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Monday 22 February 2016

...WMS is closing


Folks, Waltzingmouse Stamps store is closing.

It took me a half hour just to write that one line. 
Gosh, that was hard.

WMS store will close down completely at the end of March 2016, 
just over a month shy of our 7th birthday.

I want to thank everyone who has ever shopped with us, partied with us, chatted with us or generally just cheered us on - you have made the last 7 years a blessing to me, 
Thank You so much for being part of WMS!


What happens now?

Shipping of in-stock items will continue up until the end of March from both the UK and USA locations. Folks having discount codes or gift vouchers etc should use them now as once the store closes at end of March, WMS will cease to trade and all vouchers and codes will no longer be useable.

If there's anything you ever wanted from WMS, it would be best to order it now - I am hoping to stay in the stamping/craft industry but I have no idea if any of these designs will ever be available again since I won't be running a stamp store!


Why is WMS closing? 
Well it's a long story, but if you want to hear it:

I began Waltzingmouse Stamps in 2009 with the vision that I wanted to provide the very best quality design, in the very best quality photopolymer paired with the very best quality customer service. At the time I was operating on a very small scale and that was grand, I was able to make all three of those things happen and still be at home for the wee folks and pretend that I was doing some housework as well. 

It was a really steep learning curve and I enjoyed it, I like a challenge. I learned how to design for polymer, how to design dies - I taught myself how to set up and run a company and how to set up and run an online store, I'd never done anything like that before and I was determined to do all of these things to the best of my ability. 
To do them right.

As the business grew, I was juggling lots of different things and I was managing because I was ok with giving up on housework. Mr B took over the kitchen.

I had the opportunity, twice, to 'Go Big' and I passed both times because I didn't want to be a big company. WMS stayed small, so that I could hang on to as much family time as possible. My big priority is to raise my children and I need to be here to do that. WMS gave me the chance to earn a living and also be around for my wee folk and I am really, really lucky to have been able to do that for so long.

The business grew as big as I could handle, and that's thanks to you folks who came and played along with us, and I am very grateful for you. WMS has always been fortunate to have had the loveliest folks, from all over the world. I've 'met' folks from Iceland to South Africa, from Moscow to Brazil, Japan, Australia - all over the globe - what an amazing thing, to find myself here in a damp corner of Ireland chatting to all these wonderful folks. Exotic addresses to ship to, beautiful names, beautiful people everywhere!

I really never thought that we would get as far as we did - and look at the Designs Teams we have had! We've had the most talented and kindest ladies in the craftosphere here at WMS!
It has been a charm.

Along with a growing business though, came growing time pressure, and I found myself working all day and late into the night, every night, for several years. I'm not afraid of hard work and it was still worth it, I was still able to do the school runs and be at home, even if I was closed away in the office most of the time. 

However this last year or so things have gotten a little out of hand. My wee folk need me as much now as ever, maybe even a little more. There have been huge changes in online business practices to keep up with and a number of frankly ridiculous EU directives have been introduced, making it much harder for small businesses to function economically. Consequently there's been a lot of time-greedy admin tasks that have resulted in my not having enough time for designing, 
for making, or for efficient customer service, 
and that compromises my original vision for WMS.

I don't want to compromise, and so I have decided to close WMS. 


What's next? 
 
Immediately? Well I'll be tying up loose ends at WMS until end of March, and I will be crafting. I will be taking the opportunity to get out from underneath my admin rock and see what's going on, maybe reconnect with the whole blogging world. I will be redesigning this blog to reflect me, myself and my crafting interests. 

I'll be getting back to making and I will be getting myself ready for an adventure. You know that saying? The one about the door closing and another one opening, well it's true - I will be able to tell you more about it later this year, but how about you pop back in a week or so and we can talk crafting, you know actual cardstock and glue and maybe ink and such, like we used to?

84 comments:

  1. Oh Claire, I'm not quite sure how to respond to this to convey how saddened I am. I can't imagine how tough it must have been to write this post. I'll miss WMS. I remember WMS in the beginning and you've always been one of the most lovely and genuine people behind a stamp company. But I'm not going be selfish here; you need to do what's right for you and I completely understand. It's so true that as one door closes, another one opens and I wish you every bit of luck and happiness in your new creative adventure, whatever it may be! I can't wait to hear more later on. :)
    Big hugs
    xx

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  2. Oh goodness. Your designs will be missed. And you did a fantastic job running your business. But kudos to you for recognizing the situation and not putting yourself under that pressure any more. I'm happy to hear there are good things coming your way too.

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  3. This is very sad news Claire but you must do what is best for you and your family. You have achieved a wonderful thing to have run this company single handed and I have always been pleased with the service and quality I've received here. Your little teaser about your future plans is intriguing and I look forward to hearing what you have in store, until then take care.
    Lorraine

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  4. Really sad to hear you closing but fully understand the pressures. I love you stamps and with the addition of your dies they were excellent value for money. Wishing u the best in your crafting and what the future may hold. I hope you can take away that your stamps have given pleasure to many. Big hug xxx

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  5. Very sad to hear but I hope the future holds wonderful times for you and yours.
    All the best
    Buffy xx

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  6. I'm sorry, Claire. Your designs will surely be missed in the stamping world. Thanks for the fun times. Best of luck to you and hope you enjoy more time with your sweet family!

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  7. I am very sad to hear this news. I can only imagine how difficult of a decision that it was for you. The very first stamp set that I bought online was from WMS! So I'd like to thank you for the years of beautiful designs and fun times. I am definitely looking forward to following your blog and seeing your creations - you've always provided so much inspiration, and I missed your creations as your time to create and post became more limited as WMS grew. Best wishes in your future endeavors! I'm looking forward to seeing what is next for you.

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  8. We all love you Claire! So sorry to hear your news, but I totally understand. I'm sure it was a difficult decision and in the long run you need to do what's best for your family. We will miss your beautiful stamps so much. I am so happy I have my custom stamp made just for me (LOL) with Wanda's Brew! Thank you for all of your hard work (no one ever says that!) I wish you all the best and much happiness and peace. Lots of love from California! XOXO

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  9. So sad, but support family first... Might have to do some shopping to help you with the spring cleaning.

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  10. While this news makes me very sad, I know you're doing what is best for you and your family. I'll still be here in a week or so to chat about crafting. Hugs!

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  11. Sad to read this, Claire. I wish you good luck and all the best!

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  12. Claire , I am truly gutted to read this. Your stamps have been an absolute favourite of mine for years. You really are responsible for getting me into this whole stamping lark - I remember seeing your beautiful cards on Splitcoast years ago and it really encouraged me to start card making (and spend way too much money in the process!) Have always thought your stamps are definitely up there with the best for quality..I will so miss buying them and seeing inspiration from the design team. It sounds like having a small business in Europe is a complete nightmare now...the EU will destroy creativity and entrepreneurship - such a shame. I'm sure there will be lots of other amazing opportunities in the blogosphere for you - looking forward to seeing what you create in the future! x

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  13. Totally sorry to hear that WMS is going Claire, I just love your designs but I am totally excited to hear about your new ventures and I am really pleased you are not completely going from the crafty world. You know you have learnt sooo much from what you have done and it is total credit to you that you made WMS what it is/was. So huge congratulations for all your amazing work and a massive good luck for the next big adventure! Kx

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  14. Claire, you did a fantastic job realising your original vision - WMS certainly provided great design, great quality and great customer service. For those reasons, the company will be much missed. You'll be missed on a personal level too - always there with a cheery word and a story to tell. I hope the new opportunity, whatever it may be, brings you the balance you deserve and makes you happy and perhaps lets you share a bit with us too so we don't have to miss you and your tales too much! Inky hugs, J x

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  15. Gosh that's sad news, I have always loved WMS designs and will be gutted to see it close, I totally understand though how business takes the joy out of crafting. Good luck!

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  16. Will miss WaltzingMouse.
    Wishing you and your family all the bast.
    Joanna

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  17. Dear Claire you do what you want to do. You have done WMS proud and should be very, very proud of your accomplishments. I work with the EU directives on a daily basis and due to their constant pressure I have finally decided to retire. Love your site and your whimsical designs and your traditional old world ones as well. I haven't bought anything from you but not because I don't love all your things...only because I am more a looker than a doer. Have a wonderful life Claire and enjoy some time with those little wee ones. I will be watching for your changes.

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  18. I am so sad to read this news. Although I have not stamped in a long time, I have kept your blog in my blog reader and admired the cards and beautiful new stamps you designed. I have sold off a lot of my collection but I still have every last WMS set and plan to keep them. Your designs are unique in the stamping world.
    Thank you for years of inspiration and your lovely stories and photographs, I look forward to hearing more in the future.
    Good luck and enjoy your time with your children while you still can!

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  19. I totally understand your decision and wishes you the best of crafty luck for the future. I admit being curious about your new adventures which time will tell during this year ;)High Five Claire - for the amazing work you have done with WMS during these 7 years.

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  20. I will miss you!! But family must and should come first!!

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  21. sad to see the closing but ... glad you'll still be around. breathe deep and get on with it as they say. here's to a bright and wonderful future.

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  22. Wow! I came see what's new only to find you are closing. Sad news.
    Wishing you all the best.

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  23. I was really shocked and saddened to hear that WMS is closing down Claire so I just wanted to thank you for bringing us such beautiful designs over the years! I started crafting around 6 and a half years ago. I had some stamps - didn't really do a lot of stamping though(!) then I saw your stamps in Simply Cards and Papercraft. That was when I really got into stamping and eagerly looked forward to your new releases! I think you have done an amazing job - designing, running your business aswell as bringing up your family. I hope that you feel proud of such wonderful achievements - you should :-) WMS fans will enjoy using your fantastic stamps for many years to come :-) Wishing you and your family all the very best Claire. Hope to see what you're up to when the other door opens! :-)

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  24. So sad to hear this Claire, but completely understandable. You are right when you say, as children get older they need you more in different ways. I will miss your unique stamps that have been a favourite of mine for so long. Your service has always been top notch, along with great communication. You have a lot of great attributes to take away from this venture which hopefully will serve you well in the future. Look forward to hearing what is in store for the future.

    All the best.

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  25. I am speechless...The very first stamp set I purchased was from Waltzing Mouse. Still have, still use it, still in perfect condition. When I lost an itty bitty stamp from one of the sets, you promptly sent me a another - free of charge! Can't beat WMS for quality products and service that come from that heart. You're up there amongst the best, Claire!
    x Asha

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  26. I am so sorry to see Waltzingmouse close - it has been a part of my life from the very start - and I thank you for letting me play with you Claire! I am happy to hear that you have a door opening while this window is closing - I can't wait to hear what it is!! Wishing you all the best and I'll be checking back here to see what you're up to!! Love and best wishes - Julia xx

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  27. Claire your the best! So much talent and the best heart. I will follow your blog and where ever the doors that open take you. I know you must feel great relief from having now made the decision. It's too bad for all the changes imposed in online sales. Your wee ones and family will flourish even more with the stress taken out of your creativity and time.

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  28. Awww, Claire! I'm both sad for me and happy for you! I totally understand where you're coming from and would only want pure happiness for you and your Family. Life gets hectic and Family should always come first. I've loved your designs for years and I'll treasure my beauties I have of WMS (...and probably spend too much money on more before March Ü). I'm still thrilled you'll be blogging every now and then ♥

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  29. What a difficult decision it must have been, but I truely understand family must come first. Will miss your stamps. Just the other day I pulled my half pint heroes out - as I type this they are sitting on my desk waiting for some inky love.

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  30. A huge loss to the crafting world. T_T
    Love your unique & pretty designs.
    Wish you all the best. ^^

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  31. Wow I am gobsmacked. I so remember coming across and purchasing your wonderful gingerbread men stamps and then the Irish sayings (being a descendant was so loving the stamps). Seven years has flown since my first purchase from you. Thank you claire for sharing your talent, I wish you the world of happiness with your family and future endeavours. Hope to see you on the blogasphere.

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  32. I have a lot of WMS-stamps and I love them, so I´m sad to hear you will close.But I can understand your decision and I wish you all the best.In the wind of changes can be something good.Gabi

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  33. This is such sad news, although I can understand the pressures you face with your business. I know this was an incredibly hard decision for you to make. I loved so many of your products. Best of luck in your future.

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  34. Must have been such a hard decision to make Claire. You have run an amazing company since 2009 with wonderful designs and inspiration for the crafting community. Such sad news but you and your families' happiness must take priority. Be ultra proud of what you have achieved. We may miss new designs but your old ones will surely keep popping up on blogs. Good luck for the future.

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  35. The Graceful Exit
    There's a trick to the graceful exit
    It begins with a vision to recognise when a job, a life stage,
    A relationship is over - and let go.
    It means leaving what's over without denying it's validity or it's past importance in our lives.
    It involves a sense of future
    A belief that every exit line is an entry,
    That we are moving on, rather than out.
    The trick of exiting well may be the trick of living well.
    It's hard to recognise that life isn't a holding action, but a process.
    It's hard to learn that we don't leave the best parts of ourselves behind, back on the sports field or the office.
    We own what we learned back there.
    The experiences are grafted unto our lives and when we exit
    We can take ourselves along, quite gracefully.

    Wishing you all the very best for the crafting/creative years ahead.

    Joyce in Cookstown (who had a sneaky feeling this was coming, honestly!)

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  36. Oh Claire, these are sad news. Being your fan from the very beginning, I always loved your designs. But such is life, nothing is as constant as the change! I really understand that your family is your priority and wish you luck with whatever is coming. Hope we will stay in touch and we can every now and then see some of your creative work.

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  37. I'm so sorry to hear this, but I understand that you need to do what is best for your family. I look forward to seeing what you do next!!

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  38. Claire, I'm saddened by this news but I completely understand your decision. I'm thrilled to hear that your family is your priority! I've enjoyed designing for you as a former DT member and will continue to use your beautiful designs :) God Bless you and your family! Hugs, Mona

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  39. Like everyone else, I am of course saddened by your news. However, I also completely understand. I have seen other creative folks go through the same process and come to the same decision. I will of course miss your lovely stamps and intend to stock up before it is too late. I will also stick around. I have been visiting your blog since way before WMS started, and will continue to visit. I can't wait to see what you do next and I wish you peace of mind and a lot of fun. Love and best wishes, Kate xxx

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  40. A very sad day but your reasons are totally understandable Claire and you have to do what is right and best for you and your young family. Wishing you all the very best in the future and I hope there are lots of exciting opportunities yet to unfold for you!

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  41. Sorry to see you go, good luck for the future, jacqui.

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  42. Claire, you have been a bright shining star in the stamp world, and I'm heartsick to learn of your closing. You will be missed! May our Lord continue to bless your rare talents for creating, and hope this is just a detour to continue sharing your gifts! Blessings and love!

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  43. Wow! I will miss your wonderful designs and cheery blogging, but understand how the "establishment" can kill a good thing with regulations and unneeded busy work. I hoped to someday visit your fair country Ireland and "pop in"...but onward. May God bless your next endeavors and encourage you daily to create with the inspiration with which He has blessed you.

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  44. A HUGE Thank You for the joy and excitement WMS brought to my hobby. Well done on running such a wonderful business. Wishing you everything of the best for future xxx

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  45. So sad to hear that your little company was closing. I had wondered what was going on with you since it seemed like a long time since you'd had a release. I'm going to miss your wonderful designs. Dreadful EU directives. That is what we get when gov't gets too big. It squashes the little businesses. So.... Looking forward to seeing what you now have time to create in the art department. I've always loved your cards, and am so happy that I've gotten to know you. Big hugs, Helen

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  46. Hi Claire, I know that I've commented on FB, but I thought I'd add a comment here too. I am so sad that you're closing down the shop. I've been a fan of WMS almost since you started - and will remain a fan. I am fortunate to have pretty well all your stamps and will continue to use them. Not only will I miss your lovely designs, but I'll miss your fabulous service too. However, as working here has taken you away from your family, I more than understand your reasons. Good luck with all your future endeavours. Hopefully, we'll see you about blogland. Take care, hugs, Deborah xxx

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  47. Claire, I have had to put my crafting on the back burner for quite some time. Just as I'm beginning to get back into it you are closing WMS. I found you very quickly after I started and loved your style and the inspiration from yourself and members of the design teams. Thank you so much for that. All the very best for the future and enjoy your children before they grow up so much more. Looking forward to the new look blog - no pressure! Thelma

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  48. According to Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, wisdom recognizes that everything in life has its own season—in human activities as in the realm of nature. “There is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven” (3:1). I hope you keep us all in your 'loop' and let us know what wonderful things you will be doing next.

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  49. Claire, Will miss you and your clever designs! Best of luck to you in your future endeavers/family! Love ya, Sandra Montgomery, Charlotte, NC

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  50. I'm so sorry to hear this, but glad that it is happening due to your making a positive choice about your own life. Kudos to you for all you have done and I will continue to happily follow your crafty adventures. I loved reading your blog before you ever launched a stamp store, and my admiration for your talent will never change! I will treasure the WMS stamps I own (and will perhaps do a wee shopping trip right now).

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  51. Claire you are one of favorite peeps ever! You've done it all with charm and grace and beauty! Even from afar and not in stamping for a while now you have always held a warm fuzzy spot in my heart! <3. God bless all your future ventures! I'll be cheering from here in Maine! :)

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  52. I was one of your very first customers in 2009. I got busy and had less time for crafting in recent years, but I kept getting your emails and updates. I am very sad to see you go. I respect your decision to spend more time with your family and I wish you all the best in your future.

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  53. I still lovingly cherish all my beautiful designs from WMS. I remember the first time I bought from you and was surprised at how quick my stamps arrived all the way to Australaia. I have sat in on numerous parties and followed along with your blog. From the bottom of my heart I thank you for the time that you have given to each one of us as your customers, right down to the personal message included in each lovely package..I will miss you great but all the best for your next adventure.

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  54. This is sad. I wish I could have bought more of your stamps in the past but I had a strict budget. I hope to use the sets I have collected for many years to come. You will be missed.

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  55. I will miss WaltzingMouse! I'll be looking forward to hearing about your new adventure! Good luck to you!

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  56. I'll miss WMS, truly one of the4 best quality designs on the market. Something I fell in love with from the day I discovered them. I'm so sorry you had to come to this decision. I understand. It must have been terribly hard. Still, I'm loving this hopeful note at the end of your post and I'm rooting for you like there's no tomorrow. Much love, friend <3

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  57. So very sorry to hear this-I've bought so many of your stamps and dies in the past years and they were of the very highest quality and design. Hope you enjoy the new path-please continue keeping your fans updated in your blog.

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  58. Claire, it's been a long time since I've been online or done any blogging of my own, but I still keep an eye out for you and WMS. You are the most genuine, caring individual I have never actually met...lol! But, over the years, and certainly as a design team member, I feel that I have gotten to know you and your heart. And I know your heart is always in the right place. Be well, take care and enjoy this time with your family. Something tells me this is not the end of the road, but the beginning of a very exciting new adventure. Hugs to you, friend!

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  59. Oh Claire! As a mother (of 12) and a wife and an artist and a grandmother (of 35) I so understand. You will be sooooooo missed! My selfish side wants to say --oh please wait!!! Before you go I have to let you know how wonderful everything you have done truly is!!! And... I so hoped to purchase all of your laterns stamps and dies and sadly I haven't been able to do that yet as the lanterns dies are Out of stock here in the U.S. I wish you the best!

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  60. I am very sorry to hear this, but I wish you all the best with future endeavours. I will treasure the WMS stamps/dies that I own! Kathryn A (in Camada)

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  61. Oh Claire, what a shocking news! Will miss your beautiful stamps. I struggled to save money just for your beautiful stamps even your currency 5x bigger at that time.

    I also faced the same thing too, closing our passion just for our family. You are very genius Claire and I am very sure that your tough decision will make you happy in future.

    Warm Hugs from sunny Malaysia.

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  62. I will be keeping an eye on email updates!!! HUGS!!!

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  63. This makes me so sad to read! I love your store!! Thank you for all the wonderful stamps!!!

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  64. I have so enjoyed your designs over the years and its always sad to see something go that was so good. Change is never easy, but as you say, other doors open. I am 'raging' with myself that I missed out on Brogue die, if you find a stray one? Me, me, me please!! *hands waving* I can actually come and collect it as I am in Dublin! Wishing you all the very best in life, love and laughter and lots of marvellous times ahead. Will be following your blog so no need to say bye. Christine x

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  65. Your stamps gave been some of my faves for a long time. I am truly sorry to see you go but I undersrand where you are coming from.
    Family comes first and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors! <3

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  66. I am so sorry to hear another small business is closing. You must do what is best for you and yours, but WMS will be missed. I wish you all the best, and who knows maybe you be back in another form down the road. We won't forget you, please keep me in the loop.

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  67. Your beautiful designs will be missed. Most importantly, be happy.

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  68. I can't get into the WM site to order! Is it down?

    Claire, though I have not been able to order in a while, I always love your designs! I am sad that you care closing, but understand being a mom has to take priority! Thank you for 7 years of wonderful creativity! Many blessings! (and yes, I'm trying to place an order! Jenn

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  69. So sorry to hear WMS is closing but you've made a wise decision for the sake of your family and everyone will understand .... we will miss the lovely, quirky stamps you produced and the lovely atmosphere of fun when we got to see the latest additions to the range. I have lots of your stamps and some of the dies and look forward to many years of happy crafting with them. Take care Claire and a massive well done for all you've achieved! Amazing! Looking forward to seeing what you do next :) x

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  70. Hello Claire, I am a relatively new customer to the lovely WMS but have loved everything about your website and wonderful stamps which I am thrilled with, so am sorry to hear how things have made you reach your decision to close. But, it's better to make that decision now than to regret it in later years, as family does come first. I wish you well in your new exciting ventures and adventures and I'm sure we will still be hearing a lot from you in the future. Take care and all the very best, Hugs, Marilyn.

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  71. I have bought many of your sets and enjoy them! From one of your Canadian customers, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. Blessings to you and your family.

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  72. So sad the WMS is closing, have so enjoyed everything about your "wee" company...but love that you have the integrity to make sure your vision for your company remains intact and to make the hard decisions. I hope that whatever your crafting future keeps you in touch with all of us, and selfishly, hope that your designer skills are a part of our crafting world for a long time to come! Best of luck to you Claire!

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  73. Dearest Claire, so sad to hear the news - your stamps, dies and project have always been exceptional. But I am curious about your new plans - have my fingers crossed that they come true soon. Hats off to your efforts to bring family and business into line! Though it's sad - you are absolutely right to give priority to your family. Our children grow so fast - and time cannot be turned back. Good luck and all the best to you and your family! Hugs from Germany, Christiane

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  74. So sorry to hear your business is closing, but it sounds like you've made that decision for all of the right reasons. Family comes first! Good luck in your future creative endeavors. I look forward to your blog. Thank you so much for allowing me this connection to Ireland over the past years.

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  75. Good luck for the future. I know from my own experience that the grass really is green if one only takes the time to see it. Some of us are just doers and need to remind ourselves of what we do best - for you that is craft work that gives you pleasure and stretches you, not admin. You and your family have to come first before anything else. Good luck, Sandra.

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  76. We will miss your wonderful stamps!! You have always had such wonderful designs. But I do look forward to seeing you make cards again!! :-) It's such a shame that the EU directives are driving small businesses out of business: a good reason to want small government, not large gov't. Make sure you continue to use your stamps and share your creations with us: you will continue to amaze!! Big hugs to you my friend!!

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  77. I'm so sad to read about WMS closing. I've enjoyed your stamps and ideas since you began, and will miss you. You've done so well, balancing business with family responsibilities...you should be very proud. I look forward to hearing from/about you in the future, and will continue to enjoy using your lovely stamps. Rest and revive!

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  78. Such sad news to receive on this bleak and rainy day. I do, however, know you will forge forward and hope you will share your journey with us. I can't wait to see what you have up your creative sleeves! I wish you the absolute best in your every endeavour and offer you the biggest hug for all your hard work, for sharing your best work and for inspiring me. Your words of encouragement were invaluable. Thank you!

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  79. You and your stamps will be missed ! I had so many good times here at your blog. I wish you and your family Gods blessings! Hugs to you!

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  80. P.S you will never regret the time spent with your children as it all goes by in a flash! It was my choice to be with mine as well ! Best choice we ever made!

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  81. Hi Claire,

    Although I totally understand your reasons for closing your company, I am sad that I no longer will have the joy that your creations gave me to play and give as well! It lessens my sadness the fact that I can keep up with your awesome creativeness through your blog, but most of all that I can still see through them your beautiful personality and your sweet face!
    Hoping to hear from you very soon, this admirer from the beautiful Country of Puerto Rico!

    Cariños,
    María Alba

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  82. Dear Claire......
    I know you haven't heard from me for a long time...so I was at a shock when I read that your shop is closed now...
    I know you made the right decision..family always comes first..and i know the older they get the kids..they more time they need from you...in a different way then before....I always have been a SHAM and housewife...so I know what i am talking about...It only gets more hectic the older they get....but so good to be around them and enjoy their journey..
    I know too SO very well how sweet and kind hearted you always managed your company..so I can so well understand that when you are not able to do it that way anymore..it will not satisfy you....
    Claire Thank YOU SO very much for all your wonderful stamps...(I still enjoy playing with them.)...and all the kindness and sweetness you gave this world with your stamp company!
    Much love,
    Holly.(from the Netherlands...with the rabbits...)

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