I began creating scrapbooks on family vacations as a child. I rediscovered my passion for this art form in 1997, when a friend showed me the latest pages from a scrapbook she had created for her young son. I was amazed at how striking the layouts were. These pages were so much more alive than static pictures in a traditional album. Not only that, but the journaling told the story behind the photos. This was truly an heirloom that could be passed down through generations, without needing to be explained in order to be enjoyed.

I immediately went out and bought a starter set of archival papers, pens, stickers and other albums. Being a “horsey” person, my first scrapbook was for one of my horses. I included photos, stories, and memorabilia from horse shows. It was wonderful to finally have all those memories in a book I could enjoy rather than in a box at the back of the hall closet.

Since that first scrapbook, I’ve continued to refine my design skills. I’ve created scrapbooks for weddings, births, birthdays, vacations, and gifts. I began using my computer to create titles and special journaling effects, and in 2003 I switched to creating entirely digital layouts, which I then print on archival paper with archival inks.

When my grandmother died, I was reminded of the importance of preserving family memories, She left behind boxes of old photos, but no one in the family can remember who all the people in the photos are and what their relationship was to my grandmother. One of the joys of creating scrapbooks for other people is knowing that I’m helping them create an heirloom that will tell their stories to future generations. And nothing beats the look on a person’s face when they receive their anniversary, wedding, or birthday album and realize that someone cared enough about them to preserve their story permanently.

I hope I can help you bring order to your memories, or bring joy to a loved one. You can reach me at (818) 919-9196, or email me at Savannah@SavannahScrapbooks.com.

Sincerely, Savannah Brentnall

Owner, Savannah Custom Scrapbook Design

Founding member of Shutterfly Scrapbooking Advisory Team