We know it’s been a bit of a wait between updates and I thank you for your incredible patience and kindness. A big part of this gap was because our admin, Elysiah, was out taking finals and I, Serefina, had to fill her big shoes and set up both the BackerKit surveys and the preorder store solo. I'll admit it took me a little while to figure everything out and get it running smoothly, especially with everything else going on behind the scenes and being short-staffed. So, I appreciate your understanding as I worked through it!
On a personal note...
As you can probably tell from social media, the past several weeks have been incredibly heavy for me (Serefina), both mentally and emotionally. As a Mexican American creator, the current unlawful deportation crisis has hit painfully close to home. Members of my own community, including people I love deeply, have been caught in this storm of injustice. Balancing the heartbreak and trauma of these moments while trying to pour love and magic into creative work has been very challenging. Your patience, compassion, and support have meant more than I can possibly express. Thank you for standing with me.
I also have some bittersweet news to share. My sister Angel, who many of you know has been a co-owner at Rue & Vervain and has co-created these decks with me, has made the difficult but necessary decision to step back permanently from the business to prioritize her health. She’s been facing serious health struggles for the last year and a half and truly fought to stay connected to this part of her life because it brought her so much joy. Ultimately, though, she needed to put her well-being first. If you feel moved to, please send her your love and encouragement on Instagram @jesusandrag. This was not an easy decision for her to make.
Now, onto the campaign news!
✅ BackerKit Surveys Are Ready!
The next immediate step is what’s called a BackerKit Smoke Test. This means we’ll send surveys to a small percentage of backers (usually about 5%) just to make sure everything is running smoothly. That ensures no glitches or weirdness. If you’re one of the folks who gets the survey early, please fill it out right away so we can catch any hiccups! Also, if you notice anything odd or if something doesn't work properly, please reach out to let us know!
Once the smoke test is complete (usually within 24-48 hours), we’ll roll out the surveys to everyone. This is your chance to confirm your pledge, select any add-ons, and provide your shipping details. Please keep an eye on your email for your personal survey link—it’s crucial to complete it so we can fulfill your order correctly!
💫 Preorder Store Now Open!
We’ve also opened the Shadows of Wonderland Preorder Store on BackerKit! This is specifically for anyone who missed the campaign but still wants to reserve a deck or add goodies. If you have friends or family who didn’t pledge but would love the deck, you can share the link with them.
Important note for backers: If you already pledged during the campaign, please do not use the preorder store to add extras. You’ll be able to select any add-ons directly through your survey!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here...not just for this project, but for us. The world is a heavy place, but the community around this deck reminds me daily of the magic we can create together.
With love and a little bit of Wonderland mischief, Serefina & Kat
P.S. Below is recently completed artwork from Kat for The Moon card!
