CRAFT SHOW SEASON!!! What does that mean to you?
Since my very first book came out in paperback, I've been a vendor at craft shows. Until last year, no one questioned that writing books was a "craft." After nine years of showing at one church craft show, I was told writing was NOT a craft and that I could no longer be a part.
AFTER NINE YEARS.
Of course, I disagreed. As an indie author, not only do I write my books, I format them (with a LOT of help from Mr. L). I art direct. I write the back cover copy, I format them for ebooks, and I do most of the promotion. Nobody can tell me that putting all that work into my end product (I do everything but print the books in my basement) isn't a handmade craft.
They allowed me back into the show.
My first "show" of the season is next week and I'm nervous. I'm going in through the back door. My friend, Eleanor (whom I met when I was a vendor at the local antiques arcade), "bought" one of the school rooms (she has a LOT of crafts (doll dresses, tree ornaments, table decorations) and it was cheaper for her to do that then just buy a lot of spaces. She's "subletting" the rest of the room to other vendors. Will the committee come and tell me I have to leave? We'll see.
Here's my schedule for this "craft show season." If you're in the Rochester, NY area, I'd love to meet you.
OCTOBER 15, 9 am - 3 pm
St. Rita School Craft Sale, 1008 Maple Dr., Webster, NY 14580
NOVEMBER 19, 9 am - 3:30 pm
The Churchmouse Bazaar, Gates Presbyterian Church, 1049 Wegman Road, Rochester, NY 14624
DECEMBER 10, 10am - 4 pm
Greece Olympia School, 1139 Maiden Lane, Greece, NY 14615
I've already started packing up my books. Next up, making goody bags for everyone who makes a purchase (filled with my own and the Cozy Chicks bookmarks, postcards, and buttons). Then next Saturday, I'll pack up the boxes, tables, folding bookshelf, and be on my way. Wish me luck!
What do you like best about craft shows?
