I finally sold my handmade crafts at an actual event! After the Hartselle Arts & Crafts Show was cancelled I was a bit bummed but then I ran across Crisiscon; http://www.crisiscon.com/ . A nice nerdy event for all the geeks of the South...and being a fan girl myself I knew I would be a hit.
The convention was filled with sci-fi, anime, horror, various cosplay, trivia battles, and gaming. I set up in Artist Alley between a cute couple who created hand sewn Lolita headgear and an anime artist. Even though my crafty goods didn't quite fit into any particular genre I still received a warm welcome.
Once other vendors found out I was new to the circuit they were more than helpful in offering up tips and tricks of their own:
*Stand often
*Rearrange constantly
*Smile continuously
*Always have change for twenties
*Label items clearly
Luckily this was an indoor event and the crowd was not overwhelming. The attendance for the three-day weekend was nearly 300. I bargained with customers, offered free candy, and even included a super cheap clearance bin full of old handmade leftovers. I also listened to customers suggestions:
*Sell pendants without chains
*More variety in pins (even though I was planning on phasing them out)
*Design more interest oriented patterns
Watching the customers reactions to my handmade items made the whole weekend worth it. I had repeat customers buying for friends and family, people who praised the idea of recycling, and others who were shocked that I had an items related to their corner of fandom. This was a great experience and I look forward to my next craft event in Guntersville, AL this week...Bikers For MDA
