The Truth About My First Show Challenges
My First Show....
(Drum roll)....Was a HIT! (love the baseball connection)
I am so glad I took my time pulling this first event together. If you have been following me on Instagram/Facebook, you already know this show has been a few months in the works. With new products to design/produce, and also organize/prepare for a show (never having done one) the last 4 weeks leading up to the show in particular have been a bit overwhelming.
The week prior to the show, I spent pretty much every "waking hour" checking and double checking my "To Do" list. Those that know me, already understand I am fairly organized. You know the old adage "you don't know what you don't know" I am a problem solver (thanks Bonnie) and tried to anticipate every possible scenario because I hate surprises.
All the reexamination of course, leads to questioning and second guessing every prior decision. What if I missed something? What if my products are not priced correctly? What if my designs are not well received? Ugh..the list goes on. I was seriously having self doubts-not to the point where I had considered giving up or not doing the show, but I was consumed with the feeling of "I have no idea what I am doing" After all, I am new to the creative world and still feel very much like an impostor. What if someone finds me out? Three days before the show, I repackaged/repriced all of my kitchen towels and greeting cards. What was I thinking?! (talk about making more work for yourself not to mention adding a wee bit more stress) Of course this also meant I also had to update my web site and PayPal inventory. I easily added a day of work to my already overbooked schedule.
In any event, I did it! I made it thru and actually I think I pulled it off in style. I received many compliments on the design of my booth as well as my products. The art/craft community is very welcoming-my booth neighbors were kind and helpful, everyone was there to support each other. I did not feel one iota of competition between vendors. I immediately felt accepted and "part of the family" The show organizer could not believe this was my first show, she said I was very well prepared, much more so that some of the seasoned veterans...humm I guess all that testing and retesting paid off.
As a side note, my car was the subject of a few conversations-I was the girl that was able to load her entire booth into a Mini Cooper! It was actually quite amusing-everyone else drove up with large vans, SUV's or pick up trucks. I arrive with my little Mini and unpack/set up in less than 40 minutes (like a magic trick) I got quite a few comments/stares-it really was too funny.
My First Collaboration....
I am thrilled to announce that I have partnered with my good friend Paula DeFranco to bring you a collection of home decor accessories. Paula is the founder/owner of Paula DeFranco Inspirations and the maker of original beaded jewelry designs.
We are teaming up to offer a number of home accents just in time for the upcoming holiday season. We will be rolling out three products over the coming months-wine charms, napkins rings and beaded wine glasses. All of these items are a wonderful complement to the home decor pieces I am already selling in my store and will make for great hostess and/or seasonal gifts.
Please be sure to "Like" my Facebook page and follow me on Instagram to keep up to date on the product launch schedules and for previews of the new products in development.
Fall Schedule Reminder
The fall show season is getting off the ground and I would love it if you could join me. The weather in New England is spectacular this time of the year so get outside, and enjoy the cool air and sun on your face. There is no better place to start your holiday shopping and you can grab a bite to eat while you're at it. My show schedule is below.
My creative journey is a labor of love and as I continue to build my art practice and grow my business, I am honored that you are along for the ride. As always your support means the world to me - Thank you!
LIVE EVERYDAY BRILLIANT