Scrapbookers Cutting Up At City Hall

Each month, Wildwood’s council chambers are splashed with color, creativity and lots of paper scraps when monthly scrapbooking session are held. These popular sessions are sponsored by the city’s parks and recreation department. 

“Fifteen years ago you had to be a creative person to do scrapbooking,” said Laura Morgester, a Wildwood resident who helps organize the scrapbook sessions. “But now there are so many tools, you don't even have to be creative! There are many beautiful things to pick from, so many sets, stickers and papers—it's amazing.”

Morgester is a scrapbook supplies consultant. She brings a high-tech paper cutter, punches, die cutters and other supplies for the use of scrapbookers. “This is a great place to swap and get ideas. It’s fun to watch a new scrapbooker—they come to the first session with their photos and a few things to work with. Then they love it and get hooked on it. The next time they come, they have an even bigger bag full of supplies to work on,” said Morgester.

All of the ladies at last week's cropping session agreed they tend to collect a lot of "stuff" for their hobby. Local sources for supplies and ideas are and in Eureka, JoAnn Fabrics and Michael’s in Ballwin, and Archivers at the Chesterfield Mall. Creative Memories and Stampin' Up dealers are another good source for materials.  

During the session, people traded stickers and borrowed paper, markers or other equipment to complete their projects. Kelley Woerther, a regular member of the group, was working on an album for her daughter. “I make albums for each member of my family,” she said. “My daughter will be able to take them with her when she leaves home.”

“These ladies are so creative,” said Andrea Kuhnert-Heyer, Wildwood administrative assistant. “A lot of thought goes into what they make. They’ll take items from events, like a brochures or a ticket, combine it with papers and embellishments, and they make a special memory out of it. Even the most insignificant items will add to the project. These scrapbooks and other projects are very detailed and beautiful.” 

Many of the scrapbookers give away the beautiful creations as gifts, and they consider the cost of the materials as just a part of their gifts. Combined with a little time and creativity, they can make a one-of-a-kind remembrance for someone special, all for less than a ready-made gift. “I just made an album for my girlfriend's daughter who graduated from Oakville High School, and she loved it. You couldn't ask for a more personal gift,” said Morgester.

Wildwood resident Jill Von Gruben was working on a wedding book for her daughter. “Signing up for these sessions is a good way to keep up on all your photos and get them put in scrapbooks. There is an accountability factor, too, when you know that others will be waiting for you at the session,” she said.

The group will have more sessions on July 12, Sept. 13, Oct. 11 and Nov. 8. Supplies are available to purchase at the sessions. Cutting tools and a die are provided for use. 

The sessions run from 9 a.m to 3 p.m., and are held in the city council chambers at Wildwood City Hall. The cost is $12, which includes lunch. Last week’s scrapbookers enjoyed food from the nearby restaurant , located in Wildwood's Town Center.

To sign up for upcoming sessions, call the city's staff at 636-458-0440.