Sunday, December 12, 2010

First Bazaar

Well, it would have been better if more people actually came because when people were there, they bought stuff. A poorly advertised event is one in which I will not be returning to. I lived. I learned. And now I am moving on.

There is a whole subculture in the bazaar industry. People hold close their trade secrets. Never ask an apron maker where she gets her fabric or a snack maker how they get the wasabi to so beautifully and evenly coat the sunflower seeds because you will be met with a deep stare, then a plastered smile, followed by a comment of, "mumble, mumble, mumble."

My fellow vendors were generally kind-hearted and we talked more than sold, but so goes the way of a bazaar vendor. One show can make you thousands, where others one simply prays they will make enough to cover the cost of their table.

It's fun making things that have not been on the market. I am now known as "The Dinosaur Lady" or the, "oh my gosh, did you really make this?" lady. So if you are looking for a teddy bear, that perfect hat or scarf, or fleece blanket do not come knocking on my booth. All you will find are new twists on old ideas, and stuffed delights that bring you back to when you were a child. And if you are pleased enough you will buy it, take it home and share the delight with someone in your life.

3 comments:

kyersten said...

Love your post. Sounds like your learning the trade one bazaar at a time. At least you'll have plenty items ready for the next one!

Rachael said...

I need to break into the bazaar scene...think I could finally sell my bears...any tips on where to get started?

Amy said...

Kyersten: For sure. My problem until then will be not giving them away!!

Rachael: The best tip comes from my first mistake, which was not looking for a bazaar to get into until October. From what people were telling me, openings for 'the good ones' start in the spring.