Sunday 27 March 2011

Brighton craft fair




What an exciting day I had. I was one of the earlier arrivals and so I had plenty of time to set up my table. After a mild panic attack about where to begin, a friendly face greeted me and guided me to my space. The craftaganza crew were busy stringing up bunting, which really added to the atmosphere, while stall holders gradually turned up and the hall was a buzz. The stall holders either side of me really put me at ease and I quickly found that I was amongst friends. I had no idea how exciting it would be when I sold my first item. It was all I could do not to jump in the air and shout hurray! I have learned a lot from my first experience, which was all I expected to do. It was a delight then, to make some sales as well! Lots of people took my Moo cards ( Gosh, I wish I had created Moo, everyone seems to use them!) so more contacts were made. Now I am searching for more local craft fairs to attend. Anyone know where to look?

It was really interesting watching how people move about a craft fair. Some sidle up and peek, others smile and are willing to stop and chat, some simply don't bother to look and if you are lucky, some stay and buy! There must be a science to this game and an observer could maximise the window of opportunity. I'm sure you old hands have got it sussed, but for a newbie like me, it was fascinating. Do you stand up and greet people, look at them and smile, leave them in peace, or try to start up a conversation? I tried all these but I was too nervous to remember which ones worked because when someone did buy I was so excited that I forgot to record any details apart from the type of item they purchased. Now I am going to have to get all my birds out ot identify which ones I sold! Lesson learned. Anyway, it was a wonderful day and I am so glad that I dipped my toe into this arena.

3 comments:

  1. Your stall looked lovely and I'm glad to see your photos show this so well. Was great to meet you and your husband x

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  2. Thanks for your comment. You made my husband smile too! You were very generous with your advice and it was lovely to meet you too. Here's looking forward to the next fair. Maybe see you there.

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  3. Congratulations! Your stall looks great! Feels really great doesn't it? And the first sale is stupidly exciting! I know what you mean about all the different types of people! Some want to stop and chat for ages and others want to hurry past! I'm sure we'll be dab hands in no time :)

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Hi. It is always lovely to hear your comments. Thanks for stopping by.