Well, the show went on.  I wouldn’t call it a smashing success, but it was a great learning experience and I’ve already got a lot of great ideas for next time.

I wanted the space to feel more like a sitting room than a fair booth, so I used lots of funky furniture from home and tried to display things on a variety of levels.  It may not have been the most polished looking booth, but it definitely felt like me.  Everything I had for sale was a true original so I didn’t want a cookie-cutter looking booth.  Turns out, most people weren’t looking for originals.  Also, I tend to design things that I would want to wear or carry.  And the crowd was decidedly older than me.  There were a lot of oohs and ahs, but not as many purchases. Here’s what actually sold:

One green wallet, 2 pairs of boots, and the little birdie sweater.

What I learned:

1. Narrow your selection.  People want to walk past and see everything you have in one look.  Chose 4 or 5 items and make multiples of them.

2. Do not sell knits when there is a  heat advisory.  Even though we were inside, people just can’t think about buying anything knit when it’s 100 degrees outside.  I’m planning to be part of an indie craft emporium at the end of October that should be a lot better suited to my stuff.

One of the best parts of the day was getting to network with the other vendors.  It was great to hear their advice and get their perspective.  I got a lot of positive feedback and good tips.  My favorite part was the trading that happens at the end of the day.  Other vendors come over and ask if you like any of their stuff so they can trade for your items.  Here’s  a trade show math lesson for you:

One pink silk bandana scarf equals =

Two pairs of painted metal earings.

………………………………………………..

A Weekender Bag plus a Holy Cowl equals =

A beautiful ceramic bowl, tray, and set of coasters -all handmade by another local artist.  Pretty good trade if you ask me.  All in all, I’m glad I did it and I’m proud of my work.  Not a bad way to spend your Saturday.