My first craft fair - I did it!!!

Well it happened. I did my first craft fair! And this is something I really thought I would never be able to bring myself to do.

It all started when Debra asked Paul if I would be interested in setting up at the Downtown Art Market here in Lubbock, Texas. Debra works with Paul and we have sort of developed a friendship through communications online and through Paul. She knows about my "issues" so she said all I had to do was supply the items for the show, and she would be the one at the show. I didn't even have to go! So I said yes! And immediately started getting ready. We bought a table, canopy and chairs along with a few things to display my jewelry. And I of course got to work making a ton of new things.

As time went on I got to thinking that maybe with Debra as a buffer, I could survive actually going to the art market. Since I only have sold online in the past, seeing people's reaction in person to my work would mean a lot! So in the end, I decided to go. And I am so glad that I did! I went with the expectation that we would not sell anything. But we actually did very well. Now we plan on going for every show, which is the second Saturday of every month. I am also now looking at doing a show in Oklahoma as well as a larger craft show in Lubbock that a man in the booth next to us told me about.

I am not sure if I will always function well at these events. My anxieties, OCD and bipolar can make leaving the house near impossible for me. But I am going to try. And Paul, Debra, and some other family members have offered to be my buffer at every event. This is an area I never thought I would be able to get into, so to say the least I am very happy!! I snapped a few pictures at the event. They are not my finest pictures, but at least it gives you an idea of my set up.



The lady in this picture is the lovely Debra! My newest hero :)

I also wanted to mention that the other crafters, artists, growers, etc. at the market were wonderful! So many of them made me feel completely welcome, and I can't say enough how much that means to me! I also spent quite a bit of money shopping at their booths, there is just so much talent in this town. I am looking forward to more markets!