that was the results of this past weekend Annapolis Arts & Crafts Festival. I had exactly
zero sales!?! I've had lack luster shows before, but I've never come home so defeated. While I sat out in the blazing heat, luckily with my mom who decided to go at the last minute, I was glad to have the company, I was pondering why...
- Is it my jewelry? Price point? My booth display?
- Or was it the show? The fact that I couldn't find an artist who participated last year? Or all the jewelry that was there? What I felt like was a poorly attended show, while show staff said they had never seen it so busy? Really?
I wasn't alone. Over the two days there was plenty of opportunity to chit chat with other artist and there was plenty of disappointment to go around...low sales, just covering expenses, but no one who stated they were having a good show.
I hate to complain, so I won't bore you any longer with my woes, however to make up for this past weekends fiasco I'm having a sale in my
Etsy shop, 15% off any purchase through June 17th, use coupon code: overit.
Shelby
Oh Shelby, been there done that!! It's horrible, I broke down in tears the first couple of shows because I had 1 sale the first time and only a couple the second. Lost loads of money both times. I have done a couple since that were a little better but still not worth it. It just doesn't seem to work for me. I'm sorry, I know how defeated you feel.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear you didn't have a good experience at the Annapolis show. I have never participated or attended, so I can't comment on that aspect. Are they still charging $10 admission? It also was a really hot weekend (weather wise) so that may have affected the turnout. Both of those aspects can affect turnout. Your jewelry is beautiful, so that isn't the issue!
ReplyDeleteShelby, you are not alone. I've been making jewelry for the past four years and have found this year to be very challenging. Sales are way down and I'm wondering whether the economy is to blame. So many people are struggling and saving their money for necessities. Things will get better...hold tight and don't give up!
ReplyDeleteUGH I am so sorry for your bruised heart Shelby!!! Keep at it, don't give up!!!! You will find your niche....sometimes it takes some majorly sore heartaches but when you find it, it's worth it all!
ReplyDeleteOh that stinks!! I haven't ever done a show before, but that is definitely one of the things that holds me back from trying one....hope your inshop sale goes well!!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear, Shelby. Shows can be really frustrating - there is so much work involved, to say nothing of expenses. But the worst thing always is: if sales are slow (to non-existant), you are always left questioning yourself and your pieces. Rest assured that the problem is located elsewhere - although I realize that will hardly ease your frustration just now.
ReplyDeleteSorry you had a disappointing day re sales... I have never done a market so wouldn't have a clue as to the reason. I have heard, however that markets can be notoriously fickle...bad one year, good the next... hope your next foray in to markets is a better experience.
ReplyDeletejenni
I have been there also Shelby, and it stinks. There are soooo many jewelry vendors around me, and it seems no one wants to spend these days. WEhere I live and work the economy is really bead right now, so don't doubt yourself....your work is top notch and beautiful.
ReplyDeleteOh dear...that really sucks! So sorry to hear, what a disappointment. Keep your chin up, your jewellery is beautiful, sometimes you just have to find the right show...and obviously that one was not it! Sometimes these shows take on way too many jewellery artists, and its just stupid. There needs to be a good variety of artisans to make a show interesting, and one that the public will want to attend. Dont let it bug you, put it behind you, and best of luck next time!
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