Planning is one of my favorite hobbies. Not only does it keep me organized, but it's a fun way to unwind. When I first started planning, I didn't find a ton of beginner resources out there so I had to learn as I went along. I wanted to create a 101 video that will help anyone interested in planning, specifically the Happy Planner, get started in the hobby.
No lie, this video and blog post are pretty long, so grab your cup of coffee and let's get started.
Choosing the Perfect Planner
As type A as I am, I have the fiery spirit of a type B creative. I wanted something that would allow me to organize my to-do lists but would allow me to document my day creatively. I initially looked into the Day Designer, but wasn't a fan of the layout. Next I looked into the Erin Condren, but found it was too expensive and didn't have the customization I was looking for. I found the Happy Planner from Me and My Big Ideas (MAMBI) randomly through YouTube and Hobby Lobby. I immediately loved it because it was like a scrapbook but also a planner.New planners are released usually in the spring for new 18 month planners and in the winter for 12 months. If you're starting the planner journey either too early or late for the new planners, they make undated planner inserts to keep you at bay until the new ones are released.
All About the Happy Planner
The thing that sold me on the Happy Planner was the fact that I could easily add or remove sheets. The disc bound system isn't new, but is a major difference between typical planners.Back then, there were only one type of Happy Planner, the Classic. Since then, they have released a Big and Mini as well as different layouts and themes to match anyone's personality or need. I personally prefer the classic vertical daily planner, however you can choose based on:
Size...
-Big
-Classic
-Mini
Layout...
-Vertical Daily
- Horizontal Daily
Planner Theme...
-Memory Keeping
-Undated
-Self-care
-Budget
-Faith
-Fitness
-Student
-Recipe
-Teacher
Kits can also be purchased which contain a 12 month undated planner and accessories to get you started planning.
Customization
One thing you will start to hear a lot in the planner community are the terms "planner peace" or "frankenplanning". Planner peace is when you've finally found a system that works for you which brings you joy. This could be adding three different packs in and creating one super planner or buying three different planners for different aspects in your life. For example, it isn't uncommon for people to purchase a different planner for work, faith, fitness, or family. A way to achieve planner peace is to frankenplan. This is when you've customized your planner so much, it doesn't even look like the original planner.
Extension Packs
Before MAMBI created themed planners, you had the ability to add in themed extension packs. They are typically 6 months in length and undated so you can add them whenever you want.
Types of Extension Packs:
- Six Month - These look like your typical planner format with a monthly and weekly view as well as a monthly dashboard. Each contain a pre-punched divider and sticker sheets to label the months and days
- Wellness - Monthly and weekly calendar that prompts you to write down and track your health journey. Whether that be for self care or weight loss. Contains sticker labels.
- Wedding Planner - Extension to help you plan the big day. Contains tips and sections for vendors, budget, guests and honeymoon just to name a few. Contains 10 dividers.
- Recipe Organizer - Allows you to organize and track recipes to keep in your recipe planner or in your personal planner. Contains 20 pages and stickers to organize your categories
- Fitness - Track health, recipes and fitness goals. Unlike the other packs, the fitness is 4 months in length.
Discs
Every planner is bounded by colored plastic Happy Planner discs. You're able to change the color or switch to metal discs. You're also able to switch to expanders if you find you don't have enough room.
Stickers & Washi
Stickers are a main component of Happy Planner customization. There are several types of themed value packs you can purchase such as sports, mom life and seasonal. They are all $20, however I always purchase using a coupon dropping the price down to $11.
Washi makes it easy to decorate your planner and is a must-have in your planning arsenal. You can purchase washi just about anywhere now, however my favorite ones are the recollections brand from Michael's.
Stickers are a main component of Happy Planner customization. There are several types of themed value packs you can purchase such as sports, mom life and seasonal. They are all $20, however I always purchase using a coupon dropping the price down to $11.
Washi makes it easy to decorate your planner and is a must-have in your planning arsenal. You can purchase washi just about anywhere now, however my favorite ones are the recollections brand from Michael's.
Paper Punch
The punch is essential to DIYing your planner. Although you can get by with scissors and a classic handheld holepunch, the HP punch is bae. You can perfectly punch up to 3 pieces of paper to fit in the planners. You can also purchase the arc or levenger punch from Staples.
Sheets
You can purchase half or full sheets that come in functional, grid or note style. This the perfect place to write down notes, schedule your meals for the week or doodle. I'll be filming a video showing you how I use my half sheets. Look out for that very soon.
Covers
MAMBI has three types of covers you can switch to: Decorative, Snap-In, and Deluxe. Decorative covers are laminated covers that comes with each planner. Snap-Ins are made out of hard plastic which make it more durable against everyday wear and tear. Deluxe covers wrap around the entire planner and are secured in place with a front snap. They have pen holders and pockets for storage. If you're interested in creating your own cover, you can purchase the Happy Planner laminated sheets or you can create your own. Follow my tutorial here to learn how.
MAMBI has three types of covers you can switch to: Decorative, Snap-In, and Deluxe. Decorative covers are laminated covers that comes with each planner. Snap-Ins are made out of hard plastic which make it more durable against everyday wear and tear. Deluxe covers wrap around the entire planner and are secured in place with a front snap. They have pen holders and pockets for storage. If you're interested in creating your own cover, you can purchase the Happy Planner laminated sheets or you can create your own. Follow my tutorial here to learn how.
Storage
You can purchase totes, storage cases and pen cases in several different styles. There even pen cases that you can snap in your planner
Where to Buy
The Happy Planner can be purchased through the MAMBI website as well as at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Staples and Walmart. Do note that some stores do not carry the entire line, so if you're looking for something in particular, check the MAMBI website.
Planning Resources
You can learn more about the HP and other planners on YouTube (link to my playlist) or from blogs, but did you know about Facebook groups? I'm a member of two groups on FB and I love it. Members share tips and sales as well as new releases.
Favorite YouTube Channels:
AtHomeWithQuita
Belinda Selene
Hopefully this lengthy blog post and video helps you start out in your planning journey. I absolutely love planning and loveeee to share with friends and family. Leave any future planning related topics in the comments of this blog or video if you want me to cover any topics I left out.
Happy Planning!
Favorite YouTube Channels:
AtHomeWithQuita
Belinda Selene
Hopefully this lengthy blog post and video helps you start out in your planning journey. I absolutely love planning and loveeee to share with friends and family. Leave any future planning related topics in the comments of this blog or video if you want me to cover any topics I left out.
Happy Planning!
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