School is out for summer! Let Summer 2017 begin!
This past Saturday was the kick-off event for Snowywinds Studios’ Summer 2017 event season. I was all set up at Sonnewald Natural Foods and magnets were the hot item. Currently, there are three events scheduled with the possibility of two more to be added.
When I was a kid, my parents would drag my brother and myself to all kinds of “-- In the Park” events around Maryland and Pennsylvania. I would always appreciate the handmade products for sale. Even in my teen angst phase, I still appreciated these artists creations. Deep down, I knew I wanted to do that one day with my own art. Art was always my favorite class in school and making crafts was my favorite aspect of scouting (tied with hiking in the woods.) In 2015, I finally took the leap and began doing in-person events with my very own maker business, Snowywinds Studios.
Entering the world of vendor events has definitely been a learning process. I love the personal contact of art & craft shows, festivals, and flea markets. My customers can actually hold my creations, try my bags on, and learn what makes me passionate about creating. Participating in events has also been valuable in networking with other sellers within my community. Last, I learned so much about branding and merchandising, which is an art in itself.
When it comes to in-person events, I am still trying to find my niche. My products are made from repurposed materials and I’m Earth conscious (The 3 R's = Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! Check out this Explore.org video with Jack Johnson!). Nature themes abound in my art; flowers, mushrooms, butterflies. My love of pets also finds its way into my art. The three events I have lined up so far include yoga, dogs, and flea marketing.
Before I go, I want to give a shout out to the Etsy Team Craft Fairs... it's a living! for all the advice and anecdotes shared in the discussion feeds.
Feel free to comment, contact me, &/or visit my Facebook page!
~Stacey
