I made so many new friends!
This past Friday & Saturday I had the honor of vending at Artistic License Fair in Costa Mesa. You know, this whole event/show thing is such a crapshoot. You never know what you'll find, or how you'll do, or whether the organizers have it together, or just threw it together. I find the last circumstance a lot, but my goal is to remain positive above all else, because to me, no matter how a show does, it's exposure, and that's worth a lot to me.
Apparently, this show has been around for 43 years. That, in itself, boggles my mind. I met a vendor that has been exhibiting there for 30 of those, and it was so interesting to talk to her and hear how the industry has changed and evolved in that time.
This fair was organized so well. The location, Estancia Park, was beautiful - we were on grass, under a canopy of California Pepper Trees, there was plentiful sunshine and a soft breeze - it was truly a vacation (after the back-breaking work of setting up, of course!). Kelley was there also, but we forgot to get a picture together!
I was next to LoriMarsha, who is so down-to-earth and sweet; it was great getting to know her better.
Shari came to visit (with a vintage Sommer Designs bag! I love seeing old bags!):
I had the nicest neighbors - Laura from Talisman Art Glass (spectacular work!):
Maggie, across from me, wove two baskets that weekend, it was amazing to watch! (I can't find her card right now, but will update when I do):
I met Michelle Hoffee from Made by Lovecraft, who has the most delicious yarns, and is so damn cute:
And also Lori Lawson from Capistrano Fiber Arts Studio, who had gorgeous handpainted and handspun yarn (I'm sure you can see where this is going):
How gorgeous is this?
And finally, the organizers, Nancy & Drew, who, as artists themselves, know exactly what to do [and how to do it] to make an artisan fair a success.
This was such a different event for me; it was so inspiring because I was surrounded by artisans and designers. There wasn't a replica booth in sight. Everyone was so nice and so down-to-earth and I left there on Saturday feeling so good about what I was doing, because there were so many other people doing what they loved, and sharing it with people who understood and appreciated handcrafted art and design.
The only downside is that I have to wait a whole year to do it again. Something else to look forward to, right? Hope you all had a fabulous weekend - I'll show you what I bought tomorrow!
