Friday, April 12, 2019

Looking Back on my First Craft Show

Wow! What an incredible—and exhausting—experience! Last weekend I showed my Shades of Autumn (leaf-covered lampshades) for the very first time at what's arguably the best craft show of them all, the American Craft Show.

I have new respect for my fellow artisans, not just for the near perfection of their craft, but also for the amount of organization and sheer work it takes to display it so elegantly. Many of them take on several of these shows a year.


 What I hope for is some good ol' word-of-mouth.

It takes a toll on an introvert like me having to be up and "out there" for a total of 27 hours over three-and-a-half days. But the rewards made it all well worthwhile: humbling praise from visitors; camaraderie with fellow exhibitors; practice with my "elevator pitch," and a few important lessons learned for future exhibitions.

Actual sales? Fewer than I'd hoped for, but exactly what I'd expected. Several visitors promised to send me their lamp dimensions for custom orders. And I'm told exhibitors are often contacted by folks who simply needed some time and inspiration before buying.

As for the future, I'd be honored to be asked back to the ACC show next year. And I'll consider other exhibitions—possible shows attracting vacation home and cabin owners. And I'll make sure my on-line presence gains some prominence.

Of course, as an introvert - both in person and virtually - what I really hope for is some good ol' word-of-mouth. And that's where you come in...

Thanks! (And if you'd like to learn more about my new occupation and see examples of my work check out my website: Shades of Autumn.)



 
 

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Craft Show Update


Well, it's finally here; the American Craft Council's St. Paul show is this weekend. After five months of intensive work — collecting and processing leaves; producing a range of lampshades to display; creating and producing my Shades of Autumn graphics and collateral material; and designing and outfitting my booth — I think I'm ready to let go and truly enjoy this amazing experience.

If you're in the Twin Cities Metro, I hope you'll come and enjoy all the extraordinary crafts at this awesome show. And while you're there stop by my booth to say hello and see what I've been up to all this time.

MY BOOTH IS #812

Regular show dates are Apr. 5-7 (Friday through Sunday), with a special preview event the evening of Thurs., Apr. 4.

As friends of an exhibitor, you can get half-price tickets here: (This promo includes only pre-show on-line purchases and will not be honored at RiverCentre, the event venue, once the show starts.)

EVENTBRIGHT   Use promotional code MSP2019GUEST