Merbellas Thread

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

Yeah I would message her again on all three communication devices, Facebook private message her, her email and the other new customers email? Just send her and messaging say the current day date and if she has made any progress and let her know that you understand she's busy but your worried and need some comformation and then on the others send her a message saying you have emailed regarding the status of your tail that way your not bothering her but allowing more chances of her seeing your message! And don't feel bad you have a right to check in :) I did when I felt anxious ! <3

[Winged Mermaid]

I understand you being nervous Isabel, nothing to apologize for :) Just be sure to read the note about Emails and wait times on their FB page (https://www.facebook.com/notes/merbella-studios-inc/faq-about-wait-times-and-email-response-times/542703012452450). I would suggest to email their new customers only email, since you are a current customer. Also if you send another email to their regular email, do not start a new email, always reply to the original one. Otherwise things get lost and shuffled around, and generally confusing. Also only contact them one way, as it says on the note. I think if you haven't emailed the customer email, sending out one there and one to the regular email is perfectly acceptable and a good move, but don't go messaging her on FB, Etsy, Instagram, ect. I can tell you right now that they pretty much never see FB messages anyway, becuase so many people message them constantly. Hope you can get a hold of her!

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Thank you both very much! I will be sure to follow your advice and hopefully succeed in figuring things out :)

[AniaR]

Also she sent back a lot of tail repairs too. I find when people get tails before you sometimes its because they were easier or faster to make for whatever reason or people paid rush fees too.

I know from skyping with her though that all of the tails except mine are in production. Most are waiting for paint due to bad weather.

I think everything Iona suggested is the best :)

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[Mermaid Isabel(:]

So I sent an email to Ravens new Client email and got a response. My tail is constructed and waiting in line to be painted :) so for anyone else waiting on a tail I think if the weather clears up it shouldn't be too much longer before we start seeing finished products coming out hopefully! Thank you Namiko Iona and Raina for giving me advice ^_^

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

OKay everyone it finally uploaded YAY! Here it is my Merbellas unboxing video <3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNhHF8JJwK0&feature=youtu.be

[Mermaid Wesley]

Adorable!!

[Kishiko]

Watching now!

....

awh sh that was so awesome! Your tail is incredible!!! Btw I love your accent XD

[Mermaid Crystal Shimmer]

Your tail looks amazing Namiko! :)

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

Thanks guys <3 lol thank you kishiko hehe its a werid combo on english/australian so it switches ever now and then depending on the words i say haha
I am so in love with my tail and i cant wait to test it out :P

[Mermaid Wesley]

We can't wait to see you in it! Congrats!


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[Kishiko]

Now you have to post one of you putting it on! It's so amazing!

[Winged Mermaid]

Ahhhhhh so happy for youuuuuuu!!

[Merman Arion]

Wow! I'm amazed by these two beauties :D
(and by that, I mean the tail and YOU!)

You look lovely on this video! I'm really impressed that your tail arrived in this short period of time and customs didn't even hold it for long!
I feel relieved because I hope the same thing happen with customs in France for my tail!

I gotta tell you though that from now, you gotta cut these pretty nails regularly if you wanna put on your tail without damaging it :)

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Awww that was so cute congrats on getting your tail! :)

[Ariel-Starfish]

Aaaargh pure awsomeness!! <3 Lovely video! :D and yes i'm saying it again: Those hip fins! <3 :drool:

[MermaidMichelle]

I was thinking the same thing as Arion; your long nails are gorgeous, but they could easily damage your tail (I shall probably need to cut mine in preparation for the arrival of my tail). Also, Arion, I hope that French customs are gentle with your tail (vive la France; without a hint of sarcasm because Je suis Canadien!)

That is a beautiful, informative, and clearly heartfelt unboxing video! I'm glad that you went to such detail regarding seams and material, too!

I eagerly await your tail-donning video (if you choose to make one), for I intend to do the very same thing when I receive mine! <3 :mermaid kiss:

[PearlieMae]

That tail is drop dead gorgeous! And you are too cute for words! Swim in it in good health!

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

Awe thanks everyone :) this was one of the most exciting things that has happened to be hahah

Arion I promise I cut down my nails before putting it on haha it saddened me to do it but it's for the sake of my tail <3
heres a picture if me trying it on :) and it took me 25mins to smooth out eveything haha
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[Mermaid Danielle]

You look amazing!

[Kishiko]

SO GORGEOUS! Raven just keeps on amazing us!

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Wow it looks great! Absolutely perfect :)

[Mermaid Wesley]

Looks amazing!

[Mermaid_Kenzee]

Beautiful

[Merley]

Aww, Namiko, it's just perfect on you. Love the fluke shape. <3

[lynsea]

What was that new blending technique you talked about with this tail?

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

The new technique is rather then a straight band across the top if the waist band after she paints the tail she puts over the top of it the nude skin tone and fades it down into the middle colours of the tail which helps give a realistic transition from skin to fish tail <3 it's awesome haha

[Merman Arion]

Very nice!

How is the fit, Namiko? :D

[Sirena The Coral Reef Koi]

The fit is really tight lol a bit hard to get over my bum but it's perfect lol

[Merman Arion]

The fit is really tight lol a bit hard to get over my bum but it's perfect lol

Glad to hear that :D

a PM from me is waiting for you in your box :thumbs-up:

[Mermaid Romy]

I feel like this might be a silly question but what is the difference between and basic and a hybrid and a professional tail?

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[Winged Mermaid]

See the Merbellas FAQ (https://www.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/app_220171144668400) and Tails descriptions (https://www.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/app_101393123286933) for the difference between performance tails and basic tails.

A hybrid is only full silicone for the body of the tail, and the fluke is a basic fluke (neoprene with silicone on top, not molded like performance tail flukes).

[Mermaid Romy]

Ah, thank you Iona C:

[Ariel-Starfish]

It's cool to see another mermaid with a blended waist. <3 U look gorgeuzzzzz :mermaidkiss:

[Mermaid_Kenzee]

How much are the hybrids???

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Hey, Namiko, if you need any tips on getting it over your butt, message me. I have a big back and have a technique for getting over it. XP

Also, I heard you say "Watered down conditioner", I don't think that's something you're supposed to use? I've been told and read that only water based personal lubricant should be used.

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Also, you are adorable!!! And your tail is very pretty. :3 Your cats will be so confused for a while. XD

(Sorry for double posting. I'm really tired.)

[MermaidMichelle]

Yes, the kitties may need to work on the transition between "owner" and "large prey animal"! You look lovely in that tail on the towel; I picture myself looking like that in my donning video and I can only hope to look so fine! :mermaid kiss:

[Little_Orca]

As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:


hey Melissa! Whenever you are ready darlin' October would be fine but I will always advise the sooner the better just because it is a little hard for me to gauge the work load so far ahead. I promise I will be ready whenever you are because I am so very excited (and honored) to make you a tail! I love your beautiful fabric tails so much and I think you are such a beautiful mermaid I would just LOVE to see you in one of my works:) <3 Raven

I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.

[Merley]

As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:



I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.

That's awesome, LO! I'm glad you're pretty much guaranteed a spot for one of Raven's tails. You work so hard; you totally deserve it. Raven's a total sweetheart too, especially with helping you create a vision of what you want. As for the big booty thing, well, I also have a lot of junk in the trunk :p But I'm sure it'll just make your 'tail' that much more appealing. (Bad jokes I know, but congrats!)

[Rivertee]

As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:



I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.
Umm I know I've very new to the merworld but what I've found works great for arms and back flab is crunches and girl push-ups. My husband is ex-navy and he's been helping me with just toning up what little I've lost. Just advice from a humble fan.

[MerEmma]

Congrats, Merlissa! Raven is such a sweetheart. <3

[Ashe]

Aw, that is way too sweet! I'd be in tears, too :) Good luck!

[Mermaid Danielle]

As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:



I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.

I'm so happy for you!

[MermaidMichelle]

From one artiste to another, it seems! I'm glad you and Raven have such mutual respect for each other and that all your work with fabric tails has earned you such prestige. I'm also glad you were able to get a slot with Merbella Studios​, which in itself is no mean feat! :mermaid kiss:

[Arella]

So excited for you Little Orca it's gonna be amazing :)

[Seraphina Suds]

Ah! That's wonderful, Merlissa! You completely deserve it for working so hard! Do you have a design in mind yet?

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[Little_Orca]

I am reworking one. I've had an idea for one for a few years now but I have been wary to show it off for fear of a direct copy (versus just someone using similar colors.)

[Ariel-Starfish]

N
As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:



I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.

So happy for you! <3 You deserve it!!

Did you get a replay on the special client email? i've send in my second turn a week ago and did not get a respond.
(Also, I'm working on something special for Raven and Taylor.)

[Little_Orca]

N

So happy for you! <3 You deserve it!!

Did you get a replay on the special client email? i've send in my second turn a week ago and did not get a respond.
(Also, I'm working on something special for Raven and Taylor.)

No, I contacted her another way, which I apologized for in case it was the wrong way to do so. *giggle*

[Mermaid Mhara]

Wow Little_Orca!! Absolutely fintastic! :D

I can't wait to see what kind of tail you'll get! Raven does gorgeous tails and I can already imagine you in one!!

[Ariel-Starfish]

No, I contacted her another way, which I apologized for in case it was the wrong way to do so. *giggle*

Damn :p haha! I hope she check's her email at some time! <3

[Mermaid Evolet]

As per advice, I sent Raven a message telling her that I would be ready to order my tail in October and that I hoped she had spots open for me at that time. I'm hoping to still shrink before then. I got this in return:

I'm like... so excited I'm in tears.

Now, I just gotta focus on the three problem areas on my body: back, arms, tummy. If I have a big rear for the tail... oh well. It comes with a pear-shaped body.

OMG I'm so excited for you. =D You'll look great in a merbella tail! Problem areas or not.. :mermaid kiss: :hug:



Oh and by the way I just hit day 120 today. I know it means nothing but for me it is a big step :yay:

[Little_Orca]

Oh and by the way I just hit day 120 today. I know it means nothing but for me it is a big step :yay:

All steps are progress in the right direction. Congrats! (Even steps back can be positive becuase you can learn from them.)

[AniaR]

I forgot to keep track of my days. Lol I think I ordered beg of Feb.

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[Mermaid Isabel(:]

She added pictures on Instagram I think they're new tails that's she's finished

[MermaidMichelle]

OMG I'm so excited for you. =D You'll look great in a merbella tail! Problem areas or not.. :mermaid kiss: :hug:



Oh and by the way I just hit day 120 today. I know it means nothing but for me it is a big step :yay:

You look great with a bow! As a Hunger Games fan, I can appreciate it especially...lol

Raina, you must have ordered yours within a few days of mine! :mermaid kiss:

[Arella]

I can't wait to see your design in a finished tail : ) I'm sure between you and Raven it will be fintastic!

[MermaidMichelle]

:mermaid kiss: It shoal is nice to see someone else who punderstands! :mermaid kiss:

[AniaR]

I just know mine is last on the list hahah so I have to watch 9 other people get their tails first, then I know mine will be coming. So I am not even bothering with counting hahahahahah

[AniaR]

oh Raven was able to finish this one up!!!!

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1.0-9/10277907_10203802913412932_7406840337567817619_n.j pg

[MermaidMichelle]

Oh WOW! No wonder that Raven said the Koi fluke would work so well with my tail! That is amazing! :mermaid kiss:

[ShyMer]

I was wondering when we were going to see that tail finished! Do you know who it is for?

[Winged Mermaid]

I am excited to see the koi tail and the lilypad top that goes with it on someone! Wonder who it belongs to?

[Mermaid Evolet]

You look great with a bow! As a Hunger Games fan, I can appreciate it especially...lol

haha thanks. After I first read the Hunger Games I just HAD to try it myself ;)

And I just Love the koi tail especially the new fluke. It looks so real!

[Ariel-Starfish]

I am excited to see the koi tail and the lilypad top that goes with it on someone! Wonder who it belongs to?
I wonder the same thing! <3

[Thalassa]

My tail is BACK! *dances* My tail is baaaack, I really miiiiissed it, my tail is baaaaack...

[Merman Arion]

My tail is BACK! *dances* My tail is baaaack, I really miiiiissed it, my tail is baaaaack...

WE WANT PICTURES, THALASSA!!! :yay: :dance:

[MerEmma]

^ That! :D

[Thalassa]

Lol I'll get them this weekend. :-)

[AniaR]

I thin she posted some to instagram while she was working on it! she basically had to remake most of it right? Because of the sizing? or was that someone else with a similar scheme?

[MerEmma]

http://instagram.com/p/nwucW0Igd8/

She posted this picture of it. :)

[MermaidMichelle]

That picture is amazing too! :mermaid kiss: I've not seen a scale top with shoulder straps before!

[Thalassa]

Raina: yeah, because of sizing and stretch damage she had to do the same thing as on her hybrids. She was so wonderful about it!

Emma: yep, that's mine! :-) For some reason I can't get myself to check instagram regularly so I missed it.

Michelle: Yeah, because my old top had size and fit issues due to me being completely inept at telling what my bra size is (lol), Raven actually scaled a top that I knew fit. It looks great!

I haven't opened my package yet due to this being my crazy time of year (yay end of school and beginning of mermaid season) but I'll be using my tail today so watch for pics!

[AniaR]

I gave her the suggestion she used to finally get your sizing the right way ;) I'll be doing the same thing too because I want my tail to still be a bit higher in the waist like my current one. I'm trying so hard to be patient for those 9 people ahead of me hahahaha.

[MermaidMichelle]

Sorry for being one of those 9.... :mermaid kiss:

[ShyMer]

It looks gorgeous, Thalassa!
I don't do instagram, so I appreciate the link <3

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[MermaidMichelle]

I also appreciate the link, for neither do I do Instagram, or even have a mobile phone. It's more poverty than technological limitations, but nevertheless I would be happy to offer an old-person approach...

YOU DANG SQUIDS GET THE HECK OFF MY LAWN! Oh, wait, you're mermaids...well at least use a coaster!

[PearlieMae]

Any chance of a screen shot? My ancient phone won't let me instagram and I can't see the photo. :(

[Mer-Crazy]

Any chance of a screen shot? My ancient phone won't let me instagram and I can't see the photo. :(

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[Mer-Crazy]

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Get your unboxing videos ready people!

[Mermaid Wesley]

Ooh! cant wait to watch that!

[Mizuko]

I want to send my video in, but I'm actually super embarrassed about the noises I make... LOL!

[Mermaid Romy]

Send it in Mizuko! Everyone makes silly noises and some people cry. When I gwt mine it will be a garbled jumble of pitchy sobs and screaming so high only dogs can hear it XD

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[Mer-Crazy]

Mine has a snicker's add playing in the background...

[AniaR]

Mine is embaressing too hahaha. 2 year old eep. I'll have a new one soon ho ;)

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[Mermaid Evolet]

did you guys see the new pink tail on instagram? i'm not a fan of pink tails but i really like this one.
does someone know whos tail this is?

[shimmygoddess]

Finally had my photoshoot and wanted to share a couple pics :)

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[AniaR]

You look amazing I saw these on fb and my jaw dropped!

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[shimmygoddess]

Thanks Raina! My husband laughed at me the entire time...but it was worth it. Afterwards, I asked him to carry my tail and he said it was my burden to bare...I told him I felt like Frodo from Lord of the Rings and that 'my precious' was so heavy. LOL


You look amazing I saw these on fb and my jaw dropped!

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[Merman Arion]

Thanks Raina! My husband laughed at me the entire time...but it was worth it. Afterwards, I asked him to carry my tail and he said it was my burden to bare...I told him I felt like Frodo from Lord of the Rings and that 'my precious' was so heavy. LOL

I'm confused. What kind of laugh was he making?

Was he cheering for you or mocking you?

How rude of him to not help you carrying the tail though. Is he even supportive of what you do?

[shimmygoddess]

He thought I looked silly with the tail on. LOL. I told him I appreciated him helping, but wish he was more supportive, so to answer your questions, kind of. He helps me sometimes, but isn't as supportive as I would like. I have already told him that is something he needs to work on.

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

I think because she made a Lord of the Rings joke (which was epic by the way) as a comeback her husband was just teasing her

[shimmygoddess]

he was.... :) We were walking back and I was complaining how heavy it was and said he should carry it....the whole thing was quite funny actually...I laughed when he said the burden was mine and I told him I felt like Frodo and that and told him, that Samwise Gamgee would help...and that he was no Samwise..LOL
I think because she made a Lord of the Rings joke (which was epic by the way) as a comeback her husband was just teasing her

[Merman Arion]

He thought I looked silly with the tail on.

Well, I think you look gorgeous on it ;)

[shimmygoddess]

Thanks!! :)

[Ariel-Starfish]

Stunning babe! <3

[AniaR]

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--WmNb3ClX--/691910602160022853.jpg



You look so fab! So happy for you. <3

[shimmygoddess]

[QUOTE=AniaR;128429]http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--WmNb3ClX--/691910602160022853.jpg



LOL....love that GIF ;)

Thanks!! That tail was so worth the wait xo

[AniaR]

So Raven has been insanely busy and hard to reach but I've been keeping track between what she publicly posts and sometimes shell show me behind the scenes to get my opinion.... and she's flying through those tails man!! We were at 9 I think we may be only 4 or 5 in front of me now, maybe less. And I think there are 1 or 2 orders after me. So for those of you waiting like me eeeeee we're getting so close yay! Her estimate for me was July when I ordered Feb 2nd. I'm hoping that'll happen barring any weather problems. Our summer is a blink of the eye

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[Mermaid Isabel(:]

I know I got an update on Friday and she's working on putting primer on this weekend and hopes to have it done this week and said I should get pictures soon :) I think I'm number 9 so I think she is getting caught up and everyone will be getting their orders soon :)

[Mermaid Evolet]

i ordered mid january so i think i'm the one of the tails befor yours raina =D
i got an email to on friday and she said i'll get first photos in one or two weeks yay ^-^

[Merley]

Just made the last payment for my extra fins the other day :D So, mine is going to look like the sea dragon. Raven even offered to add the sea dragon scales. I can't decide if I want them tho. I know the sea dragon was supposed to be a one-of-a-kind and I don't want to take that from Mermaid Mechanic, but I'm really excited. Now I just need to save for shipping and my Ursula top!

[Ariel-Starfish]

So exited for everyone getting their tails!!! :yay:

[Vicky Mermaid]

And I also made the payment for my performance tail and top today! I am so excited!!!!

[Mermaid Evolet]

And I also made the payment for my performance tail and top today! I am so excited!!!!

so happy for you! ;)

do you already have a paint sheme? which fluke? (I know i'm a curious mer :p)

[AniaR]

Eeeee Merbella party!! Lol

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[PearlieMae]

I certainly expect to see mermaids EVERYWHERE this summer!

And remember, let's be careful out there! Don't swim alone, and don't overreach if you are not in excellent swimming shape. All it will take is one tragic accident to initiate all kind of rules against tails!

As my daughter says in my signature quote:

[Rivertee]

Tail in the works finally. I hope to bee swimming by July meet up

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[Mer-Crazy]

So does anyone know how the flip drop box works? I'm trying to give Raven my video but I have no clue how to get it into the thing...

[AniaR]

You have to install dropbox then click the link so the folder will show on yours then put file in

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[Finley the Mermaid]

So, I've been pretty quiet on the forum so far, but having just received a picture of my tail from Raven I have to post!!

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It is better than I had even imagined. I seriously started jumping up and down when I got the email... my roommate was concerned, haha.

[Theta]

That is absolutely stunning. Really amazing !

[Merman Arion]

That's one of the prettiest tails of Raven that I have ever seen :D

[Starfrit]

The colors are beautiful, and HOLY CARP THAT FLUKE! <3 The pink looks stunning, it looks almost iridescent! That is going to look finomenal in the water! :swoon:

[Mermaid Evolet]

When i saw the tail on instagram i wondered to which lucky mermaid this tail belongs. And I'm really happy to hear that it's from one of the forum. IT IS STUNNING! :swoon:
Are you going to make an unboxing video? oh and please post some photos once you have it, I would love to see this tail in the water! :D

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

It's so beautiful congrats! I hope you get it soon, it's so lovely :)

[MermaidMichelle]

I say go for it! Shortly after I ordered on February 23rd (which actually puts me slightly after Raina) I requested a corset top with dragon scale/plates and that is when Raven agreed to cast more for us all, apparently! :mermaid kiss:

I'm starting to worry a little about my top now. Raven sent me an email on April 11th assuring me that she had not forgotten my top and would send sketches soon, but I have yet to receive those sketches and thus haven't received an invoice for the top, either....I know she is very busy, but should I send a reminder email?

Oh, and your tail looks beautiful, Finley! The paint transition is so smooth and its colouration iridescent!

[AniaR]

I think she was out the past few days performing. Doesn't hurt to ask

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[MermaidMichelle]

Merci beaucoup Raina! :mermaid kiss: I have sent an email to Raven via the Merbella Client email, as hopefully that is the best choice....

[Finley the Mermaid]

Thanks all! I am so excited!

Evolet- I think I will make a video... I love seeing everyone else's, might as well add mine to the mix! And you can be sure a photoshoot is the first thing I have planned for that baby! :)

[AniaR]

yeah she's working with weeki wachee today! hopefully we'll all hear soon

[MermaidMichelle]

Ah, Weeki Wachee....This year's February issue of National Geographic features a two-page spread of one of their young mermaids, but she's wearing a fabric tail! Imagine how amazing the photo would look if she were in a ​Merbella....

[AniaR]

I believe week I approached all silicone tail makers to get 1-2 tails from them to replace their older silicone tails. So we should be seeing more of them at least in publicity and calendar stuff

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[MermaidMichelle]

Well, in the meantime here's a horrible scan of mermaid Nikki Chickonski at Weeki Wachee in National Geographic's February 2014 issue. You like horrible scans, don't you?

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[PearlieMae]

I believe week I approached all silicone tail makers to get 1-2 tails from them to replace their older silicone tails. So we should be seeing more of them at least in publicity and calendar stuff

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Uhhhhh...what?

[MermaidMichelle]

week I = Weeki (as in Weeki Wachee). It took me several seconds to figure that out, too. :mermaid kiss:

[AniaR]

Sorry phone typing lol

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[MermaidMichelle]

^ :mermaid kiss: It's hard to phone with fins....

[PearlieMae]

Ah! It makes SENSE now!!!

[Ariel-Starfish]

I've seen video's and pictures on their IG and it's AMAZING! :mermaidkiss:

[AniaR]

Couple pics from the weeki shoot

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/t1.0-9/10383641_10152556878471756_4406623655631104438_n.j pg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/t31.0-8/s960x960/10333378_10152556878536756_8352874464656349590_o.j pg

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https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/10258991_10152556878426756_5404903271256773149_o.j pg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10275418_10152556808861756_8501674146137944715_o.j pg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t1.0-9/10390334_10152556691246756_840725901553628153_n.jp g


guys, she's so cool. ahhahaha

[MerEmma]

I LOVE that tail with the angler fluke--those fins are so cute & unique. And Raven looks like she's having a blast :D

[Mizuko]

So cool!! :D

[AniaR]

yeah. these tails weren't made specifically for these girls, but even so the fit isn't too bad! I always get worried when tails get donated, rented, or borrowed etc because they aren't made specifically to that person's measurements. But all the tails from all the tail makers looked really good and worked well. The whole photo series looks great. I might actually buy the calendar this time

[OceanRose]

I love how Raven still manages to look like a mermaid even with shoes on <3

[MermaidMichelle]

Indeed she does; her legs naturally go together in a way that suggests she's more at home in a tail. :mermaid kiss:

The photos are all gorgeous except...ONE DOES NOT STAND UP IN A MERBELLA'S TAIL! ;)

[Mermaid Wesley]

On WOOD no less smh. Well I suppose if raven isn't stopping her it's ok.


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[Ariel-Starfish]

Thanks for sharing these! <3

I tried to buy the calender from last year but they did not ship international! :( And nowi want it even more! :D

Btw, does anyone got the link to Merbella's dropbox? can't find it anymore on the FB pge and i finally had the chance to snap my unboxing video!

(most 'dry' unboxing video ever, I was so nervous!)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6syNvCbUmI

[MerEmma]

I assumed she removed it and had enough videos but I don't know for sure.

[Winged Mermaid]

She wanted people to upload to their dropbox? I thought she meant to upload dropbox on the person's own account and send them the download link.

[Mer-Crazy]

Well that's what I did, since I couldn't figure out any other way :/

[MermaidMichelle]

Oh Ariel, you and your tail are both so pretty! I'm glad to know I'm not the only mermaid to wear glasses! :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Kalliope]

Wow. So much has happened! I've been so inactive. >< I do apologize.

I wanted to send my video, but... my roommate has it (I don't have a computer) and I dunno what to do now. It's too big to email. Just upload it to drop box and send her the link?

[annika]

Hi guys, I am in the middle/end of ordering my tail and I was was wondering if after you send everything in she stops emailing you and starts working on the tail. I have sent her money, measurements, and my design. Is there anything else to be done, I emailed her about this but she didn't respond, I know she is very busy:) any advice?

[AniaR]

Nope. once you order everything and do everything you are put into the queue. She will contact you when it gets closer to, but it'll likely be a month or two depending on what she told you for waiting. I ordered Feb 2nd and havent given my measurements yet because it's not my turn for her to work on my tail. Once she gets to the tail in the order before mine, she'll contact me for my measurements. She usually keeps a rotation of 8-1o tails at a time, so it's likely you've got that many ahead of you.

[Vicky Mermaid]

Hi guys, I am in the middle/end of ordering my tail and I was was wondering if after you send everything in she stops emailing you and starts working on the tail. I have sent her money, measurements, and my design. Is there anything else to be done, I emailed her about this but she didn't respond, I know she is very busy:) any advice?

I also sended my paymenth last week and after that Tyler emailed my for my measurements and after that i did'nt hear from them. I guess it is like Raina said, when it's near your turn they will contact you. Guess we just have to be patient :)

[MermaidMichelle]

Quite; I ordered my tail in February and requested my matching corset top in March. I sent in my measurements along with them for her ease of filing and last week I received a sketch of the top concept from Raven. I only received the invoice just yesterday and finally paid for it, but Raven's updates made me quite well-aware of just how much thought and effort she had already put into this project! She's an artist, and perfection does take time! :mermaid kiss:

[Ariel-Starfish]

Oh Ariel, you and your tail are both so pretty! I'm glad to know I'm not the only mermaid to wear glasses! :mermaid kiss:


Omg that's so sweet!! Thanks! :pearl:

[Ashton]

So pretty! I hope one day I can get on the tail list! I have cash set aside for a tail from raven... :-/


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[MermaidMichelle]

Omg that's so sweet!! Thanks! :pearl:

You are quite welcome; you richly deserve such compliments! I know we merfolk are said to be very vain creatures, but we sadly live in a materialistic world which ravages self-confidence, sometimes to the point at which we are no longer aware of how beautiful we are! :mermaid kiss:

[Ariel-Starfish]

You are quite welcome; you richly deserve such compliments! I know we merfolk are said to be very vain creatures, but we sadly live in a materialistic world which ravages self-confidence, sometimes to the point at which we are no longer aware of how beautiful we are! :mermaid kiss:

:$

[AniaR]

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/10376142_718619734860776_2825169833425406364_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/t1.0-9/10300796_718648191524597_2499126024299182579_n.jpg

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/1526808_718720851517331_7349546230412605860_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/t1.0-9/10373843_718725054850244_2211275676993471574_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/1380046_718757234847026_6156327546880913515_n.jpg

[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh my gosh that's pretty


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[Mermaid Galene]

Jaw-drop gorgeous! :jawdrop:

[MerEmma]

I LOVE the hairclips and the tail and ugh, so gorgeous. <3

[Winged Mermaid]

So amazing! The gold lilypad necklace really gives it a great touch too!

Also today is my tails one year anniversary :D I got it one year ago today! It's holding up amazingly- It's practically like new!

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

I absolutely love this! So beautiful :)

[AniaR]

this tail took a while cuz the client wanted to fly up and pick it up and do the shoot. it's the koi one we posted about so long ago

[lynsea]

Merbellas question (which I, to my best knowledge, do not believe is answered on the FB FAQ): is she still doing the Merbella for a day (tail and photoshoot) and if so, how much is she charging?

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Merbellas question (which I, to my best knowledge, do not believe is answered on the FB FAQ): is she still doing the Merbella for a day (tail and photoshoot) and if so, how much is she charging?

Here is the information about it http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/07/murury8e.jpg

[KawaiiKiss]

Ohhhh... I've always wanted a koi tail! (Well, since I found out about mermaiding XD)

[lynsea]

Thanks Isabel!

[AniaR]

Love the new top designs with the little fins on the side. you cant really see it as well in these photos but I know they'll post more

[AniaR]

For anyone who didn't see, Raven is discontinuing the basic tails for the time being for an undetermined amount of time. The basic tails were originally done a lot more cheaply, with less options and materials and customizations. She put the price up but it was only to accommodate the more expensive monofin. The basic tails often end up costing her more out of pocket to make, waaaaay more time to construct than the performance tails, and it's really preventing her from doing more performance tails. (it's also my personal opinion that the basic tails are easier to have errors with when making too) I know Raven has wrestled with this idea for almost a year- it's something we've spoken about a lot. but ultimately this is her choice and I hope people can respect it. I know it's a bummer for people wanting to order, but she's one person and has done nothing but make tails non-stop for 2.5 years now. We've often discussed how she's not out to be "the best" or make loads of money and be famous. She makes the tails out of love for what it is to be a mermaid.

Personally I hope she makes more changes so she can have more of a life. I dont think she's celebrated a birthday or wedding anniversary or even Christmas since I got my tail

[Mermaid Wesley]

Well I'm glad. She deserves a break in whatever form she chooses.


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[MermaidMichelle]

WOW! I remember that Koi Tail; Raven emailed me a picture of it because she wanted to use that fluke shape for my own tail, though back then it was just a beautiful tail with no mermaid inside it and one which still needed a bit of touching up! (Early March of this year for those curious!)

Clearly those touch-ups did the job most well! The mermaid looks like a real human/dragon koi hybrid in a way no cgi effect could match! The lily pond is the perfect locale for her, as she has a very natural look (as opposed to mine, which is supernatural; yesterday Raven emailed me calling me "Fire Angel" :mermaid kiss:).

I'm sorry about her missing holidays because of work; we must all agree to be patient and allow her to progress at her artistic pace. She's wonderful!

[Sea Mamma]

Hi everybody! I'm Raven's Mom. Raina is right. She has been so busy catching up on orders that I didn't get to see her on Mothers Day :(

[MermaidMichelle]

It's wonderful to meet you! :mermaid kiss:

[Sea Mamma]

Why thank you!

[MermaidMichelle]

You're very welcome! :mermaid kiss: Well, that tears it, then; we must all take care to give Raven the time she needs to spend with friends and family and make her feel wonderfully appreciated! (We don't want her to end up like Ursula...lol :cthulhu:)

[Sea Mamma]

She does have an affection for Jetsam and Flotsam.

[MermaidMichelle]

Hmmm...an issue of the old Little Mermaid comic book (seen here on the Disney Wiki: http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Ariel/Gallery/Animation_and_comics#Comics) actually featured a race of merfolk called the Moray; they had electric/moray eel-style tails. I don't know if we want to give Raven ideas, though, as she's busy enough atm!

[Winged Mermaid]

I'm glad Raven is slowly getting better at laying down boundaries like that. Often she focuses so much on making other people happy that she puts her own happiness on the back burner :/
Happy to see you on here Sea Mamma :)

[Mermaid Evolet]

OMG i just got a mail from Raven saying that she will start painting my tail soon :yay:

I also ordered a scale bra with those little fins. Like this one:
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But now she asked if I wanted to try the new fins on the side:
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I really don't know what to choose so I'm asking you guys. Which one would you take?:confused:

[AniaR]

Mine will be like the bottom I'm psyched!

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[Ashton]

Hmmm...an issue of the old Little Mermaid comic book (seen here on the Disney Wiki: http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Ariel/Gallery/Animation_and_comics#Comics) actually featured a race of merfolk called the Moray; they had electric/moray eel-style tails. I don't know if we want to give Raven ideas, though, as she's busy enough atm!

I think I had that comic! I remember thinking those tails were cool, and made sense that there were different 'races' of mer people. Since the ocean is So vast there had to be different people/animal Combos- like Ursula. I


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[MermaidMichelle]

OHMYGOSH! I wonder if I've started a trend of sorts...lol! Mermaid Evolet, I saw those scale bras with the downward-pointing frontal fins which you show in your first pic in Raven's gallery in February of this year. I then asked her if I might commission one such top to match my Mer on Fire (Fire Angel Sea dragon) tail, only in corset-style with the fins on the back to act more like wings. I'm not sure if that request began the "top fins on the back (or sides)" movement, as the Koi outfit was already in the works, but judging by Raven's early sketch of the Fire Angel the wing-fins will actually be on the back of the corset and quite a lot larger!

(Wow; I've written so much about the angel tail in the works for me, but I still haven't touched upon it's big secret! :pearl:)

Ashton, I'm glad you had the comic back in the '90s; I just found it online earlier this year! It was the '97/'98 obscure anime Mermanoid that got me thinking of truly wild possibilities for mer-tails; like sea stars, shrimp, or even snails (Isis from America's Next Top Model suggested jellyfish to me, though of course as with the sea star it should probably act as a skirt to the proper fish tail underneath!). I never actually saw an episode of the anime as it was panned by Animerica magazine and sadly was released mere months before Pokemon would finally pave the way for Japanese animation (even BAD ones!) to take over North American airwaves en masse. Mermanoid didn't really offer much that was new, but the concept I saw for its "Athena" mermaid had her shield at such an angle that she looked like a snail...lol

[Siren Stargazer Moonglow]

Hey guys! I'm new to the whole mermaid community... Just wondering if anyone knew.. If I already have a competitor mono fin will raven use that for my tail? Or do I need to get one through her? Thanks in advance. And Iona.. You are awesome. I watched your "hi my name is Iona and I'm a mermaid" video! You just made me feel at home and accepted! <3

[Jadestone]

I AM IN LOVE WITH THE KOI TAIL!!!

I've had a koi-inspired tail vaguely in the works for.. over a year now D: I started it last summer, and was going to finish it over January (had to break during the fall for classes/while my sewing machine was at home) but then I got pretty depressed and haven't done much of anything for 6 months :| Maybe this'll inspire me to start working again sometime.

[MermaidMichelle]

Siren Stargazer Moonglow - I don't know how Raven would respond, but neither am I sure how much money you would save in the long run by having her use your own Competitor monofin; you would probably have to ship it to her and the postage could be expensive!

Jadestone - These are pretty depressing times, but I hope you are feeling better and inspired! You are beautiful in your .GIFs and your super-long hair flows wonderfully well with your mermaid movements; you would make quite a lovely koi! :mermaid kiss:

[Siren Stargazer Moonglow]

Thank you Mermaid Michelle! Forgot about shipping lol! Well in that case I just ordered a finis rapid to practice with :) so excited!!

[Arella]

I love the fin bra look : )

[Lily]

Raina, yyour tail is absolutely lovely, and your fluke has great flow! Does it really have a competitor monofin inside it? Those things always looks to stiff to me...

[AniaR]

Yup

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[Lily]

Cool, thanks for the info. I love Merbella's tails, but I was worried the monofin would make it too stiff to look real in the water. Guess I don't have to worry about that after all!

[MermaidMichelle]

Competitor monofins are fibreglass, so they are both strong and flexible. From what I've seen, the stiffness of the fin on land is countered somewhat by the added weight of the silicone coating a mermaid fluke, and the additional pressure of the water entirely eliminates it while swimming; it's no more stiff or floppy than the fin of a real fish!

[Lily]

Competitor monofins are fibreglass, so they are both strong and flexible. From what I've seen, the stiffness of the fin on land is countered somewhat by the added weight of the silicone coating a mermaid fluke, and the additional pressure of the water entirely eliminates it while swimming; it's no more stiff or floppy than the fin of a real fish!

Thanks for this! I am super tempted to get a competitor fin just to practice in, and maybe send it to Raven to use when I'm finally ready to purchase my tail. Unfortunately I have tiny feet - usually a US 6, but I've been as small as a 5.5 in some brands and can actually wear kids' shoes sometimes - and it doesn't look like Finis makes the little ones anymore. Maybe neoprene booties would help?

[AniaR]

they dont make comeptitors that small :(

[Lily]

:cry:Curse my tiny feet! I just posted over on the monofin board. Maybe someone can give me advice on how to make it work.

[Meilyn]

:cry:Curse my tiny feet! I just posted over on the monofin board. Maybe someone can give me advice on how to make it work.

I'm in the same boat :) although I still ordered a competitor upgrade on my tail. I think we'll be fine. 5.5 is not too far from 6/7. At least you don't have wide, duck feet like me :/ (assuming you don't)

[Lily]

I'm in the same boat :) although I still ordered a competitor upgrade on my tail. I think we'll be fine. 5.5 is not too far from 6/7. At least you don't have wide, duck feet like me :/ (assuming you don't)

Nope, I've got fairly narrow, dainty feet. Please update and let us know how your fin fits!

[lynsea]

ATTENTION ALL MERMEN! Raven just announced upcoming merman designs!

[Ashton]

Snazzy! I can't wait to see those designs!


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[Mermaid Evolet]

ATTENTION ALL MERMEN! Raven just announced upcoming merman designs!

omg thats cool.
where did she announced it?

[MermanOliver]

Cool! :yay: Wish I could afford one. The shipping and taxes to Europe are incredibly expensive. :(
Nevertheless, Raven's creations are marvelous. Can't wait to see the designs and dream a little.
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[Marlin]

ATTENTION ALL MERMEN! Raven just announced upcoming merman designs!


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[Merman Arion]

I think it's a shame it's so hard to place an order with Raven.

While we mermen are excited to discover her merman designs, it's kind of too late though. Most of us went to Finfolk instead because we couldn't afford to wait more time. So in a way, she lost potential clients but we are happy for the lucky men who will get a tail from her.

[Winged Mermaid]

I think it's a shame it's so hard to place an order with Raven.

While we mermen are excited to discover her merman designs, it's kind of too late though. Most of us went to Finfolk instead because we couldn't afford to wait more time. So in a way, she lost potential clients but we are happy for the lucky men who will get a tail from her.

The way you worded that you sound pretty resentful. It's not like Raven is bias with who she takes orders from and who she doesn't- she's just in extreme demand. Finfolk said they made 26 tails from summer of 2013 to summer of 2014- and they literally have a team of people helping them. Raven takes on batches of 15+ tails at a time a few times a year, and it's only her and Tyler. If people can't snatch up the order spots when they open, that's just the way it is. I mean it sucks, of course, but she's already pushing herself constantly, leaving her with almost no time for herself, her friends, or her family. Working all nighters on a regular basis and pushing through work when she's sick. Just saying.

Anyway, I'm really excited to see what she comes up with! God knows I've tried to brainstorm mermen wear and have all but failed, haha :P I have a feeling she'll be concentrating on accessories, that will hopefully be available to purchase through her Etsy :)

[Mermaid Lily_Pad]

I'm curious why she doesn't hire more people to help? It seems like a successful business that you can make pretty good money with. Is it simply not lucrative enough to really start a company of sorts?

[Winged Mermaid]

My guess is that she doesn't trust people to keep with her standards of quality and/or doesn't trust people to go off after they're trained and start their own tailmkaing business with her trade secrets. Which I've seen happen with other tailmakers. Also one tailmaking company already got their start from gutting one of her tails and having a special effects artist dissect it and copy the construction.. so, yeah.

[Merman Arion]

The way you worded that you sound pretty resentful.

You might be right. While I'm in love with my dream tail from Finfolk, my first choice were Raven though. I admit a part of me still dreams of getting one from her but that might never happen. I couldn't help but thinking that if we had seen the upcoming merman designs sooner, I might have found the strength and the patience to wait to place an order but in the end, I went to Finfolk instead because I really wanted a tail for this summer.

I do know how hard she works for this. I apologize for the wrong choice of words.

[AniaR]

I dont think it's a potential clients issue. If Raven took every order request she'd have 5 years worth of clients RIGHT now and that is not an exaggeration. She doesnt need exposure, in fact she has asked people not to give it to her (for instance weeki wachee calendar shoot she specifically declined their offers to promote her more on FB and in the establishment because she's got more work than she can handle- politely of course) and I know she's avoided certain situations and offers that every other tail maker would faint over because she is just already too overwhelmed. There is literally nothing else she can possibly do to steamline it or get things out any faster, and Im starting to get annoyed (and no offence to anyone here, I know it's not said to bug anyone) with everyone thinking everything can just be solved if she takes help. What if she doesnt want more? What if she's happy working on her set amount, to the extent that she finds (perfectionist!),and yeah- be selective with the people she wants to work with now to be creative. Too many people approach Raven as if she's like mertailor, or finfolk as if they're like Raven or mernation etc you get what I am saying? None of them are the same and they all have different things to offer and it just depends on what you're in the mood for. I fully believe after all my time in the mermaid world there will never be a tail maker who gets it all the way people want because they'd have to be super human.

Raven makes mermaid tails because she loves the creative process, and she loves to make mermaid dreams come true. She has missed important occasions, gone without food, and greatly suffered for her art because to her it IS art. She doesnt need to do it to live financially, she does it to live creatively. And that's the big difference people gotta realize. One's not better than the other, it's perfectly respectable to be in it to make a living. But people gotta realize the threat of lack of clients isnt a threat lol. Raven wants to work with other creative people, and I believe creatives will always seek her out.

I feel really lucky to have been so established with her right from the start. I was the first person to say, Im going to trust you to do this, take as long as you need , I believe in you. And I think there will always be people who feel that way.

Raven's done stuff with mermen before, but in this instance she found another creative type she hit it off with really well, and I think what they'll produce image wise and tail design wise will be an awesome collaboration. I am excited to see it :)

I think people are just lucky she takes orders at all. With all the insane abuse she's had from people, I wouldnt blame her one bit if she stopped. I told her a few days ago that as much as I want my tail Id rather she be happy and healthy so if she bailed on it last minute as a friend I'd still find a way to deal. (though, she isn't haha. 3 more in front of me, and Tia you ARE in front of me!)

[Fifi Tigg]

Well said Raina! :)

[Mermaid Lily_Pad]

Well said Raina. I think a lot of our mindset (especially those who are new to the mer world) view it as a commercial deal and not an artistic one. After all, how many things can you buy that you can use that is actual "artwork" and not just another order off of Amazon. I can name 1, A womans wedding dress, and even that is more commercial then art these days. Her work is beautiful, her process, her designs, and the structure of her tails are enviable to anyone. I have Mermaid Minnows pictures (as well as many other mermaid pics) as part of my rotating comp background because the tail is just so stunning and a girls gotta have something to work toward *chuckles*.

I may never own a Raven tail, and that is okay. As long as she keeps making them, I can keep oogaling and appreciating. After all, that "is" what you do with great artwork. I do hope people step back and respect her process, stop seeing her as a machine and see her as a very gifted person instead. Even though you have to pay to own the gift, it is still just that...a gift...she choose to make you a tail, thats amazing!

As for people stealing her tail process, that sucks, and I can understand why she doesn't trust anyone else to help her. That seriously sucks.

[shimmygoddess]

I think she is right not to take on help. Seriously, there are too many people that take/steal others ideas or copy artwork, ect, I see it in every hobby I do. Being inspired is one thing, but sometimes people just suck. I wouldn't trust anyone either. She is a wonderful artist and extremely talented and I hope she continues as she has so much to offer!!

[liliekitsh]

hello I read you submarines for some time, I have a fascination for mermaids since childhood, and I love tails merbella, they are beautiful! I wish I could swim with a tail like that someday, but I think it will not succeed, I live in France and here at the pool are very strict rules, and people take me for a crazy I think. ..:(

I wanted to ask you a question I do not understand anything, I read very little English, I use google translator here, why there neoprene with silicone tails, I do not understand is what's the point, are what is better? or mandatory? thank you for helping me to understand

[AniaR]

There is another merman here who speaks French, Merman Arion. Send him a message :)


Tomorrow (Monday) is Raven and Tyler's wedding anniversary!

[AniaR]

S'il vous plaît parler avec Arion. Il parle français et peut-être en mesure de vous aider.

[Mermaid Wesley]

Happy anniversary to them!


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[liliekitsh]

thank you raina!!! maybe arion could explain me :)

[MermaidMichelle]

Mon français n'est pas parfait (je suis un Canadien de l'Ontario), mais je peux vous dire que le silicone purement est préférable à silicone en néoprène bordées mais est plus cher. Triton Arion devrait être en mesure de vous offrir plus d'aide.

Raina - Thank you for keeping me abreast of the situation with Raven! The bright side is that, considering that every tail that she does seems to surpass the last, imagine how impressive yours shall be! :mermaid kiss:

[AniaR]

sorry I didn't call you by your mermaid name, it slipped by me!!! :$

[MermaidMichelle]

It's quite cool! :mermaid kiss: Tiamat is just as appropriate a mermaid name as Michelle; it does mean "the Deep" in Hebrew, after all! :pearl:

[Lily]

Trying so hard not to be jelly, but it looks like someone else had the same coloration idea as me and got theirs first!

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It's not EXACTLY what I want (mine would be an angler fluke, less spotty/more stripey) but still. Jelly.

Also, holy crap, can't wait to see more of... whatever this is:

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(I may or may not have joined Instagram just to stalk Merbella. Hint: I totally did.)

[Mermaid Evolet]

first i thought this was mine haha lol
mine will also look kinda like this one just without spots :-)

[Mermaid Wesley]

The second pic you posted is of her she creature tail :) it's her personal tail and she doesn't let anyone use the fluke style (pretty sure) here's picture of it without filters n stuff http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/24/u5e3y2uz.jpg


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[AniaR]

The first one is a year old.

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[Lily]

The first one is a year old.

Are you sure? Instagram says it was posted last week. Either way, sooooo in love right now.

[AniaR]

Yes she posted it but I almost bought it. Its one of her personal tails

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[MermaidMichelle]

The second one - the "She Creature" tail - has a fluke similar to but slightly different from the Angler; they both have this scary, slightly tattered/ragged appearance which gives the impression of a mermaid who does a lot of fighting. It's a very memorable style!

[Lily]

I looked up more pictures of the She Creature tail and it's absolutely gorgeous!


they both have this scary, slightly tattered/ragged appearance

I love the angler fin and that one for this very reason. One of the reasons I want one of her anglers so bad is that it would coordinate really well with one of my tattoos: a pair of tattered fairy wings on my shoulders. No idea how I would explain to little kids why a MERMAID has FAIRY WINGS, but maybe I could pass them off as vestigial fins or something.

[Chrissy]

I know Raven isn't talking tail orders now, but does anyone one know if she is taking orders for just the scale bracers for your arms???? I am in love with those and have to have a set????

[AniaR]

Shell be making etsy listings when she's done her current tail load which including mine and 1 after I believe is 5.

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[Imogen Finnly]

You know what would be cool is if the mermen got a cool armor looking top made of shell or bone or something.

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[Lily]

You know what would be cool is if the mermen got a cool armor looking top made of shell or bone or something.

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Literal scale mail would be awesome!

[Imogen Finnly]

Right! Urgh! I would kill to see a merbella design of some cool armor!

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[Mermaid Lilium]

Right! Urgh! I would kill to see a merbella design of some cool armor!

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you should check out organic armor's work =) a quick google should bring up their pages xx

[MermaidMichelle]

While I don't approve of killing in general, I must say your idea is a fine one indeed! Having something of a fantasy-gaming background I have seen plenty of armoured/warrior mermen (and even the occasional warrior mermaid; such as the Athena-style character in Meremanoid, the blizzard-wielding mermaids in Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen, and Queen Neptuna from the Toy Story short "Small Fry" (all of which hail from 1997-98 for some reason!)). The shimmering beauty of the mer-tail coupled with the relative helplessness it confers upon a wearer on land are the prime contributors to the concept that merfolk are lacking in dominance/manliness, but given the right approach one can display a rather intimidating "amphibious soldier"!

It certainly reflects a direction in which Raven has been heading, too. We've all seen her Sea Dragon armoured plate-scales, which can not only be used for a tattered gladiator/veteran/predator combined with the Angler fluke as we have seen but also for a shining angelic Paladin as they will be with mine! (I'm a mermaid, but Joan of Arc has recently become something like a role model to me). Other possibilities include bone ridges or lobster-like carapace bits to give a different sort of natural armour to the tail, barbs, or even suction cups....*Actively keeps mind from going to the obvious fantasy*

Accessories could be easily masculinized. (Faux) sharks' teeth, giant crab claws, sea-snake fangs, squid tentacles, etc. give the impression of trophies violently-wrested by mighty warriors, perhaps literally in a primeval test of manhood.

So there are some possibilities. If we ladies have butterfly koi, angelfish, dolphin and even lake trout motifs, the menfolk can have barracuda, pistol/mantis-shrimp, stingray, viperfish (crazy deep-sea nightmares), electric eel, etc. motifs, and as always there shall be some delightful cross-over!

[Arella]

So excited to see more in the future :)

[Naufra]

The second pic you posted is of her she creature tail :) it's her personal tail and she doesn't let anyone use the fluke style (pretty sure) here's picture of it without filters n stuff http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/24/u5e3y2uz.jpg


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<3 = Totally broken. I love that fluke sculpt more than any I've ever seen, but I fully respect her wishes if she doesn't want to share. I literally gasped when I saw it, it's just so beautiful!:cry:

[Vicky Mermaid]

When you look at Raven's work you can actually tell that she loves what she does. And i think its just fabulous the way she is doing publicity right now. This way she keeps the spirit of what a mermaid/merman is. Beautiful and mysterious.

[MerEmma]

Fairly certain it's because it's a close replica/inspired by She Creature and she doesn't want to infringe on that design or anything, not that she just wants to keep it for herself (or maybe so, I just recall that being said at some point).

[Naufra]

I hadn't seen She Creature before, but having looked it up I can see the similarities. Intellectual property might become an issue if she decided to sell that design, but I don't think the case would have held water, and I apologize for the pun but I couldn't think of a better way to phrase it.

[MerEmma]

Found it: https://www.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/photos/pb.178589958863759.-2207520000.1403746947./580079602048124/?type=3&theater

In the comments she answers some people about it and says so. :)

[AniaR]

yup. but hey Im swimming around in the splash tail and nobody says/can do a thing. Hahah. tails can't be copyrighted, so I think on her end it's more out of respect . And haha at merman mar who thinks plagiarism is anything other than copying words. lol some people...

[MermaidMichelle]

C'est vrai; I don't expect to be sued as a Hunger Games copy just because I'm ​THE MER ON FIRE!

[Lily]

I'm not a lawyer (that's my sister's job) but from what I understand, intellectual property is a fairly murky area of the law. Likely Raven would receive a cease and desist order before any more extreme legal action, like a lawsuit; even then, she could argue that her designs are protected under fair use or that they are simply inspired by, not entirely based on, their TV/movie counterparts. I mean, just look at 50 Shades of Gray. Here a woman took a published, copyrighted piece of work and rewrote it in an alternate universe (keeping characters, situations, and whole scenes and lines of dialogue perfectly intact, mind you) and not only has she not been sued, but her book has surpassed the original in terms of sales and readership.

Not that it'd would be slightly fair to compare Raven to EL James. That's like comparing a Michaelangelo to a 3-year-old's scribbles. (Hope it's clear who's who in that analog. ) I really respect that she has enough integrity to not want to profit on a design she knows is not truly hers. Many artists don't have that much class.

On a purely selfish, personal level, though, I'm bummed she has no plans to sell that fluke design...

[AniaR]

No we already made loads of posts about this for the past 6 years. Tails aren't copyrightable. Certain tail makers went to town trying to make it so years ago and they just aren't. There's multiple threads about it in here documenting applicable laws and lawyer quotes. Not copyrightable. The only thing that can be done is if a tail maker is hired for a particular job they can sign a contract saying they won't remake the tail. But in this sitch Raven could make 100 exact replicas of the tail and she's fine. If she sold it to a movie company then the she creature company could possibly have a case against the rival movie but even that is difficult to actually do as you can see from the parody industry.

[MermaidMichelle]

Thank you for providing us with that wonderful analogy, Lily! :mermaid kiss: It might be safe to assume that everyone on these boards has read the Fifty Shades trilogy; I even reference it in Why GOD Doesn't Hate You (to find out exactly how a Roman Catholic Sister-in-training gets away with having read the books, you'll just have to either read my book or maybe ask Raina...but don't bug her because she's very busy....)

To clarify just in case, though, Fifty Shades of Grey started out as a Twilight fanfic titled Master of the Universe (that's nearly TWO copyright infringements already!) which she posted online under the pseudonym Snowqueen's IceDragon (Frozen wasn't around yet or we might add a third!) I'm not sure if it had Edward becoming a super-rich businessman like the Phantom of the Opera in Andrew Lloyd Webber's scrapped original script for Love Never Dies, but whatever the case "Snowqueen" eventually took down her uber-popular fic and posted it on her own page in an alternate universe in which the man of her dreams was Master as the new title suggested.

Incredibly, not a single part of that last paragraph was made up! Anyway, this is all the more reason to respect Raven's integrity, as her tails really are artwork originating from her own mind (as I said, she may already have improved upon my original design)!

EDIT: I was going to add that obvious parody is legal in virtually all cases, but it didn't fit until Raina made her post.

[AniaR]

And you know the entire cosplay industry. ;)

[Blaze]

And you know the entire cosplay industry. ;)

I have no idea what you are talking about.

Don't look at my signature.

:eyebrows:

[AniaR]

I don't mean to come off too crazy about this, it's just that in the past certain tail makers use to use legal bullying and make loads of legal threats against other tail makers, threatening to sue them for copying (when in reality they typically were the copier). As a result, the community invested loads of time and some of us money into finding out the answer. So I absolutely don't want anyone ever thinking something like that can be used as a genuine threat against anyone here. If it could, don't you think we'd all be suing each other left right and center with the amount of accusations that surface on here about copying?

At best, the only real thing we could find was that one single tail could be copyrighted as a sculptural work of art. and even that doesnt cover someone else making a copy of it.

I'd be in big trouble with Rob Short and Thom Shouse if you could copyright the splashtail ;) I think ol Rob woulda come after me for my book cover with my two splash tails on it in a second if he could of.

I think when it comes to Raven, people just gotta respect her reasons whatever they are for wanting to make one of something for herself. She doesn't really owe anyone the design or option. She outputs seriously creative stuff constantly IMO and still wants her merbellas to be unique.

[MermaidMichelle]

...And they are!

I also like how often mer-related terminology unconsciously appears here: remember, copyright law is a rather murky thing, so be careful about any threat that surfaces. In fact, I would go so far as to add that such threats should be taken with a grain of salt....

OK, I'll stop now and enjoy Rita Coolidge's "Love Came For Me", which is now playing in my head for some reason.... ;) :mermaid kiss:

[Vicky Mermaid]

In the past, Thom Shouse said to a fellow mermaid who asked for a Splash Tail, that he couldn't make a Splash Tail because Disney had it Copyrighted. But i gues that's over now...

[Winged Mermaid]

In the past, Thom Shouse said to a fellow mermaid who asked for a Splash Tail, that he couldn't make a Splash Tail because Disney had it Copyrighted. But i gues that's over now...

Actually, it's not so much that it's copyrighted- he signed a contract with Touchstone/Disney saying he would NEVER make another splash tail, or one even similar in design or color. It's just part of the package that came with him being part of the team that made it. If it was a copyright issue a LOT of people would be in trouble for making Splash tails. I personally think it sucks big time that all the other tailmakers can make as many Splash tails as they want, replicating it down to the details, and Thom is forbidden to make anything that's even similar :/

[AniaR]

^ yup I mentioned the contract

[AniaR]

Another perfect example I just remembered: Mike blatantly made casts of the 13th year tail and is still selling them today, their his main fluke design! lol Like and that's bought the tail and literally made his cast right from the tail.

[Lily]

Another perfect example I just remembered: Mike blatantly made casts of the 13th year tail and is still selling them today, their his main fluke design! lol Like and that's bought the tail and literally made his cast right from the tail.

Wow. That's... that's not cool. At least go to the trouble of making the master yourself so it has a little bit of your own touch to it.

Also, I had completely forgotten about that movie. Wonder if I'm too old to watch it, now (I say as I have H2O on pause in the next room).

[MermaidMichelle]

Have you not heard? 30 is the new 13! (That explains SO much modern behaviour!)