It was a bit of a dilemma. I love craft fairs – they’re hard work, but fun, sociable and I always sell at least a nice amount and that makes me quite happy. I always get lots of amazing feedback that makes me smile. They’re an opportunity to do a bit of market research, spread the word and swop ideas and information with others – or just chat to like-minded people. It’s easy to see why I love them.
But when my gazebo was trashed (again!) I needed to make a decision. Do I buy another gazebo (preferably a strong and very expensive one) or do I just stop doing craft fairs? My favourite fairs are the outdoor fairs, so I knew if I decided not to do them, I probably wouldn’t do any. And I’d already reduced the number of fairs I do because of lack of time.
The next few I’ve planned are outdoor events for which I would need a gazebo.
When I made the decision – very recently – not to do any more events, it actually came as a relief. I knew I had made the right decision.
I think the key factor in it being a relief is time. I realised that not only do I spend a considerable chunk of time at each fair when I could be working (or relaxing with family), I always put a lot of time into making stock for the stall. That’s time that could be spent updating my blog or website. Or I could put more time into developing my sewing patterns and ebooks (projects which seem to be taking forever). Or perhaps I could just get orders sent out more quickly! Or I could spend some time on online promotion. Or – just maybe – I might even get time to put my feet up once in a while!
You get the idea, I’m sure.
I have to remember that I’m the boss and it’s entirely my decision – which actually sometimes makes it easier to just walk down the same route all the time. But I don’t have to!
P.S. Ooops! I forgot I’ve already promised Maeri of the Make and Do Studio that I’d have a stall here:
Sunflower Craft Fest
So of course I will. I quite like the idea of being called one of Cheshire’s quirkier crafters!
And, I think that will definitely be my last craft fair. Watch this space though!!