Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update
Marin Insider
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • News
    • Community news
    • Health and Wellness
    • Food and Drink
    • Community Events
    • Lifestyle
    • Arts and Culture
    • Real Estate
    • Finance
    • Outdoors
    • Technology & Innovation
    • Entertainment
    • Sports & Fitness
    • Dining Scene
    • Fashion
    • Home and Garden
    • Technology
    • Travel
March 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Craft the Next Great Ornament with Old World Christmas Contest

Next great ornament winner: festive Christmas tree design.

Old World Christmas Invites Creativity for 2025 Ornament Contest

As the festive season approaches, the chance to capture the magic of Christmas in a new and exciting ornament is here! Old World Christmas, a beloved name in holiday decorations, is launching its third annual nationwide search for the ‘next great ornament.’ Based in Spokane, Washington, this creative company has been delighting Christmas lovers since 1979 and boasts an impressive collection of over 1,400 proprietary ornament designs. Now, they’re reaching out to the community for fresh ideas!

How to Participate: Draw Your Inspiration

The call is simple: if you have a vision of what the perfect ornament would look like, share your drawing! The deadline for submissions is March 16, giving participants some time to harness their imagination. To enter, send a photo or video of your design along with a story that tells why your ornament is special. This personal touch can really help showcase the spirit behind each entry. Neal Applefeld, the president and CEO of Old World Christmas, stated, “We constantly receive emails from our consumers with ornament ideas. This contest is our way of letting creativity shine and rewarding one lucky winner.”

The Tradition of Holiday Storytelling

Every ornament made by Old World Christmas is more than just a decorative piece; it represents cherished moments and memories, capturing the essence of holiday traditions. “Our ornaments tell a story,” Applefeld explains. Whether it’s a classic Christmas scene, a pop culture reference, or a whimsical modern design, the contest encourages all kinds of themes. Artists and participants are urged to pack their designs with color and fun, as each ornament is crafted from high-quality mouth-blown glass, making every detail count.

Exciting Prizes Await

Imagine seeing your design on a beautifully crafted ornament available for sale to the public! The grand prize includes not only recognition but also a $500 Old World Christmas gift pack filled with holiday-themed goodies. Additionally, five finalists will receive a $150 gift pack, enabling them to embrace the holiday spirit in style. Entries from previous years have seen fantastic participation, with hundreds of designs submitted. The winners of the last two contests were highly praised for their creativity, highlighting the vibrant talent within the community.

What Inspiration Can You Draw From?

If you’re struggling to think of an idea, look no further than the Old World Christmas collections. Their extensive range of past ornaments may spark something special and help you remember your favorite holiday memories! “The beauty of ornaments is that they can be a reflection of ourselves and our unique experiences,” Applefeld noted, encouraging entrants to find creativity in their personal lives.

Celebrating Community and Connections

This contest is not just about defining the next iconic ornament; it's about building community connections through storytelling. With every ornament idea submission, there’s a reminder of how holidays bring people together. Old World Christmas fosters this connection by showcasing the creativity of its customers on social media, giving them a platform to share their entries and garner support.

The Spirit of Giving and Participation

With all that’s involved, it’s the spirit of the competition and the opportunity to engage with a wider community that makes this contest truly special. As Applefeld said, “Every ornament plays a role in someone’s Christmas celebration.” So whether you’re looking for personal bragging rights or just want to contribute to the delight of others during the festive season, consider entering this year’s contest!

Final Thoughts: Join in the Festive Fun!

This is the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner artist and celebrate the art of ornament design. Everyone has a story to tell, so what better way to do that than through your creations? The winner will be announced in April, and lucky customers will be able to purchase the winning ornament beginning in November. It’s just one more way that Old World Christmas keeps the holiday spirit alive!

If you’re ready to start crafting your ornament masterpiece, upload your entry at bit.ly/owcnextgreatornament. Let’s see what amazing ideas the community has in store for this year!

Lifestyle

0 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
03.28.2025

Are Synthetic Braids Safe? Understanding Health Risks in Beauty Products

Update Understanding the Safety of Synthetic Braids: What You Need to Know In today’s world, where beauty and health are often interlinked, the spotlight is on the products that adorn the hair of millions. A growing number of Black women are beginning to question the safety of synthetic hair products, particularly regarding synthetic braids. As they gather in salons and homes to braid their hair, a pressing concern lingers: Are these popular styles, celebrated for their convenience, posing health risks? The Emerging Evidence on Synthetic Hair Products Recent discussions have centered around a proposed federal rule aimed at banning formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, found in hair-straightening products. Yet, the conversation has evolved to include synthetic braids—favored for their aesthetic appeal and versatility. In a recently published independent study by Consumer Reports, alarming chemicals like lead and benzene were detected in several popular synthetic braiding products. While these findings sparked concern among users and experts alike, some have criticized the study's limited scope. Javon Ford, a cosmetic chemist, pointed out that the data set was insufficient, as only two samples of each product were analyzed despite a plethora of options available in the market. What’s Lacking in Research and Regulation? Despite rumors and anecdotal evidence surrounding the safety of synthetic braids, comprehensive research remains scant. Most experts agree that more studies are imperative to ascertain the long-term health effects associated with these products. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lacks regulations for synthetic braiding hair, allowing manufacturers to self-govern their safety standards. Prof. Jasmine McDonald from Columbia University stated that the absence of governmental oversight leaves many questions unanswered. This gap in regulation underscores the need for consumer awareness and advocacy. The Effects of Chemicals in Synthetic Braids Health experts have identified volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be emitted from synthetic hair when exposed to heat during the braiding process. A 2020 research piece highlighted VOCs being released into the air, which could present respiratory hazards. The interplay of chemical exposure and hair practices is under-studied, leaving an array of unanswered health queries. The Social Implications of Hair Practices For many Black women, braiding is more than a fashion statement; it’s a cultural ritual with a rich history. Community bonding, empowerment, and expression are all tied to these hair practices. Yet, as beauty standards evolve alongside safety concerns, these women are now navigating a duality, seeking to preserve cultural identity while ensuring their health is not compromised. The Path Forward: Taking Action As awareness increases, the importance of advocacy cannot be overstated. Individuals can take proactive steps by demanding greater transparency in ingredient sourcing and urging lawmakers to implement stricter regulations. Community discussions can also foster collective understanding and further research. Ultimately, staying informed is not just about making choices; it empowers a movement that values health and well-being alongside beauty. Having open conversations about the potential risks associated with synthetic braids might lead to more responsible product development and usage. Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance in Beauty Choices As the conversation around synthetic braids continues to evolve, knowing about the potential hazards is crucial. The health implications surrounding these beauty choices warrant further investigation and awareness. Savvy consumers should remain vigilant about the products they use and advocate for safer alternatives. By doing so, we can ensure that the beauty of braids doesn’t come at the expense of health. Let's engage in discussions about product safety and work towards more significant regulations in beauty products to protect our health while celebrating cultural practices!

03.09.2025

Old World Christmas Invites You to Share Your Ornament Ideas

Update Crafting Holiday Magic: Join the Next Great Ornament Contest Imagine a world where your imaginative designs shine on Christmas trees across the country. This year, Old World Christmas is calling all creative minds to participate in its third annual 'Next Great Ornament' contest. With a legacy of over 1,400 unique ornament designs crafted since 1979, the Spokane, Washington-based company invites artists to draw their dream ornament and submit it by March 16. From Dreams to Decor: The Contest Journey Neal Applefeld, president and CEO of Old World Christmas, explains the motivation behind this contest. Having received countless suggestions from fans over the years, the contest allows consumers' creativity to blossom. The winning design from this year's submissions will not only be available for sale in November but also grace the Christmas trees of many, celebrating the joy of the season. Celebrating Creativity: Previous Winners and Their Designs The success stories of past winners add an exciting dimension to the contest. In 2023, a Columbus, Ohio resident won with a delightful ornament design selected from a pool of 457 entries, while in 2024, a woman from North Wales, Pennsylvania stood out among 582 competitors. Both winners not only showcased their artistic prowess but also contributed a slice of their community’s culture to the festive spirit. The Art of Ornament Making Applefeld emphasizes the importance of details. Each ornament is meticulously crafted from mouth-blown glass, making it essential for designs to translate well into this medium. Participants are encouraged to infuse their designs with vibrant colors and playful themes, capturing everything from cherished family moments to contemporary pop culture references. As he states, "The more color and the more fun, the better!" A Reflection of Community and Traditions The ornaments crafted by Old World Christmas are more than simple decorations; they are an embodiment of storytelling. Each piece reflects key memories, individual traditions, and a shared human experience during the holidays. By participating in this contest, individuals have the chance to highlight their unique narratives and contribute to a collective tapestry of memories cherished every festive season. How to Get Involved: Sharing Your Vision Ready to put your artistic talents to the test? To enter, upload a photo or video showcasing your ornament idea at bit.ly/owcnextgreatornament. Don't forget to share the story behind your design, as it could be a crucial part of your entry. Additionally, five finalists will receive gift packs valued at $150, while the grand prize winner will snag an exclusive $500 gift pack and the chance to see their design created and sold. Beyond the Ornament: Connecting Through Design Engagement around the holidays fosters a deeper appreciation for community. As families gather to decorate their homes, unique ornaments can spark conversations, evoke nostalgia, and create lasting memories. Declaring a designated family ornament challenge, inspired by contests like that of Old World Christmas, can further enhance this connection, encouraging creative collaboration among loved ones. Your Inspirations Await: Explore Collections for Ideas If you’re seeking further inspiration, Old World Christmas offers a plethora of ornament collections at oldworldchristmas.com. These intricate designs can help jumpstart your creativity, allowing you to envision what could work beautifully on a tree this holiday season. So gather your art supplies, share your beautiful ideas, and join in the celebration of creativity and community. The deadline for submission is fast approaching, so don't miss the opportunity to craft the next great ornament that could find its place in homes during the most wonderful time of the year!

03.09.2025

Consumer Tip: What to Do When You Receive a Package You Didn't Order

Update The Rise of Brushing Scams: How to Stay Safe Have you ever opened your front door to find a package you didn’t order waiting on the doormat? While the initial excitement of receiving an unexpected delivery might feel like a sweet surprise, it could signal a more sinister scheme at play: a brushing scam. In today's digital age, scammers have developed such techniques to exploit unsuspecting consumers—writing fake reviews and potentially compromising your personal information. What Are Brushing Scams? Brushing scams occur when vendors send unsolicited packages to individuals, often containing low-quality goods. This is done to create an illusion of legitimacy and reliability. Scammers take advantage of your name and address, often sourced from data breaches or databases accessible online, to make fraudulent online purchases. Once the items are delivered, the scammers then utilize these fabricated transactions to post fake reviews under your name. This deception inflates their product ratings, giving the impression that their items are popular and well-received when, in reality, they fall short. As detailed by the United States Postal Inspection Service, this practice is illegal but runs rampant in today's e-commerce landscape. Identifying the Signs: Am I a Victim? It's essential to remain vigilant. Signs of brushing scams include receiving items you haven’t ordered, packages without return addresses, or noticing your name associated with reviews for products you've never purchased. Clare Stouffer's article on brushing scams emphasizes the need to report such anomalies immediately to the retailer involved, like Amazon for unsolicited packages. Brushing Scam Variants: The Quishing Twist Recently, brushing scams have adopted new tactics, merging with techniques like quishing—QR code phishing. Reports indicate that some unsolicited packages contain QR codes leading to fake websites designed to steal your financial information. If you find such a QR code, do not scan it; it may be linked to illegitimate sites mimicking trusted organizations. Steps to Protect Yourself If you suspect you are a victim of a brushing scam, here are critical steps to follow: Don’t Pay: You’re under no obligation to pay for unsolicited packages. If a vendor claims you owe shipping fees, inform them that you didn’t place the order. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit statements for any suspicious activity. Consider taking the extra step to change your passwords and utilize two-factor authentication for added security. Discard or Return: If the items sent are unsolicited, you have the choice to discard them or possibly return unopened items—mark them 'return to sender' if there’s a return address. Report It: Notify the marketplace from which the package was sent. Amazon, for example, has policies against brushing and will investigate these claims. Identity Protection Services: As an added precaution, consider using identity theft protection services or signing up for monitored dark web scans to keep your personal information secure. The Emotional Impact: How It Feels to The Victim Receiving unexpected packages can lead to feelings of confusion and distress. Many might wonder, "Why me?" or feel violated knowing their personal details are misused without their consent. This violation of privacy can stir anxiety and mistrust, reflected in how individuals approach online shopping or provide their information in the future. Conclusion: Stay Informed and Vigilant Awareness is your first line of defense against brushing scams. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of these misleading practices. For more information about brushing scams and how to report them, consider following guidance from the United States Postal Inspection Service at uspis.gov/news/scam-article/brushing-scam. Understanding how these scams work not only safeguards your personal information but also fosters a more secure online shopping experience for all. Join efforts to spread awareness in your community about brushing scams, making informed lifestyle choices with an emphasis on safety and security.

Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update
Marin Insider
cropper
update

Marin Insider delivers the latest news, business insights, lifestyle trends, and community highlights from across Marin County. Stay connected with local events, business spotlights, and in-depth stories that matter to Marin residents. Oberated by Automagic Media

  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
Add Element

COMPANY

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Menu 5
  • Menu 6
Add Element

4153075228

AVAILABLE FROM 8AM - 5PM


Email: James@automagicmedia.com
Add Element

ABOUT US

Marin Insider delivers the latest news, business insights, lifestyle trends, and community highlights from across Marin County. Stay connected with local events, business spotlights, and in-depth stories that matter to Marin residents.

Add Element

© 2025 CompanyName All Rights Reserved. Address . Contact Us . Terms of Service . Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title
T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*