| When I began to think of what to write I thought I | | | | wood, string, rope and the like. We liked to make sure |
| should give some pointers that we learned the hard | | | | all our display boards were securely hammered to the |
| way along the way in our Handmade Jewelry | | | | tables so they wouldn't tip over on a customer's head |
| Business. Some of the advice might seem simple but | | | | when the wind blew. |
| most mistakes are simple as well! | | | | 3. Make sure to have all extra stock in watertight |
| Outdoor craft shows and festivals are wonderful and | | | | containers, especially for jewelry that is on cards or |
| fun to do and a great opportunity to showcase your | | | | can be damaged by water. If the cards get wet or |
| handcrafted artisan jewelry, when the weather is nice | | | | dirty it can really be a mess. You will appreciate this |
| that is. Unfortunately the weather doesn't always | | | | more when you are up to your knees in water, mud |
| co-operate with the show schedule. Always | | | | and sawdust! |
| remember the Boy Scout motto: BE PREPARED! | | | | 4. Try if possible to put earrings on display boards or |
| These are just a few suggestions to keep everything | | | | frames. This makes it much easier and quicker to pack |
| going well: | | | | up just in case of a storm or tornado. |
| 1. Always have materials available to weigh down your | | | | These are just a few suggestions to those starting out |
| canopy. We always had weights like paint cans filled | | | | on the craft show circuit. It may not sound like a lot of |
| with concrete, cinder blocks, empty jugs to fill with | | | | fun but I sure miss those "good old days"! It was a |
| water for extra protection from the wind lifting your | | | | wonderful way to spend the summer and make some |
| tent to OZ. Sometimes you will have to hang on as | | | | money besides! |
| well! This is especially important if you are in | | | | Sometimes the road to success leads to wonderful |
| Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Art Festival; the canopy was | | | | places! Sometimes the road is bumpy and sometimes |
| being lifted right into the air! What goes up must be | | | | filled with potholes! We have taken the road less |
| held down! | | | | traveled...there are times we know why it's less |
| 2. Always carry hammer, nails, wire, small pieces of | | | | traveled. We hope you enjoyed our story! |