the paper choice, light grid, and the lay-flat design. Thank you for all of your hard work - hopefully people will pay more attention to the pre-order timeline and refund policy next time.

[@juliathomaz1347]

honestly, don't apologise. The planners are great. I hated the experience in all honesty, I hate how much adrenaline this whole process put in my body, I don't deal very well with stress hormone and will definitely be on the safe pre-order side next year. But all of that went away when I saw the beautiful planner and I started engaging with it - as you said, it is very precious. I wanted the full year but ended up getting the half year because of the sell out, but I now love the half year and will get it next time! But an hour-long video of a hard-working woman apologising is the last thing that the internet needs right now. Your planner is amazing, your stickers are amazing, I can't wait for next year's planner (with a little less stress involved for both you guys and the customers hopefully!)

[@midnitelog1c506]

I've had to pull away from most all launches for that very reason. The anxiety I get is ridiculous for something like FOMO. I've given up on some store washi altogether because of it. The pre-order idea helps me not spiral

[@inawertzberger2580]

❤❤❤Oh my gosh Catherine! You created an unbelievable product that is so much sought after. Despite complaints and criticisms, know the overwhelming majority of us, are in awe of what you have done (and even now simultaneously planning the undated). You have artistic talent, business genius and an amazing work ethic. Thank you Catherine. God bless you and your family!

[@empressbat]

Your preorders were done well, and you communicated every step of the way. I am so sorry people cancelled and were unpleasant to you. You are working on developing a great product, and people should be supportive rather than treating you and your small business in this way. I am so sorry you have expereinced this. My personal views on the planner so far (I preordered and was happy to wait as I knew it would take a while and you communicated wiht your customers regularly) I love the gilt edging, I think that is my favourite part of the book! Makes it feel luxurious and a pleasure to use. The sewn in signatures and lay flat binding is wonderful. The paper is lovely to use and has very little bleed through. The layout is a great idea, and I am getting used to a B6 size. The shipping to Australia was so cheap I know you must have made a huge loss with shipping costs! What i find challenging with the planner (and this is just a personal thing for me_ ) is the font and lines are so faint i can barely see them, I understand the reasons you wanted them faint, but for me, I cannot see the day names, columns, times or page numbers, unless I am in bright light. This is not a complaint about your planner,it is just some feedback maybe for future consideration as you develop your offerings further. Keep going you have a great work and family ethic, stay strong, and don't give the nasty people your brain space.

[@vikkisladen2849]

Mine got here today. I love the gilding more than I thought I would! Stunning. You are always so responsive to your community. Your integrity and creativity in bringing a new idea to the market are remarkable. I hope you have plans for a January holiday after the plastic cover is done :)

[@plannermumsy]

I am so sorry you feel the need to justify why you did what you did with your company. I ordered my planners in the presale. I got one of each not knowing which I would prefer and knowing I could always sell the one I didn't prefer for my system. I think you went above and beyond for this launch! It is very apparent by the planner that you put a lot of thought into it. I have been doing some layouts for next year and so far, I am adoring it! As a company, you clearly are listening to customers and doing your absolute best to please everyone. Just know.....there will always be unhappy people, no matter how hard you work or how much effort you put in. I appreciate you and your family greatly for working so hard! Thank you! I look forward to seeing what is in store for 2023/2024 with Sterling Ink and I am here for all of it❤

[@swede_pea]

Catherine, you created an amazing planner and the sell-outs totally shows this! I was very happy to pre-order, and knew it would take a while for it to arrive BUT it was well in advance for a planner meant to be used in 2023, so no big deal at all!! I love mine, a full year in black. I love the gilded edges, but it won't bother me if you choose to not offer it again. I would like to see the cover in a slightly thicker material, but it being offered in a matte black linen look is suburb, please keep this for next year. The planner is perfect! Thank you for filling a void in our B6 loving hearts!

[@nikkilpzs]

I preordered the planner and you and the team at Sterling did a fantastic job at communicating this entire process and I’m so sorry that you have had difficulties with customers. I feel very confident in purchasing another planner with how receptive you and your team are to feedback and I look forward to anything else that you release!

[@mldshelly12]

I appreciate all your hard work in putting this out. People can be so cruel when they don't get what they want and are super quick to judge a situation. Personally feel you guys did an amazing job communicating and for those that are shocked by timing on a preorder dont read the description or information that provides timeframes.

[@pspspsps_here_kitty]

I'm so so sorry you had to deal with all that. I'm one of the new ones to this planner/channel who did NOT hear about your pre-order. I think I found out about your planner 3 days before your 2 day release. Some people need to understand that a few of us were not around for the pre-order. That being said, you are incredibly generous and caring. I'm glad to be here now. I wish you so much success now and moving forward. 🖤

[@lori8048]

You 3 have hit it out of the park with this! I can’t believe what an amazing product you have created & have really handled this in the most meticulous, thoughtful and professional manner! So sad to hear about all the haters! This was so worth the wait and you all are always so polite and happy to help with any questions or concerns! Keep up the great work!!!❤️

[@morganwentworth2041]

I love my common planner. Speaking as someone who doesn’t make any content with my planner, I got antsy waiting for my preorder but managed to keep it together by reminding myself that I wouldn’t be using it until December at the latest. I am grateful for the work you put into this, and am glad that more will be coming because I’m definitely going to be buying one for next year. The size, grid size, and paper are perfect. I am hoping that the popularity means that more folio style leather covers will be created that fit the full year!

[@planit_joe692]

Congratulations to you and your team!! It was a job well done. I wanted to make one comment. I much much much prefer the light grid versus darker. I love the freedom your current planner offers. I do hope you consider a dark plum color cover next year!

[@someonelikeme7551]

Dark plum colour would be a dream 😍

[@sandyseibelhager7131]

Congratulations on the success of the planner. I got mine and I love it! I'm so sorry that you had so many complaints. You were so clear about the shipping times and everything I'm not sure why so many people thought they had a reason to complain. Thank you so much for your excellent customer service. I am a new customer and anxiously awaiting my new sub box to go with my new planner. So far, I am loving everything that you are doing.

[@dorothyevans3864]

I started using my planner as soon as I got it in November - there was only ten days or so to go, so I drew my own weekly spreads and did without the monthly. It’s working very well for me as my work planner and notebook. I use the Sat & Sun columns in the weekly to list tasks that must be done in the week, and note what’s coming up or is of lower priority. I keep my schedule during the work days during, drawing a line at 6pm and listing tasks that must be done that day underneath. I love having the undated notebook - I don’t work 7 days a week (unlike Catherine!), and certainly don’t work 365 days a year. Having 365 pages, however, means I can write my meeting notes, mind maps, brain dumps and lists as messily and as large as I like and be pretty confident the book will last - and if not I still have a B6 stalogy, just in case. The one issue I have is that my work year runs April to March, so a spring start is best for me. But what’s this I hear … an undated version? And in A5? Point me to the preorder list! 😊. Well done to Catherine, the planner is fabulous and exactly what I need!

[@swankypop]

You’ve done a fantastic job with this product and its release, Catherine. I love my common planner, and the light grid is perfect to me. Is there any way we could do a poll on keeping the grid the same vs. darkening it? Maybe I’m in the minority, or maybe I’m part of a silent majority who likes it the way it is.

[@CozyHaru]

A poll would be lovely! I adore the light grid and am hoping this doesn't change either. The light grid was a huge bonus compared to other planner options.

[@thekatplans]

The light grid is a challenge for those of us who have visual impairments - I and others have commented about wishing it were more legible in the future (didn't order one, just going off review videos - the B6 is too small for me for the same reasons so I'll be holding out possibly for a dated a5 next year) So its an issue of aesthetics vs accessibility, which is an age old challenge!

[@kris.1095]

I’m having a hard time with the grid being sooo light (my eyes appear to be aging faster than the rest of me, lol) but I can understand people not liking very dark grids. I’m hoping for just a wee bit darker. However, I believe the majority should rule and that a business understandably needs to provide what most people want. Whatever the outcome, I’m still here for this gorgeous, thoughtfully designed planner.

[@lisaj3556]

People can be so entitled 🙄 Your communication was clear about the manufacturing times and you were transparent throughout this process. You guys went above and beyond and as a long time customer of your shop and sub box, I was very happy and satisfied with the process. I’m so happy with the planner I got, it’s beautifully made and there is obvious care that went into the design and processing. I’m so excited for you and your brand and to watch it grow even more in the coming months/years. You did a fabulous job! 💕

[@missfl0werstar]

Catherine, honestly, I can't be grateful enough to you for making this planner available to us. Shipping a Cousin to Europe has never been worth it for me, even if it would have been 80% perfect for my work planner. I've been drawing out the same weekly layout for 2 years because 1) I can't afford a work planner that expensive but also especially because 2) all that wasted space felt just a deal breaker for me. I love what you've done with the Common Planner and I LOVE the idea of getting an undated planner for the next school year since I'm in academia. I'm also considering getting the A6 to try and if one day you add a Weeks size (horizontal) planner, I'll say goodbye to Hobonichi forever LOL

[@tootsfour956]

Catherine you do such a great job with all your work. Love my planner and monthly stickers. You are so talented. Thank your husband and mother for us and the hard work you put in to get our planners out for all of us. Blessings!

[@ashenamber]

The transparency and honesty about the process you share is why you had the demand you had for this planner other than it’s great design. We love an honest businesswoman and I can’t wait to preorder a b6 undated planner. And yes, you are allowed to say your products are great! Because they are! Here’s to your continued success and happy holidays. Aloha

[@annettefertitta6868]

I am so happy that you kept the gold edge option, yes initially it was a bit sticker but when I “trained it like you suggested (hand pressing). It was so with it - no more pages stuck together. Also, happy that I was able to purchase the planner I wanted from in stock, I had fallen in love with the subscription kits and had forgotten about the planner… the algorithm had diverted me so glad I found the common planner best ever!

[@SterlingInk]

appreciate all the kind words, and glad the "training" helped out your planner!

[@enlightenedandloved6051]

Like all the rest of the commenters I have no idea where the complaints came from. You posted detail videos on KZbin and and IG. I preordered on day one. I received mine and I absolutely love it. When/ if you produce the a5 I'll order that one too. You truly can't please everyone. Some people just like to complain. You did a great job. 💜

[@nee4187]

Thank God for the cancellations! I just discovered this planner today on KZbin and was lucky to get my order in today at noon. Can't wait to meet my new planner.

[@kailahmom1]

You did such a good job with this launching of a new product. Just remember you would go crazy if you try to please everyone. It is never going to happen. Run your business in a way that helps you and your family keep your sanity.

[@flyspotter4404]

Thanks so much, Catherine! I am setting mine up while I watch and listen to some of your videos for inspiration and ideas. Your efforts and creativity are greatly appreciated!

[@SterlingInk]

Awww thank you!

[@alypenny8741]

I get frustrated sometimes with how things go in buying things in the planner community but everything you did (you your husband and your mother) was unbelievable! You did everything! I’m so sorry people got frustrated even though you were always so transparant about everything. Please only feel proud about what you accomplished! I love it ❤️

[@wingedblossom1667]

Haters are always going to hate. So really piss them off by ignoring them. A great thing however is that you listen to what your peeps want like with this new launch. Personally, you hit every single thing on my wish list. Can’t wait. Congratulations.

[@inkythinky]

Congratulations on your accomplishment. Even though I didn't order your preorder communications were among the clearest and most frequent I've ever seen. With the cousin coming out in English this year and me being one of the few people who actually enjoy the quotes I just had to go for it so I didn't change my planner plans this year. But I'm so happy for you and adore the concept of undated pages after the weekly spreads. I could not be more excited for a chance to support your business when you have an undated A5 version! I have so many more A5 covers than B6 ones, although honestly will probably get both sizes. Plus undated weeklies provide a home for your gorgeous day of week and date stickers, which dated Common Planner and English Hobonichi both make harder to justify purchasing ;-)

[@denisetaylor8683]

I have loved setting up my planner. Thank you for creating them!

[@itaaish]

Congratulations on this release! So excited to hear about the undated versions

[@mbmaxwell1858]

I don’t understand the complaints regarding the length of time to receive the planner. It’s a 2023 planner and the preorder was in September. There’s no point in having a planner 3 months early that you can’t use yet. It’s okay to wait. I think your whole process was perfect and executed flawlessly. You communicated extensively with everyone and went above and beyond to provide customer satisfaction. I adore my new Sterling Ink planner and am excited to start using it in the new year. ❤

[@amoriventer2728]

Thank you Catherine!!! You are truly motivational and I love your heart! 💕

[@QueenHonestlySavage]

Like you said redirect and stay focused. Can’t nobody stop you from what’s meant to be your unless you let them! Not important don’t let them come into your world (little circle ⭕️ and come mess shit up) they shouldn’t have that much affect on you they didn’t help you get here and you don’t owe us shit period. Even though I love you as a sister, motherhood, business woman, go getter, homeschool mom, successful etc) I can appreciate you and support you! I wish and know all you goals and dreams come true! ❤

[@theoryof.lauren]

catherine you have been SO thoughtful throughout this entire process! it was truly such a pleasant buying experience from beginning to end. can't wait to see what the future holds for you & your company!! 🤍🤍🤍🤍

[@TheBigslammy07]

I totally messed up and didn’t do the pre order even though I loved everything about it. I have been lucky enough to be gifted one by a fellow planner in a group I’m in. I don’t have it in my hands yet but I just want to say that I love the golden edges. Keep up the good work. Don’t let negativity slow you down. You’re doing great!!!!

[@Marie-um6uk]

You were very clear about your process since it's new adventure for your shop. It was hard to wait, but I knew what was I was getting into when I pre-ordered. I love mine and am using it for a faith planner. Exactly what I needed! But please don't feel the need to run your business according to other people's ideas. Do what works for you. I was very happy with the product and experience ☺️

[@xuanluo8378]

Thank you Catherine for this amazing planner. Your talent, thoughtfulness and perseverance are gold. I’m a big fan of you❤ best wishes to you and your family❤❤❤

[@Pinkybellesplans]

Im so surprised ppl were complaining! Im sooo happy with my purchase I have no complaints at all the planner is amazing!!! Im excited to hear ur going to offer A5 size and would love to have that! I thought the pre-order process was fine, it didnt seem too long to me, I was one of the first to pre-order and received my planner way before I was even able to start using it so sorry u had complaints. Its a very nice planner, I really appreciate the thought and effort that went into it especially after hearing how much work ur family put in, THANK U!! 💖 Its a perfect planner and I cant wait to order next year. Hoping to have another one just like it in A5 size.. 🥰

[@jamiechapple9403]

Love the planner and the pre-order and shipping was perfect and very timely. Good things take time. 💜

[@wonderwonder30]

For your first planner launch, you did a fantastic job not only explaining everything about the planner itself but how the pre launch was going to go. Also, I’m so excited about the undated version with the sticker options, that’s brilliant! I did get a little antsy about when it was going to ship but knew it was going to be here before the new year. I will tell ya, the notification it was shipped I got so excited and that bad boy was in my hands in record time. Great job!

[@cate5029]

Catherine, I could not be happier with my planner. I love everything about it! The cover is beautiful, the layout is exactly what I have been looking for in a planner. You and your family have done an excellent job of getting everything out to the best of your abilities. There are so many things you cannot control. Thank you so much for everything. I do hope you will have some time to relax and refresh for the New Year!! You are fantastic! 💜💜

[@mauishopgirll]

I don’t like the scarcity marketing model either and it is 100% obvious to me that you were not doing that. It’s terrible that anyone accused you of that. I do prefer pre-orders as I know I can get what I want. I hope you continue offering pre-orders. Thank you for explaining the gilded edges! I get it now and can’t wait until mine changes through the year. Wonderful job Catherine!

[@elvia2738]

I love the planner! I started using it this week using the blank pages for December weeklies and dailies.

[@Rosecu1010]

I love my Common Planner. It was for one of my daughter’s Christmas presents but I’m going to keep it for myself! I ordered early and knew it would take time… and it was lovely! I’ll do it again, so please keep going. Thanks😊

[@dlhurst68able]

You planner is beautiful - it is reflective of you :) Now, A5 size would have me dancing for joy.

[@jillcantor9444]

I love my common planner. Moving into it in Dec because I can’t wait.

[@karihuitt9754]

I absolutely love your planner!!! It's perfect! Loving the lighter grid! You did a great job! I was blown away with how fast I got them. So excited to see your business grow!

[@Chrissy213]

Your planner is fantastic! I look forward to purchasing the A5 version!

[@cynthiah4866]

Catherine - Truly you have NOTHING to apologize for. Congratulations for all of your success and thank you for your work ethic and professionalism. I hope that you and your family are able to enjoy the rest of the holiday season!

[@tiff4951]

Congratulations on your amazing success! I can't wait to get my hands on the undated planner. Ignore the haters, they don't know you and just want someone/something to blame for not getting what they want, when they want.

[@catherinejbaker]

I am cheering you on so much, Catherine. Your success is exhilarating! Put me down for B6 half year undated. As soon as you’re ready to take my money 😅

[@denisegarcia3200]

Bless you and your parents. I didn’t get one 😢 but I am happy for you. A lesson learned and go forward. Wish you even more success for 2023🎉

[@SterlingInk]

Thank you :)

[@ktsls82]

I thought your pre-order and release were the best ones I have ever seen. Your planner is amazing!

[@kristendiaz2473]

I love the Gold edge! 🤩

[@ccrgrl]

I am looking so forward to the undated version! I am very happy for your success, I can only imagine how hard you have worked. There are a zillion people wanting this, so why not just sell if your unhappy? Darker grid Yes!!! I can't wait.

[@lachimiste1]

You’ve done so well with this planner release and handing the hype train that accompanied it. Congratulations on a smashing success, and I’m sorry you had to deal with complaints and chargebacks. You’ve been so committed to your customer base through the whole thing. I’m so excited to use the half-year planner style. I use a Galen Leather B6 zippered folio and absolutely love it. The full year planner would be too thick to fit in the cover unless it was the *only* thing in the cover. With the half-year planner volumes, I will be able to carry 3 fountain pens, cards, ephemera, planner goodies, stamps, a tiny A7 notepad, and a pocket notebook along with the planner. Absolutely fantastic. Thank you so much for this great planner option!

[@lilypressley]

I think you did everything exceptionally well. I love my mauve six month common planners with the gilded edges. I love how your sticker kits effortlessly fit into the planner and create a picturesque flow. In terms of the upcoming revisions, I don’t use the timeline so the lighter numbers don’t bother me; I am just ignoring them. I am so looking forward to getting my January subscription tomorrow! I think you hinted at adding more days of the week which will be perfect as I use them in all three sections.

[@andreaalbee9818]

THANK YOU so much for such a beautiful product and your open communication. It's impossible to please everyone and to avoid frustration. I'm SO happy to have found something so close to the Hobonichi in a smaller size and made by a small business in the US. It has saved me a lot of money. I look forward to next years launch as well and any improvements you might make. Keep up the great work! I wish I lived closer; I'd offer to come and volunteer my time to help you out. God Bless.

[@danielajanouskova4853]

Wow. This is just incredible! You and your family are awesome. I am so happy for you to sold out but really appreciate your hard work. And I can image hoe hard it is to deal with all our comments and complains...so sorry for that. It is part of the game I know but I am really sorry. Looking forward to Undayted A5 in Mauve!!!!🎉🙏 Thank you for your beautiful work. I am really enjoying your planner and stickers and admiring your creativity. You are truly in inspiration for me. Dany

[@Azbudgetcat]

First of all, thank you for such a beautiful planner! I managed to snag one set on Mercari and happy I did! Your hard work establishes a bar which others will need to reach. Keep creating! Your efforts are appreciated by your customers and fans!! Hugs to you and your family! Growth is a burden to larger dreams!

[@SamisSweetLife]

I am so so happy for your success. Your planner got on my radar well after the pre-order ended unfortunately, but I will absolutely be following along and up for a pre-order in the future. Can't wait for the A5 size!! I bought during the imperfects sale and each round sold out in 2 minutes or less.

[@janete3143]

I'm so happy you're coming out with undated. I was too late to buy a second one so I hope to get the undated version to use later in 2023.

[@purplediamondify]

Thank you so much Catherine ❤. Your dedication and hard work 14hrs shifts even though thankgiving is amazing. For showing us the back process of the business side. It is alot of efforts now I see why small shops cancel on black Friday. I also wanted to say maybe the planners were different. But I have always received my stickers 2 days after purchase one of the fastest shipping I have ever experience and my orders from shops always gets messed up , as I have to ship to UK from a US warehouse. The location is extremely hard to trance. I am always rest assured that my products will come.

[@coco_plans]

Dear Catherine, I am so in love with this planner! You and your family have created the most elegant, sophisticated product! It’s so lovely to touch and write in this beauty, the design and size are perfection! It will be the cornerstone of my planner system for 2023. Most of all, I recognize the tremendous risk and effort it took to bring the common planner to market. I applaud you, it’s a phenomenal success. To have a journal so elegant in my system, I am forever grateful for you all! Sending my love and appreciation❤️😘 Connie

[@torilarae10]

I loveeee the gold edges😍😍😍

[@PrincessCelESF]

Congratulations on all of your success! It’s difficult to manage such rapid growth, and you really were as up front and communicative as you could be. People are gonna gripe, especially those who don’t know all that goes into a business. Keep going, you’re doing great things!

[@brittney3165]

i cannot stop touching my common planner. I absolutely love this planner. I'm so sorry about all the struggles you went through on all fronts. For what it's worth, I'm beyond impressed with everything you've put out. Hope you can take some time to be with your family and rest

[@justbeingmee6]

I've recently just found out about your planner. I'm so sad I didn't find you sooner. 😞 I do hope you open another pre-order even knowing that I will not get the planner until 2023. I would really LOVE to purchase one!! I can tell you put a lot of thought into your planner and being considerate of your customers. Much love!! 💜

[@audreycampbell9483]

I love what you created. I've never had a B6 planner, just took a lot of time sketching calendars or gluing in printables in my stalogy... so I am very happy and it exceeded my expectations! I like the soft color of the grids and I especially like the blank pages with numbers. Looking forward to ordering one of your plastic covers when you come up with the design you like!! To the people who complained about the covers, seriously you don't walk around with your hobonichi planners just hanging out without a cover because it's card stock and it wouldn't last very long! These planners are going to look beautiful sitting on a shelf in the future. Don't listen to the negativity, your ideas were what people needed and were very tastefully executed!

[@sn710e]

You are such a inspiration. ❤ I’ve done pre-orders before, and it is such chaos! Especially with the chargebacks and the complaints. Because if the order to shipping period is so long.. That is a red flag for banks. And it’s understandable! But also it makes things like pre-orders really frustrating to do, especially if you’re a small business! I can’t wait for an undated version! I think leaving out the Mon-Sun in an undated leaves too much to fill in though. Unless I heard that wrong in the video? I LOVE your weeks’ variations and how you changed it week by week!

[@efthygat6763]

I love the common planner so much as is, and I can't wait to start writing on it in the New Year! You and your family did an outstanding job with everything! The pre-order was a blessιng! I had the time to think, without the stress! I don't need to be stressed for my hobby, I have enough reasons in my life! Also, the shipping cost for Europe was so reasonable that didn't rise much the total cost, plus because of that, I didn't have to pay an absurd amount of money for the custom fees! Everything is so well thought out! I admire you, I congradulate you and I thank you! Besides, it is one thing to give a constuctive criticism and it is a completely another thing to be unfair and hateful! Please keep doing the amazing work that you do!