craft fair sunshine

Well I survived the craft fair! It wasn't a resounding success but not a disaster either, I sold a little bit of everything which I think shows that my range and prices must be going in the right direction at least. It was a bit of a trek to get there, involving a lift to the station and then two trains, then a ten minute walk. Luckily I had managed to pack everything into a shoulder bag and a small suitcase that I could pull along so carrying it all was fine. I was slightly disconcerted when I got there as the shop it was in was a lot smaller than I thought and it was in a small parade of shops in quite a residential area. But the garden out the back of the shop where the fair was set up was a nice space and we had a steady stream of people. The weather was great, really hot and sunny, so much so that I managed to get a red neck and arms! I also met a few fellow bloggers and etsy sellers, Lottie Frank , Cheeky Leopard and The White Verandah . And I spotted a celebrity chef, Gennaro Contaldo too! I think on balance that my first craft fair like this will probably be my last, as taking a whole day out is quite hard to do when you work full time and have a family, and I don't think it would be feasable on a regular basis. But after being invited to take part I am glad that I did, it was a fun and exhausting day. And we were so lucky with the weather, it has been raining today! For those of you that wanted to know when any keyrings left would be back in my etsy shop, there a few there now, if your ideal colour isn't there, I will be listing a few more in the next few days. : )

18 comments:

Claire said...

WOW! Your stand looks lovely! It's always hard to know what sort of people are going to turn up to a craft fair. I did one ages ago when I made cards and my style wasn't very 'national trust'! Put me off for life! Well, that and the freezing cold - it was a christmas craft fair!!

I'll be keeping my eye out for the keyring I liked the look of...! x

Unknown said...

I know what you mean about craft fairs, they are nice to do every once in a while, but not very often. It's a whole lot of work for not much reward! But your stall looked fab - and thank god the weather stayed nice too!!!!

Annie said...

Your stall looked fabulous. I know what you mean about working full time and having a young family though. I really should do a market with my cards, but just haven't got around to it yet. I'm thinking of making up some packs and they might be more feasible to sell on Etsy. What do you think?

Michelle Engel Bencsko said...

Look how smart everything looks all nice and displayed! I'm glad it was at least somewhat successful- and a nice day, as well. You've done an amazing amount of work and you should be very proud! Now you can kick back for a bit and let your shop do the work for you.

machi said...

well done!! craft fairs are a lot of work...before and during!!

High Desert Diva said...

Your set up looked great! Even if you didn't sell tons of product, you got your name out...people will remember.

It is a lot of work, hauling, setting up, tearing down...all in one day. Whew! Makes me tired just remembering.

Fun that you got to meet/see fellow Etsians/bloggers!

Shayla said...

What a luscious display! Joyous and perfect! Thanks for the great pics. I'm glad you had a good crowd and good weather.

You're right they're alot of work!!! I have mixed feelings about craft fairs myself.

I like the gabbing with tourists, it breaks studio isolation, but there are a million stressors to go with that.

Last year I was supposed to give a friend a drive home. I was so tired after, that I forgot her at the fair!!! Felt awful!

littlebyrd said...

Your display looked beautiful! I think it is great you got out there and did it. I have never done one - not sure why but I guess I feel a bit intimidated. Good for you for doing it!

Rosebud Collection said...

What a wonderful set up you had..Craft Fairs are very time consuming, I have to admit. I am glad you sold many things there and you saw a few Etsy people..that made it more fun..

tatsuko said...

Your table looked lovely! Those boxes are wonderful all piled up and the keyfob tree is fab!

I love doing craft shows, but I totally understand what you mean about the time and energy - especially if you have children. It really does become easier the more you do though! I'm glad you're satisfied with your experience and yaaay for meeting some fellow bloggers and Etsy sellers ☺

Unknown said...

Your booth looked just wonderful! I'm glad you had a successful day and the weather cooperated for you. :)

decadentdiamond said...

The stand looks beautiful, I would have definitely been floating around it for a while!!

Also, I just realised you were from the UK too! I had no idea until you mentioned Lottie Frank, who I know is also from the UK, although my first thought was 'What's Lottie Frank doing all th way in America?' haha!

Tizzalicious said...

Your stand look great!

Good to hear you got your prices sorted out :)

Unknown said...

I would say that your stand looked great!!! Maybe you can find some shows or events that take place on a saturday that way you can have some time to sell your awesome pieces! Good luck!

Mrs.French said...

Your display is perfect. I cannot imagine working full time, creating your masterpieces and going to craft fairs. Maybe you should only partake in the ones that are especially nice..like your sweet pieces.

Victoria said...

Beautiful display, really well done!
(Craft fairs are a lot of hard work! I burned out from doing so many in the past, and now only do them occasionally, and mostly to just hang out with other creative people.) You should be very proud of yourself!

Unknown said...

Congrats on your sales! Your set up looks fantastic!!

Unknown said...

well done! i can imagine the work you had to do, must be tiring but fun too, how nice to meet others too :)