Wednesday, July 24, 2002
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Wednesday, July 24, 2002 |
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Peachtree City resident has a line of greeting cards available By MICHAEL
BOYLAN
Peachtree City resident Carrie Runnals always used to doodle a character she called "The Dude." Her husband and father liked the character and encouraged her to do something with it. She began to put sayings with it and decided that maybe the right venue for "The Dude" was a greeting card. Initially, Runnals considered producing and selling her cards on her own but after visiting a Web site dedicated to linking freelance artists and writers with greeting card companies her focus changed. Though the Web site consultant thought the character was cute, she didn't think it was polished enough and would limit Runnals chance of having her writing seriously considered. She advised Runnals to concentrate primarily on her writing and to enter a contest the Web site was hosting. Runnals won the contest and received a free linked Web page showcasing her work to prospective card companies. That led to a contract with Amberley Greetings who paired her verses with a professional artist's host of characters. So, though her doodle ended up on cutting room floor, it has led to a line of light-religious cards,published by Amberley Greetings, and could possibly be the first step in a lucrative career. Amberley currently has 52 cards available with topics ranging from Happy Birthday, Congratulations and Thank You to Wedding, Baby and Get Well cards. "Carrie has a gift for linking just the right Bible verse to her sentiments, providing deeper meaning for each occasion," said Amberley's president, Dan Cronstein. "We have high aspirations for this line. It is spiritual in nature, but the writing and art are whimsical and charming; not your traditional religious card." Runnals resides in Peachtree City with her husband, Joe, and her daughters Danielle and Marisa. She has always loved writing and is currently working on a children's book but is also focused on creating more greeting cards. "I am very excited about this endeavor," said Runnals. "I have felt God's guiding hand and the steadfast support of my husband, family and friends throughout this entire process. Ultimately, I am hopeful that these cards encourage more meaningful relationships for those who purchase them and those who receive them." Runnal's cards are available locally at Cardsmart in the Braelinn Shopping Center. |
