Hey there, pretty planner babe!  Whether you’re a newbie just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to refresh your approach, finding your perfect planning style is key to staying organized and inspired.  With so many styles out there, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out what works best for you.  But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!  Let’s explore some popular decorative planning styles and tips on how you can discover your own unique style.

Description: Minimalist planning is all about simplicity and functionality.  Think clean lines, monochrome palettes, and lots of white space. This style focuses on the essentials without any frills.

Tips for Newbies:

• Start Simple: Use a basic planner or bullet journal with minimal decorations.
• Essential Tools: A good pen, a ruler, and some highlighters are all you need.
• Focus on Functionality: Prioritize clear, concise entries and effective layouts over decoration.

Description: Artistic planning is perfect for those who love to express their creativity through drawing and painting. It combines planning with art journaling, using illustrations, doodles, and watercolors to enhance pages.

Tips for Newbies:

• Experiment with Mediums: Try different art supplies like colored pencils, watercolors, and markers to see what you enjoy most.
• Inspiration Boards: Create a Pinterest board with artistic planner spreads that inspire you.
• Start Small: Begin with simple doodles and gradually incorporate more complex artwork as you gain confidence. Paper quality is a big deal when using wet mediums in your planner too. So, ensure that your planner paper is thick enough to sustain the medium that you choose.

Description: The functional planner focuses on productivity and organization. It’s less about decoration and more about efficient layouts, task lists, and goal setting. Functional planning is slightly different than minimalist planning.  While both are more focused on productivity and organization over design, functional planners typically use more colors and may use functional stickers that are a bit more creative than minimalist planners.

Tips for Newbies:

• Effective Layouts: Use weekly or daily spreads that clearly outline your tasks and appointments.
• Task Lists: Prioritize to-do lists and habit trackers to stay on top of your goals.
• Use Stickers and Washi Tape Sparingly: While decoration is minimal, a few functional stickers or washi tape can add some flair without overwhelming your pages.

Description: Scrapbook planning merges planning with memory keeping. It involves adding photos, ticket stubs, and other memorabilia to your planner pages, making it a personal scrapbook of your life.

Tips for Newbies:

• Collect Keepsakes: Start saving small mementos like photos, stickers, and event tickets.
• Layering Techniques: Experiment with layering washi tape, stickers, and paper scraps to create visually appealing spreads.
• Mix Media: Use a mix of photos, journaling, and decorative elements to document your memories.

Description: The decorative planner style is all about making your planner as beautiful and vibrant as possible. It involves using lots of stickers, washi tape, stamps, and other embellishments.

Tips for Newbies:

• Stock Up on Supplies: Invest in a variety of stickers, washi tapes, and stamps that you love.
• Theme Your Pages: Create themed spreads based on holidays, seasons, or personal interests.
• Layer and Balance: Practice layering different elements and balancing decorative items with functional planning.

Description: Bullet journaling, or "BuJo," is a customizable organization system created by Ryder Carroll. It blends the functions of a planner, diary, and to-do list into one. It’s perfect for those who enjoy structure but also want flexibility and creativity.

Tips for Newbies:

• Learn the Basics: Start with the basic bullet journal components like the index, future log, monthly log, and daily log.
• Customize Gradually: As you get comfortable, add elements like habit trackers, mood trackers, and custom collections.
• Use Simple Symbols: Implement easy-to-understand symbols for tasks, events, and notes to keep your entries clear and concise.

Discovering Your Style

Think about what you need from your planner. Are you looking for a tool to boost your productivity, or are you more interested in having a creative outlet? Your primary goal will guide your style choice.

Try out different styles for a week or a month each. Pay attention to what feels natural and enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to mix elements from various styles to create something uniquely yours.

Browse through social media platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube. Save images and videos of planner spreads that catch your eye. Notice the common elements that you are drawn to.

Remember, your planning style can evolve over time. As your needs and tastes change, so can your approach. The key is to stay flexible and open to new ideas.Finding your creative planning style is a journey, not a destination. Have fun exploring and experimenting until you find what works best for you. Happy planning, and may your pages be as beautiful and functional as you want them to be!