If you read here then you know I am a huge fan of the Erin Condren Life Planner, so I’m super excited about this post today.
I purchased my first Erin Condren planner in 2013 as a bit of a splurge and gift to myself as I was about to embark on the journey of completing my dietetic internship. I have always used a paper planner… I know we’re in the age of technology but a paper planner lets me see everything laid out in one place. I completely loved my EC planner back then and purchased a new one last summer. I wasn’t sure how much I would use it since I was in school but turns out I’ve cracked it open almost every day.
Erin Condren typically re-designs her life planners every year and releases a new design over the summer. How convenient is it that I spilled an entire 32oz. bottle of water in my tote bag last month and messed up my current planner? Coincidence? Divine intervention? Call it what you will.
Updates to the 2015-2016 Planner
Erin Condren always tweaks the new design off of what seems like customer feedback. Here are some of the highlights from the changes this year:
- Addition of a horizontal layout. This one is huge because prior to this year, the weekly layouts were only offered in a vertical layout. The reason I prefer my EC planner is because of the vertical layout, but I know many people like the horizontal. Now you can pick!
- A rose gold option (which sold out already… but is very pretty)
- New cover options: you can now create your own cover design or choose a ready-to-ship planner if you don’t want to wait for yours to be personalized.
- New 12-section page in the front of the cover possibly for monthly goals
- The weekly layout is still divided into sections, but they no longer have the ‘Morning, Day, Night’ subheadings.
- A lot of the ‘fluff text’ has been removed from the weekly planning sections to make more space for writing. I like it!
- There is an additional sheet of lined paper before each month. Perfect for making some extra monthly notes.
- There is now some graph paper at the end of the planner. I’m not sure I’d ever use graph paper but some may find this useful.
Cover
This is always the hardest decision for me! My first planner was the fleur feliz design and I chose the photo collage for my second planner. This time I knew I wanted to go for an inspirational quote, and I ended up with the watercolor shine design.
Also, I love opening the EC box for the first time! Everything is so pretty and colorful. The shipping materials are so high quality. None of my planners have ever been damaged during the shipping process. And honestly, opening the box is so fun!
Layout
So I stuck with the vertical layout because I’m a huge list-maker and the vertical works better for me. A lot of the planner is the same design as previous years with a few minor improvements.
I like the new addition of these little boxes in the front of the planner. They look like they could be used to list monthly goals. Maybe I should stick some blogging goals here?
The addition of lined paper before each month is perfect for a bit of extra space for monthly planning.
The monthly layout in the Erin Condren Life Planner is the best monthly layout I’ve come across in a planner (which is part of the reason I love this planner so much). There’s plenty of room to write on the calendar part, and the lined section to the right is a great place to make a list. I use the calendar section for my work schedule, and the lined section to manage my monthly finances.
I love the re-design of the weekly layout. The removal of the ‘fluff text’ makes the pages look a lot cleaner and less cluttered. You will see that each day is divided up into 3 sections… these used to say ‘morning, day, night’ and now there is no subheading. Here’s a picture of my old planner from last year to get an idea of what I’m referencing:
I LOVE that the section subheadings are removed because I never used them in the way they were listed. I typically use each section for work, home and blog. Here’s the new design:
I use the side column to write out weekly reminders or things that need to get done. My favorite part of the week is sitting down on Sunday and writing everything out…. I’m such a nerd 
There used to be a monthly calendar up in the left hand corner of the page and now there is a little space to write a thankful thought. I love that idea!
The pocket in the back is great for storing paperwork. Anytime I print out something, I fold it in half and stick it back there for safe keeping.
There is also a zipper compartment in the back that is SO useful. I keep my RD registration card and license back there, as well as random things (like business cards). Erin Condren threw in some extra stickers, a clip and some referral cards. I like extra goodies.
Thoughts on the New Planner
I am really happy with the changes that were made this year. I think everything adds value to the planner and makes it even more enjoyable. I like all of the writing and inspirational quotes, but I think removing some if it has streamlined the planner and made it a bit more functional.
I always list a few things I would like to see changed in the future. I believe someone in Erin Condrenland takes these suggestions to heart because last year I said I wished they would delete the weekly subheadings- and they did My primary suggestion this year would be that they offer the option to purchase an academic year calendar that runs from June to June. Right now you can buy one that runs from June 2015 – December 2016 or a 12-month that runs from Jan 2016 – Dec 2016. It makes no sense to me why you would not offer a June 2015 – June 2016 option when you’re releasing the planner in June. With the way the options are right now, you are either stuck ordering the 12-month planner and not being able to use it until January, or you order a 16-month and still have 6 empty months left when the new planner is released in June. My suggestion would be to delete the 16-month option (it adds to the thickness anyway) and just offer June-June or Jan-Dec. Just my opinion!!
The question I get most often is if I think the Erin Condren Life Planner is worth the price tag, and my answer is always YES. Here’s why:
- The planner is a high-quality product. I explain a bit below but it is really durable.
- The size is perfect. Not too big, not too small.
- The layout of the EC planner is by far the most functional that I’ve ever come across. Tons of space for planning, making lists, taking notes and getting yourself organized.
- The paper is nice and thick so your ink will not bleed through the pages.
- The coil is sturdy. I toss my planner in my bag everyday and the coil has never come close to bending.
- This is the ONLY planner I have ever had that has not fallen apart over a 12-month period.
- There are tons of options for customizing your cover and choosing something that you really love.
Another random thought about the cost of the planner. I’ve always believed that it’s okay to splurge on things here and there if they will bring happiness to your life. I feel a lot more relaxed when I plan things out and have things organized, and my Erin Condren planner helps with that.
In previous reviews, I’ve been asked about shipping times. I’m sure this is entirely dependent on your specific order. I ordered my planner on June 14th with Fed-Ex ground shipping. The estimated ship date was June 26th but it actually shipped on the 19th (and was delivered on the 23rd). I customized my name on the planner but kept the standard colors, so maybe that helped expedite the process?
Hope you guys enjoy the planner as much as I do!
If you are thinking of ordering an Erin Condren product then I would love your support by using my referral link. Thank you so much for reading and supporting this blog!!!
Erin Condren Giveaway #2
Golden Coil Planner Review
BlueSky Planner Review and Giveaway
Erin Condren Planner Review
I’m a big fan of stationary and only recently found out about EC. I know, what rock have I been living under? I have to tell you that I’ve been browsing her site for the last 5 days trying to decide what to try first. I’m been hesitant to go for a life planner since they are so expensive so I would love to win one and see what it’s all about! I already know I need to buy a notebook or two just because they are so pretty!
I would use my life planner to track marathon training, work stuff, blog stuff and fun stuff! :)
They are expensive BUT I think if you use it everyday that it all evens out. That’s what I tell myself at least :)
I am all about paper planners. I just think better with pen to paper. My sister has an Erin Conrad planner and I always drool over it because it’s so pretty.
I love that they are so pretty
I have friends who use and swear by this planner. I could absolutely use something like this once our baby is here and I have a lot more to schedule and attend to each week balancing work, baby, appointments, and training. This would actually be the perfect baby shower gift… maybe I should add this to my registry? ☺ Am I allowed to add personal gifts? Haha.
I love the packaging and shipping. Those kind of details show how much thought and attention is put into the product.
Technically, this would be a gift for the baby because it’s the gift that keeps on giving. So I say that it is totally legit to put it on your registry.
I’ve admired the Erin Condren planners for awhile but haven’t wanted to spend the money on one! I’m getting married in the fall, so I would use the planner to help keep all my to-do’s organized!
I would use it for blog post planning and meal planning!
Great review Sam! I would love to win a planner to track my study schedule! I am going back to school in the fall to pursue my masters in Cosmetic Science and need will some help with time management!
Good luck with school!
I’ve been a lover of EC FOREVER!
I purposefully wouldn’t let myself look at the new planners yet because $$$. Ha.
I also have a notebook that I use at work because it’s pretty :)
I always buy pretty notebooks…. i have way too many. I almost bought an EC notebook but I stopped myself :)
I’m totally a visual person so paper planners are a must for me! I don’t know how people live off their phone and computer calendars. I would totally miss everything!
I have seen the Erin Condren Planners in the blogosphere a lot, and they seem amazing. I checked out her website. I’d LOVE to win one, especially since I have a lot of neat things coming up both from here to the end of 2015 and in 2016 (I would get the planner that goes from Jan 2016-Dec 2016 though). I hope I win!
I would use it for blog planning and keeping track of my family’s appointments and activities. I’ve tried using my iPhone to keep track, but I just prefer paper and writing things down like you. Great giveaway, thanks!
Yeah, the phone has never worked for me.
I’m starting a new job in August, having a new planner would be helpful with meal planning and keeping the family organized especially during the transition.
Ohhhh good luck on your new job!
I am just finishing up my dietetic internship so I’d love to have a new planner when starting my first RD job!
Congrats on finishing your internship!!! I know that must be a great feeling :)
This would help me keep everything organized. Between working and blogging, sometimes I feel like I’m under water!
I sometimes feel like also!
I’d use it to help plan for my family of 5, blogging, my YouTube channel, and medical school. SO many options.
The beauty of your planner makes me want to stay on track with planning and journaling special events. Thank you for this review and opportunity!
I would love to use the planner to help me keep track of work and keeping my family organized!
Hey Sam,
first of all I really adore your site. The design is so nice and clean and your posts are fun to read! :)
I’m am currently in the second year at university and I would use the Erin Condren planer to organize my study task as well as household since i’m living alone.
Since I’m a student i sadly am not able to finance a planer in that price range, so it would be a little dream come true to win one!
Maybe I’m lucky :)
Have a lovley day!
Thanks, Lisa! Good luck on the giveaway!
Planning my wedding !
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
I love it but I can’t offer the money
I’ll use it for workout and study planneing
My sister just got an EC planner and I am super jealous! I would use it for planning workouts, blog content, work and travel.
I am recently juggling the job of social media manager for two local businesses, with another one on the horizon. I love the look of these planners and claim to be a planner addict! This would help me get organized!
I understand being a planner addict! I used to get one planner at the beginning of the year and then buy a new one over the summer because I loved the novelty of it (p.s. I don’t do that with the EC one)
This planner looks like a life changer.. I could defiantly use it. So much has changed in my life in the last two years… Serious life decisions.. Which are so difficult, but I guess that’s part of life. Having a planner to think things out would seem to give me more control. Not sure if that makes sense.. But would be very beneficial. Thanks for offering this. :)
Hi Sara- I definitely agree that having a planner to sit down and think things out can make you feel more calm/relaxed and in control. I like to sit down every Sunday and plan out my week, remind myself of appointments and errands that need to be done, double check my finances, etc. It’s a great way to start the week :)
I would LOVE and Erin Condren planner! I would use it for keeping up with mine and the bf’s schedules as well as my fitness routines. I’ve been looking into her planners for a while but they are out of my budget so this is amazing that you’re being so generous!
Hi Kelly- I think this planner is really awesome for the things you listed because each day has 3 different sections. You have a space to designate just for schedule stuff and another space you could use for workouts :)
I would use the planner to keep myself organized and on task for my three different jobs.
Oh wow, I bet you are jugging a lot with 3 jobs!
I stumbled on Erin Condren planners the end of 2014 and it was love at first sight! I ordered mine immediately to help me plan the new year. I’ve tried going digital with my calendar but there’s just something about pen and paper planners that work for me. I’ve used my 2015 Erin Condren planner to keep track of 3 boys sports schedules and social activities, family activities, work schedules, and volunteer commitments. I’m also trying to incorporate personal goals of health/weight loss/fitness. This planner has become the life line for my family! Can’t wait to get my 2016!!!!!
I use my planner to track my crazy life. My son has cystic fibrosis so keeping track of therapy, Drs appointments, medications, and everyday life is hard. This planner makes it so much easier!
I would LOVE to have a print planner like this one. Thanks for the giveaway. I’d use it to plan and keep track of blog work and all my many fitness classes. :)
I will be starting graduate school this fall and would LOVE an Erin Condren Life Planner to help me stay organized. As a mom, wife, nurse, and soon to be graduate student, life is about to get crazy busy!
I love my EC planner, and use it for everything ! I think I would prefer the horizontal layout- it’s awesome that that’s an option now!
I like the idea of separating the three sections on each day. I would do home, appointments/workout, and work. Thanks!
That’s definitely one of my favorite features of this planner
I had an EC planner last year, loved it! I will probably go back for 2016. Love the one you got, crossing my fingers :)
I’ve been researching and comparing planners for almost a MONTH now. I finally have it boiled down to an EC life planner, Plum Paper Planner, and a May designs planner.
I’m having such a hard time picking one!! Your post helped quite a bit!
Thanks!
I’m not familiar with plum paper or may designs, but I don’t think you can go wrong with the EC planner.
With juggling graduate school + 2 jobs this planner would be an amazing gift to my life!
That definitely sounds like you’ve got a lot on your plate!
Love EC products ~ would use this ‘gift’ as a daily journal since my life with kids is ending.
I would use it to keep track of everything outside of work, so many projects I need to get organzied
I would use it for both work and home.
I would use a planner to help me organize my hobbies. I feel like using two of the sections for blogging and exercise would really help me keep track of all of the things I want to do in those categories.
I’d love this to help organize my personal life and also for my business. Love our review!!
I would use the boxes under eat day to keep track of what I eat, my fitness, and a to do list for the day. The monthly layout would be for keeping track of appointments :)
Because this will be a big year for me: finishing my Bachelor’s, applying for grad school, daughter starting kindergarten, etc., a life planner would be a huge essential to my daily routine.
While I could come up with 101 daily uses for the life planner, here are my most valuable reasons:
– Keeping track of upcoming deadlines for assignments, exams, and applications.
– Keeping track of family events/holidays/and work functions
– Working towards a healthier lifestyle – monitoring water intake, adding in exercise days, and remembering positive views and sayings.
I would love this planner to organize my work and home schedules!
I think this planner would be the perfect tool I need to keep work, school, and my home life in line without overloading myself. And it’s super cute!
Hi!
I love the “shine” cover you’ve chosen this time, it’s beautiful! And I appreciate how informative, clear and honest your reviews are. I really like that. Thanks!
If I were to win I would choose the horizontal planner and I would dedicate it to indepht tracking of monthly challanges throughout this year and all of 2016. There are a lot of things that I want to change in my life, big & small, and a beautiful book like this would definately motivate and encourage me to stay accountable. That’s what would be my purpose for this big, little beauty.
Have a lovely weekend!
Vanessa
Thanks, Vanessa! Good luck on your life changes this year :)
I’m new to Erin Condren and I was Googling looking for reviews and I landed on your blog! The planners are gorgeous!! I like your cover too! I would use the vertical Life Planner to plan my diet, school/work and social life!
I would love an Erin Condren Life Planner because I am so organized and would love to try out one of these and extend that further!!! Thanks so much for this opportunity!!
Hi:)
I used a life planner since I’m in high school and when i find out about the EC, and i would use the calendar to plan my day as a student and practitioner at the clinic of my school with the challenges of improving my health with with exercise and good nutrition.
I love a paper planner to stay organized and carry mine everywhere! I’m happy about the new changes this year and I’m excited to get a teacher planner this year too. And I want the address book. And… LOL
I too love my EC planner and hope for an academic choice soon. As a teacher, my life revolves around a June – June calendar. I cannot use a standard calendar year calenda,r it doesn’t make sense for me. Let’s see if it happens!
Wow, what a gorgeous planner!!!
I’m a planner person who needs to write everything down (or else it gets forgotten or not done) and this life planner not only looks awesome but very practical too! I’ve tried different apps on my phone, but it’s not the same and in the end it didn’t work for me – so I’ve been hunting for a new paper planner to organize study, work and life and stumbled upon your blog. Ah, what beautiful pictures! :) I only wish that the EC planners wouldn’t be that expensive (with international shipping it’s steep!).
Hey! I would love a planner to keep track of my insane schedule! I’m a college student who has two jobs so without organization my life basically falls apart! Thank you!
I’ve been on the fence about spending this much on a planner, but the inner organizer in me says I have to go for it! I’m in nursing school and have to keep myself organized (or I go nuts)! I’ve been looking for something functional, yet pretty and I think this fits the bill! I have a question though… How in the world did you narrow down a choices for your cover?! I’m so overwhelmed by how many choices there are.
I know exactly what you mean about the covers :) If you read my last two reviews, I reference how hard it was to pick a cover. Now that I’m on my third one, I’d say to pick something that you think you won’t get tired of… esp if you get the 16-month planner. Or you could buy a new cover since they’re removable :)
I would love to have an Erin Condren Life planner to help me stay organized for my first year of college. I love how creative you can get with the planners and how personalized they can be!
I would love to use an Erin Condren planner for when I start my dietetic internship this fall! I can’t live without a good planner to keep me on schedule!
Good luck on your internship!
Always love a good planner!!! Would love to try this one out.
I would love the chance to revisit Erin Condren—I haven’t used her planners since 2012 when I realized the vertical layout just wasn’t working for me, and I’m eager to try to horizontal format! I’m most excited about the separated box to track workouts & meal plans!
I bet they are going to sell a ton more planners now that they have a horizontal option. I prefer the vertical but I have heard a lot of people say the opposite.
I’ve never used an EC planner before, but I love a paper planner! I would use it to attempt being organized in my chaotic life…an EC planner could potentially contain the “magic” I need. ;)
Awesome giveaway! I’m wanting an eclp to use for home management :)
I am obsessed with planners, and I’d love to give the Erin Condren a try… I need to plan my projects and blog posts better, while keeping track of my work shifts!
I’ve just recently discovered this planner, but I don’t have the financial assistance to buy it. Fingers crossed :)
I think these planners look really helpful for everyday life! Would love to win
Would love one of these to help manage everyday life! I have so much going on and this would be a great way to make the stressful things fun!
I’ll be going back to school for speech therapy and with a full time job and school, I’m sure each day will be filled with my homework lists, exams, and to-do’s. If not from your giveaway, I would definitely invest in one myself. Thanks for the thorough review! :)
I was using the mom agenda and I just love paper planners. But I love how fun these are because they are customisable and it makes you want to look at it and use it.
I saw your instagram post about you getting one of these planners and started looking into them. I can never find the right planner for me. I always want to organize soanh different areas of my life and cant affectively do that in a normal planner. I love the layout of this planner and am interestef in trying one out tk see if i could utilize it to organize my work schedule, workouts, to do lists, meal planning and finances in one place. I stay busy so having everything planned out ans organized would be amazing. Thanks for all the information and pictures. I looked up a comparision to the inkwell planner last week before i discovered you had written a blog about it and it was definitely not as informative as yours is.
My wife would love one of these for her birthday. She never stops talking about it. Great opportunity! Thanks
Would love to use this for school! Such a great giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity.