ideas Archives - SALT Community

25 Christmas Gift Ideas for Creatives ($35 or less)

kamil_hopeware — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 11:59:01 +0000

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Christmas time is upon us and if your family is anything like mine you have probably already received the “anticipated” text “Hey I need to get your Christmas list.” So whether your family is like mine and asks for a list or if they just go with their gut and everything is a surprise, coming up with gifts for the creative thinker and tech-nerd can be a challenge. So we thought it would be nice to pull together 25 fun and cost-friendly (under $35) Christmas gift ideas so you begin to make your Christmas list.

If we missed anything, feel free to share with us in the comments or over on our Facebook community… we’d love to hear from all of you![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14792″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2DEUpLa”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Whiteboard Notebook ($21)

I personally got this a few years ago and still is one of my favorite gifts. Because I love whiteboards, why wouldn’t I want to take this into every meeting I’m a part of as I write out my ideas, sketches, diagrams and more![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

CMYK Socks ($10-$20)

What designer wouldn’t want a pair of these for Christmas? It’s the epitome of their daily challenge… make color look great in CMYK.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14794″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2R5ZMqx”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14795″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2Kq3wAA”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Aqua Notes ($9)

Every creative thinker and dreamer knows that the best ideas come in the shower or the bathroom. Help them avoid letting their ideas swirl down the drain with this waterproof notepad for Christmas.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Sarcasm Coffee Mug ($20)

Most people who think different may also seem to be too “sarcastic” on the outside. That’s because they see the world differently. If they have a good sense of humor, this may be a great talking point in the office![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14796″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2KqBwwJ”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14800″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://saltcommunity.com/articles/books-for-creative-leaders/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

A great book ($10-$20)

Our team recently posted our favorite books for those who are creative leaders. If you (or the person you’re buying a Christmas gift for) enjoys reading, take a look at this list of books to consider.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Build-on Brick Mug/Cup ($22)

What if your coffee mug or water cup could have an ever-evolving story? That would be a nerd or storyteller’s dream! And so, this one makes our must have Christmas gift ideas. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14801″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2FEDGKn”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14804″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://uxkits.com/products/wireframe-deck-of-cards”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Web Interface Cards ($19)

Do you have someone on your Christmas list that is a web designer? This fun deck of cards makes it super easy for someone to layout a few ideas for a future project. Mobile responsive too![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

8 Bit Tie ($15)

Who said a nerd or artist doesn’t wear a tie? Well they would probably wear this one! It would also become the talk of any staff get together if they could pull it off.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14805″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2POXboc”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14806″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2DTef5Y”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Cinema Light Box Sign ($19)

Some people think that creative and technical minds are introverts, however this box will turn anyone into an extrovert with the opportunity to put funny sayings at their desk, or post a “joke of the day”.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Not My Job Stamp ($10)

This may be the single best stocking stuffer I’ve seen! Imagine being able to stamp an email you got from a co-worker with a “not my job” stamp and deliver it back to them! Priceless. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14807″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2S2hvPu”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5525″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://saltcommunity.com/store/mod-notebook/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Smart Notebook from SALT ($20)

The worst thing about writing/taking notes in a notebook is the fact that you can’t find them later on your computer or search them. But with the SALT Mod Notebook, you now can! When you’re done, send it back with a pre-paid envelope and you’ll get a digital version back you can easily import into Dropbox, Evernote, Google Drive and more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Social Media Pillow ($9)

If you work with social media and/or communications, then this is a perfect gift for Christmas… a pillow with your favorite social media channel on it![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”29070″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2P3vbrL”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14811″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2zk3gi3″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Complete Smores Kit ($17)

This may not be the typical entry on a Christmas list for creative thinkers and tech-nerds but let’s be honest….. it’s sugar and chocolate. This kit comes with everything necessary for making perfect S’mores.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Book: Secret Lives of Color ($14)

Increase your insights with this deep dive into color theory and anatomy of the arts. Learn how color came to be, and some of the most common terms as it relates to color came into existence. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14812″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2TMGIiz”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14813″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2Fzwxek”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Storm Trooper Battery Charger ($17)

The phone runs out of battery mid-way through SALT Conference workshop and you need an outlet. What if instead, you pulled out this fun and fashionable battery charger and became the talk of the conference… just saying. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Stackable Tetris Lamp ($30)

A lamp that is fully customizable, by stacking Tetris pieces individually to create endless possibilities. Check this off the list of any creative who is looking for the perfect Christmas gift. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14814″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2R7uNu0″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14659″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://saltcommunity.com/store/circle-hoodie-2/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

SALT18 Hoodie ($40)

This extremely popular hoodie from SALT18 is back in stock. It sold out at conference and sold countless more in the days following the conference online. So now it’s back in stock in every size! (Small – 5XL and everything in between) *Allow 7-10 days for shipping.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Floppy Disk Coasters ($13)

A great stocking stuffer for any creative, nerd or artist… as they rest their cup or mug on a piece of history! (Or at least a piece of nostalgia if they were alive in the 90’s)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14815″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2DTDnK4″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14816″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2PUKCbe”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Camera Lens Coffee Cup ($12)

Attention Photog’s and friends of photographers, this is not a real lens… but sure looks like it! Instead, fill this with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the joy’s of owning an L-Series lens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Writers Toolbook: Creative Games & Exercises ($20)

This is like a workout membership for writers. A Christmas gift that will let them work their creative muscles and work through writer’s block a lot easier.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14818″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2r0xaUj”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14819″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2R88hBm”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Modern Typography Cards ($7)

Type is serious business, so we can’t leave this off our essential Christmas gift ideas list for creatives without this great stocking stuffer of fun and insightful cards to teach fonts / type. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Etch-A-Sketch Classic ($15)

Growing up, I loved messing with my Etch-a-Sketch. So this Christmas, consider giving a gift of nostalgia and fun with this clever, but old-school gift. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14820″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2S8LpBF”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14822″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2KwSrxP”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Fine Tip Stylus ($32)

Listen, our whole team is a huge fan of the Apple Pencil, but it’s $99-129 and only works with the iPad Pro, so we put this on the list since it works with nearly every device![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Color Dictionary ($17)

A perfect resource for those in design and visual media. Color is the bedrock of great design, so why not have a book you can reference that helps you grow in your skillset. That’s what this is for, and makes a great Christmas gift.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14823″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2PORrL2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”14824″ onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://amzn.to/2DUr9AJ”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Super Mario Bros Magnets ($10)

Another great stocking stuffer for that gaming or creative minded person on your list. These will be the talk of the break room, or just add some fun and personality to a workspace. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

BONUS:

So there you have it… the 25 Christmas ideas for those creative’s on your list under $35! And we thought it would be fun to add one more bonus to the list… A creative way to wrap it up. Now this may cost you $7-8 on Amazon, but it may be worth every penny of watching their reaction when they open the gift.

It’s a puzzle box that makes your recipient think they will have to put together a near-impossible puzzle of nothing but solid textures.

Christmas is right around the corner… what gifts are on your list? Let us know on Instagram of Facebook![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post 25 Christmas Gift Ideas for Creatives ($35 or less) appeared first on SALT Community.

The Creative Meeting Series with Seth Bartlette

kamil_hopeware — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 11:01:10 +0000

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We have been covering a series on Creative Meetings and we end it with our friend Seth Bartlette. Seth is a producer and has worked with many people on projects and events. Seth’s insight on the creative meeting process comes from his extensive work as a producer. If you haven’t had a chance to read Part One or Part Two in the series, I encourage you to check them out.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”1″][vc_column_text]

Invite The Right Mix of Attendees

Let me start by saying that inviting a specific variety of people into this process is key. I typically invite about 6-8 people into this group and in my mind they each bring a different skillset to the table.

For me, this group includes a designated note-taker (the most often over-looked person), the facilitator (which might be you), 1 or 2 people that generate new ideas, 1 or 2 people that connect ideas, and last would be storytellers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”2″][vc_column_text]

Accentuate the Experience with an Inspiring Environment

Most creative people their minds are influenced by their environment, so white walls, no windows, fluorescent lights and uncomfortable seats might not work. Of course I realize that there are times this is unavoidable but with a little planning ahead this can be achieved. Look for a space with natural light, unique architecture, warm or bright colors, texture and comfortable seating.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”3″][vc_column_text]

Begin by Building the Creative Canvas

A long time ago, I had a friend tell me about one of their favorite creative session facilitators. When I asked him about his most helpful takeaway, this is what he told me: “{The facilitator} spent the first part of the meeting building a canvas for us to paint upon.” I never forget that. If you properly define and explain the “canvas” by conveying the expectations, goals and values (of the client, event or project), you can create a more efficient process. Your team will be less likely to be “painting” outside of the canvas if they begin by hearing important factors and filters like: budget, feedback from prior experiences, schedule, etc.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”4″][vc_column_text]

Timing Can Effect The Process

Again, this isn’t rocket science, but I’ve found that strategically managing the schedule of the day yields better results. I’m not just talking about time management, but also energy management. Here’s some quick principles:

Movement – create shorter blocks of time (30 min) for different activities and focus sessions.
Post-Lunch – after lunch many lose steam so don’t plan those long conversations after lunch. It is best to plan fun activities during that time and keep people moving.
Time Zones – If you having invited someone that is from out of town and a different time zone make sure to be mindful of meal times, coffee breaks for them.
Spaces – Make sure to leave space for the brain to process. It has been my experience that some people need time to process and connect the dots. I have found that a 2 day session might be more beneficial, because you will give the attendees time to process and hopefully bring to the table feedback and ideas.

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Avoid the Temptations to Copy and Paste

Another favorite quote of mine is, “Steal like an artist” – Every Creative Ever. And yes, there’s definitely truth to the statement, “There’s nothing new under the sun.” But that being said, I’m often surprised by creative processes which resort to a copy/paste mentality. For me, it minimizes the power and potential of the group gathered to brainstorm. Now, I’m a firm believer in doing a “show and tell” with video clips, images, etc, where they’re used for inspiration. So, instead of simply copying what someone else has already done, go back to Tip #3. Apply the stated objectives, values and story to that inspiration and see if something new (or a variation of it) emerges from that process. Yes, inspiration is everywhere… but so is the ability for your group to innovate upon it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”6″][vc_column_text]

Add Space for “Idea Crushes” to Fade

I don’t know about you, but I often “crush” on ideas. Do you know what I mean? Someone shares something in a group setting that blows my mind. Immediately everyone clings to it, falling in love. But, when you take that idea out on a first and second date, you realize you may have jumped the gun before you really got the chance to know it very well. Wow! What a terrible analogy. I hope you’re following what I’m suggesting. After a creative session is over and all of the ideas have been captured, do yourself a favor and walk away from it for a while. Do another project or task. Give it a couple days or even a week. Then, come back to it all with fresh eyes. Perhaps you can even vet that idea with some trusted creative friends who weren’t a part of the meeting. Make sure you’ve taken these ideas on enough dates before you’re ready to marry them. OK, I’m leaving that analogy alone. You get the point![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”7″][vc_column_text]

Know When to Chase the Rabbit and Know When to Shoot It

Sounds violent doesn’t it? But, I promise I have a point. During the fun brainstorming process, the idea-sparking participants will propose an idea that seems to be headed down a metaphorical rabbit-trail – with no end in sight. Chasing the rabbit, isn’t a bad thing, original and innovative gems have come from this. However, it takes the facilitator to have the intuition to know when an idea is headed too far off topic or objective (once again Tip #3). When this happens it is up to you to shut it down (to shoot the rabbit) in a very polite way and move on. It isn’t personal.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”8″][vc_column_text]

Connect The Dots

One of the final steps in the process is to connect all of the dots. Look for connections and find the trajectory from all of the great ideas. Once you come up with a plan, I encourage you to present it to a small group before presenting it to your pastor, client etc. This will help in making sure the message is clear and compelling.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post The Creative Meeting Series with Seth Bartlette appeared first on SALT Community.

The Creative Meeting Series with Colette Taylor

kamil_hopeware — Tue, 17 Jul 2018 19:00:27 +0000

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]SALT is exploring the idea of Creative Meetings for your team, so we asked 3 people in our community to give us their insight on how they like to conduct a creative meeting. Honestly we have done Creative Meetings several different ways and there isn’t a “right” way to do them. This topic is relative to what people you have access to and what you are hoping to accomplish.

We continue this series with Colette Taylor. Colette has worked with ReThink as their executive production director (Orange Conference) she has also worked with Catalyst Conference. If you haven’t read part 1 make sure to check it out.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]I remember my first creative meeting. I walked into North Point Community Church having no idea what to expect. I liked to create, I thought, this shouldn’t be too hard. It didn’t take long for me to discover “creative” and “meeting” can mean many different things.

I quickly learned that a creative meeting is only as effective as its facilitator. Luckily, my first creative meeting had an excellent facilitator, Reggie Joiner. He had a strong vision for the event that he championed from start to finish. Reggie effortlessly juggled a diverse mix of ideas, somehow validating everyone’s thoughts from good to great to downright awful. And believe me, most of those awful ideas were mine (I took the phrase “there are no bad ideas” pretty seriously). Regardless, Reggie made sure nobody left feeling inadequate or insecure. He took numerous mediocre ideas and pushed us one step further towards our best ideas yet.

Since then, I’ve participated in countless creative meetings centered around planning events, designing family environments, organizing staff retreats and creating camps from scratch. Some made two hours feel like two minutes, and others left me wishing someone would set off the fire alarm so we’d have to evacuate and end early. Hopefully, these suggestions will allow you to successfully facilitate your next creative meeting without having to pull the fire alarm.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”1″][vc_column_text]

THE TEAM

First, let’s bust the myth that every creative meeting must have dozens of people to come up with endless ideas. In reality, too many people can actually hinder the process in a couple of ways:

More people, more distractions
More people, more side conversations
More people, more talking over each other
More people, more snacks to provide

How Many is Too Many?

There’s no definitive answer to this, however, my advice is to start with six or eight. You can even schedule a few meetings with different numbers and find your sweet spot. Bonus tip: I’ve discovered that it is a good practice to invite people to attend one or two creative meetings (although, you may have 12 scheduled). That way, you don’t have to awkwardly un-invite people if you realize it’s too many.

Who Should Participate?

Not everyone on your staff needs to take part. The beauty of working on a team is that everyone has different strengths. Some people would rather run across hot coals than to partake in a creative meeting. These are concrete thinkers who find brainstorming painfully tedious compared to the to-do list on their desk. Others are more “realistic” couldn’t stand to discuss how to get a camel through the front doors for the Christmas story.

Ideally, you want to invite people who are flexible with their ideas and understand that creativity is a process. They’re comfortable with knowing their thoughts may not see the finish line, but instead may be used to help shape the best idea to put into production.

Don’t be afraid to look outside of your department to invite. Remember my first creative meeting I mentioned earlier? It was for a program at North Point Community Church for a program called KidStuf. I wasn’t a staff member, I was simply a mom with two kids the age KidStuf catered to. That meeting also included two other moms, a stage host, an actor and a worship leader. Everyone came with a different personalities, talents and perspectives, but we came together to create an incredible family experience.

So you’ve got your first few creative meetings on the calendar and a handful of diverse thinkers invited. What’s next?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”2″][vc_column_text]

THE ENVIRONMENT

It’s important to be intentional about the space you hold your creative meeting in. Choose an environment that is warm and inviting; something with windows is always a plus. Allow it to be relaxing and fun.

If you’re thinking, “Well, none of our spaces fit this description,” don’t fret. You can always make it playful by bringing in a few extra materials for people to engage with. For example, cover the table with craft paper, toss crayons in the center to encourage people to loosen up and freely share their ideas. At our creative meetings, we like to use storyboards and multicolored index cards. A whiteboard works great for this same purpose, too.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”3″][vc_column_text]

THE MEETING

Define the Meeting

While it may sound trivial, defining the kind of creative meeting at the beginning is one of the most important things you can do. This gives the attendees clear direction on what is to be accomplished. Planning any event or series will require several different kinds of creative meetings. Here are a few examples:

Blue Sky Meetings

A “blue sky” meeting encourages any and all ideas. This is the time to brainstorm broad ideas freely without concerning the group with budgets or space limitations.

Decision-Making Meetings

Your next step is to hold decision-making meetings where you and your team narrow down the previously brainstormed options. This is where it is important to consider location, facility, or budget limitations to help you eliminate unreasonable ideas and land on the best game plan.

Action Meetings

Now that the ideas have been brainstormed and decisions have been made, it is time to take action. This is the point where you can schedule follow-up meetings as necessary to examine everyone’s progress.

Defining the meeting makes a big difference. You don’t want to discuss action steps at a blue sky meeting or develop outlandish new ideas at an action meeting.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

FINAL POINTERS

Guard the Focus

“Focus? What does that do for creativity?” Believe it or not, focus fuels creativity. Therefore, it is important to start with clearly defining your goal for the creative meeting and writing it somewhere everyone can see. Doing so provides creative direction that will prevent you and your team from wasting creative energy on irrelevant ideas.

Some advocate for the mantra “anything goes” in a creative meeting, but creativity without focus can lead to confusion. The most effective meetings find a balance between relaxed brainstorming while holding enough order that even ideas you don’t use are worth keeping. This doesn’t mean you can’t chase rabbits in creative meetings. Focus just means you’ll only chase the kinds of rabbits that lead you down the right path. An effective facilitator is one that can guard the focus while encouraging an organic flow of ideas.

Capture the Ideas

You’d be surprised by how much you can miss if no one is taking thorough notes in a creative meeting. To avoid this, recruit two notetakers, one to take detailed notes on paper or laptop and another to write and organize the ideas on index cards or a whiteboard. The goal is to make sure no idea is missed, lost or forgotten. Besides, it is pretty entertaining to read the notes later. You’ll wonder why you even considered flying someone into the ceiling to represent Jesus’ ascension into heaven.

Debrief Next Steps

The event is over, but you’re not off the hook yet. There’s one step: a debrief meeting to celebrate the successes and discuss what could be improved. While it may seem contradictory, be sure to keep things positive as you talk through what went wrong. Avoid playing the blame game or beating something to death. Instead, encourage your team to brainstorm solutions if something didn’t go the way you planned. Whether everything went perfectly right or terribly wrong, in the end, you probably impacted someone’s life through the hard work your team put into the project.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Yes, the creative process can be a little overwhelming. But remember this: the God who CREATED all, including you, has called and equipped you to create in order to bring others to Him. There’s no better reason than that to dream up the very best ideas for your church.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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The Creative Meeting Series with Stephen Brewster

kamil_hopeware — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 08:29:27 +0000

We start this series with our friend and SALT alumni, Stephen Brewster. Stephen has worked as a Creative Director and offers his services in leadership, coaching etc. to churches around the country. *update read Part 2 in the series on Creative Meetings[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]It’s Monday morning and the usual crowd strolls for your next creative meeting. You know how it goes: the pastor walks the five of you through the ins and outs of the upcoming series or event then asks for your best ideas in planning the creative elements.

You all agree this time the look and feel needs to be fresh and new. But after ten minutes, every one is glued to their Google browser, settling for clever “cultural” ideas to replicate.

A general list is formed, complete with a few predictably odd suggestions and a handful of concepts used in the past, and then it’s onto production. The meeting adjourns and everyone walks away unsure of how “creative” it all turned out to be.

You’re probably wondering how I know this – it’s because I did it this way for too many years! Here are three ways to put the creativity back into your creative meeting:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”1″][vc_column_text]

Speak with your pastor ahead of time.

Let him or her brief you with the critical information for the series or event so that his or her heavy voice won’t interfere with the creative flow of the meeting.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”2″][vc_column_text]

Conduct the creative meeting.

Invite 20-40 people to gather an abundance of ideas. Divide and conquer into teams of five and give each group the complete freedom to brainstorm around the most important elements (title, sub-title, music, video, look, marketing, how do we involve other ministries, how do we create parking lot/lobby experiences?).

Let this be a fun, low stakes exercise. No idea is a bad idea! Be sure to especially focus on the creative elements that seem to be lacking most. This meeting should take about 90 minutes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps style=”luv-dropcaps-square” font_family=”Poppins” color_scheme=”default” letter=”3″][vc_column_text]

Refine and simplify.

Gather a group of 3-5 of you and filter through all of the amazing ideas from the meeting. Filter the best concepts down to 2-3 pitches for your pastor. You will start with more content than you know what to do with but end up with better results than you could’ve imagined. You can even invite your pastor into this process if he/she or you prefers. Ultimately, this is where you solidify what to pitch or create for the upcoming series or event.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shoot for this process to happen the first week after you launch the previous series. For example, if series X started on Sunday, that following Monday, meet with your pastor about series Y; conduct the creative meeting for series Y that Wednesday; refine and simplify for series Y that Thursday. This allows for at least 3 weeks of production time.

Save yourself the headache and don’t try to jam three meetings into one. Don’t even think of it as a meeting – allow creativity to be a process. This way you’ll gather those fresh ideas you hoped for, reach more people and influence culture.

If I can help you at ALL with this process, reach out to me. B@StephenBrewster.me or on IG: @B_rewster. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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8 Tips: Appreciating Volunteers

kamil_hopeware — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 17:00:15 +0000

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As a volunteer at my church, I have first hand knowledge on what it is like to be a volunteer. It is something I feel lead to do and am very excited about having the opportunity to pour myself my volunteer job every week. When I started, I was amazed at all of the resources available to me from training outlines to twice yearly leadership training.

Now after several years, I realize that having that “help” makes what I do a sweeter and more pleasant experience. I give all of the credit to the incredible staff and how they value all of their volunteers. They have learned the art of volunteer retention by appreciating volunteers and they do it well. They did it by realizing what volunteers needed and making sure that they were filling that need.

From that experience I have come up with 8 tips that your church can institute now or in the coming weeks that will show your volunteer staff how much they are appreciated.

8 Tips on Appreciating Volunteers:

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Create opportunities to get your volunteers connected.

Volunteers are serving because they believe in your mission. They also have a desire to get something in return, like connections, community and an opportunity to use their gifts. Your volunteer teams can be a great place for people to make deeper connections with others that believe in the same mission or cause. So whether it is a special volunteer room with snacks and coffee, an annual appreciation picnic or even a semi-regular team night to allow them to connect with others, help them get connected with other volunteers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”2″][vc_column_text]

Feed Your Volunteers.

Food is a great way to make volunteers feel appreciated. At my church, we ask them to get there early or to work a little longer so it seems like an easy task to make sure they have coffee, soda, doughnuts or granola bars available. If you really want to appreciate your volunteers, then serve them two meals (breakfast and lunch) and make it a special opportunity only available to those who serve.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”3″][vc_column_text]

Surprise and Delight.

I love this phrase, we use it a lot when we are planning events at SALT. But if you can give your volunteers a little bit of the unexpected, you’ll be inadvertently showing your appreciation. Just like the way you’d surprise your spouse, find ways to surprise your volunteers. Here are some ideas: send them a birthday card with a $5 Starbucks or Chick-fil-a gift card, Give them a shout out on social media, sing happy birthday to them as a group, create nicknames, etc. This is a great tip on appreciating volunteers that will create culture too.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”4″][vc_column_text]

Special Parking.

What if you could provide special VIP parking for those who are serving? Since we typically ask our volunteers to show up early then how cool would it be to take the hassle of finding a parking place away from them. Give them a special tag for their car that gives them access to parking in the volunteer parking area. If your church doesn’t want volunteers getting the preferred parking, another idea would be to offer exclusive door-to-door shuttles for them to park on the other side of the lot. This way when it rains, snows or is just not great weather, they don’t have to worry about messing with it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”5″][vc_column_text]

Seek their feedback and opinion.

Volunteers are on the front lines of your organization, so what better way to learn how you can make things better than asking the volunteers. It is very easy to grab a volunteer and ask to go out for coffee so that you can pick their brain. Whenever someone feels like their opinion is valued, you’ve also shown them how much you appreciate the role they have on your team. Help them feel part of the team by contributing to larger decisions or details, by simply “running an idea by them”. This is an easy way to increase your appreciation of your volunteers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”6″][vc_column_text]

Handwritten notes.

Everyone loves a handwritten note. This is a huge “appreciation” giver and it’s so easy! This one small task, that may only take 2 minutes of your time, will be remembered for a very long time. And don’t just do it on a birthday, when they may expect it. Do this on a completely random day. Write a note telling them how much you appreciate their time and service.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”7″][vc_column_text]

Keep them in the loop.

With all the technology, available to us, this should be an easy to institute. Every week, your volunteers should be getting updates from you about things happening at the church. Most people have FOMO (fear of missing out) and this applies to volunteers too. Letting them be the first to know about things coming up will be a big encourager to them. Anyone who feels like they have the inside scoop, will be more loyal, more invested and more patient when things don’t go as planned. Start appreciating volunteers by simply helping them be in the “know.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][luv_dropcaps color_scheme=”default” letter=”8″][vc_column_text]

Continual Learning / Education.

Another key reason people sign up to volunteer in tech or creative ministry, is because they may learn new things! What if you were to do regular training events to help them learn new things? Bring in an outside speaker? Sign up for SALT University and give them all access, or simply have an opportunity to work one-on-one with each volunteer from time to time and help them know that you want to see them grow. They will appreciate the extra attention and you’ll be appreciating volunteers in the process on a very intentional basis.

There you have it! Our 8 tips on appreciating volunteers. What are various ways that you show your volunteer teams how much they mean to you? Let us know in the comments below![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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