Lodi scrapbook store celebrates 10 years

Next to the sparkling flowers are jets and military fatigues. Along the walls are letters in almost every conceivable font keeping Disney's Tigger company. Sayings like, "be inspired," and "create," coax visitors to do just those things.

For 10 years, Memories in the Making in Lodi has been showing avid and amateur scrapbookers how to enliven their photographs and bring a burst of imagination to those special moments captured on film.

Although Teran Turner has only owned the scrapbook supply store for about a year and-a-half (after purchasing it from Alison Wong, the original owner), she has been embracing the hobby for over 20 years.

Buying the store just made sense, even though Turner's husband was a bit concerned when they talked about the prospect.

"My husband panicked when we were buying the store," Turner said. "He didn't realize how much we were saving on paper!"

As the 2,000 square-foot store approaches its decade anniversary, Turner has no doubts she made the right decision. After 25 years in the credit union industry believes the business thrives because of their attention to customer service.

"We try very hard to listen to the customer and what they want," Turner said.

Memories for the Making at a glance

Where: 1325 W. Lockeford St.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Information: 333-7577 or www.memoriesforthemaking.com.

Ann Garcia of Stockton has been scrapbooking for only three years. She happily admits it became a quick addiction when she started, and Memories in the Making is one of the reasons she spends the time to drive to Lodi.

"This is my favorite store. it's worth the drive," Garcia said. "They are so nice and helpful."

In fact, Turner says that she rarely ever sees a grumpy customer. That includes both women and men.

For women, it's a form of therapy and provides a social environment. And, for men, it's a way to express themselves.

According to Turner, there has been a steady increase of men getting into the pastime. She has seen dads creating scrapbooks that revolve around vacation photos and their kids' sports endeavors. She's even seen newlywed husbands help their wives create a scrapbook of their wedding photos.

Ann Garcia, of Stockton, carries her goodies as she browses the aisles of Memories for the Making on Tuesday. She says it is her favorite scrapbooking store and she feels it's worth the trip to Lodi. (Jennifer M. Howell/News-Sentinel)

Not only is scrapbooking a way to be creative, but it's a way to protect precious photos, Turner said. She said that traditional photo albums that rely on the static pages to hold pictures in place will actually cause the color to fade from photos after about seven years.

"Scrapbooking is preserving your family's memories. It's a way to enjoy those pictures at home, and a way to relive memories," Turner said.

If those looking to get into scrapbooking are afraid they won't know how to do it, Memories in the Making offers starter kits that use the basics — card stock, printed paper, stickers and ribbons — and provide a small template for beginners to follow.

Every Friday night, scrapbooking enthusiasts are welcome to come to the store with their supplies and join the store's weekly "crop" session from 6 p.m. to midnight. It's a chance to socialize, share your designs with others, or just enjoy the atmosphere.

Paper and embellishments are seen at Memories for the Making. (Jennifer M. Howell/News-Sentinel)

On July 15, the store will be holding its 10-year anniversary which will include prizes, coupons, store discounts and more. The first 25 customers on that day will receive a scrapbooking present, Turner said. And it's probably a good idea to show up early, as Turner has seen as many as 50 people waiting for the store to open.

Compared to her days working in the credit union arena, well, Turner admits there is no comparison.

"This is a lot more fun."

Contact Business Editor Marc Lutz at marcl@lodinews.com.

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