Merbellas Thread

[Kait]

This one is based on a frog, and very beautifully done.

Agreed, I cannot wait to see this tail! :yay:

[Khaleesi Daenerys]

Does anyone know if Merbellas knows how to add water proof lights to their tails? If so does anyone know the pricing for that?

[AniaR]

she's done it yes, but doesn't offer it.

[Khaleesi Daenerys]

:cry:I've been working on my tail design for 5 years and that is an essential part. :( thats sad I hope she offers it one day.

[AniaR]

Erin Blaine aka Fire Pixie does it

[Khaleesi Daenerys]

Thanks I had no idea this person existed

[Mermaid Mystery]

she is an angel
just adding my unimportant two cents lol

[saborigakusei]

*swims back up out of the depths*

I have reached a year since I ordered! The excitement and impatience have me slowly wasting away... :rollover:

[Mermaid Lorelei]

*swims back up out of the depths*

I have reached a year since I ordered! The excitement and impatience have me slowly wasting away... :rollover:

Your tail is one of the ones I'm most excited to see! <3

[saborigakusei]

Hehe thanks!<3 I can't wait to go swimming with you once I have it!

I think it won't be so bad once I know when she starts it. For now I have to just try not to think about it too much..

[frozenbutterflywings]

I feel ya lol I'm over a year since April and I'm soooo excited. I get into my mermaid moods and all I think about are mermaid Things lol just think it will be all worth the while <3


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[saborigakusei]

oh it definitely will! I think this thread is basically a support group haha. Hang in there, everymer! ;D

[frozenbutterflywings]

It is a support group lol helps us calm down when we get too anxious about our dream tails lol


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[Mizuko]

Yeah I'm a year since February! I know others have been waiting longer, though :) its so exciting!

[Little_Orca]

I have a counter on my phone that says I am at 519 days since I ordered. My patience is good though, again. I think I hit a bump in the road with my patience, but right now I am like floatin' along peacefully.

[Mer-Crazy]

I have a counter on my phone that says I am at 519 days since I ordered. My patience is good though, again. I think I hit a bump in the road with my patience, but right now I am like floatin' along peacefully.
It's because pokemon go came out and we have something else to be obsessed with haha.

[MermaidNerenia]

Yeah I'm a year since February! I know others have been waiting longer, though :) its so exciting!

Mizuko I am super excited to see your tail, your color schemes have always been one of my absolute favorites.


It's because pokemon go came out and we have something else to be obsessed with haha.

I am obsessed with this game. So very very obsessed....


I have a counter on my phone that says I am at 519 days since I ordered. My patience is good though, again. I think I hit a bump in the road with my patience, but right now I am like floatin' along peacefully.


This was a fantastic idea! I just installed one on my phone as well. I did hear from Raven yesterday, just a quick conversation but it was nice.

[AniaR]

I know it's not the same but I dropped off some tops in November to be repaired, ordered a premade used top a few months ago, and ordered a pre made used head dress and I am waiting for those haha. She is very busy with all of your tails ;) so it might be a bit before I see my octo-top again! (he was in bad shape tho...)

[lynsea]

Who posted the terrible review of Raven's tail? Raven said it was on a personal page. I can't imagine her doing anything wrong in terms of production. This is someone who is so incredibly dedicated to her work that she is taking this personally. Such a shame because she has immeasurable creativity and skill.

[AniaR]

It's a whole entire lie, I have all the proof, and happy to supply it to the mods so the person can be banned from the forum should they decide to come and lie here. Lying about what they paid, lying about the wait, lying about a refund, lying about a gift... so many lies. I do not understand why someone would lie about a review, block the tail maker and their supporters from seeing it, and think that things like emails, paypal reciepts, and invoices dont exist to disprove them??? Plus she's got some fun friends in the comments who knew I would speak up so they threaten to cut me. *rolls eyes* well honestly, I hope merbellas puts their amazing lawyer on her. Because it's one thing to give a review, it is another to intentionally lie for the purpose of extorting someone or slandering someone, ESPECIALLY when you can prove every single thing.

For confidentiality, I dont think any proof will be posted to the forum directly, (invoice records, private client emails etc) however, it can be given to admin to see so they know and understand it's all a lie.

Raven isn't perfect, and her wait times can be a while. But she always goes above and beyond to fix things if you are unhappy. This client specifically sent an email saying the tail was perfect, and MANY of my friends overheard her bragging about her tail in person. I think she damaged her tail because of her ignorance on how to use a silicone tail, (from the looks of it her only experience was a Jesse tail which are durable because they're too thick) and is now back peddling try to blame Raven, hoping for free repairs

The sad thing is, I have seen this behaviour from this woman for YEARS. And I warned Raven after she took the order, that I was worried. So Raven worked extra hard and even spoke with me about her creative process trying to make the tail beautiful.

THIS is a perfect example of what I have been talking about, with clients who lie because they think it'll get them what they want.

This is the kinda shit that makes it harder for everyone both tail makers and clients.

[Mizuko]

Poor Raven! It makes me so mad someone would do that!

[Mer-Crazy]

It is truly a very horrible situation and I feel so bad for Raven because she is just devastated about all of this </3

[AniaR]

In the meantime, Raven did publicly post a bunch of stuff not in here yet photo wise!

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13730952_1125981600791252_366015877781282631_o.jpg

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13699994_1125981834124562_1200542365217076055_n.jp g?oh=222b02912b9d2247771ec445fcb5d1ab&oe=582598C8

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13737694_1125963694126376_2488720586496948862_o.jp g

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13680298_1125963844126361_1137591699940280911_o.jp g


See how the photo the client approved has spots, but claims in their video it didn;t? lol

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13227468_1093696067353139_7960244555881900350_o.jp g

[Mer-Crazy]

Is there a link to this video? I haven't seen it.

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[AniaR]

it's on the person's personal profile and they blocked certain people from seeing it, but someone downloaded it and is sending it around. Id rather not even humor their lies by posting it here.

[Mermaidmechanic]

It's been a while since I've posted. I took a hiatus while Raven upgraded the seadragon. She did such an amazing job; the colors somehow manage to pop twice as dramatically as they did before and the new fins are killin' it. Raven is a genius. I'm loving the seadragon 2.0.

[LouLouBelle]

Those tails are gorgeous, and I love the underwater photo. ❤️

I just don't get the point in lying about something like that. What could they possibly hope to gain from it? They must realise that they're just destroying any chance of ever getting another Merbella tail, and potentially any tail from the few established tail makers that exist. This is such a small community that the reputation of a liar will inevitably spread, and they won't be able to fool anyone for long. All they'll end up doing is putting all tail makers off of ever working them. (Which is exactly what they deserve.) Some people are just complete idiots.


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[lynsea]

Well Raina, if you, the mods, and Raven are comfortable, I'm sure we'd like to know who the person is just so we know who is a liar.

Positive side note: Raven mentioned the lunar koi (the first one I believe) doesn't fit her well so she's going to be selling it!

[AniaR]

It's been a while since I've posted. I took a hiatus while Raven upgraded the seadragon. She did such an amazing job; the colors somehow manage to pop twice as dramatically as they did before and the new fins are killin' it. Raven is a genius. I'm loving the seadragon 2.0.

Sorry I took your update from you :O you havent been on in a while so I posted it thinking you wouldnt be around to do so. SORRY. <3

[AniaR]

Those tails are gorgeous, and I love the underwater photo. ❤️

I just don't get the point in lying about something like that. What could they possibly hope to gain from it? They must realise that they're just destroying any chance of ever getting another Merbella tail, and potentially any tail from the few established tail makers that exist. This is such a small community that the reputation of a liar will inevitably spread, and they won't be able to fool anyone for long. All they'll end up doing is putting all tail makers off of ever working them. (Which is exactly what they deserve.) Some people are just complete idiots.


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Exactly. Multiple people and multiple tail makers messaged me when they saw it, and I know she's now black listed from several. Tail makers aren't stupid. They know the hallmark signs.

[AniaR]

Well Raina, if you, the mods, and Raven are comfortable, I'm sure we'd like to know who the person is just so we know who is a liar.

Positive side note: Raven mentioned the lunar koi (the first one I believe) doesn't fit her well so she's going to be selling it!

I don't think Raven would want anything extra here posted than need be, but I mean, I posted their tail up there with a caption. Should be easy enough for people to suss out!

[lynsea]

I don't think Raven would want anything extra here posted than need be, but I mean, I posted their tail up there with a caption. Should be easy enough for people to suss out!

Ah, didn't see that comment hidden in all the pictures. Thanks for hinting for us.

[Mermaid Lorelei]

Excuse me, but has anyone besides Raina actually seen the review? So far, you are all condemning a woman with only one side of the story. I don't care what your final opinion is, but please try to fairly display the issue.

Also, this sort of comment terrifies me. It sounds very similar to the attitude that mertailor fans take, and we all know how sheep like them seem to us from the outside. I just want you to imagine what you must look like to people unfamiliar with our world.

The Raven army will revolt! Haha

[AniaR]

iona has been sent everything, including the video.

Many of you actually do have this person as a friend on FB but most seemed to miss the video being posted.

[AniaR]

Also, this sort of comment terrifies me. It sounds very similar to the attitude that mertailor fans take, and we all know how sheep like the seem to us from the outside. I just want you to imagine what you must look like to people unfamiliar with our world.

The Raven army will revolt! Haha


Pretty sure that was a joke since anytime people have stood up to people lying about Raven, they get called her personal army ;) just a reference to old drama.

[Mermaid Lorelei]

I realize that Iona has been sent the information, but I was more addressing the other members of this thread.

[Fifi Tigg]

I have seen the video and she points out the sloppy seams, a ripped fin, scuffed paint, tail sits really high under her boobs, parts of the fluke are coming apart and says that she feels like it was a rushed job. I'm disappointed that she would lie. :(

[AniaR]

I know for a fact too that Raven checked her measurements multiple times and the hilarious thing is, she even mentioned to me she was worried it would be too short based on how it looked, but that it always matched the clients measurements everytime she asked. So I think it's ironic she finds it too high up. Raven will often ask me for input on tails or what a client might think or if there's anything I think she can improve on before she sends pics to a client. And we chatted about this particular tail for a few months. Like all other tails raven does, it's created in a rotation with several others.

Anyway, I feel confident the truth will come out. There's already been some interesting developments. It just really sucks she had to be put through this all to begin with.

The sad thing is, if there were any legit issues with the tail when it was recieved, anyone who has been a merbella's client will tell you she always offers to remake it or fix it. That's part of the reason WHY her wait is so long. Because sometimes those "fixes" are as extreme as "please repaint the entire thing days before it's due".

[Mermaid Whisper]

If anyone has a link or file of the review, I would love to see it. I don't get my opinions of tailmakers based on reviews, actually. People can be paid for good reviews or pressured into doing bad ones for fame. There's really no way to tell unless you try it for yourself! I've bought several small things online that had terrible reviews, but I ended up loving the product. It's all about conducting your own experiments, because everyone has different tastes and needs. Maybe the tail just wasn't what she had envisioned, and that's fine!

As long as they've got a good product, who cares what a few people think? I'm sure Raven knows she does a good job with her tails and that most people really, really love them, so why worry about a single person? Priorities are important, merfriends :) no need to get so worked up over a single person's opinion!

[AniaR]

No one can link to the review because it's on a profile so only people with that person added can see it. But I have about 100 people in common with them and they've got 100s of mermaids added. (personally I think that's an interesting choice. if you believe so fully you've been wronged enough to make a video, why limit the audience? wouldnt you want everyone to know the tail makers is a scammer?)

I agree there's no need to worry over one review, I think it's just the obvious intention behind it and when all the lies can be proven wrong it's very clear it becomes slander/libel. And this happens so much. For every 1 the community hears about, there's like 20 you don't hear about it. I think for Raven, and honestly all the well established tail makers, it's just a really frustrating thing

[Mermaidmechanic]

Sorry I took your update from you :O you havent been on in a while so I posted it thinking you wouldnt be around to do so. SORRY. <3

Nah, you didn't take my update hahaha you just conveniently did it for me! XD

[Mermaid Lorelei]

(personally I think that's an interesting choice. if you believe so fully you've been wronged enough to make a video, why limit the audience? wouldnt you want everyone to know the tail makers is a scammer?)

Because of the reaction they're being met with right here. Mernetwork has become a place that, instead of helping people feel comfortable enough to make a review or video, cows them into submission and hiding for fear of being flamed.

[Mermaid Whisper]

Okay. I understand the frustration. I'm sure Raven's probably a really great person, and I know she puts a lot of work into those tails. They're all absolutely breathtaking.

I definitely agree that blatant lying is frustrating and wrong. Think of it this way, though: Raven's got hundreds (if not thousands) of people that have, love, and support her work, and I'm sure they all see that the review is a lie after they got the tail of their dreams through her business. She's become such a big tailmaker that this one review really isn't going to make or break her business, you know? I personally love all the tails she puts out and I hope she keeps making them for a long time.

[Mer-Crazy]

Lorelei I apologise if you took my comment seriously :( it was just a joke like Raina said about past drama I didn't mean anything serious by it.

On that note I did ask for a link to the review to see but none has been supplied and at this point I don't really care anymore. All I have to go on is Raven being very upset because someone gave her an awful review and Raina whom I know to always be an exceptionally honest person saying it's full of lies. I like to think of Raven as my friend and I don't like it when people lie about and upset my friends.

[Mizuko]

I apologize if my comment was upsetting in anyway too- I think because we've got Raven on facebook we've seen how devastated she's been about this and I'm reacting to that more than anything.

[AniaR]

Because of the reaction they're being met with right here. Mernetwork has become a place that, instead of helping people feel comfortable enough to make a review or video, cows them into submission and hiding for fear of being flamed.

which is why the actual review section doesnt allow comments. So people can post truthful reviews. But also why it requires proof of said reviews too.

And I think an angry reaction is appropriate when people are lying. Honestly. It's no different than when tail makers would lie all over the place

[Mermaid Lunette]

I know this has to do with raven, but it seems less about merbella and merbella products and a bit more like drama? Maybe this belongs in the drama thread instead?

[Winged Mermaid]

The video review in question has 1.1K views so far, so I have a feeling many of you have seen it.
Myself and other mods have gotten screen shots, provided by Raven, and can support the claims that are being made about this customer being untruthful about the details of her product and ordering process. Raven herself may chose to release these screen shots, but if not, at least for now I can say that there is actual proof to back this up.

[Mermaid Whisper]

Thank you, Iona! I wasn't sure about the whole thing.

Even so, it's just one person, and not even a famous one at that, I imagine. Raven has beautiful work, and those who continue to support her despite this review are the only ones she really needs.


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[AniaR]

It makes me sad that with Raven's stellar reputation so much effort has to go into clearing her name, and that so many would choose to believe the worst of her on FB. I appreciate when people don't like it when I stand up for her here, but I have watched my friend get trampled on time and time again, and I see that behaviour extending to other tail makers too. (lots of hateful comments toward finfolk in that video comments section too)

Raven's wait times are long. That's about it. Most people who have any complaint about her will tell you she offered to fix it, but they didn't want to ship their tails back. Raven was one of the first tail makers to stand up in the face of everything mertailor was doing and say no, that isn't how things can be done, I can do better, and our whole community changed for it. I know it's harder for newbies to see it but for those of us who have been around so long.

Raven sent this person a tail, to the measurements they were given, from a design they approved, with 3 extra gifts (bracer, scale heart, and hair clip). The person complained about the GIFTS while also claiming no gifts were sent. Critiquing the scale hearts (which are all just made from recycles pieces that she paints to match your tail as a way to give people a nice favour and cut down on waste). Claims she photo shopped the tail pictures (what would be the point of that, knowing the client would just freak out about "flaws") The tail was sent a little over a year, for far less money than she claims. (even less than what she adjusted her claim to).

I guess I just don't get why people would believe that to begin with. Why seeing a "review" like that wouldn't instantly raise flags. If Raven wanted to rip people off with cheap tails she'd be making factory ones with no customization or crazy designs or paint schemes. What does she gave to gain by making a tail for someone that beautiful, throwing in all these extra gifts, and then apparently intentionally sabotaging the tail???

I hope Raven does post her whole side with all her proof, but I also hope she tells everyone a good long list of the horrible things she's endured from people in the community, in order to make tails for them. I am not even talking about the multiple hospital visits for wearing herself out or toxicity from the materials curing. I mean all the straight up abuse that I always have to fight so hard to hold my tongue on. I hope it all just finally comes out and people start seeing tail makers as human beings.

/rant

[Little_Orca]

On an unrelated note, I am loving the look f the double pectoral fins and I am glad Raven included those in my design. I am having a mixed emotional cocktail right now of joy, excitement, attempts at patience, patience, and fear.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I just want to recommend to anyone who's only seen one side of this review scandal to go look at the video as it's apparently been downloaded and plastered all over the internet.

You should be ashamed of yourselves, those who have spread this around and thrown your accusations over ONE negative Merbella review. Raven has taken her personal emails and receipts and shared them with those unrelated to the purchase or even legal case. It was never meant to be public and now, it is. The mer said several times in her video that she has nothing but respect for Raven and that this is just her OWN experience. She felt jilted, and after dreaming and waiting for so long, and spending $3,000 on a tail, anyone would. She has a right as a customer to post her review of the item she purchased. Everything negative she stated about her tail, she immediately backed up by pointing it out on the actual tail. I've lost all respect for Merbella and even her personal assistant whom I really had high hopes for, but who encouraged legal action because Merbella is the only reason she's famous. Anything negative reflecting on Raven she immediately feels reflects on her. I'm posting this here instead of the Drama thread, because apparently even Iona doesn't care anymore as long as certain mers post. This website is a joke. Any of you can say whatever you want of me. I can't have a lower opinion of those who would try to tarnish my reputation as you have attempted to do to this sweet mer. If I'm blocked or this is deleted because I'm not Raina and don't have the same privileges, so be it. I couldn't have a lower opinion of this site either. Good luck with your careers, as you obviously need more to do.

Sincerely,
Lotus

[Mermaid Kelda]

Christ on a bike, I can't keep up with all of this :|

[Theobromine]

I normally keep my opinions to myself when it comes to drama as I don't enjoy being involved, but I also believe in standing up for what's right and calling out injustice where I see it, and I have to say that I am completely and utterly appalled at the abusive behavior I have seen on display here.

First of all, I HAVE watched the review video and I have seen the tail's flaws for myself. It is very clear that none of the people on here jumping on the "omg poor innocent Raven, what a horrible thing to lie about!!" bandwagon have NOT actually watched the video or you wouldn't be singing this tune. Do any of you people actually even think for yourselves anymore? Or are you just so blind in your idolatry of Raven that you automatically assume, along with Raven's personal attack dog Raina, that anyone who posts a less than stellar review of a Merbellas tail MUST be a liar? Really, that's a legitimate question, because I'm dumbfounded by the thought processes (or lack thereof) going on here. Did any of you actually stop and THINK about the lack of actual evidence and that you're simply taking the accusations that Raina is tossing around on blind faith? Raina, who is known to be not only Raven's bff but her most ardent supporter who has repeatedly gone out of her way to make personal attacks on anyone who even suggests that Raven is anything less than a perfect miraculous amazing magical wonderful goddess? In fact, she's not even the only one who acts that way on here; I've seen more people than I can even shake a stick at describe Raven unironically as a goddess. Do any of you even realize how that makes you sound just like bleating sheep? Is it REALLY so difficult for people to accept that no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, or are we really living in THAT much of a fantasy land?

Before you get all huffy at me, check yourselves, and (since Raina has already spread it all around the internet without permission) WATCH THE REVIEW VIDEO. Then try forming your own goddamn opinions for once. Because let me tell you, that tail is unbelievably horrible. It's not just about the paint scraping off after the first swim or all four ankle fins tearing even though the tail's owner is extremely careful with it. Every single one of the seams on that tail is hideous beyond belief. It doesn't take a genius to see how gloppy and sloppy the seams are, and how the paint job COVERS the sloppy silicone that's globbed between the scales, which should make it obvious to anyone who's not a complete idiot that the tail was constructed poorly. You don't get seams like that from "not knowing how to use a silicone tail properly". That is some hilarious bullshit and I hope anyone who actually believed that nonsense is really ashamed of themselves right now. ALL of the tail's flaws were specifically pointed out in the video so that anyone who watches it can see them. And even though the tail's owner was incredibly disappointed and heartbroken over the state of her dream tail, she made sure to point out SEVERAL times that she was not attacking Raven and that she thought Raven herself was a sweet person. She was simply pointing out the FACTS of her tail being extremely badly constructed.

And while we're on the subject of reviews, IT IS NOT A CRIME TO POST A NEGATIVE REVIEW OF A PRODUCT YOU HAVE PURCHASED. A person with a negative experience has just as much right to post a review as anyone else so that other people can be fully informed and make their own decisions. That. Is. The. Point. Of. Reviews. You don't go around doxxing and harassing people for posting negative reviews on Amazon. Or Yelp. Or Google. Or anywhere else. That is extremely petty, and really just suggests that you feel so threatened by people exposing your flaws that you're desperate to hide them rather than actually address them and try to fix them. You know who THAT reminds me of? Mertailor. You know, the guy who's notorious for covering up his shitty products and shitty customer service by deleting negative comments, bullying reviewers, and hurling accusations at customers rather than take one iota of responsibility for his mistakes. Congratulations everyone, you are enabling this exact same type of behavior and becoming the exact same type of fanclub that you all love to hate on so much.

And while we're on the subject of terrible behavior, did you guys even catch the part where Raina SENT CONFIDENTIAL CUSTOMER FINANCIAL INFORMATION SUCH AS INVOICES AND SENT THEM TO THE MERNETWORK MODERATORS?! Do ANY of you even have the slightest concept of what an enormous breach of privacy that is?? That's not only unethical, it's fucking ILLEGAL. Posting a negative review is never going to be grounds for legal action, but leaking confidential information sure as hell is. It also displays ZERO integrity on the part of either Raina, or Raven (who obviously felt it was appropriate to share that information with Raina in the first place). I personally have lost literally all respect I have ever had for either of them. I sure as hell would never EVER feel comfortable ordering a single thing from Raven, knowing that she is so cavalier about customer confidentiality. If I'm going to send thousands of dollars to someone I would want to feel COMPLETELY confident in the fact that they'd keep my private financial information PRIVATE. Jesus fucking christ, what a concept. Seriously. And if that wasn't enough, this is not even the first time that Raina and Raven have leaked a customer's private information for their own personal agendas. Do any of you remember the thread in which Mermaid Alexis was trying to sell her old partial Merbellas tail? Raina pulled the exact same thing on her, which she has as little right to do then as now. Most people in that thread even called her out on it, but she persisted and persisted and refused to see that she was being unethical and just plain mean. Many people in this thread just within the past day or two have commented that they've never seen any other negative Merbella reviews. Well, WHY do you think that is? Because not only do they get questioned, they get full-on attacked. I have multiple personal friends who have had very disappointing experiences dealing with Raven and getting poor quality products, and none of them feel comfortable even speaking up about it. People are literally afraid to speak up about their own experiences because they know they will get attacked. I predicted this would happen with this new review video, and lo and behold, it did. But you guys seriously think that just because you haven't SEEN any other negative reviews here before, that they're actually impossible? Well done, guys, you've advanced to Mertailor-level logic skills. *slow clap*

And while we're on the subject of terrible people, Raina clearly thinks it's acceptable to abuse people and misuse confidential information for her own personal vendettas, yet she is VERY outspoken when she perceives anyone else possibly doing the same. She is, in fact, one of the most hypocritical people I have ever encountered in my entire life and that's saying a lot. I have seen her bully people over and over and over again. She refuses to ever admit to any wrongdoing (though she pretends she does), she acts extremely superior towards almost everyone else (including anyone who has been registered on the forum for less time than she has). She is snarky and passive-aggressive and manipulative and she misrepresents facts and twist people's words to suit her own agenda. I've sat back and watched this go on for long enough, biting my tongue because I didn't want to stir things up, but I am completely fed up at this point. I am sick and tired of having to watch her abuse people and yet still have this huge army of people who eat up her every word without even bothering to take a step back and consider what she's actually saying. If you actually sit down and parse most of Raina's rants and bitches, none of her statements even make any sense. For example, she stampedes in here trumpeting that the video review in question was LIES, ALL LIES, yet she presents no actual evidence to support her claims. But everyone still automatically believes her, WHY? You didn't think that maybe it's actually Raven or Raina who are lying? That just because Raina is way more well-known around here than the other mermaid, she HAS to be the one telling the truth? News flash, it doesn't work that way. Also, the mermaid in question doesn't come on this forum not only because of the negative attitudes, SHE HAS A BUSINESS TO RUN. I always see Raina bleating about what a successful, famous, busy mermaid she is, yet she has always been one of the most active posters on this forum. I guess she just has nothing better to do than pick fights with other people. I really think that's a sign of extreme insecurity, honestly. It's sad. I'd continue to keep my opinions of her to myself if it weren't for the fact that her attitudes have been getting more and more toxic, and her behavior has gotten more and more destructive. She has alienated and driven away many of the best people and cowed the rest into submission and I just can't take it any longer. She has driven away some of her most supportive and understanding friends. I'm still astounded that so many people continue to be taken in by her, honestly. You have to be seriously obtuse not to notice just how destructive Raina is. She seems to just have this pathological need to tear other people down and I can't stand by and watch it happen. And Iona, I love you, but you have a serious blind spot where Raina is concerned. It's one thing to stand up for your friends, it's another thing to enable their terrible behavior. I would rather call people out on their shit rather than condone actions that hurt other people and weaken my community.

This community is no longer the positive, fun, supportive place I knew it to be. This forum has devolved into a mire of negativity, misinformation, and vitriol. It's fucking depressing and it makes me miserable. I've tried to stick around as long as I could stand to, but I'm completely drained from even trying to think about how to approach the shit that goes on here. Stubbornness and ignorance seem to be everyone's preferred methods of interaction, and I'm just completely disgusted by all of it. I think all of you who actually know me know that I do not hurl accusations around lightly, and that I DO sit back and observe and analyze all of the information before I make any rash decisions or statements. Well, this bullshit has pushed me to the brink. And not just me. Mermaid Lorelei, the most active and conscientious mod we've had in ages, literally just quit the forum over this. Congratulations everyone, you just drove away one of the most level-headed, intelligent, balanced, caring people I know. I hope you're all super proud of yourselves.

On that note, after seeing all this bullshit I had also decided to quit the forum. It was a hard decision at first but after spending the entire day agonizing about the state of things here, I realized I would be far happier leaving this place behind. I just wanted to make my last stand, for something I believe in: integrity. Anyway, if I have pissed anyone (or everyone) off, please feel free to ban/block/delete/whine about me because I literally give zero fucks anymore.

Bye!

[AniaR]

The mermaid in question's friends have now started attacking my business as retribution, leaving fake reviews. Since they threatened me in the comments, I shouldn't be surprised.

38148

Let see I stick to discreet facts, but sure, fight dirty, why not?

To those saying the sharing of information is wrong:

It is not illegal for a company to share any of their information at their discretion for the purpose of consulting, contracting, risk management, mentoring, or legal reasons. Dealing with a slanderous video is considered rick management,and only two admins were shown anything (not even the entirety either- only what Merbella's deemed necessary). While it’s not common knowledge I still help Merbellas out from time to time with their communication including drafting emails and information updates and as a contractor I have legal access to information and with written permission yes, I can legally share it. It’s literally in standard non-compete and standard business NDAs. I know this not just from working with them, but because I pay a lawyer a lot of money to manage what I share with my contractors as well and where that information goes. This isn’t a doctor’s office, there is no presumed client, tail maker confidentiality beyond the usual don’t give up someone’s credit card number. Most tail makers choose to keep information to themselves but when the client decides to slander them/libel them, it is fairly standard in most industries to provide evidence to counter it. No one seemed to have any issue with this when people were posting communications and information with mertailor. But again, nothing was posted. Merely provided to two mods for Mernetwork’s liability, and Merbellas risk management.

Mernetwork has always operated under the policy that when drama hits, you give your evidence with the understanding it will not be posted and only used under discretion to the mods/admin. That is standard and also gives mernetwork a safety net whenever anyone tries to come after the forum for slander/libel and also allows mernetwork to decide what risks to take in terms of what statements they allow to remain on the forum, if they should lock something, or if they should flat out remove it. Raven rarely is proactive when people slander her, she usually lets it go. But the claims in this video were so outrageous they felt it damaging to their company. Raven plans on making her own statement with her evidence on mernetwork, but originally due to her anxiety was not prepared to do that, hence why she delegated it to me to send to the mods

I'd be getting told of if I claimed these things and didn't give a mod proof.

I think it's really telling that the diversion tactic here is let's change the discussion to how we shouldn't be talking about this, instead of the fact someone is lying to extort someone else. Let's change this to pick apart someone else but totally ignore the actual law breaking going on (defamation).

If this was a mertailor situation, if he was lying about a client and the client was posting everything they had to argue him, you'd all be cheering.


Raina clearly thinks it's acceptable to abuse people and misuse confidential information for her own personal vendettas,

I have abused no one, I have no personal vendetta against this person.


even her personal assistant whom I really had high hopes for, but who encouraged legal action because Merbella is the only reason she's famous

LOL really? Gee I guess it wouldnt have anything to do with all the stuff I've done.


This is just sad you all have taken the bait. This is what happens, someone speaks out about lies, and instead of addressing said lies, you just try to discredit the one posting the truth. So maybe people will ignore the truth right? If you sling enough mud they wont be able to see it?

It all comes out in the end folks. Save face when it does.


I've pointed out the parts of the review that are lies. If that bothers you, you should look at the person making the lies.


PS it's not a crime to post a bad review, it's a crime to post one where you lie. Famously, people sue yelp reviewers all the time.

I also see the mermaid in question retracted a bunch of her statements after the fact (beig held accountable) and that someone else is pretending Im texting them from Canada to harass- a person known for making fake text screen shots. It costs so much money to text from Canada (though it's a cali area code) lol why would I bother with that? Why would I need to go to such lengths when the truth is already known?

It's kinda hilarious at this point TBH. I stick to facts- verified to be true, I didn't bring it to the forum. No name calling. I didn't link the video here, or post screen caps or anything. Just posted that it's untrue. But that justifies harassing my business page, name calling against me here, attacks against Iona too...

do you guys not see how F upped that is? I hope it's all worth it when you see the truth in the end. When you realize the people you aligned yourself with are only keeping you around for stuff like this, and then you get thrown under the bus. When the truth all comes out because it always does and I'm always still swimming, and I never regret standing up for what's right. No matter how many insults you throw at me, childish as they are.

[Starfrit]

Okay, so I commented from my phone and I guess the comment got deleted somehow, so let's try this again from my laptop and see if that'll work.

I was withholding judgement on the whole situation until I saw the evidence for myself, but seriously-- letting her friends threaten Raina with physical violence before Raina had even done anything? Letting them post fake reviews and attack her business when she didn't keep quiet?

I don't care who you are, that's bullshit whether you're "innocent" or not.

People are trying to tear Raina apart for "bullying" this mystery reviewer... But these same people have nothing to say about the reviewer siccing her friends on her to attack and THREATEN Raina and her business? Who's the "bully" here, really?

I trust Raina. She doesn't come out at people like this unless she has solid evidence-- that's always been the case since I've known her, so although I haven't seen the evidence from this particular incident myself, I'm willing to believe her and back her up. Raina has done nothing wrong here-- Handing screencaps of receipts and correspondences and whatever else to a small handful of people, privately, to back up claims or defend someone is neither "doxxing" nor illegal. It's also interesting that people are bitching about it being handled this way, whereas if Raven and Raina didn't share any of it for fear of being accused of this, they'd then be accused of lying because "they can't provide proof."

It's a bloody double-standard, and everyone with an ounce of sense knows it. Like Raina said-- nobody would be losing their minds over this if it involved outing someone they didn't like, like Mertailor or anybody else. But for some reason, people are freaking out because she's ~*slandering*~ this whoever-the-hell.

Certain people need to sit themselves down, Jesus. This crap is why a lot of the older crowd don't bother with the forums anymore.

[SeaGlass Siren]

^ I share the same sentiment that Tieri does.

[shimmygoddess]

I had a whole post, but deleted it, buecause Tieri said it best. LOL. I will say that leaving negative reviews on someones page to be hateful is an asshole move! I had some woman, whom I don't know and lives in a different country review my photography page as a 1. They were in a relationship with a photographer in this community so I think she had an ulterior motive by doing this.

[Mer-Crazy]

I just wanna say to everyone who keeps saying 'watch the video' maybe post a link so I can maybe? I still can't find this thing haha. Then again I'm not really all that involved in mermaid stuff outside of the forum so I usually miss the drama there haha.

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[TheSaltySiren]

Exactly! Someone needs to post the video or a link so others can watch it and have a fair opinion. I for the life of me cannot find it anywhere.

[Thalassa]

I would like to say, addressing the bad review stifling thing: that hasn't been my experience. When I first had some issues with my Merbells tail I was perfectly comfortable showing the community and asking Raina for advice. Same with my second tail. These were all issues that are unavoidable with silicone tails, but that I'd never experienced. I was expecting a silicone tail to be a magic perfect cure-all (it's not). And instead of attacking me (as some have insinuated would happen), everyone supported me and offered advice. In addition to which, Raven went above and beyond to fix any issues. And I MEAN above and beyond.

So I have a hard time believing that this reviewer is being attacked solely on the basis of a negative review and tailmaker loyalty. That has simply not been my experience.

I haven't seen the video nor the proof otherwise, nor do I really want to. Either way, it doesn't really matter to me what this person does. I'd rather let Raven fight her own battles, she's perfectly capable, but it's sad that people have let themselves get so worked up about this that they're leaving. It seems silly to me, more like they're leaving just to make a point than any real reason.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

You hit the nail on the head.

Also in regards to posting the video I appreciate it's frustrating to people, but the person making it chose not to make it public and only to a mermaid audience on their FB. While raven has a copy, I leave it up to her decision if she wants to post it here or not. The person has since retracted many of their statements as a "mistake" sort of. I think that only happened because Merbella's suggested getting their legal team involved.

I did not bring this issue to the forum, I replied only when it was brought up by others with the context I know to be true- that i have provided discreet proof for, that has been VERIFIED true- not a matter of opinion over 'sloppy work' that is subjected, but hard core facts. When has anyone ever known Raven to speak up about a review publicly? In her entire history?

I think in general too people need to realize/remember that just because you pay a lot of money for a silicone tail doesn't mean they are impervious to beuing ruined if you aren't careful with it. Scraping your paint off, tearing a fin off- these are not reflections on a tail maker. Everyone gets sent a multitude of photos, if someone had concerns over flaws or seams or anything, pointing it out when it's reviewed, or unboxed, would get the issue fixed (if there is one). How does it take you a month to decide your seams are bad or you don't like spots, you know?

If people have a personal issue with ME they should take me out of the equation then and start asking questions like this. i see that some had already on the video, but weremet with telling off. Even the reviewers own friends.

[Dancing Fish]

As someone who hasn't seen the review (because I don't know the mermaid in question, and for heaven's sake I can't just go "friend" her on facebook because I'm curious about a video!) and as someone who wants to someday become a tailmaker, what concerned me was the possibility that this person was posting a fake bad review for the purpose of pressuring the tailmaker for a new tail. From all accounts she was initially very happy with the purchase. There also appear to be some inaccuracies in this person's account when it comes to expenses and wait time and design, which look like they can be documented and verified, but from Theo's post there appears to be serious problems with the quality of the tail, too. I'm perfectly willing to believe even a really good maker can put out a clunker with a pretty paint job now and then. It's the nature of art. (And silicone.)

It's clear to me Raina believes this person is trying to hurt Raven's business with a deliberately inaccurate review, so she can get a new tail out of Raven, or just hurt her business if Raven refuses. I can respect her standing up for Raven, if that's an accurate interpretation of this mermaid's intentions. From those who've seen the video, is that what happened? Did this mermaid post this review to pressure Raven to fix the tail after Raven refused to do so privately, or is she simply expressing disappointment with her tail but ready to let it go?

It may be that the mermaid in question never intended Raina or Raven to see the review, just wanted to vent in her safe space to her friends about not getting her dream tail. Which is understandable. Then mutual friends of each passed along the information and ignited this into a flame war. Which is not cool, really.

And now Raina's business is getting fake negative reviews from this mermaid's friends. Which is very definitely not cool.

And now mers I really respect are leaving Mernetwork over drama dragged over here from Facebook, which means less cool stuff happens here, which is really shitty for everyone. :( So sorry to everyone who is leaving, it will be less fun here without you. You'll be missed!

(And wow, these last few pages need to be packed onto the Drama Llama over to the Drama thread, eh?)

[Mermaid Momo]

To put it simply: i can't judge until I've seen the video and even though people in this thread keep saying it's easibly accessible and found I have yet to even see a link of this video and i am friends with 30+ mers on facebook.

But my thoughts are if it is a truthful review why do select people only get to see it? Why was it posted privately only for this person's friends to see? If i had a bad experience i would make the review public.

sent from my shellphone using tapatalk

[AniaR]

to clarify


Did this mermaid post this review to pressure Raven to fix the tail after Raven refused to do so privately, or is she simply expressing disappointment with her tail but ready to let it go?

Raven was never contacted about any of that before the review, her only communication was that the tail was perfect. Sorry if that wasn't clear.


But my thoughts are if it is a truthful review why do select people only get to see it? Why was it posted privately only for this person's friends to see? If i had a bad experience i would make the review public.

Valid questions. Questions I wish more people would ask. If it's an honest true review, why would she care if people saw it? We can say the reaction, but the only reaosn there is a negative reaction at all on mernetwork, is because very key points can be proven a lie.

You've got people in here complaining about wait times and lack of communication and no one gives them crap, just says sorry, if there's context shares it, and wishes them luck. Venessa posted about her issues with her tail, and no one said anything to argue with her (she also posted her proof) just "that sucks". So being afraid of the community response to me, is BS. They knew there would be a negative one to begin with, based on all the initial comments on the video.

[Mermaid Lily_Pad]

Normally I stay away from the drama, in fact usually I am usually just a lurker to these boards. I like to read some of the posts, but I try not to respond because I have noticed if you do say "anything" that may be perceived as controversial people have a tendency to rip you to a million pieces, which was shown in the MerNation thread when one of their tails came into question. Just like them, this story has one side, the other side, and the truth. I will start by saying that, one thing that really bothers me about tail making in general is the fact that so many people do not see it as a business. Its more like, "I shall give you the honor, of having me make you a tail!" instead of.."You are giving me the honor of making you a tail by paying me $3,000+ because you trust that I will make you the very best, and most beautiful tail out there". That in itself leads to an unhealthy amount of hero worship. OMG she picked me to make a tail for! I have to wait a year+ to get it but it will be so worth it! I don't mind waiting months for a single email because she choose me! I am worried it is taking so long for her to email me, but I can't say anything because I don't want to make her unhappy! I MUST BE PATIENT! As far as I know this is the ONLY business that works that way and it's asinine. A customer, or potential customer should NEVER feel scared about contacting the person who is working for them. Thats like hiring a contractor to build your house and being to scared to say "but, the toilet goes in the bathroom right? not in the living room?" Because your scared of upsetting them and having them walk away from the house. This is both detrimental to the customers as well as the tail makers. The customers now have an extremely high expectation of what they should be getting. If I had to wait years, and pay thousands, I would have a pretty darn high expectation as well and you can bet your bottom dollar that if I found even a single flaw on that tail once I got it I would be royally pissed, yet, people don't get pissed. They cry in silence because God Forbid they upset the tail maker and the tail maker gets her friends to come on here to rant about the mermaid in question and ruin her reputation with the community. So no, we probably don't hear a lot of bad reviews because we all want to still be a part of the community without being ostracized.

Which leads me to the review in question, and the irony of it all. I HAVE seen the review, having been FB friends with said mermaid since way before she even got the tail. The fact that she is being torn apart on here for a review that was not even POSTED here, that was not even posted Publicly for the world to see just goes to show how twisted the Mer community is. The amount of people that are so eager to jump up and scream ITS LIES! is appalling. Especially when these people have no clue who the mer is, or have even seen the video in question. To blindly follow someones opinion without even really and truly investigating the situation on your own, then to slam a mermaid who you don't even know, over a video you have never seen!??? Like seriously people??? I don't care if King Triton comes on here and proclaims that the review was lies, until I see it for myself I am Not going to judge.

As for the review, what saddens me the most is how honest and genuine the mer in question was. She counted down for the tail for months. She was so blissfully excited, so unbelievably happy when it finally came. I actually teared up a bit. To listen to the review of the tail only a month later, was absolutely heartbreaking. She was honestly, a heck of a lot nicer about the whole thing then I would have EVER been. She expressed disappointment, upset, sadness, and Facts. The seams were a mess, the little heel fins were falling off, the scales are peeling away, the monofin inside was old, used cracked and a mess, the drainage was put in above the fluke instead of in the fluke so it bubbles the fluke instead of drains through it. The paint job is messed up, (and she never said the pokadots were not there she stated they looked like its basically an afterthought) which they do. Some of the pieces are not even painted on the ends, as in finished! This isn't stuff she is lying about, its all RIGHT THERE. She literally goes over the tail inch by inch to show the issues. My tail from MerNation is almost a year old and I beat the living shit out of it (unlike her) and its in better shape, and we are talking the fact I dragged it over rocks, grass, didn't let it dry,barely rinse it out, etc and it still looks like new! Did she have some of the facts wrong, yes, the price was $3,000 and not $4,000. She ordered and paid a long time ago and got it wrong BUT the second it's proven that she was wrong she immediately admits she made a mistake and only paid $3,000, but fuck people, it's still $3,000 dollars! It should NOT be falling apart! She said she waited 3 years, but stated in the video that the wait time was "getting money, designing, then waiting for it to come in". She ALSO says that she thinks Raven is a really sweet person, that another Mermaid got her tail around the same time she did and it was flawless and beautiful, she stated that she hopes no one else has experienced anything like this with MerBella, in other words she was far more complimentary and kind then I would have been in the same situation. In fact, she was an absolute doll, which makes THESE posts ripping her apart even more criminal.

I don't know what happened in the making of this tail, only 2 people know that, Raven and Sean. Even if They tell someone what actually happened, They are still the ONLY one there making it. Maybe she was rushed, maybe she was fed up, maybe the tail simply was not holding together the right way, maybe she was trying to use up spare parts, maybe she was having a bad day, who the heck knows, what I do know is she is a BUSINESS OWNER first. An artist, ANY artist who is commissioned to paint, draw, make anything still has to be held accountable for their work no matter how beautiful it seems in pictures, or even when it is first received. She accepted a lot of money for this tail and the client deserves what is advertised, which (according to the Merbella's facebook page) is an ultra realistic costume out of high quality performance silicon products.

When I came into this community I was really excited to find a whole bunch of people who shared similar interests, and struggles, and passions as I have. I quickly learned that this community has a very bad side as well, and it saddens me to see that the bad side seems to far overpower the good. Cyberbullying is never right. Making snap judgements about others is never cool. This hero worshiping of people you really don't know just so you can be in with the "popular kids" is so obvious and juvenile. I have watched it happen from the second I stepped onto these boards, and I was even to a degree, guilty of it myself. I have gotten all up in a huff along with others over something someone said just so I could be in with the majority and have a chance at getting the tail I want from the tailmaker I love. Then I woke up and realized, this is not me...bullying ANYONE over a situation online that I will never know the full story of is NOT ME. I am not going to lower my personal morals just to make sure I keep some people happy.

Also, why would the owners, and mods of this board need the invoices from someone who is not even a member of this board, for a review that was never even posted ON this board, and was never even public? To prove what? To what end is that? To make sure people know the price she stated was wrong, yes it was, she admitted that the second she realized it. To make sure the time line she put was correct, yes it was, she stated the time line as one of the first things she said in the video. So why do it? For some sort of professional "backup" wave the contract around and proclaim SHE IS A LYER! to discredit her? Yet she can't the invoice is just that, an invoice. Details of what she wanted and how much it would cost. It has nothing to do with the quality she received which is clearly shown on the video.

Also, all of this "She just wants Raven to make her another tail" BS. She never asked for that in the video. NOT ONCE. NOT ONE SINGLE TIME! Which AGAIN goes to show how people twist words, and make shit up, and jump on the fucking bandwagon not knowing anything about the situation.

I respect Raven as an artist. She was very sweet when I met her, and she is very talented, as a person I think she is lovely. As a business owner, I think she needs help. As the mermaid in question said in her video, " It has nothing to do with Raven and her Artistry, she is obviously an amazing artist to come up with these designs, I just feel like this tail, was put on the back burner for other more popular mers".

Raina, I know you want to defend your friend, thats commendable but there are times when your temper, and blatant accusations are detrimental to the business. In other words, if you are going to present yourself as part of Merbella's company then you need to approach these situations with a little less bullying and a little more fact finding and tact. If Raven wants you to act as the face of Merbellas because her social anxiety keeps her from doing so herself, then anything YOU say reflects directly on the company. As an outsider looking in, if I wanted to buy a tail and was researching all of the tail makers (which btw I did, throughly), and I saw the video then read these posts, it would be pretty obvious that the tail was a mess, and due to your posts, Raven could never be in the wrong and it MUST be the customers fault, therefore if I had a problem myself, I could never go to Raven because I would have you ripping me apart here. You can come here with talk of lawyers, lawsuits, rules and regs all you want, and in some situations you can be absolutely in the right, but if you do so in a way that comes off as condescending and bullying, your words won't mean a darn thing. Remember that post on the MerNation thread about Edens tail, how quick you were to rip MerNation a new one when you thought they did work like MerBella just did without knowing any of the "actual" facts behind the entire situation. Remember how MerNation came back and stated the facts of the situation personally and revealed it all and made everything you said pretty much mote. Its very easy to throw people under the bus when you "think" you know everything, and a lot harder to drag them back out when you learn the real truth. It's also a lot harder to regain your own position of authority if people see you constantly slaughtering people. Take a step back and think about how YOU want to be perceived, what You want to be known for, because it is certainly not for being humble or fair in your assessments.

My suggestion to everyone. Research shit for yourselves, and if the video some how did get posted out there by a third party, then go watch the damn video, but for fucks sake use your own brain. Stop relying on the grapevine of gossip" in a situation that could hurt the livelihood of other people you don't even know.

[Triton-Mahtlinnie]

A single negative review video isn't going to make or break a company, especially in the face of the past work that Merbella has turned out. Someone should be able to have the opinion "I paid a lot for this product and am not satisfied with what I received. I feel it is not on par with the other work this company makes. For me, this purchase was not worth it." Without being attacked for it. Mertailor is infamous for attacking people who negatively review his products, I am sad to see this becoming true of other tailmakers as well.

If I ordered a product from Merbella and wasn't satisfied with what I received, would I have my personal information shared with others? That's kind of scary to think about. Doxxing is illegal, no matter how much you dislike a person.

[frozenbutterflywings]

Raven just posted she is taking a break from tail making. I think we need to drop this subject and it should only be discussed between the client and Raven. I know I'm not on here often but I'm happy Raven is taking a break from everything she needs it. We all need a break from time to time. I can't wait to get my tail from her!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Loralei]

I have read everything, seen everything, etc. etc. etc.

#1.) Just because a bunch of people express their sympathy for how Raven feels awful over this situation is not automatically stating "WE ARE ANTI-THAT-MER-IN-QUESTION." The whole Merbella forum is about all things Merbella, and you know... Raven is kind of the core of that. It hurts me to see my friend hurt. What I did was say some words to Raven about how she is validated to feel how she does, that it won't last forever, and to keep creating. I seen several people do that too.

#2.) Some actions of the mer-in-question, did make me mad, personally. I can admit that. I was emotionally charged, and when the going gets rough I am usually a fiery tornado of flaming sharks as it is my instinct to protect. So I take responsibility. I say brash, silly things to cheer people up. I always have.

#3.) I would like to see where this mer is being 'ripped apart' on the forum. People are just discussing it. Then immediately went into how Raven is taking it.

#4.) You are entitled to your opinion, but as trying my absolutely hardest to be an outside perspective, I see Raina was ripped harder than anyone. I am not a sheep, this is fact. People called her toxic, manipulative, etc etc. When she was like "Yo dog, a lot of the stuff in this review is wack." That wasn't her being a Raven attack dog, that is because she was actively in discussion with the creation of the product.

#5.) You are entitled to your opinions and feelings, but don't shame other people for their own. This is kind of how this all started.

#6.) I am not going to rage quit over the feelings of other people expressed in a place that is supposed to make them feel safe. I have hope that this is going to boil out and HOPEFULLY we go back to our mermaidy selves. The rage is unnecessary and unhealthy for any of us.

#7) If I was the mer-in-question, I would be hurt too. Honestly. No one asks for this. But you cannot control the opinions and feelings of others, and she did what she had to do what she felt she had to do. This is not meant to say "Keep your mouth shut" It isnt. I encourage people to speak their minds. You really shouldn't give a fuck what people think. She had the right to make a review. (She was just checked on the parts that didn't add up.)

#8.) Raven is human. Mer-In-Question is human. We all make mistakes. We all get caught up in shit. Rav's taking a break for awhile. So let's all respect that.

#8.) That all being said, can we get back to what this forum is about? We are all exhausted over this.

[Mermaid Wesley]

Yikes guys: ok. I've seen the tail in person, I've seen the video, and I feel like people are definitely overreacting. Was the tail perfect? No of course not. Is it beautiful? I think so. Her best work? No. Rushed? Maybe. The point is, there will always be negative reviews.

Raina, I know you're very protective of your friend and that you can't stand to see anything happen that you don't think is fair. However we should all try to remember that there are so many sides to every story, and that the truth is probably somewhere in the middle. It's unfortunate for Raven, it's unfortunate for the mermaid too. Nobody should be harassing anyone about this.

And the video is not posted to the forum and an official review has not been submitted here so I do not think that Raina should have sent in information to the mods. It is kinda a violation of privacy especially since this was a private video and this is not someone who is on mernetwork.

As a member I'm disappointed in everyone's conflict resolution skills. As a mod I'm letting you know that this needs to stop. You guys already know that.


Lastly, I can honestly understand where everyone is coming from with their posts. We all want the same thing here. We all want honest reviews and we all want various tailmakers to do well. We all get upset when it's hard to place the blame and when we can't tell who's right. Let's try to find common ground here.
Thanks guys.


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[AniaR]

Also, why would the owners, and mods of this board need the invoices from someone who is not even a member of this board

She is a member.




I don't know what happened in the making of this tail, only 2 people know that, Raven and Sean

...Sean is my partner. Not Ravens...


Raina, I know you're very protective of your friend and that you can't stand to see anything happen that you don't think is fair. However we should all try to remember that there are so many sides to every story, and that the truth is probably somewhere in the middle.

In my cases I only pointed out things that can be proven lies. Most things which the person decided to retract (in a wishy washy way) and I think that should raise some eyebrows honestly over their credibility, but that's my opinion.


Also, all of this "She just wants Raven to make her another tail" BS. She never asked for that in the video. NOT ONCE. NOT ONE SINGLE TIME!

I actually never said that, no one else here said that, someone simply *asked* if that was the case.


Remember that post on the MerNation thread about Edens tail, how quick you were to rip MerNation a new one when you thought they did work like MerBella just did without knowing any of the "actual" facts behind the entire situation. Remember how MerNation came back and stated the facts of the situation personally and revealed it all and made everything you said pretty much mote.

Actually I remember that incident quite differently, I remember Eden posting all her proof of the issue. My points (that the tail fell apart and they should repaint it) weren't moot. And in THIS incidence, the reviewer never contacted Raven prior to their review about their issues (unlike Eden who did).

I think exagerating your payment from 3k to 4k is a big deal, not a mistake. I think exagertating your wait time to 2 years, adnd then to 3 in comments when the whole community gets in an uproar over wait times is also a big deal.


Stop relying on the grapevine of gossip

Gossip entails hearsay that people can't prove.

I have a whole list of things I can counter about this, and Raven has all the proof she needs to document it, and the photos of the tail in question and what it looked like when it was sent out. I'm not arguing that her tail fell apart on her somehow at all, tails are fragile they scrape paint and fins come off I already said that. I am focusing specifically on all the statements she's now back peddling that were lies. I think it's shitty anyone would assume the tail is having issues because of ravens tail making, but I know better than to argue with people when they get that kinda shit in their head honestly. People commited to believing the worst about others, are always going to. Nothing will change their mind.
I'm talking facts. Actual facts. About actual lies. Not subjective "I think the tail looks like ____" which i've already said multiple times.

And really, it doens't matter what I say. You can all see the proof for yourself when Raven posts it.


Nobody was doxxed. I feel like everyone needs a lesson on what that actually entails.


Someone should be able to have the opinion "I paid a lot for this product and am not satisfied with what I received. I feel it is not on par with the other work this company makes

The issue really isnt about what she thinks of her tail, no one, not even raven is defending her right to be unhappy with the tail It's all the other big lies in the review.


#1.) Just because a bunch of people express their sympathy for how Raven feels awful over this situation is not automatically stating "WE ARE ANTI-THAT-MER-IN-QUESTION." The whole Merbella forum is about all things Merbella, and you know... Raven is kind of the core of that. It hurts me to see my friend hurt. What I did was say some words to Raven about how she is validated to feel how she does, that it won't last forever, and to keep creating. I seen several people do that too.

Exactly. That's literally what all the posts were. People expressing sympathy and empathy, and frustration about the situation. That's a far cry from what some people are trying to exagerate it into being.


#3.) I would like to see where this mer is being 'ripped apart' on the forum. People are just discussing it. Then immediately went into how Raven is taking it.

Again spot on. No name calling, no linking to her stuff so people can harass her. Nothing. Just discussing what many of us saw, and Raven's reaction to it. Which is what people do all over the forum.


Lastly, I can honestly understand where everyone is coming from with their posts. We all want the same thing here. We all want honest reviews and we all want various tailmakers to do well. We all get upset when it's hard to place the blame and when we can't tell who's right. Let's try to find common ground here.

Well said

For clarification


And the video is not posted to the forum and an official review has not been submitted here so I do not think that Raina should have sent in information to the mods. It is kinda a violation of privacy especially since this was a private video and this is not someone who is on mernetwork.

The Iona saw the video herself, as she was on the mer's friendlist until they realized it. I didn't need to send it to her. Previous policy has required proof if you say anything on the forum that could be percieved as slander/libel. Since I said the mer in question was lying, I provided the proof. If that's something the mods want to change how it's handled, that's fine. But this is how it has always been handled in the past, and I would have been reprimanded had I not given anything and said "that review has lies in it"


At the end of the day the mer in question more or less retracted some of the bigger lies. But it's unfourtunate because the video is out there, and people will not take the time to find out the truth of the matter if they see it down the road, so the damage is done. There were lots of other issues with false statements, and I think that should raise red flags. If I made a statement and there was even 1 thing in it found to be a mistake, people would be coming at me with the pitchforks. But this mer admits to being pretty largely wrong about some pretty big things, and it's excused away as a mistake instead of being malicious.

It's really up to Raven if she decides to show it all. but I think people will be singing a different tune once she does. People standing up for her and talking about what was done to her, is not the reason she's taking a break from custom orders by a long shot.

[Theta]

Throwing in my two cents to say that no one is being doxxed. That's a pretty serious accusation right there. Getting talked about on a forum or facebook page is not doxxing. I haven't seen anyones on either side of the issue's SSNs or addresses being released onto 4chan for this. The worst that's happened is someone left fake reviews on Raina's business page.

The mer could have posted a review in the review section. Merbellas reviews are not 100% 5 star, and no one gave any of those people shit about anything. No one is saying that she shouldn't point out problems with the tail; they're saying that they should let the problems speak for themselves, without adding exaggerations. That's all anyone ever wants from a review. When you exaggerate, you get people calling you on your shit, and it gets everyone worked up.

[Theta]

Also, just a friendly reminder, Raina does not speak for the mods or influence the tone of this forum any more than anyone else does. We all think for ourselves and like to see evidence of things, just like anyone would. Just because some of us have views that tend to fall in line with hers doesn't mean that we're all sheeple, thanks. She's been around and knows the rules re: evidence for tail claims, good and bad, and like anyone else, when she breaks the rules, she gets banned.

[TheSaltySiren]

I haven't seen the video, and would like to so I can get a better view...but now that marble has just posted on Fb that she isn't taking any custom orders fro the public does make it seem like she is a little guilty.

I get that drama sucks but pulling your business from the public really does make you look a little suspicious IMO.

[lynsea]

I haven't seen the video, and would like to so I can get a better view...but now that marble has just posted on Fb that she isn't taking any custom orders fro the public does make it seem like she is a little guilty.

I get that drama sucks but pulling your business from the public really does make you look a little suspicious IMO.


But she's not pulling her business. She is going to continue to make tails and accessories (at least that's how it seems) but they will be of her own creation and not the clients. It appears (and I don't know Raven personally so someone who does, feel free to confirm or correct me) that she wants to take a break from working so one-on-one with customers as designers which I can't blame her for. It sounds exhausting trying to find a creative compromise. She's not stopping all production because she is afraid of anything merely working with her own designs rather than someone elses.

That's how I understand it at least.

[PearlieMae]

Lynsea, your answer is accurate.

[TheSaltySiren]

It is just odd timing is all I am saying, i know she is still going to sell remade things andantes to focus on other things, but it comes right after this review...so like I said it seems a little suspicious.. But again, a lot of us still wanna see that video.

[Theta]

It is just odd timing is all I am saying, i know she is still going to sell remade things andantes to focus on other things, but it comes right after this review...so like I said it seems a little suspicious.. But again, a lot of us still wanna see that video.

You have to remember as well that it comes in the midst of good reviews for her tails. Also she's had bad reviews before- you can see some of them in the review section.

She's a very sensitive person by nature and really bends over backwards and kills herself so that she turns out a good product and makes everyone happy. This has led, for various reasons (this review, I think, being the straw that broke the camel's back rather than a random flounce) to burnout. She's taking a break from new clients, essentially. She will still be making tails for professional productions, clients, and herself. She may take on new clients in the future. Also, she's taken breaks from orders before over the years, when the stress of it all becomes too much.

[AniaR]

the timing is because she was just crapped on, lied about, had her (and mine) name drug through the mud... and it's made her realize it's not worth it anymore because people will always lie, always try to find a way to cheat the system, always believe the worst despite proof if that's what they're committed to. Raven has been dealing with clients behaving badly for years and been wanting to stop customs for a long time. The timing is because this pushed her over the edge. if anything, it should reflect badly on the people doing the pushing. This is why we can't have nice things. She's not perfect but she made it her job to help people get their dream and been treated like absolute crap over the years for it.

[Blaze]

You have to remember as well that it comes in the midst of good reviews for her tails. Also she's had bad reviews before- you can see some of them in the review section.

She's a very sensitive person by nature and really bends over backwards and kills herself so that she turns out a good product and makes everyone happy. This has led, for various reasons (this review, I think, being the straw that broke the camel's back rather than a random flounce) to burnout. She's taking a break from new clients, essentially. She will still be making tails for professional productions, clients, and herself. She may take on new clients in the future. Also, she's taken breaks from orders before over the years, when the stress of it all becomes too much.

As someone who's made many custom costumes for various clients over the years I can back up the descent into burnout being hastened by an unhappy client no matter if they are justified or not. Very few people get into custom work to make people unhappy and artists feel especially attached to their work and knowing something you put out there isn't being loved is painful. One of the many reasons my books have been closed since last September to new clients.

Yes, I've seen the video and while I don't believe all of the information stated on there I know what it is like to not have a stellar opinion of a tail maker's work and suffer for any bad reviews given. I also know what it's like to be on the other side of the coin and have unfair reviews and flat out lies told about me and my work and how rampant the condemnation was until I posted photographic proof and more.

Anyways. All I'm trying to say is I feel for both sides and I hope people will in the future really start trying to work stuff out OFFLINE before 'calling out' anything online and having it explode with people who don't have all of the information explode trying to claim justice for their friends.

[SeaGlass Siren]

guys. Literally everyone needs to take a huge fucking step back.

If this was truly an issue why wasn't it brought beforehand upon in boxing the tail? Why say she was satisfied then, but then leave a bad review now? Why make the bad review only available to select people?

Why is everyone getting up in arms about Raina calling her out for this? And why is she being sent threats for pointing this shit out? Not cool guys.

edit: yes I did see the video. I kindly asked Raina for details and she was happy to provide. If you just ask her politely she will tell you. Pull your head out of your asses :/ the stupidity on this forum is why I'm only lurking in the forums now.

[SeaGlass Siren]

Literally the fact that everyone is leaving after Raina receives threats of being CUT by THIS persons friends says a LOT

[PearlieMae]

Blaze: Absolutely. This should have been worked out privately before taking it online in such an off-putting manner.

Sea Glass: a HUGE step back!

[Mermaid Lilium]

I'm not going to really get involved in this whole thing but the overflow back onto Facebook has brought me back onto here, though I've been inactive for a while (damn Tapatalk hasn't been notifying me).

The one thing I can't bite my tongue on and bothers me the most is the way people are in one breath demanding proof and evidence and in the next, crying out saying it's a breach of privacy to show actual evidence and proof to those who need to see it.

Seriously can you not see how ridiculous that is? You're literally putting raina (and raven) into a situation she cannot win in. Talk about catch 22.

I agree with seaglass. Everyone needs to chill, and unite around the fact that it's never ever okay to harass others online or to threaten others. Especially threatening violence.

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[Thalassa]

Aw, that's sad that Raven had to step back from customs, but I hope it helps her to find the joy in her tail making again.

I don't find anything at all odd in it, especially given what this has all evolved into. It seems perfectly normal to me to be fed up, have something like this happen, and simply say, "That's it. No more."

Sea glass, I'm with you. I really don't get why this exploded into such a problem. Raina defending someone and providing the mods proof privately isn't new. Neither is Raven receiving a negative review. The only reason I can think of is that people have an emotional connection to either Raven or Raina (since Raina is now being personally insulted) or to the mer in question.

Yeah, this is why I stay out of the forums for the most part. Because people just get so darned worked up.


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[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

So I'm basically an outsider here, a newbie mermaid who has been on and off the forum for many years.
Ive become so sad at this forum. I have lurked for years just enjoying the community, but there is no support for each other any more. It's all two faced, bitchy and high school drama. All I see over and over again is mermaids tearing each other down.
Just look at how this discussion has gone, with neither the mermaid in question or Raven even speaking for themselves, yet everyone is throwing allegations and name calling around. Why are we even talking about it?
As someone in the middle of tail design and looking for a professional tail maker I am terrified at what might end up said behind my back as a customer. I'm honestly ashamed and heartbroken that the community has gone this way from what started as a positive area to connect with like-minded people.
Anyway, I'm not an important mermaids on this forum, but just felt the need to comment as a nobody who isn't involved with those in question at all. Maybe you will all have a look at how you are coming across and reassess if it's worth all the drama. We all cop so much judgement from the outside world as it is without bickering like children amongst ourselves. Let's support each other instead of gossip.

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[Mermaidmechanic]

Holy crap this escalated quickly!

Mernetwork is just as... Spirited as I remember it being hahaha...

I will be as unbiased and honest as possiible with what I say here. I recently spent time with Raven when I picked up my tail after its revamp. I saw in front of me about 5 of her different tails, all of them were gorgeous. I haven't seen a single product of Ravens that was less than amazing. I have seen tails from multiple creators and honestly I think Raven's product is superior (I don't mean any insult to any other tail makers, this is just my personal opinion). Even one of her own personal tails she called "flawed" was of a much higher quality and standard then my mertailor tail. When I still was on an unfamiliar basis with Raven, she stressed over every detail of my tail even though it was already made. She offered a free resize since it was an already made tail even though i never complained about the size. When I did eventually take her up on the offer, she went out of her way to completely repaint it because she said her technique has improved and she wanted to make sure she sent out every tail as perfect as she could. She even repainted a top I had purchased off her cave clearance to match the tail free of charge, even though told her she didn't have to. When we hang out, she spends a decent amount of time expressing her anxieties over whether or not people will like their tails and she legitimately prioritizes peoples satisfaction.

I can't say a thing about the other party. I don't know them and I haven't seen the review. I can make an unbiased assumption that maybe she was upset she wasn't satisfied and was so anxious to just share her tail already that she had waited for that perhaps she didn't think to contact Raven about it first. But I don't know that for certain. What I do know is that Raven will always do her best to make her clients happy and she does send more than adequate pictures of the tails completion before shipping/ sending it off. Regardless, there is a lot of passion in the mermaid community and it quickly turns into rage and anger. Maybe go for a swim and cool off a bit guys. We're all on team mermaid here.

[AniaR]

Most the comments about her lying on the review are those who have not seen it.

^ by people who DID see it, and an admin even CONFIRMED the review contained a large amount of lies.

I honestly just don't get it sometimes with people (not directed at you Nixie I know you're new and just trying to figure this out, this is my general frustration). It's not even a debate. We aren't talking about where she liked her tail or not. Or the subjective nature of it is good or bad tail because those points can be debated til the cows come home. We are talking about intentional lies in the review and no one seems to care, question motivation, or consider the emotional damage that does to Raven. People here can say all they want about 1 bad review for a business, but you have no idea the crap Raven deals with on a regular bases and how tail making ruins her life, how people constantly threaten to ruin her so they can get what they want, how people DO get personal vendettas, that she has people try to extort her, black mail her, or threaten her on a regular bases to get what they want.

When things are murkey I appreciate people not taking sides, but when facts have been verified and people choose to be "neutral" they aren't actually neutral. They are taking the side of the oppressor by doing nothing, and it enables the oppressor to do it again to someone else. I'm not saying people need to think the reviewer is a bad person, or go after them, or anything. But when it has been verified that someone lied a LOT about another member of the community I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY ANYONE IS GETTING SLAMMED FOR TRYING TO SHOW THAT VICTIM SUPPORT. It's like victim shaming, all this gas lighting and dancing around to excuse the behaviour or put ownance on Raven.

would it kill some of the people here to just say "wow that sucks, sorry Raven." instead of trying to make a spectacle out of it ANYTIME anyone speaks up to support her on ANYTHING

[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

Sorry I edited my comment as I realised I was doing the same thing in speculating over something I don't know anything about. I just don't understand why we are talking about it all, it has nothing to do with any of us in the first place. It's just comes across as gossipy and harsh.
Maybe I'm just a bit naive but I just wish everyone could get along. I'd be devastated to find out I had people talking about me behind my back on a forum who didn't know what was actually going on. I mean that from both a clients perspective and a tail makers.


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[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

I guess you just need thick scales in this industry, against both people and other mermaids.

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[Mer-Crazy]

I just don't understand why we are talking about it all, it has nothing to do with any of us in the first place. It's just comes across as gossipy and harsh.
The thing is though a lot of people on this thread are clients and many of us have the opportunity to develop a bond or friendship with Raven over the course of our orders, so when someone upsets her, someone whom most of us view as an exceptionally sweet person, we all feel a little defensive because someone upset our friend. I think it's the reason some people are getting so worked up about it all.

[AniaR]

I'd be devastated to find out I had people talking about me behind my back on a forum who didn't know what was actually going on. I mean that from both a clients perspective and a tail makers.

It's a fair point. But I think this all started when someone decided to do exactly what you say... in a video. Without telling Raven any of it, and causing all kinds of crazy replies, and then blocking her from being able to share her side of the story. I appreciate from the outside it can be frustrating to see things spill over into the forum, but if she'd simply emailed her about her unhappiness with things/concerns to begin with, there'd be no need for any of this.

I could totally understand a video if Raven acted like a jerk, ignored emails, or said no, or anything. BUt she never even had the chance to say or do anything. And when you have 1000's of mermaids on your profile, that stuff spreads like wildfire.

Anyway you just hit 10 posts lol. you really are new. I'm sorry your first introduction to the forum is drama. but there's lot of great resources here for your mermaid journey!

[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

I've been on the forum on and off many years, my mermaiding has been a stop and start journey. I do a lot of reading, and I've seen the dynamic change over the years. I just don't comment or post as it's a bit intimidating. I don't think I'm the only one that feels that way. It's very cliquey on here. Like a school yard with the popular kids, the bullies and the quiet nerds. I'm just a quiet nerd.

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[LouLouBelle]

Like a school yard with the popular kids, the bullies and the quiet nerds. I'm just a quiet nerd.

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That's definitely not the worst group to be in! [emoji6]



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[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

That's definitely not the worst group to be in! [emoji6]



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I don't think so either [emoji4]

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[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

But I guess that ties in with what I was saying... "I'm a newer mermaid so my opinion doesn't matter" is the exact feel this forum seems to portray.
Which is why I commented in the first place, as a newer mermaid, to point out how bitchy you are all coming across with all the gossip and name calling.
It's not doing the mermaid community any favours.
Anyway, I'll just fade back off to my quiet little lurker corner now and read some actual helpful threads.


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[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

The thing is though a lot of people on this thread are clients and many of us have the opportunity to develop a bond or friendship with Raven over the course of our orders, so when someone upsets her, someone whom most of us view as an exceptionally sweet person, we all feel a little defensive because someone upset our friend. I think it's the reason some people are getting so worked up about it all.
Yeah that's fair, friendship is friendship. But is a public forum the place to bad mouth another mermaid in the process? Yes I know it's a "she started it" situation but that doesn't make it right. Wouldn't a nice message to Raven be more appropriate? Have you personally seen the video?

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[AniaR]

There's a difference between bad mouthing and point out lies. Again, no one name called, or said anything about what type of person she must be, or shared rumours about her. Just the validated fact that she lied.

And the forum was YES created so people had a place to deal with that stuff. Literally, this forum was created because Mertailor would try to keep people from saying anything bad, by ANY means possible.

When you called yourself a newbie mermaid, I assumed that meant you were new, which was why I tried to make a welcoming comment. It wasn't bitchy, and no one said your opinion didn't matter. No one ever says that to new folk. Pretty much the opposite.

[Mer-Crazy]

Yeah that's fair, friendship is friendship. But is a public forum the place to bad mouth another mermaid in the process? Yes I know it's a "she started it" situation but that doesn't make it right. Wouldn't a nice message to Raven be more appropriate? Have you personally seen the video?

Whether I've seen it or not isn't relevant as I haven't really posted anything about the video or the person in the video other then asking for a link. I didn't bad-mouth anyone, I only posted saying how I felt bad that Raven was upset and I actually did send Raven a message saying how I hoped she was okay and etc.

[NixeTheTropicalMermaid]

Anyway, I wasn't commenting for a big discussion or anything. I'm not really into arguing over the net that much, it's always pointless. Hope you all have a good day/ night.

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[Starfrit]

Yeah, here's what I don't get.

It's one thing to make a negative review video detailing your experience-- but when you're laughing the whole time, blatantly stating that Raven "didn't care about my tail," that she "made it in a week", spend half the video insulting Raven herself and claiming that she doesn't care about anyone who isn't a "famous" mermaid, and then actively discourage your viewers from ever going to her at all because "It's not worth it, do your research, go to another tailmaker"... that kind of crosses a line. Especially when apparently you can't keep your own facts straight in your own damn video.

She claims in the video she waited three years. This hasn't been the case. She claims in the video that it cost four thousand dollars. This hasn't been the case. She acts like it's Raven's fault that her ankle fins started tearing when literally everybody bloody knows that ankle fins are among the most delicate and are ridiculously prone to tearing because of their placement. She points out all this wear and tear and then openly brags that her and her mermaids do frequent gigs that are "way longer than the average mermaid" and is shocked when her tail is showing more wear?

She tries to talk tech about how it was put together, about how the monofin is "obviously" used, and makes a lot of bullshit, downright nasty assumptions about Raven and her craftsmanship when it's really, really obvious in the video that she knows literally nothing (if not next to nothing) about how a silicone tail is made. She brushes off Raven at one point telling her that her tail was taking longer to make due to wet weather as a "weird excuse" and like it's bullshit when anybody who's done a scrap of research knows that silicone doesn't cure in wet weather.

That's where I stand after seeing the video. A third of it is bullshit, a third of it is her talking about shit she doesn't know about, and a third of it is her flopping between outright shitting all over Raven insulting her and then annoyingly spewing out "OH BUT I HAVE NOTHING AGAINST HER, THIS IS ~~*JUST MY OPINION*~~" as a bullshit afterthought.

And then blocked Raven and Raina from seeing it, closed the video off so only a handful of her followers (or yes-men, IMO) could see it, tore apart anybody who pointed out any discrepancies in her video. enabled her friends to THREATEN RAINA WITH PHYSICAL HARM AND ATTACK HER BUSINESS and then just quietly mention "oh yeah some of the things I said were mistakes" only after the damage had already been done.

But Raina showed someone an email in private and didn't name anybody so she's the bad guy. Sure. I guess we'll go with that since that seems to be the fallback whenever someone gets caught being a shit.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[shimmygoddess]

Yeah, here's what I don't get.

It's one thing to make a negative review video detailing your experience-- but when you're laughing the whole time, blatantly stating that Raven "didn't care about my tail," that she "made it in a week", spend half the video insulting Raven herself and claiming that she doesn't care about anyone who isn't a "famous" mermaid, and then actively discourage your viewers from ever going to her at all because "It's not worth it, do your research, go to another tailmaker"... that kind of crosses a line. Especially when apparently you can't keep your own facts straight in your own damn video.

She claims in the video she waited three years. This hasn't been the case. She claims in the video that it cost four thousand dollars. This hasn't been the case. She acts like it's Raven's fault that her ankle fins started tearing when literally everybody bloody knows that ankle fins are among the most delicate and are ridiculously prone to tearing because of their placement. She points out all this wear and tear and then openly brags that her and her mermaids do frequent gigs that are "way longer than the average mermaid" and is shocked when her tail is showing more wear?

She tries to talk tech about how it was put together, about how the monofin is "obviously" used, and makes a lot of bullshit, downright nasty assumptions about Raven and her craftsmanship when it's really, really obvious in the video that she knows literally nothing (if not next to nothing) about how a silicone tail is made. She brushes off Raven at one point telling her that her tail was taking longer to make due to wet weather as a "weird excuse" and like it's bullshit when anybody who's done a scrap of research knows that silicone doesn't cure in wet weather.

That's where I stand after seeing the video. A third of it is bullshit, a third of it is her talking about shit she doesn't know about, and a third of it is her flopping between outright shitting all over Raven insulting her and then annoyingly spewing out "OH BUT I HAVE NOTHING AGAINST HER, THIS IS ~~*JUST MY OPINION*~~" as a bullshit afterthought.

And then blocked Raven and Raina from seeing it, closed the video off so only a handful of her followers (or yes-men, IMO) could see it, tore apart anybody who pointed out any discrepancies in her video. enabled her friends to THREATEN RAINA WITH PHYSICAL HARM AND ATTACK HER BUSINESS and then just quietly mention "oh yeah some of the things I said were mistakes" only after the damage had already been done.

But Raina showed someone an email in private and didn't name anybody so she's the bad guy. Sure. I guess we'll go with that since that seems to be the fallback whenever someone gets caught being a shit.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

So spot on! Those are all the things I questioned. I think some of the people posting on the video are ones that don't even get it. It is the mob mentality and people just getting worked in a tizzy and agreeing. I bought a top from Raven from one of her cave sales. It turned out to be way to big and posted it for sale. She saw I posted it for sale and told me to send it back and offered to make me a whole new top. Seriously that is something she didn't have to do, but she started from scratch and I had a brand new gorgeous scaled top. That is someone who cares, so for someone to accuse Raven of not caring is total crap!

[Sea Mamma]

Hello.
I would like to introduce myself. I am Raven's Mom and I have been quietly lurking on the forums for quite a while. I joined with the
intention of better understanding what my daughter is so passionate about and the community that she loves so much. I like reading
about your gigs, seeing the excitement of getting your dream tails (from her as well as other tailmakers) and living adventures that I
always dreamed about as a child. While I am her mother I have absolutely zero influence on how she runs her business. She will
occasionally bounce ideas off of me, show me her sketches and talk about how she gets excited when she takes a new order and is
challenged to create someones dreams. I also see all of the frustrations and stress involved in doing what she does. For those who
think that she makes a fortune doing what she loves I can assure you that is not a reality. She does it because of her passion to
create. But that same passion that makes her so driven is also the very thing that makes situations such as this so painful for her.


She may seem aloof or distant on the forums because she is never on here but that is done for exactly this reason. She has heard about
divisiveness in the community that this review has caused and the hurtful comments that have been made about her and she is absolutely
devastated. She has always taken great pride in her work and makes every effort to make a client happy and was completely blindsided
by this review and the hurtful comments that have been made regarding her ethics.
She was never made aware of any issues with the tail and the last thing that she knew this client was happy with her tail and posted a
glowing review of it. Raven would have made every effort to resolve the situation had she known about it prior to the review.Even her
desire to step away from the situation to re-evaluated her business practices, her desire to limit taking custom orders and limiting
further sales has been questioned as suspicious. She herself has not commented on any of this and yet she is being discredited by
speculation. And most painful for her is watching her friend Raina take the hits for in an effort to defend her. Please understand
when Raina says that she understands the business side of Merbella Studios she is telling the truth. She frequently has pitched in the
help Raven and Tyler when they are over run with e-mails, orders, questions etc. She is very well aware of things that I'm not even
privy too. It saddens me that the fact that she has been threatened and harassed for simply for trying help preserve Raven's best
interest. I have seen her do it for other people as well. So with that said I'm going to address some of the issues.


1. She claimed her tail cost 4k. (she has since redacted that to 3k) It was actually because
she was refunded a portion, a little less than 3k. She was charged 3k for a tail with all the fixings and
a top, but the top was refunded . Paypal invoice backs this up


2. She claimed she waited 2 years, then claim she waited 3 years in the comments. She did not. She paid,
and had her tail delivered a little over a year later. Again a Paypal invoice.


3. She claimed raven sent her photos to approve, and then after the fact, added spots. The photo
she approved (and shared on her fb and fan page and shared on merbellas fan page) has spots.


4. She made claims about a top and Raven not accepting it. She has a bigger chest so she "sent"
Raven a bra to make her top from. The bra never came, and raven has the email records of asking her about it, and where she admits it
somehow didn't get to her.


5. She complained she was charged 100$ for shipping, That is standard, but in fact she was refunded the difference from her top
and the shipping. She never accepted the refund (backed up by paypal screen shots and emails)


6. Claims in comments that Raven photoshopped her tail to hide flaws. Raven has multiple
photos of exactly what the tail looked like before it was sent out.


7. Claims she contacted them about all these issues, she did not.
She contacted them AFTER she posted the video review saying "I just wanted to contact you BEFORE I make a review" This is backed up
with E-mails.


8. Claims Raven did not send her any gifts. (first of all, she does't owe people gifts). She was sent a bracer, a scale heart
and a customized hair clip. Which she complained about and stated that it looked like a child made it (though somehow she's she didn't
receive any gifts.


9. Claims her monofin is probably used and cracking. The monofin is brand new from finis (Merbellas is literally
listed as one of their suppliers and are sent boxes of monofins.
They don't "crack" they literally snap like an elastic. And
the finis foil and finis competitor are known for doing that.


10. Claims Raven threw her tail together with no personal thought in a week.
(raven has a thing where if you claim she screwed up your measurements, you can show her a photo of it with measuring tape. If it
matches the measurements you sent her, she'll fix it at your cost. if it doesn't, she'll fit it at her cost)


11. She claims the scales on her fluke "fell off."They aren't individual scales. They don't fall off. It's a scale
sheet.


The moderators have been supplied with all screen shots and e-mails so that an impartial third party could review it. I made Raven
aware that i was going to post this to take Raina out of the line of fire and she very reluctantly agreed. Those of you who are long
timers know that raven abhors drama and never responds publicly to bad reviews, gossip etc.but this time it was too much to stay
quiet, Right now she is lacking the ability to form a cohesive rebuttal and would like to end the speculation once and for all but feels this is a no win situation for her. Luckie has made no request for resolution. Only the review and the redacted post where she corrects some of her "mistakes" in the review.

[AniaR]

you know totally random thought, but she may not realize her drainage system can get clogged. Happens all the time when we're in the ocean with the sticky sand that gets everywhere. So few people actually have drainage systems so it's not something people talk about. I unwound a hanger and use it to dislodge debris that gets into my drainage system. it's pretty easy and has never harmed my tail.

An idea for anyone else with a drainage system XD

[lynsea]

I would just like to say, Raven's Mom, thank you for creating and fostering an incredible talent!

[Mermaid Margo]

As a lover of Merbella tails, I was obviously attracted to all of the hustle and bustle in this thread, but I have no interest in attacking anyone. I simply want to wish Raven and her family well during this stressful time. I think that she is an extremely talented artist who is clearly passionate about her work. I hope that by taking a break from custom orders, she is able to focus on her physical and emotional health; I can only imagine how taxing her craft is, especially when it comes with the potential for so much drama.

[Keiris]

Sea Mamma, I am incredibly impressed with you taking such an interest in your daughter's interests and well being. I love it that you joined on here years ago to find out for yourself about one of your daughter's passions and I vastly admire the love and support you so obviously bestow on her. She's one of the most talented, hard-working artists I have ever seen and would be such a natural in the special effects industry in Hollywood. I wish MORE parents were as supportive as you are. The world would be such a better place.

[PearlieMae]

Brava, Sea Mamma! I hope she's starting to feel better.

I saw the video and followed the comments and watched this whole debacle unfold, and it confounds me how quickly people turn into idiots talking out of their asses! It was surreal and asinine the way people jumped on the 'hate on Raven' bandwagon! Part of me wanted to jump into the fray, but I didn't have irrefutable proof either way, so I would have been just as culpable as those in the thread...and I would have been quickly blocked and unable to follow what was going on, and frankly, I had other stuff I needed to take care of. I have tail commissions of my own to worry about. I figured things would sort themselves out. I had no idea things would get this stupid and ugly. Makes me glad I'm a solitary mer!

I reached out to Raven, and it hurts my heart to see her absolutely gobsmacked over the idiotic way this "review"was delivered! But again, not knowing first-hand what all the details and what was happening, I felt I wasn't going to add anything constructive to the conversation...I'm not sure I am, now!

It was badly handled from the start, and the mer should have attempted to reach her tailmaker, something I understand never happened, thus Raven being blindsided. And then to get bullied and dumped on by a shit ton of people who had no dog in this race, had no business piping up, yammering on like THEY were expert tailmakers! What the fuck?

It was a disgusting display of mob mentality, and I know Raven to be a sensitive soul, and she couldn't have been more hurt if you stabbed her. It's no wonder that she wants to quit doing custom work! I would (do), too!

This entire thing should have been between the tailmaker and their client.

And the badly behaved commentators should have kept their big traps shut.

[shimmygoddess]

Makes me glad I'm a solitary mer!



Yep, this pretty much. I have a small circle that I trust and this is why. Its sad really

[AniaR]

And the escalation and attempts to discredit me so people wont believe the truth continues,

This was posted in a mermaid group of people who are mostly non community, by Eden, who has me blocked, so I can't reply to it. lol So I'll reply here.

38157

1) Not sure how this involves Eden in the slightest

2) I don't need to attack anyone, I posted facts, that's what I stick to

3) I do not attack Eden or Shannon, I have them both blocked. IN fact, I think the last time I significantly dealt with either of them, was when they were fighting with each other, here on the forum.

4) "I Bring you no drama... I bring you the truth" let me do that by posting something super dramatic about a situation I am not involved in, calling it positive though it tears another person down, block that person from replying, and spam it in groups

5) Receiving phone calls from mers I have bullied calling fat. FAT. Really? I tell people they can't be mers because they're fat? HEY MERNETWORK even if you're someone on here who HATES me, you know I have NEVER done that. IN fact, I interviewed plus size mers for my book and gave them a venue to share their advice to new mers, I encourage them in blogs and videos and on here. How can she even think anyone would believe that one??


So let's see here...

I was threatened with violence before I even typed a word on this subject

I had fake reviews left on my business page

I now have Eden making crazy claims against me and sharing them all over the internet that aren't even close to being believable, she could of at least tried for ones believable ;)

I have had people here hurl insults at me and call me names despite my not having done any of those things.


Gee... I wonder why people choose "not to get involved" when standing up for the truth, involves people dedicating their every waking hour to organizing the harassment of you? Great job mermaid community.

[AniaR]

I also want to ask a serious question for people to consider.

What exactly do you think I have to gain, by subjecting myself to all of this horrible stuff, if I am not being truthful? (aside from the fact everything I said was VERIFIFED true) If I am out to ruin someone... why? These people aren't even in my country. We are not business competitors. Writing on the forum doesn't magically make me money or get me business or prestige. It doesn't win me any fans lol. What would I have to gain by calling other mermaids fat and saying they can't be mermaids?

I have ALWAYS spoken out about the truth, whether it was from mertailor issues early on in the days which made people more aware and put pressure on him to improve his business practice by keeping him accountable, or going after commentors on news article that make fun of my fellow mermaids or belittle the work we do, to advocating for people who have had their money stolen (Fish Butts, Stevi, Adam Martyn) and more. Everyone is happy to come to me with those issues when it affects them and ask for my support. But I don't *gain* anything from it. if anything, I lose things. You think it's fun being on bad terms with mertailor? lol It got me directly harassed for years.

In this instance, obviously I personally don't want my friend being taregtted and lied about. BUT I HAVE STOOD UP AGAINST DISHONEST REVIEWS BEFORE. I pretty much stand up against anythig I think is dishonest that I can prove.

So really, why in the hell would I allow myself to be raked over the coals and pulled through the mud, slandered everywhere, sent hate mail, threatened, harassed IF WHAT I AM SAYING ISN'T TRUE. There is literlly nothing for me to gain but a lot of stress and heart ache.

[Mermaid Lily_Pad]

Okay Raina, so if the video is not true, speaking Only of the tail itself, how exactly do you explain the tail falling apart? Let's take out rough treatment, since it is assumed it was treated with kid gloves and no one can prove otherwise. Let's view it for what it is without the verbiage to discredit anyone. If this was a tail by Any other maker, if the video was on mute since it's the words that are coming into question, and the only thing known about the tail was that it was a month old, was bought for 3K and had beem waited for, for over a year. how would people react? I know exactly how, because it has happened time and again with other tail makers.

You are right in the fact that we don't know what went on between the designer and the customer. The only people who do know are the designer and customer. This is judging clearly from a non-bias stand point on the tail alone. If it were any other creator, and the customer posted a video just showing the flaws, people would be horrified. We can only judge the "truth" by what is actually seen. Not here say, but physical proof. The tail is falling apart. That is the truth of the matter. The ankle fins are peeling off, the tail tips are splitting apart, the scales at the top are splitting in half, (Not falling off because this is not a scale by scale). The paint is unfinished and peeling off, etc etc. The tail is rough. Waiting even a year for that tail is not worth it, paying 3K is not worth it, heck I wouldn't pay 2K for it. It is flawed. It's that simple. Whether it was rushed, or painstakingly made, it doesn't change the fact that it was unfinished and is falling apart. It doesn't change the fact that the Mer now needs to buy another tail after only a month of use.

It's a shame that Raven has decided to step away. I don't think Anyone wanted to see that of her, not even the Mer who created the review, who praised Raven, in fact most of us, even those who have come here angry still praised Raven. She is a brilliant artist and that hasn't changed. I still greatly admire her work. Perhaps now that she is free to do her own thing some of the stress will ease up and she will be happier. I believe many people here are not angry with her at all, that most of their angst, as seen by Eden is with you. As I said earlier, you go on the attack, try to deflect by screaming about Lies! and people are going to defend.

As as for the Mer in question laughing in the video. I am really shocked that you don't recognize what the laughter is really about. It happens to me, and it even happens to Raven, when someone with anxiety is upset, angry, of hurt they have a tendency to laugh. Anyone who really watched the video would see that the laughter in it is not "funny haha" laughter. It's sadness, frustration, and stress, it's the laughter of someone who spent a lot of money for a dream but got handed a nightmare. You of all people should have recognized that.

Were there lies in the video, I don't think so. Not blatant lies at least. Did she wait long enough to get a reply from Raven about any fixes for her tail, considering how long it takes Raven to reply probably not. Did she get the bracer and the heart, not that I saw, but maybe it was supposed to be sent with the tops that never showed. Who knows. Certainly not us, only Raven and the Mer know that one. Lastly is ANYONE directly involved saying that Raven is a horrible person? Nope. In fact she was praised. This community has been one of the most frustrating communities I gave ever been a part of, but in a way it makes sense. When you are dealing with a Lot of money, time, and dreams you always want the absolute best, when you don't get what you were expecting, it can be devestating.

As for you getting threats and bad reviews, guess what? It goes both ways. The Mers on the other side of this fence were also getting threats, horrible emails, terrible private messages, etc. You were not the only one to get nailed to a wall over this. A whole lot if other Mers got the same treatment from your side of said fence. Just remember, the only Real Truth we have is that tail, and it's falling apart.

[TheSaltySiren]

It is such a shame this happened, I love Merbella's tails and wanted her to make me one in the future....Sucks when others ruin it for everyone.

[Sherielle]

So what needs to happen to resolve this? All I see now are people spinning their wheels on both sides.

[AniaR]

so if the video is not true, speaking Only of the tail itself, how exactly do you explain the tail falling apart? Let's take out rough treatment, since it is assumed it was treated with kid gloves and no one can prove otherwise

I actually haven't said anywhere anything about her tail condition. I can't know what was done to it, and neither can anyone else. I know I've seen photos of what it looked like being sent to her, and there's about a million reasons why it could be in the condition it is. My personal opinio is that if the person has been caught red handed lying about so many important details in their review, people shoudldn't just take them on face value that their tail fell apart, but that's my opinion. I think I've stated multiple times, that I have no interest in arguing over the SUBJECTIVE view of the state of her tail. I literally only stuck to facts and stuck to the things I KNEW to be lies.


Did she wait long enough to get a reply from Raven about any fixes for her tail, considering how long it takes Raven to reply probably not.

There was no contact to Raven at all. it wasn't about waiting. This was confirmed. No contact attempts were made, it's not a matter of not waiting long enough. First contact about the state of the tail happened AFTER the video, and the reviewer even confirmed "I wanted to talk about my concerns before making a review" even though at that point, they already made a review.


Lastly is ANYONE directly involved saying that Raven is a horrible person?

Actually, all those (now deleted) coments on the video that were screen shot (that Iona is in possession of) sure do. Maybe you didn't see them.


The Mers on the other side of this fence were also getting threats, horrible emails, terrible private messages, etc.

Actually, they didn't. I saw one mer did her usual (already proven) fake screen shots of texts etc (now deleted- but still documented) pretending there was harassment from an anon source. I mean, I know a lot of people questioned the validity of the claims even before I set my fingers to a keyboard, had their comments deleted, and were blocked (such as Amy Christine) and I guess that's considered harassment? It seems like anytime anyone even questions this reviewer, it's harassment!

Honestly, this is nothing but gas lighting and deflecting. I think you're a pretty smart person, and I think the more time you spend around these people, and the longer you look, the truth will come out.

And PS, literally everything I've said or done on this matter is posted here. I have no reason to privately harass anyone. What is that going to gain me? All people would do is screen shot and say OH LOOK AT WHAT RAINA DID and use it for ammo. Same with if I asked other people to do it. Or encouraged others to do it. It would literally be the biggest shot in my foot.

Holding people accountable, is not harassment, But all the stuff being done to me because people are mad about being held accountable? 100%. It's really really sad that you would even defend it that it goes both ways. And yet we're the ones called sheep! All this preaching about do your research, and when presented with FACTS so many people choose to ignore.

I personally feel this is just a group of people I have had issues with over the years, teaming up to use any excuse they can to go at me. And it's so funny because the only reason I even have "issues" with these group of people, is because I stopped being friends with 1 mermaid (who actually previously really did attack all of these mers as well documented on here)


You are literally grasping at every straw to justify this terrible treatment of me. it's sad.

[Mermaid Keena]

Soooòoo.... changing the subject because I dont know anyone involved = not my business 😊 I do hope it all turns around positive for everyone involved.

Is anyone else super excited to see what Raven is going to come up with now!? I know I am!! I hope I can squirrel away enough $$$ and THEN she posts a gorgeous pink creation that is my dream (and my size lol) AND I can grab it before anyone else sees hahaha!! 😆😆😆

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[Theta]

So what needs to happen to resolve this? All I see now are people spinning their wheels on both sides.

Give it a month. The kerfluffle involving the wider community will calm down and the two parties involved will handle it between themselves, or not. This is not the first time something like this has happened. And in the big scheme of things, this is nothing in comparison to some of the stuff that happened between client and tailmaker. (Remember the insanity of the Adam Martyn situation? Pepperidge Farm remembers.) I hope Raven and the client can sort it out. I hope that Raven takes some time off and recovers her equilibrium. Either way, the earth turns, we all move on.

[Blaze]

Is anyone else super excited to see what Raven is going to come up with now!? I know I am!! I hope I can squirrel away enough $$$ and THEN she posts a gorgeous pink creation that is my dream (and my size lol) AND I can grab it before anyone else sees hahaha!! 😆😆😆


I have long been wanting to get one of her gorgeous tops but I'm never fast enough if I am lucky enough for them to the the right colors and size. :p

[LouLouBelle]

Yikes...

I can honestly say I've never seen anything quite like this online before... Or when I was in high school... Or anywhere else, for that matter.

Having read through it all, I'm heartbroken for Raven. I get the impression she's had all the joy sucked right out of what was her dream job. Something like this has the ability to change how you feel about your work, with no way of repairing it. I'm not surprised she's quit doing custom work - I think I would have too. I just hope she's able to go back to enjoying tail making again now that she's not under so much pressure trying to please other people.

I haven't seen the video or any link to it, so I can't comment directly on the review itself. All I can go on is what everyone else has said so far.

I did see the unboxing video, though, and the mer in question seemed really happy with the tail, heart, bracer and hair clip. IF it's true that she claimed she didn't get them, then I know she's not being honest there because I've seen the video where she takes them out of the box...

If you have issues with something you've bought, then adding any amount of lies at all into a review isn't very bright, as it will discredit the whole thing.

If she didn't say that she didn't get them, then please someone correct me... I wouldn't mind a link to the video so I can see it for myself. As it stands, I'm looking at everyone that's posted here and feeling very wary of trusting what anyone says. All I know for sure is that every statement on here can't be true because there's so much contradiction.

And regardless of who said what and who's telling lies, it's NEVER ok to post threats or fake reviews to deliberately tarnish someone's reputation. Anyone responsible for that should be utterly ashamed of themselves.

This has definitely brought out the worst in a lot of people, and it's not pretty.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Sherielle]

Give it a month. The kerfluffle involving the wider community will calm down and the two parties involved will handle it between themselves, or not. This is not the first time something like this has happened. And in the big scheme of things, this is nothing in comparison to some of the stuff that happened between client and tailmaker. (Remember the insanity of the Adam Martyn situation? Pepperidge Farm remembers.) I hope Raven and the client can sort it out. I hope that Raven takes some time off and recovers her equilibrium. Either way, the earth turns, we all move on.

I hope Raven and the client sort it out too. I feel bad for Raven because I understand the tenuous balance that can happen when you create custom art. It's why I stopped doing it for a few years in my jewelry business. I also feel bad for the client. I think that she possibly went about this whole thing the wrong way. Whether she is lying or not, it's not our place to drag this on and on with speculation after speculation. I know there are facts presented. That's great. I just think we've reached the point here where we are beating a dead seahorse and let the business and the client resolve this privately.

[Mermaid Mystery]

Give it a month. The kerfluffle involving the wider community will calm down and the two parties involved will handle it between themselves, or not. This is not the first time something like this has happened. And in the big scheme of things, this is nothing in comparison to some of the stuff that happened between client and tailmaker. (Remember the insanity of the Adam Martyn situation? Pepperidge Farm remembers.) I hope Raven and the client can sort it out. I hope that Raven takes some time off and recovers her equilibrium. Either way, the earth turns, we all move on.

pepperidge farm remembers LMAO

[shimmygoddess]

The problem arises when someone flat out lies or fabricates the facts. What are the facts? Mermaid claimed to pay more than she did. Mermaid claimed to wait 3 years which she didnt. Those are lies. She admitted the next day she wasn't truthful. Which was very good of her. I have had dealings with mers in the past that never admitted they lied or owned up for their shitty behaviors. Regardless of the tail 'falling apart" (her words) or not. She did lie about a couple things and THAT is the problem in my opinion. Raina called her out for lying and is now receiving all the hate. If the tail (any tail) fell apart b/c of poor craftsmanship, then a mermaid has a right to be upset. If she is unhappy with the seams she has a right to be upset, however she should have stated upfront that was the case. She didn't. So I am guessing that was a lie? or change of mind? I don't know. I am not accusing anyone but the fact is clear she lied about a couple things that she is being called out for that. I have NEVER in my life seem so much drama as the mer community. It is f*cking sickening. Some people don't like Raina, because she stands up for unfairness and speaks up when she sees something shady and people don't like that b/c it involves them or their friends. Some mers are so narcissistic in thinking their shit don't stink and they can do whatever the f*ck they want and their loyal followers will have their back. And that is just the way it is and will always be. There is no changing the minds of the weak minded. I am so done!

**edit to add that in the past I have had my own drama with a certain mer that was in our local community. I was very vocal about it and always stated the facts. Noone wanted to hear it. I was accused of not wanting to work with them and that I was causing trouble, ect. But in the end, after they screwed over others, people saw I was right.

[shimmygoddess]

I did see the unboxing video, though, and the mer in question seemed really happy with the tail, heart, bracer and hair clip. IF it's true that she claimed she didn't get them, then I know she's not being honest there because I've seen the video where she takes them out of the box...

If you have issues with something you've bought, then adding any amount of lies at all into a review isn't very bright, as it will discredit the whole thing.

If she didn't say that she didn't get them, then please someone correct me... I wouldn't mind a link to the video so I can see it for myself. As it stands, I'm looking at everyone that's posted here and feeling very wary of trusting what anyone says. All I know for sure is that every statement on here can't be true because there's so much contradiction.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I did see the video and from what I remember, the thing she didnt receive was a top. She said she got the hair clip and scale heart. That the hair clip looked like a kid made it and the scale heart wasnt the right or same color? I cannot remember exactly. I dont recall anything about the bracer, so I am unclear about that.

[KayNS]

I think it's a good thing that Raven is discontinuing taking orders from the general public and limiting her tailmaking to existing clients and her own creations. Obviously she has been overwhelmed with business for quite some time and cares a lot about her creations. I think this change will allow her to focus on her art as her art and not as simply trying to make someone else's art a reality. I really hope it allows her to continue to love tailmaking and creating. It would be a sad shame to lose such a wonderful artist due to burnout. I've seen a few of my creative entrepreneurial friends have burnouts or get very close, and it's heartbreaking.

Can't wait to see what Merbellas has in store for the future. Perhaps some day she'll make something that I can make my own!

[AniaR]

the scale heart wasnt the right or same color?

I think people don't realize the scale hearts are made in batches from left over materials and given out as a freebee. They aren't made from your specific tail pieces. Just done in batches to use up leftover stuff that can't be used for tails. So she has a big batch of them, and grabs one she thinks goes in line with your scheme as a little keepsake. The scale hearts aren't customized to your tail. From a distance mine look like they match but up close you see they aren't even the same scales or colours. Also LouLou is comparing the unboxing video to the review, so the unboxing video does indeed show she got her gifts

I just think it's sad Raven even has to defend GIFTS.

[MermaidRaven]

Well after reading everything posted here about me *ouch* I don't even know what to say.

Ive worked so hard for my clients and I have an amazing reputation because of it. NOT because Raina "Bullies" people who say anything, but because whenever a client comes to me with an issue I fIX IT. I have bad reviews. You can read them here. I did not dispute those or even say anything. I had already done all I could do so I accepted them and thats it. I will be the first to say, I am in no way perfect. I am very flawed in many ways. And Sure, my tails are also flawed in many ways. I don't claim to make perfect/seamless tails and I do not claim to even be the best in the business. I am the best that I can be. Plain in simple. I give each tail my All because I HAVE TO. Anyone who knows me will tell you this.
I am also a very sensitive person. Its one of my least favorite qualities about myself but also the MAIN reason I will no longer be taking on custom orders.
It was very very difficult to read how some of you on here talk about me. As if you know me, as if you knew my INTENT whilst making someones tail? Im honestly just schocked seeing what conclusions people so easily jump to about me. Someone mentioned how hurt they would be if they knew people on a forum were talking about them....yep. Totally hurts.

I never ever make public statements. I never "go after" or "attack" people for their opinions/reviews of my work. I keep to myself and I work...
But this person LIED. Lied about very important things in her review.

And from what I gathered here,
That doesn't really matter because calling out lies IS WORSE than actually lying around here.
and even though we can EASILY prove that I am not lying about her lying (also because she has since come forward and admitted she lied about several things)
I am not able to do so or I would be doing a more horrible act of sharing her email (which y'all have no problem doing with Mertailor) but again, right now, worse crime.

SO what do you want from me? HOW do I defend my name? How do I stand up for myself? It feels like you don't actually want me to.

EVERYTHING Raina said I stand behind. EVEYTHING others have said in my defense and honestly out of common sense I stand behind and DEEPLY appreciate. Oh man you have no idea how thankful I am for the things some of you have said, its honestly helping me keep my sanity at this point.

I have never been so hurt and so confused and believe me, tail makers go through so much. but YOU don't know because I never say anything about it. Raina is the only one I trust enough to talk to about tail making because SHE UNDERSTANDS. She talks to you guys, and helps people and is friends will almost all the tail makers. She understands how hard it is on us. I feel like I have burdened her with this. And it absolutely breaks my heart that people are actually attacking her over this what I though was a pretty black and white issue. Its insane.

Im not saying she didn't have valid complaints about her tail. I saw she did a large amount of damage to it and she even says she does SEVERAL gigs a week for the entire month this review wasn't posted when she got her tail, only a month after heavy use. Fins do not fall off, paint dose not just fall off. It clearly gets SCRAPED off. I scraped a large part of paint off of my newest clownfish tail the very first time I wore it because I was shooting in a small concrete pool. I didn't intentionally make her tail worse its just what happens. Any "Pro" with a silicone tail should understand this simple fact of tails.
Fins don't fall off. They rip. again I do not understand how this is my fault but I do understand if happened and she was upset about it. but instead of contact me and ask me to fix it or hell even a refund she decided to act in this way. So I didn't even HAVE the chance to even offer any solution. She never asked for a solution.
and you know what, if the seams were sloppy I would have been happy to re-do them I HAVE DONE THAT FORE CLIENTS BEFORE. Every client is different. How do I know what details will "crush their dreams"? Her unboxing video she cried at the sight of it and genuinely seamed happy. She went right to work doing gig after gig. How was I supposed to know there was an issue?
You could clearly see the seams in the photos I sent, and NO I did not glamour edit the tail. Thats just ridiculous. I wouldn't even begin to know what to even edit out. its not like she replied to them saying "Oh man the seams look kinda sloppy?" and I said I'd fix it, photoshopped it and sent her the same photos or something. Again, this is just people assuming the worst of me O.o

It really really feels like you don't want me to clear my name or prove my side (or even hear my side) because she already got to say hers in the way she wanted.
Im not perfect, I make mistakes. I own up to my mistakes. It does my business ABSOLUTELY NO GOOD to intentionally send out bad work. I don't know why I would "Not care at all" and then not care so much I made her two extra gifts a customized hair clip THAT SHE MOCKED while complaining I didn't send her anything extra. I also sent her a scale bracer. You can see these things in her unboxing video and she was happy with them then.

Im sorry for any typos etc. Im very very flustered over this whole thing and "speaking up" about it is my least favorite thing but I just can't believe how people have responded and I really can't believe how much of this has fallen down onto Raina when all she did was hear my side and try to stand up for me.


Again, thank you to the people who said such kind things about me and didn't just assume Im some kind of monster. I will never forget the things said here over this.

[Keiris]

Raven, it is heartbreaking to hear the pain in your written words. Please don't let people steal your joy and strength as an artist. I feel that you are one of the most talented and unique artists that I have ever seen, especially considering that you are completely self taught! This includes special effects artists that I have worked with in CA! It is always evident in the pictures posted of your BREATHTAKING work that you constantly try to out-do yourself to make OTHER PEOPLE'S dreams come true. I especially admire that you take the time to always try to make it right when there is a size, color, whatever issue when the client makes it known to you. Hard to do if you're never given the chance to begin with. You ALWAYS seem to bend over backwards to make the people who have bought your creations happy. In everything I have seen posted here they always are!

We artists always tend to wear our hearts on our sleeve. I know I do with my mural/canvas commissions and it hurts when we're subjected to criticism when you feel you have done the best you can do on that particular piece. I hope through all of this tired BS you can take a respite for yourself, ignore the haters( as they mean nothing), regroup, and continue to create the masterpieces that people have come to appreciate and admire you for. Whatever form your business takes from here.

You're such a graceful and beautiful mermaid. Maybe take a few weeks off to close the door to your studio and just SWIM in your fabulous tails. I'm sure you never get much chance to do it anymore because you were always so concerned with filling everyone's orders at the sacrifice of your own health and happiness. Get in and swim! It will feel like therapy as all the meaningless crap washes away.

You have a LEGION of fans who admire and appreciate all your talent, creativity, ingenuity and hard work!!!! I know I do! So please, please don't give ANY of this any more thought than it is due.

Best of luck to you and Tyler. You deserve it.:)

[Theta]

Raven, it is heartbreaking to hear the pain in your written words. Please don't let people steal your joy and strength as an artist. I feel that you are one of the most talented and unique artists that I have ever seen, especially considering that you are completely self taught! This includes special effects artists that I have worked with in CA! It is always evident in the pictures posted of your BREATHTAKING work that you constantly try to out-do yourself to make OTHER PEOPLE'S dreams come true. I especially admire that you take the time to always try to make it right when there is a size, color, whatever issue when the client makes it known to you. Hard to do if you're never given the chance to begin with. You ALWAYS seem to bend over backwards to make the people who have bought your creations happy. In everything I have seen posted here they always are!

We artists always tend to wear our hearts on our sleeve. I know I do with my mural/canvas commissions and it hurts when we're subjected to criticism when you feel you have done the best you can do on that particular piece. I hope through all of this tired BS you can take a respite for yourself, ignore the haters( as they mean nothing), regroup, and continue to create the masterpieces that people have come to appreciate and admire you for. Whatever form your business takes from here.

You're such a graceful and beautiful mermaid. Maybe take a few weeks off to close the door to your studio and just SWIM in your fabulous tails. I'm sure you never get much chance to do it anymore because you were always so concerned with filling everyone's orders at the sacrifice of your own health and happiness. Get in and swim! It will feel like therapy as all the meaningless crap washes away.

You have a LEGION of fans who admire and appreciate all your talent, creativity, ingenuity and hard work!!!! I know I do! So please, please don't give ANY of this any more thought than it is due.

Best of luck to you and Tyler. You deserve it.:)

Can't put it better than that, I think.

[MermaidNerenia]

Raven, it is heartbreaking to hear the pain in your written words. Please don't let people steal your joy and strength as an artist. I feel that you are one of the most talented and unique artists that I have ever seen, especially considering that you are completely self taught! This includes special effects artists that I have worked with in CA! It is always evident in the pictures posted of your BREATHTAKING work that you constantly try to out-do yourself to make OTHER PEOPLE'S dreams come true. I especially admire that you take the time to always try to make it right when there is a size, color, whatever issue when the client makes it known to you. Hard to do if you're never given the chance to begin with. You ALWAYS seem to bend over backwards to make the people who have bought your creations happy. In everything I have seen posted here they always are!

We artists always tend to wear our hearts on our sleeve. I know I do with my mural/canvas commissions and it hurts when we're subjected to criticism when you feel you have done the best you can do on that particular piece. I hope through all of this tired BS you can take a respite for yourself, ignore the haters( as they mean nothing), regroup, and continue to create the masterpieces that people have come to appreciate and admire you for. Whatever form your business takes from here.

You're such a graceful and beautiful mermaid. Maybe take a few weeks off to close the door to your studio and just SWIM in your fabulous tails. I'm sure you never get much chance to do it anymore because you were always so concerned with filling everyone's orders at the sacrifice of your own health and happiness. Get in and swim! It will feel like therapy as all the meaningless crap washes away.

You have a LEGION of fans who admire and appreciate all your talent, creativity, ingenuity and hard work!!!! I know I do! So please, please don't give ANY of this any more thought than it is due.

Best of luck to you and Tyler. You deserve it.:)


Agree wholeheartedly.

I understand about putting your heart and soul into your work, I am like that with my studio. Each and every single customer receives a piece of you in the creation of it, the same with our clients, and we have to deal with everything from untruthful reviews, to mud slinging in the local community, to creepers, and people wanting freebies and everything else under the sun. I completely understand how something like this can affect your heart and make you absolutely sick.

Take some time off, take some long swims with Tyler, take a trip, discover a new place, relax and soak up some sun. Give your heart and mind time to heal and rest. You work so much for others, please don't forget to take care of yourself. Above all else, if you're not well, then you're not going to be happy. And we want you to be happy.

I wholeheartedly support your decision to take time off from customs, sometimes even the strongest of us just need an absolute break from everything.

<3

[shimmygoddess]

personally I think you shouldn't give them that satisfaction of stopping. Some of them are being so hateful almost wanting you to fail. Some people thrive on others failures..its sick. By pulling back or stopping they get their way. You need to take a nice vacation and regroup and just come back stronger than ever

[Vrindavana Starfish]

What Keiris said.

Raven, I'm so sorry you've gone through this. Really, your work speaks for itself. No one could make something so incredible as the work you put out if they didn't pour themselves into it.

I'm not a tailmaker, but a videographer and editor. Nothing hurts more than when you go above and beyond to give a client what they said they wanted, they agree to it, and then turn around and trash you for it. Honestly, it was a situation very similar to what you're going through that made me quit freelance work. I now only put out my own work. So I completely understand why you won't be taking any custom orders from now on, although I am heartbroken that now I will never get that chance, thanks to situations like this. Raven, you did not destroy anyone's mermaid dreams. But clients like this may have destroyed mine and others. I hope you get a good break from people so you can just focus on what you love, because I selfishly can't wait to see what you make next. Try not to let the haters get to you. They always squak the loudest so it seems like they're bigger than they are. You are well-loved and admired in this community, and we wish you the happiness you deserve. And hopefully I can catch one of your creations in the future!

[Spindrift]

From a personal point of view - I wouldn't trust a video that has several proven lies in it. It brings down the integrity of the entire video, and of the user. I didn't see the pictures of the tail before it was sent out, but from the video the only thing I don't know how the tail could not be self-inflicted would be the seams and the drainage holes (the latter of which I am dubious if the tail does float up or if water could even get inside, and if the seams were visible from customer photos thats on her to have contacted raven about). I have owned 2 Merbella tails, both a lot older than this girl's, and have had zero issues with either that was Raven's fault. I mean, I gained weight and ripped the first one but that's on me. I contacted Raven immediately and she was kind enough to fix it for me. I do several gigs a month and I'm wearing a tail a few times a week. I've been using her tails exclusively since November 2015, I believe. I just got my Kariel tail two weeks ago and before that I was exclusively using a Merbella tail that wasn't sized to me, causes drag because the waist opens up, and it's held up like a champ. Zero issues. I mean, there is a reason why it is recommended to not have a silicone tail as your first tail. If there are really people who are afraid to speak up against Raven's work because they have had issues themselves, why wouldn't they just contact her and talk to her? I mean. I'm here in Hawaii, which has arguably the most expensive shipping in the continental US and it hasn't been an issue for me. Heck, I've talked to her from Singapore and Hong Kong as well.

From a moderator point of view - The discussion started and was accelerated by third parties. If anyone would have guessed that this was what it was going to turn into, I'm sure the thread would have been locked out earlier. As moderators our primary responsibility is the forum itself. We are supposed to be as impartial as possible. The situation in question started on Facebook and while it is super unfortunate for Raven, it didn't really belong on the forum unless luckie made it a public review on MerNetwork - which she didn't. I believe the moderators are only responsible for the reviews on the forum, similar to how Amazon reviews are not the same as reviews found on Zappos. However, we're now past the stage where anyone can do anything about it. I'm a little uncomfortable that Raina jumped the gun and forwarded stuff to Iona as quickly as she did, as I think that added to the escalation. But I don't have a problem with her defending Raven. Reading her posts carefully, even if she spoke dismissively, she didn't break any rules or US laws/legalities. I think that if she is still acting as a contractor for Raven that should have been made clear upfront, but I'm not sure how entirely relevant that is to the core of the discussion - which is someone made a false review (I say false because the video itself does have lies, whether or not the comments retract it), and the discussion about it ended up on MerNetwork.

[AniaR]

Spindrift, I just wanted to give some context to your points.


I'm a little uncomfortable that Raina jumped the gun and forwarded stuff to Iona as quickly as she did, as I think that added to the escalation.

I actually forwarded it once everything had already started (the video had been up almost a day by that point) , and timing wise, only because I was super busy that day and knew shit would hit the fan lol. in the past I've been too late in getting people whatever proof they've requested- and people have used timing against me (damned if I do, damned if I dont). I think me commenting at all is honestly what escalated it. there were comments before I even said a word, taunting me, baiting me, and threatening me. They knew I would have to comment in defense of my friend, and they had a plan already to come at me. I think had I said nothing at all, and anyone else said it, there'd be barely an issue. But what am i gonna do when someone openly lies about my good friend? Or ANY of you on the mernetwork when I know with proof it's lies?


I think that if she is still acting as a contractor for Raven that should have been made clear upfront,

There's no law that requires that, but mods did already know that and were reminded of it in the message I sent them anyway. It's no one's business on mernetwork or in general if I am contracting, and we keep it to ourselves because I do it off and on, and it interferes with my own business when clients confuse us and message my personal fan page.


it didn't really belong on the forum unless luckie made it a public review on MerNetwork

I appreciate that statement, but the review wasnt put on the forum ever (and I actively repeated over and over again I wouldn't put it here). Just people discussing it, and the entire forum is filled with us discussing things that dont originate on the forum. The cultural appropriation thread for example, was all facebook. Hannah didn't come here and post her casting calls or her video, we discussed it here. Which is fairly normal of any forum U think

[Spindrift]

Raven, I'm sorry that this has caused you so much trouble. I don't know what really happened in the situation. No one here does. The evidence presented (now that this is public) is open to anyone's interpretation, and I think it escalated more than it should because of the way people approached it and their attitudes. You're a good businessmer and it is ultimately up to you which direction you want your path to go. Do what feels right, and what feels best. I think it's unfortunate that this is the situation that presented this opportunity, but please don't let this define you, or your business.

[LouLouBelle]

I couldn't agree more with Keiris either.

I haven't seen the review so I don't know all the details, but one thing that seems to have been established is that this mer complained about gifts... (Once again, please someone correct me if I'm wrong.)

I'm sorry, but if you give someone a gift and they turn round and complain about it, that tells you all you need to know about that person. Even if there are any legitimate complaints in the review, that one fact really speaks volumes about the kind of person you're dealing with and, despite what a few others have said, that person is anything but sweet. You DO NOT complain and mock when someone gives you a gift if you have any decency about your character at all.

Raven ~ I might not own a Merbella tail, but I'm completely in love with your work. I could spend ages just sitting looking through your Instagram pictures. It's so sad to see you quitting custom work, but I can't say I blame you at all. I really really hope you're able to take some time to really enjoy being a mermaid and making tails again. ❤️


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

I am glad people on here finally believe the truth I am just so flabber gasted at how much it took for people to believe it. Thank you all for being understanding of Raven and showing her support.

[Spindrift]

Spindrift, I just wanted to give some context to your points.



I actually forwarded it once everything had already started (the video had been up almost a day by that point) , and timing wise, only because I was super busy that day and knew shit would hit the fan lol. in the past I've been too late in getting people whatever proof they've requested- and people have used timing against me (damned if I do, damned if I dont). I think me commenting at all is honestly what escalated it. there were comments before I even said a word, taunting me, baiting me, and threatening me. They knew I would have to comment in defense of my friend, and they had a plan already to come at me. I think had I said nothing at all, and anyone else said it, there'd be barely an issue. But what am i gonna do when someone openly lies about my good friend? Or ANY of you on the mernetwork when I know with proof it's lies?



There's no law that requires that, but mods did already know that and were reminded of it in the message I sent them anyway. It's no one's business on mernetwork or in general if I am contracting, and we keep it to ourselves because I do it off and on, and it interferes with my own business when clients confuse us and message my personal fan page.



I appreciate that statement, but the review wasnt put on the forum ever (and I actively repeated over and over again I wouldn't put it here). Just people discussing it, and the entire forum is filled with us discussing things that dont originate on the forum. The cultural appropriation thread for example, was all facebook. Hannah didn't come here and post her casting calls or her video, we discussed it here. Which is fairly normal of any forum U think


I don't have much to say about timing, unfortunately. I haven't been as active as I should be, for being a moderator. Being proactive is good, and I understand everyone is busy with their own lives, but posting about it so quickly may have added to the issue since people are responding to the forum in real time. I think there are also a lot ways to say the same thing, without coming across as being defensive, but the recoil is definitely something everyone here needs to work on.

It's true that I am coming in late to this situation. I didn't watch this unfold as the same time as everyone else (and I have the worst time zone out of all the mods). I think if you are making a statement on Raven's behalf on a forum it is good to identify not only as her friend, but also her ambassador/spokesperson/representative when making statements like you did. Then the posts appear to come from a different place, rather then a guard dog - does that make sense? I understand there is no legality issues - and I'm not really concerned with that point on this issue - it is more the escalation and words exchanged, archived here forever, that I am not too pleased with.

As for discussion on the forum, I do believe there was a way this talk could have not turned into drama. Yes, we're talking about Hannah's stuff in the mers of color thread, but all of that stuff was on her public Facebook page. This wasn't. And it turned into discussing someone's personal correspondence with Raven without either of their (perceived - until later) consent. Personally, I am uncomfortable with that. If we were just talking about the end result of that transaction and the source is from either the person slighted or the tailmaker - I have no isssue. We do that with Mertailor and all the other tailmakers. But, and you can totally correct me if I'm wrong, I don't think there has been a situation like this before. In any case, I do want to move forward since it is being discussed and it is on here.

[AniaR]

Those are all valid points and I will be sure to remember them if there's ever a next time. (hopefully nothing of this magnitutde) thanks for making them.

Not directed at you, and more of a vent:
I don't mind accepting my faults and working to make sure things are better, but I do get upset when I am the only one in the situation frequently assuming any responsibility and doing that. The very reason I handled this situation the way I did, was based on exact feedback from previous situations where people said, I eluded to things I didn't prove, I didn't give proof fast enough, I added too much of my personal opinion. Those were all key things I specifically changed, but now it's like a double standard or the rules have somehow flipped. Some here keep glazing over what was done to me in retribution like I deserved it, which is the same mentality (not on the same level, but the same 'mentality) as blaming a rape victim for her clothes she wore, blaming a person for walking late at night if they get robbed. Talk about anything that could possibly offend someone, or talk about something someone might see as drama, or talk about something someone somewhere may consider controversial, and you deserve to be threatened, heavily lied about, fake business reviews, insults and more. I would be banned no question if i did those things to others. If I even said "you're being stupid" on here, I would be banned.

I certainly notice who on the forum saw that and spoke up, and I really notice who didn't. Speaking up and saying something is wrong, doesn't mean you agree with my side either. You can totally hate what I say, but aknowledge that the behaviour is totally wrong.

[Little_Orca]

I've not seen the video (the unboxxing, yes, the other, no) so I will not be commenting on that portion of this discussion here. What I can comment on is the notion of letting a few people stop you from doing what you want to to.

Sit down for this; I am about to lay something on you all. *Breath* I am fat. This is not a reflection of my character, of my abilities, of my talents, or anything else about me, it is just a stated fact based on appearance. Just as true as "I have freckles" and "I have long hair." However, in communities where you are put into the spot light, even in dimmer side lights versus the main stage, that suddenly becomes the worst thing you can be. (I can think of -worse- things to be, like a child molester or Trump supporter, but in most western societal pockets fat is the worst.)

When I started to get into mermaiding it was 2009, I was a spry 25 years old and I weighed 325 pounds. You know what I did? Decided my YouTube was going to be part mermaid stuff anyways. My first mermaid video was me swimming with my new monofin in a tiny hotel pool, which did nothing to help me look any smaller. But you know what? I posted it anyways. I didn't even have a tail skin yet, and I put it up for the world to judge... and boy did they.

Think back to high school, well, more like elementary school and you can imagine the treatment I got. All the bottom feeders came out to play as they thought I was an easy target. I was hurt and angry and retaliated at first, but then I decided to just ignore and deleted the very negative comments. It was not worth my time or energy. I was already super fat and trying to stop the comments was like bailing out the ocean: it wasn't going to work. "You were asking for it, though. Being fat -and- having the tag 'Little Orca'." I've been told this, and I ignore it. People who know me know why I have the Little Orca tag and why I don't g.a.f. what anyone else thinks about it.

Point is, it didn't stop me. I went on to make my first tail (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJVWYIPSVlY). Soon after, I made a second, third, fourth, etc... Each time I got a little better, each time I got a little more creative, each time I focused on what I wanted out of it and ignored the comments I still got. (None of which were Raina. She was always encouraging. *Blubbery high-five.*) If I had listened to people who laughed at me, who called me unimaginative names, who vomited hate with each stroke on a keyboard, I'd not be here. (In more ways than one.)

I would never have been a mermaid at Faerieworlds two different years. I'd never have swam with little girls at a pirate festival and would have never seen their eyes light up with the joy of meeting a 'real' life mermaid. I'd never have laid in a pool on the weekend for six weeks at a Ren Faire and let little faeries tell me about the falconry that I could'n't go see (because I didn't have legs so I could not walk to where they were.) I'd never have been part of a surprise swim for a terminally ill child.

I'd never have asked you, Raven, to design my wedding tail.

In my experience in the mental health field, people ('normal' functioning included) in this world often act harshly or negatively when they feel threatened. What causes this is variable, but usually it is a lack of security in themselves or in their environment. Some people may not take care of something properly and rather than acknowledge they may have done something to contribute to the problem which may make them vulnerable to their own faults and, thus, insecure, they must find an external source for the problem and use that scapegoat. I see it a lot at my facility among the patients and their families.

Don't let someone else's goat stop you from doing what you love. Take your time to rest, scrape off those nagging barnacles of self-doubt, and focus on yourself. Netflix with Tyler, chill with some iced tea (or frappuccino, nom!), and come back to your work when you know you can.

We will be here, Raven, waiting to see your newest creation with the love we have always given.

[AniaR]

If we were just talking about the end result of that transaction and the source is from either the person slighted or the tailmaker - I have no isssue

That is what happened. If it was unclear before I apologize. Iona was only sent MINIMAL information of the end result of the transaction, and an excerpt from an email with no identifying factors . Efforts were made to make it that way and only what Merbella's deemed neccesary. If people are under the expectation there is a giant email thread or something, or banking information, or threads of stuff, that is incorrect. That stuff does exist and could be given to a lawyer to dispute the clients claims.

[Ariel-Starfish]

Earher way: I hope everything works out well.


So, I'm trying to cheer this tread up a little!

I'm having my tail for four months now, I'll be making ab (honest and positive :) ) tail review soon! :mermaid kiss:

[shimmygoddess]

I can understand fully how this escalated. The posts from people on the video were horrid. They were blasting Raven, and her integrity, they said the tail 'looked like shit', they were gossiping about how Raina would be all over this, and were waiting for her to post about it, why Raven didn't speak up for herself, ect. It was very ugly. Most people were probably personal friends and had no clue about mermaid tails whatsoever, so they were just getting sucked into drama.

[shimmygoddess]

And the escalation and attempts to discredit me so people wont believe the truth continues,

This was posted in a mermaid group of people who are mostly non community, by Eden, who has me blocked, so I can't reply to it. lol So I'll reply here.

38157

1) Not sure how this involves Eden in the slightest

2) I don't need to attack anyone, I posted facts, that's what I stick to

3) I do not attack Eden or Shannon, I have them both blocked. IN fact, I think the last time I significantly dealt with either of them, was when they were fighting with each other, here on the forum.

4) "I Bring you no drama... I bring you the truth" let me do that by posting something super dramatic about a situation I am not involved in, calling it positive though it tears another person down, block that person from replying, and spam it in groups

5) Receiving phone calls from mers I have bullied calling fat. FAT. Really? I tell people they can't be mers because they're fat? HEY MERNETWORK even if you're someone on here who HATES me, you know I have NEVER done that. IN fact, I interviewed plus size mers for my book and gave them a venue to share their advice to new mers, I encourage them in blogs and videos and on here. How can she even think anyone would believe that one??


So let's see here...

I was threatened with violence before I even typed a word on this subject

I had fake reviews left on my business page

I now have Eden making crazy claims against me and sharing them all over the internet that aren't even close to being believable, she could of at least tried for ones believable ;)

I have had people here hurl insults at me and call me names despite my not having done any of those things.


Gee... I wonder why people choose "not to get involved" when standing up for the truth, involves people dedicating their every waking hour to organizing the harassment of you? Great job mermaid community.


Unfortunately I just found her exact post copied and pasted in the "Merfolk" and "Mers of America" FB groups too. Trying to get away from this drama and it popped up in my newsfeed. sigh

[AniaR]

Yes I saw that. And anyone who asks her for proof of her claims of me "fat shaming" people, is getting blocked lol

The unboxing video showing how happy she is is public on youtube: https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv% 3DVyiGWKXFeV4&h=zAQEjjyWY

[Rayne Mermaid]

Yes I saw that. And anyone who asks her for proof of her claims of me "fat shaming" people, is getting blocked lol

The unboxing video showing how happy she is is public on youtube: https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv% 3DVyiGWKXFeV4&h=zAQEjjyWY


Oh good,I'm glad you posted this video Raina! I was going to mention this video last night,because she's obviously so happy and there's your proof that she INDEED received gifts (that she seems to love immediately) she even puts the bracer on right away after finding it in the envelope

So am I the only one who thinks these tears here look forced? She's TRYING to cry happy tears?!

[Spindrift]

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
I'm in love!!! And I get my baby on Tuesdayyyy when I land in New Yorkkkkk.

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[Little_Orca]

Congrats! It's lovely!

[Mermaid Mystery]

oooooooh!! how long are you in New York?

[The Water Phoenix]

Beautiful!

[Spindrift]

oooooooh!! how long are you in New York?

I arrive on Tuesday and the tail is being sent to my friend's address. :) I'll be in Washington DC from July 28 to Aug 3rd and then NY all the way to Aug 9th.

[Spindrift]

Congrats! It's lovely!

Thank you!!!

[AniaR]

I'm so glad you finally have it. It looks AMAZING. If you need any help with the blended waist... let me know. They can be tricky ;)

[Mermaid Mystery]

I arrive on Tuesday and the tail is being sent to my friend's address. :) I'll be in Washington DC from July 28 to Aug 3rd and then NY all the way to Aug 9th.

Aaaa! I'll be up in NY from August 1-6! That's awesome!

[MermaidBonnie]

I got my tail from Raven. When I get the time I will post a full review. It's my only silicone tail that I can put on myself and the lightest tail I own. I had an unboxing video on my FB maybe I can share it on here? Anyways my photographers LOVE this tail. After my first photoshoot in this tail I got offered a licensing deal from a company that saw the photos. The tail has paid for itself in like two weeks lol! 🌈

[MermaidBonnie]

38190

here it is! I asked for some kinds of pink and Raven chose the colors and the design. I feel reborn!

[MermaidBonnie]

38191
And these tentacle things on the fluke are awesome! Ok sorry I had to share bc I know yall love her work and I do love this tail. Sorry if I'm not supposed to do that on here, just excited. I waited 19 months to share this triumph of a tail!

[Mer-Crazy]

The link is broken Bonnie :( but your tail is looking beautiful, it's a beautiful photo of you I can't wait to see the tail in all its magnificent detail.

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[TheSaltySiren]

That is am amazing tail!! Love the colors! And I just watched the unboxing video and yea, She is overjoyed, cries, love the gifts, etc... Man I hate people who lie. Sorry Raina if I said anything to offend you. You and Merbella don't deserve such hate...Keep being awesome mermaids :)

[Theta]

Spindrift and Bonnie, your tails are LOVELY AMAZING MAGICAL AND I AM TOTALLY FLAILING OVER THEM.

[MermaidNerenia]

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
I'm in love!!! And I get my baby on Tuesdayyyy when I land in New Yorkkkkk.

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38189

Girl....just...yes.....you are going to look so absolutely fierce swimming in this. I saw this when she posted it on her page and was blown away by the colors!!!! Lucky ducky!


38190

here it is! I asked for some kinds of pink and Raven chose the colors and the design. I feel reborn!

Bonnie you look absolutely fabulous, CONGRATS on the licensing deal, if I may ask, did they contract you to shoot another image, or was it a specific image they wanted? The only thing left on my modeling bucket list is a book cover (preferable romance novel, but i'll take whatever LOL.) That's such an amazing accomplishment!!!!

[Vrindavana Starfish]

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
I'm in love!!! And I get my baby on Tuesdayyyy when I land in New Yorkkkkk.

38188

38189


38190

here it is! I asked for some kinds of pink and Raven chose the colors and the design. I feel reborn!

Both of these are GORGEOUS! Bonnie, that's what I wanted to do, is give Raven an inspiration image and tell her to go to town. Gratz on the licensing deal!

[Spindrift]

Aaaa! I'll be up in NY from August 1-6! That's awesome!

Oh cool! I'd be interested in a NY meetup. I know Lanai puts them together from time to time. She's awesome to hang out with! Are you going to be in the city, or more upstate?

[Mermaid Mystery]

That would be so fun! I'll be in the city!

[PearlieMae]

Ooooh! Cookie puts together NYC meets as well! I'll try and find the schedule!

[Ariel-Starfish]

Spindrift: THAT TAIL IS AMAZING!! :gasp:

Bonnie: I have seen your clips on
IG, I would loooove to see your tail up close! ❤️

[Vicky Mermaid]

Wow i did'nt check in for a few weeks and i am shocked about the drama that has happened. After reading everything, i can only say: the mers that are lucky enough to own a tail from Merbella Studio's (myself included) All know how much love, care and again love, Raven puts in her work. I always find it so crazy to see, how it takes years to build a good reputation, but it can take a fingersnap to ruïn someones reputation. Sure no one is perfect. Raven is not Mary Poppins (practicly perfect in every way). Just a human beïng. Like all of us.... But ofcourse we all are mermaids ;)
Raven honey, do you realy think, that any of us is gonna believe a word of what that..... lovely mergirl.... is saying? People have spoken for you. You have spoken. Don't let this get to you. It is just something you will always have when you are a celebrity like you. And for all theother mers Who just recieved their tails. They are gorgeous!!! :) Oh by the way sorry for the late comment and sorry for the spelling ... Dutch Mermaid here...

[New York Mermaid]

Lol I'm having a meet up this coming Sunday, but I can try to do one at the beach when your in town Missy. SPIN let me know so we can talk an make a day and you can see my new girl too

ALSO after an incident with the Pod I no longer speak to cookie. We don't get along and after a certain Situations I don't think we will ever talk. But that's a story for another day

[PearlieMae]

Lol I'm having a meet up this coming Sunday, but I can try to do one at the beach when your in town Missy. SPIN let me know so we can talk an make a day and you can see my new girl too

ALSO after an incident with the Pod I no longer speak to cookie. We don't get along and after a certain Situations I don't think we will ever talk. But that's a story for another day

I did not know that. Okey doke...good to know. :)

I'd love to meet up if I can get away, though...that is, if you don't mind me inviting myself ;)

[New York Mermaid]

I did not know that. Okey doke...good to know. :)

I'd love to meet up if I can get away, though...that is, if you don't mind me inviting myself ;)

Of course lovie you're more than welcome to join anytime, I've been dying to meet you!. Everyone's welcome to join anytime I have a meet up or they let me know, so I can make plans to accommodate ( unless I'm working) so yes come swim have fun :)

As for the Cookie thing, yea alot of people don't know. I'm very pod focused lol I'm always happy for whatever achievement they do and also work on meeting them even if it's for chocolate. But trust me on this one when it comes to cookie, I let karma handle it. And I will continue to let it do so, I have more important things to focus on like my amazing friends and family who mean the world to me

[New York Mermaid]

Anyway not that I meant to take over the thread but here we go

RAVEN MAKES SUPER AWESOME TAILS AND I'D LIKE TO SEE MORE OF THEM,


WHOSE WITH ME!!

[Mermaid Aria]

I AM!

Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk

[LouLouBelle]

I love both those tails. Bonnie - that photo is gorgeous. ❤️
Spindrift - I love just how vibrant and tropical your tail looks. It's going to look absolutely stunning in action!

I also love the close up Raven posted of her Mystery tail on Facebook. I think that will always be one of my favourite tails.

https://m.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/photos/a.186311664758255.47942.178589958863759/1130317457024333/?type=3&source=48


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[Kaila Mermaid]

I saw that she's taking a hiatus from new customers at the time. Equal parts sad that I've only ever bought a refurb top so I don't believe I qualify, and happy for her that maybe this will take some weight off her shoulders

[MermaidBonnie]

Thank you Theta and Nerenia! The company purchased two of my photos. They will be used on product labels, billboards, online, and on posters for me to autograph when they bring me to shows for advertising. I'm not allowed to name the company as they do t want another to steal their idea to use a mermaid. It will be revealed this October. This tail has gotten great attention from phitographers who want to shoot the "Khaleesi look alike in a pink tail" as I'm being referred to now lol. I'm just greatly humbled and overjoyed by this. If they keep renewing the license I won't ever have to work again lol. Squee!!!!!! ❤️🌈

[Hydra1337]

That's so exciting! Congratulations! You look beautiful in your tail btw.

[MermaidBonnie]

Thank you Hydra!!!!! On a side note Id love to come to NY for a meetup with you gals! I'm also in the works to produce my own mermaid get together here in Nashville using my new home for it since we have 4 pools besides my personal pool to use. I will start a thread on that once I get the dates in.

[Mermaid Caspiana]

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
I'm in love!!! And I get my baby on Tuesdayyyy when I land in New Yorkkkkk.

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I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS TAIL! 😍😍😍

[The Water Phoenix]

God, that tail is so gorgeous! ❤️


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[Sitre Seer Moroaica]

Raven...I literally cried when I read your post because I too understand what you are going through (in a different subculture). Where people turn away from you because people are bad mouthing you left and right and no one cares to even hear what you have to say. To listen to your side. Especially when you've done so much for so many people and just be tossed aside like trash and forgotten..Even to have your close friend be bashed and harassed because of involvement with you. I've been dealing with the drama for over two years now and it comes and goes in waves but when it rolls around it drives me mad, frustrates me and saddens me that people would go so far to hurt, harm and hate you and hurt others around you when it can simply be resolved by talking to one another. One person against a group of haters never looks good sadly even if you are in the right :( And I'm not saying anything by it just my observations of trying to explain my side of the story..Sadly people listen to groups more than the actual person involved..again I'm speaking from what I've been experiencing in another subculture.

I absolutely understand wanting to stop. I've broken away from my favourite event, deleted friends for associating with the haters and completely removed myself from doing what I love, being in a subculture I love and living the life I love by myself instead of finding friends and group. I was beaten and torn down by the hate I received over being "too emotional" especially when my father almost died in open heart surgery and never seeking them out for support or help. Because of that, I am hated to the fullest extent by my group of haters. People who are friends with them wont even give me the time of day and they turn business away from a close friend of mine that I work with every year here in Denver.

Stay strong my dear, break away for however long you need. Stop and breathe. Vent, cry be angry do what you need to do to heal your soul and emotions. Whatever has happened has happened and all you can do now is roll through like a wave. The storm will subside and over time you will no longer feel the sting of the wave crashing against the rocks. I wish I could give you a huge hug right now..but please know you are not alone in something like this...

[lynsea]

Have you guys seen the clownfish tail yet!? It's absolutely beautiful and totally perfect for Raven.

[Mer-Crazy]

She's had the clown fish tail for a while now it just got an evolution recently and now it's even more amazing! I love the fluke.

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

I shared one of the photos on the mernetwork fb page, and Ive seen a few others pop up in my feed. totally beautiful

[MermaidNerenia]

That new fluke update is insanely beautiful. I am so glad to see her in the water and swimming, I hope it's helping her heal.

[Ariel-Starfish]

Drooling all over these pretty tails.., :drool: :swoon:

[MermaidBonnie]

Sitre you are absolutely right. It totally sucks when people develop a mob mentality and I've experienced it and am so sorry you have as well. Hugs. On a side note I am friends with the reviewer who made the video. I see both sides and no one is receiving hate from me. Both women are in the right to do what they want to do-post a review/take a break from work. I like both women. I hope good things happen for both 🐬

[Taniwha]

This community does seem to dive head first into baying for blood quite easily these days :( I'll just say that I don't have a tail, haven't seen the video, don't want to. But quite a long time ago I came across a video of a couple of mermaids that I loved and a community that was about orca PJs and swimming and making tails and posting pictures and it was all kinds of of fun. Raven was a hugely generous part of that community posting updates of her tail making adventures.

There may be more professional videos and tails out there... but at 0:42 I realised I wanted to be a mermaid. Thank you to merbellas for that <3

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsclC0EvbxQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsclC0EvbxQ)

[MermaidBonnie]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL0JQ14d_bA

[Ariel-Starfish]

❤️

Thank you for putting together this video! :)

And I can't agree more, there is almost nothing that a little SilProxy can't fix! •^_^•

[Winged Mermaid]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL0JQ14d_bA

Thanks for posting Bonnie! Would be great if you could post it in the Merbellas Review thread so others can see it when they're looking to purchase a tail from Raven too :) (Link to the thread: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?3092-Merbella-Studios)

[TheHouseofFlynn]

38497
MERBELLAS REVIEW-

Hello all! I usually keep quiet around these parts, but after the mess I saw on this thread, I thought I should post a review.
I currently own 4 Merbellas tails and have 2 more on the way.
I was introduced to Raven, as we both own businesses and I quickly developed a huge girl crush. (My husband and kids even know her name!) I had bought the SheCreature, Merbellas tail off ebay from another mermaid and took it to Mexico to give it a spin. I fell hardcore in love with mermaiding, (my red hair fits right in!), that day and never looked back. I go to Mexico every 4-6 weeks and swim as a mermaid 5 days a week for fun. Never professionally.
Since that day, I bought the rest of the tails and ordered custom jobs as well.
As the owner of a large product business, it is incredibly hard to impress me. Raven did exactly that. From the moment I started talking with her to now, I have felt like, no one better in the world could exist to create tails.
Her service, her creativity, her passion and drive... all of this is just incredible. These tails are handmade. They take time and expertise as well as artistic skills beyond measure.
I have never had a single issue with her, her work or her customer service.
The tails are literally perfection. They appear so real, that I even have divers bubble up to me when I free dive to touch them.
I don't know what more I could say, other than that... I would buy another 6 tails, right now, if she had them ready.
My whole life, I have never experienced anything that gives me as much happiness as free diving in a Mexican cenote with a tail.
Raven, you are truly, one of the most incredible people, I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with. I'll see you in Mexico someday :-)

Photos of my tails and I :-) The happiest girl in the world!


3849838499

[Sitre Seer Moroaica]

Damn! I wish I had enough money to buy as many tails as you do and go down to Mexico as much as you do haha

[Vrindavana Starfish]

Goals: owning 6 Marbella's tails! You are so lucky and you make a beautiful mermaid!

[polyhymnia113]

For reals. Serious tail inventory envy. ;P

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

[Hydra1337]

Those are so beautiful! I remember seeing the drawing of the middle tail in the second picture in Raven's interview video. It seriously looks exactly like the drawing.

[Keiris]

Gorgeous photos, HouseofFlynn ! You look so REAL in them!!!! Post more pics!

[Merenneito Nerissa]

TheHouseOfFlynn, Omg what a gorgeous mermaid you are, you're definitely living a dream :D Needed to immediately check out your instagram and follow you since you mentioned Cenotes and all, love the photos you have there so much <3

[Mermaid Andrina]

TheHouseOfFlynn, can I please be you? You look amazing! (: The middle tail is one of my favorites Raven has done, you are a lucky mermaid.

[AniaR]

Maureen you can feel free to leave a review in the review section too :) it doesn't show up right away is all.

[MermaidNerenia]

HouseofFlynn! Your bags and products are stunning. I am hoping to buy one of your tail bags for my Merbella tail when it arrives at some point next year, you're the only one on the market who I have seen absolutely corner tail-transport in a safe and stylish way.

Also....you look absolutely gorgeous. I'm so happy to finally see who bought the Frida tail!

My best friend and I will be in Mexico in November at her time share, where abouts do you visit? She's scuba certified and I am hoping to get certified once we get down there.

[MermaidClaudy]

38497
MERBELLAS REVIEW-

Hello all! I usually keep quiet around these parts, but after the mess I saw on this thread, I thought I should post a review.
I currently own 4 Merbellas tails and have 2 more on the way.
I was introduced to Raven, as we both own businesses and I quickly developed a huge girl crush. (My husband and kids even know her name!) I had bought the SheCreature, Merbellas tail off ebay from another mermaid and took it to Mexico to give it a spin. I fell hardcore in love with mermaiding, (my red hair fits right in!), that day and never looked back. I go to Mexico every 4-6 weeks and swim as a mermaid 5 days a week for fun. Never professionally.
Since that day, I bought the rest of the tails and ordered custom jobs as well.
As the owner of a large product business, it is incredibly hard to impress me. Raven did exactly that. From the moment I started talking with her to now, I have felt like, no one better in the world could exist to create tails.
Her service, her creativity, her passion and drive... all of this is just incredible. These tails are handmade. They take time and expertise as well as artistic skills beyond measure.
I have never had a single issue with her, her work or her customer service.
The tails are literally perfection. They appear so real, that I even have divers bubble up to me when I free dive to touch them.
I don't know what more I could say, other than that... I would buy another 6 tails, right now, if she had them ready.
My whole life, I have never experienced anything that gives me as much happiness as free diving in a Mexican cenote with a tail.
Raven, you are truly, one of the most incredible people, I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with. I'll see you in Mexico someday :-)

Photos of my tails and I :-) The happiest girl in the world!


3849838499


#goal

[Ariel-Starfish]

:swoon: URGH ❤️ Tail envy to the max!

[Mermaidmechanic]

New photoshoot with the dragon!
http://i1262.photobucket.com/albums/ii606/Cheryl_Maplefish/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5148_zpstzdzpn71.jpg (http://s1262.photobucket.com/user/Cheryl_Maplefish/media/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5148_zpstzdzpn71.jpg.html)


http://i1262.photobucket.com/albums/ii606/Cheryl_Maplefish/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5205_zpszm7lz3kb.jpg (http://s1262.photobucket.com/user/Cheryl_Maplefish/media/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5205_zpszm7lz3kb.jpg.html)

[AniaR]

YOU LOOK AMAZING ermagerd

[MermaidClaudy]

New photoshoot with the dragon!
http://i1262.photobucket.com/albums/ii606/Cheryl_Maplefish/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5148_zpstzdzpn71.jpg (http://s1262.photobucket.com/user/Cheryl_Maplefish/media/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5148_zpstzdzpn71.jpg.html)


http://i1262.photobucket.com/albums/ii606/Cheryl_Maplefish/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5205_zpszm7lz3kb.jpg (http://s1262.photobucket.com/user/Cheryl_Maplefish/media/Mobile%20Uploads/_MG_5205_zpszm7lz3kb.jpg.html)


''pick up my jaws from the floor''

OMG!!!!!

[frozenbutterflywings]

Colors are so vibrant!!! Amazing!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Toxotes]

Great Pictures and a stunning tail.
I am really curious about that connection of your tail and top. Can we see any detailed pictures in the future?
Because I think it´s really unique.

[AniaR]

soooooo amazing

[Mermaidmechanic]

Thanks all. XD Raven is killin it on those colors. They pop like crazy!

[Vicky Mermaid]

Gorgeous pictures, gorgeous tail, gorgeous Mermaid!!!!


Yesterday i got my tail back from Raven. She was so nice to take my tail back and took her in on the places where she was too big. She also removed the entire blended waist and put in a whole new one so it would match better with my skin. AND she also made me a super cool bracer as a gift. She is so wonderful. I think i was even more happy than the first time i got my tail. I tried her on right away, but it wasn't as easy as before. It is true what they say. The more skintight your tail is, the harder it is to put it on. I couldn't get her up all the way, but the fitting was much, much better!!! Can't wait to plan a shoot and swim!!!

[Mer-Crazy]

2 years wait exactly today haha. It's so wonderful seeing everyone's tails and just makes me all the more excited for mine <3

[MermaidBonnie]

The house of Flynn, your tails are beautiful!!!!! And Mechanic, I love those colors! I'm so glad I read this bc I would love to have Raven touch mine up in the future and I see she's doing marvelous with your tails!!! ❤️����. We should have a merbellas tail owner meet up swim! Wouldn't that be lovely?

[AniaR]

[quote]I tried her on right away, but it wasn't as easy as before. It is true what they say. The more skintight your tail is, the harder it is to put it on. I couldn't get her up all the way, but the fitting was much, much better!!![/quote

My tail is skin tight and I find it sooo hard. My trick is to use so much lotion, like SOO much. I also use lotion to get it off to make it easier to keep from damaging it.

I like the way my tail looks but I wont go skin tight again hahaha I'd rather have it a little baggy and wear tights underneath like I did with my first one. LOL

[Vicky Mermaid]

@Raina i knew what i was getting myself into. I used a Thom Shouse wettail before that was also skin tight. I already went to the Adult shop to buy a big amount of lube lol

[MermaidNerenia]

AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! I got my tail sketch from Raven today and could not be more thrilled!!!! I could have never imagined it would look so perfect, Raven did things with the colors and overall look of the tail that would have never occurred to me but it absolutely brings it to life and makes it look like a true living creature! I could not be more satisfied to have turned the whole design over to her hands.

My best friend got her sketch today as well and its such a unique and strong design, I am confident that it is exactly what she wanted. Its a very powerful looking tail design.

I'm on vacation in Florida right now actually, and I have spent the last two days swimming in crystal clear spring waters. Its been exciting to think about my next visit here I will have my tail with me and be able to enjoy gliding through the fresh clear waters in it.

I honestly am in shock how perfect our tails are, they're both so unique and unlike any others I have ever seen here.

[Hydra1337]

Good for you! Are they going to be Raven originals or did you and your friend have specific designs in mind?

[MermaidNerenia]

Originals, I gave her a color pallet and Jamie gave her a theme and she ran with it. Originally we were going to have matching colors but what Raven came up with is even better.

[Hydra1337]

I can't wait to see them. I'm very happy for you and all the other Merrell mers.

[polyhymnia113]

You look breathtaking! That tail is still one of Raven's most stunning ever!

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

[Mer-Crazy]

Okay so I don't normally do this because it doesn't feel fair to those who can't see it because it's on one of Ravens private accounts. But I have to. Edit: It's on the Merbella page so I don't feel bad anymore.

HOLY CRAP GUYS SHE MADE A SKELETON TAIL! It's amazing.
38848

[polyhymnia113]

I had seen it somewhere else a few days ago, but oh man oh man, she outdoes herself with every new tail. This one is so phenomenal. 😍

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Caspiana]

Okay so I don't normally do this because it doesn't feel fair to those who can't see it because it's on one of Ravens private accounts. But I have to. Edit: It's on the Merbella page so I don't feel bad anymore.

HOLY CRAP GUYS SHE MADE A SKELETON TAIL! It's amazing.
38848
*dies because of amazingness* I so want to have one of her tails in my life..... *dies again*

[Mermaid Cataleya]

*dies because of amazingness* I so want to have one of her tails in my life..... *dies again*

A lot of people do me included but she's stopped making tails for awhile only selling tails that she has already made or taking orders from previous clients. She is no longer taking on new clients or making new tails


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[Mermaid Alea]

The funny thing is I was just thinking about a skeleton mermaid tail the other day. Then I see that Raven has just made one! It would be cool if the bones glow in the dark.

[AniaR]

she actually made it a while ago and I believe someone else owns it now, she just never had time to put it online LOL

[LouLouBelle]

That skeleton tail is awesome - and kinda eerie!

I'm officially in love with the new clownfish tail:

https://m.facebook.com/katogenicphotography/photos/a.1403955486287461.1073741905.252186898130998/1409265152423161/?type=3&source=54


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[Hydra1337]

That skeleton tail is awesome - and kinda eerie!

I'm officially in love with the new clownfish tail:

https://m.facebook.com/katogenicphotography/photos/a.1403955486287461.1073741905.252186898130998/1409265152423161/?type=3&source=54


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

OMG me too! The detail in her work is incredible.

[Mermaid Alea]

That is officially my favorite rounded fluke design.

[Gingersnaps]

https://www.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/photos/a.186311664758255.47942.178589958863759/1159732580749487/?type=3&theater

OMG this is basically my dream tail TAT being 5'10 I doubt it fit me though. Dang... I.... just.... *rubs face on screen* wannnt it so bad.

[Little_Orca]

I keep dreaming that one day I will wake up and see my tail posted on here and know it's mine and ready! XD

[Vrindavana Starfish]

OMG the abalone tail on her page! Tempted to go back to Facebook JUST to stalk the Marbella's page!

[Winged Mermaid]

I'm totally stalking the Weeki Wachee page for all the behind the scenes photos and videos they're posting of the calendar shoot! Sooo amaazziiinnng!

[MermaidNerenia]

I'm totally stalking the Weeki Wachee page for all the behind the scenes photos and videos they're posting of the calendar shoot! Sooo amaazziiinnng!

I'm doing the same, it's amazing to see them underwater and I love the Weeki Wachee music. I see one of the girls got to wear Raven's special new clownfish tail, lucky girl! I was hoping to vacation there around the same time they were putting the new calendars out but I missed it by like 4 weeks :(

Keep an eye out ladies I have the feeling that a few tails are going to be going up for sale in the new few weeks that were kept back and saved from the Weeki Wachee shoot, heavy odds on 'Mystery' and the Green Seadragon tail being among them, she already posted that the one tail with that new hip roll is going up and it was used in the shoot! Also, whatever tail Mermaid Chelsea from Weeki was wearing was stunning and had that new fluke shape!!!!!

[Mermaid Alea]

I keep watching the videos over and over again. Mermaid goals! Also, the Merbella tails being used in this year's calendar photoshoot are so beautiful! I tend to like the look of all Merbella tails anyways, but this group of tails is just...WOW! I am so in love with the 'Mystery' tail.

[Little_Orca]

I really should get one this year... I just have to find room for it outside of my Mermaid Raven shrine. *cough cough* Hehe.

[Sitre Seer Moroaica]

Tail Update!
I received an email providing pictures of my tail and top and ugh they look soooo beautiful I absolutely cant wait! Since my boyfriend bought my tail I was sworn to secrecy about my tail so no one on my facebook even knows about it or even what it looks like but I plan on holding an unboxing video at my local rec center so I can surprise people not only in person but online with videos and photos and get my first swim in it :D Now I'm just waiting patiently for the next email stating the cost of shipping and the invoice to paypal :3

[Mer-Crazy]

Ahhhhh That is so exciting Moroaica! I can't wait to see it!

[Freshwater_Nim]

https://www.facebook.com/MerBellaStudios/photos/a.186311664758255.47942.178589958863759/1159732580749487/?type=3&theater

OMG this is basically my dream tail TAT being 5'10 I doubt it fit me though. Dang... I.... just.... *rubs face on screen* wannnt it so bad.

Is hasn't actually been put up for sale though has it? (I'm stalking the fb page for the calendar shoot videos :D)

[Mer-Crazy]

It hasn't yet but Raven did say Tyler would be putting up for sale soon.

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[Freshwater_Nim]

I read it would go up for sale "this week" and I read that last week - hence the confusion. :)

[MermaidNerenia]

OMGGGGG go look at the Weeki Wachee page and the tail Mermaid Chelesa was wearing for the photoshoot. Those colors and that shimmer are to die for!!!

[AniaR]

Hey folks I try not to post too much of raven's personal life etc in the forum but for those waiting on updates, just wanted to let you know Raven is coping with two unexpected close family member deaths within a week of each other right now, and a beloved pet (also unexpected). Her husband is working with his performance company right now so she is on her own managing things and also trying to cope with all this bad stuff. She also have to travel for a bit for one of the funerals.

So don't be surprised if updates seems a little slow since her husband usually manages the email/messaging/fb posting side of things.

[Little_Orca]

:( Poor Raven.

[frozenbutterflywings]

One of her tails are up for sale and can I say that top design is so gorgeous! The accents all around make it super pretty


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[Hydra1337]

I love the rolling hip fins or whatever she calls them.

[Mer-Crazy]

One of her tails are up for sale and can I say that top design is so gorgeous! The accents all around make it super pretty
Oh my gosh yes! I love the new H2o style stop <3


I love the rolling hip fins or whatever she calls them.
A "Tubular Waist Fin" according to the listing haha.

[Mermaid Vee]

Hey guys,
I used to have and account but i lost that email and password and all the good stuff so here I am again. I'll probably do a intro soon (again).

Anyways, I'm so excited that raven shared this top, it was one she custom made for my design and has been ready for a while but I was waiting for my tail to be done to show the set but yeah... I'm super excited and I love the design, she took inspiratio from the series but also coral and wet sand. I think its just perfect!

[Mer-Crazy]

That is so exciting! I can't wait to see it, I love the design of your top <3

[MermaidNerenia]

It's my day 100 since I ordered! I'm so glad this 'support group' is here! LOL I get my fix from you guys talking about your tails and seeing new tails and updates come out.

Who all has tails on the docket right now? I know a couple people are at just over a year. Any guesses on who's tail comes out next?

[Sitre Seer Moroaica]

I got an email from Tyler on the 13th saying he wants to ship it out this week and to reply ASAP with my address. Still waiting for the shipping quote lol

[frozenbutterflywings]

I'm on day 528 :)


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