I wish I could tell you my first craft show was wonderful but I cannot. There were great things about it but overall I came home discouraged.
I met some great people. I met people who read my blog, see me in flickr and fellow etsy sellers. The organizer was a very accommodating wonderful woman who recruited the women in her family to help us anyway possible. The problem was we had no shoppers. I think maybe 20 people from the outside showed up. I sold a few inexpensive earrings and a way underpriced bracelet and that was it.
I had over 25 pillows and 24 shirts and many other items to sell that needed to be unpacked and then repacked for the 3 hour drive home. I was hoping to have sold some of these bulky items. My items seem well received but just not enough real shoppers there.
I hesitate to try again but I know I have to get out there and hit the right show with people ready to buy.
My husband kindly hinted that I make things that are not so difficult to carry and take up so much room. :) - gotta love him.

Up to this point I had planning for my parents' 50th anniversary to keep my mind occupied. Well that happened on Sunday and it went off without a hitch. Now comes the anxiety about having my first craft show appearance.

I am taking part in the Creative Bazaar in Hyannis, Ma. on Oct 13. I made sure it was out of state so noone I knew would witness this inauguration. My husband is coming with me and is so excited about it! He hand carved a sign with my business name on it and he is planning how our booth will look. I, on the other hand, am consumed with making things in hopes that I will sell something.

I have been selling on etsy for a year and have done well. My items have excellent feedback ratings but there is still that nagging fear that I will come home with all the items I brought to sell.
I am sure this happens to many crafters at their first shows but it doesn't make it any easier.

If you have any advice for me it would be greatly appreciated! If you are in the area, stop by. It will be in the Four Points Sheraton in Hyannis. Maybe you can even buy a little something.
Linda
craftsfromtheheart.etsy.com