Posted by --Batya Deene, Journey Road Arts on Nov 1st 2015
I love being at a crafts show, meeting people, chatting, showing my artwork, and -- of course -- selling to people who I know will enjoy my creations.
Getting ready for a crafts show is another story altogether. Prep work starts weeks before. There are some shows that are large enough for me to take everything (well, almost -- some of the sculpture work stays home). That means packing the basics (table and chairs included for some shows): portable shelves; my 10-drawer cabinet for behind the table to hold extra products; tools; extra findings (for instance, I can change to Sterling or gold ear wires right then and there); projects for down-time; table covers; earring holders; displays; and all my inventory sheets, credit card reader, cash for change, extra tags, food, drink, and not to forget my Mom (or other helpers). I no longer do outdoor shows, so at least I'm not putting up a tent!
Some shows require tags with their codes on them, which means I need to retag or add a second tag to those I already have and sync them up with my inventory codes. I have that to do now for a Thanksgiving weekend show. For about 200 pieces of jewelry!
Prepping is a great time to listen to music. Besides Country, I have my new favorite CD -- which I bought at the last crafts show! It's Bob Folse's Rumbeando -- marvelous Latin American uptempo music. Check his website if you want to take a listen.
I'll be at the Delray Holiday Festival at Old School Square on Thanksgiving Weekend. Come on by to say hello!