You know how every year seems to fly by in a blur? I mean, one minute we’re ringing in the New Year and the next, it's back-to-school chaos! I’ve been feeling this great urge to create an annual family planner—something that isn't just a calendar, but a little slice of our lives captured in time. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a space where we map out our craziness, our adventures, and even those quiet moments that often get lost in the shuffle? Last year, I totally missed my daughter’s school play because I forgot to mark it down, and let me tell you, that was a heartbreaker. But what if our planner could be more than just dates and deadlines? What if it could tell our story, keep the memories alive, and even bring us closer together as we plan our fun family escapades? I can already envision us flipping through the pages, laughing at our past adventures while dreaming up new ones—who's with me?
Items You’ll Need
- Planner Notebook
- Marker Set
- Stickers
- Ruler
- Sticky Notes
- Label Maker
- Calendar Stamps
- Punches
- Highlighters
- Adhesive Tape
- Digital Planner App
- Printer
- Computer
- Craft Scissors
- Binding Machine
- Paper Cutter
- Envelope Storage
- File Organizer
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather my materials
I start by collecting all my equipment: the Planner Notebook, Marker Set, Stickers, Ruler, Sticky Notes, Label Maker, Calendar Stamps, Punches, Highlighters, Adhesive Tape, Digital Planner App, Printer, Computer, Craft Scissors, Binding Machine, Paper Cutter, Envelope Storage, and File Organizer.
Step 2: Choose a theme for my planner
I think about the overall theme of my family planner. I consider bright colors and playful designs to make it fun for the whole family.
Step 3: Outline the planner sections
I use my Sticky Notes to brainstorm and outline the sections I want: Family Events, Birthdays, Vacation Plans, Daily Schedules, and a Notes section.
Step 4: Design the cover page
I grab my markers and stickers to create a fun and colorful cover page. I use the ruler to make sure everything is straight and neat.
Step 5: Create monthly calendar layouts
I design monthly layouts with space for family events. I print templates using my printer and carefully cut them out with the paper cutter.
Step 6: Add decorations and fun elements
I use my stickers and highlighters to decorate the calendar pages. I also stamp important dates with my Calendar Stamps.
Step 7: Label important sections
Using the label maker, I make labels for each section of the planner to make it easy to navigate.
Step 8: Bind the planner
Once everything is laid out and decorated, I use the binding machine to bind the planner together into a neat book.
Step 9: Create a digital version
I open my Digital Planner App and replicate the layouts I've designed in my physical planner, ensuring that everything is synchronized for convenience.
Step 10: Organize storage for supplies
I organize my craft supplies using the envelope storage and file organizer to keep everything tidy and accessible for future updates to the planner.
Step 11: Final touches
I go through my planner one last time to add any final touches or adjustments that might enhance the experience.
Step 12: Share with the family!
Finally, I proudly share the completed family planner with my family. We gather around and discuss our upcoming year and plan fun events together!