Gasparilla

Yes, I agree as I was there too, in front of the river in a beautiful spot(#2).  I did have to level my display cabinets, as there was a rain drain behind my booth.   I could not have asked for a nicer location.  I can see if there were a bad rainstorm or high winds, it could be difficult on the river front, but our weather was absolutly perfect both days.  We were scheduled in on Friday at 10:30 and for 7 PM load out and we were  exactly on schedule.  They were very organized in our area.

The only negative comment is that the judge came running by with someone punching holes in our booth signs for him.  He did not slow down, stop, or look in mine or either of my neighbors tents.  I spoke with others who had the same comments.  When we pay about $500 to be there it does seem only fair to expect a 30 second glance.

My sales were great, the best ever!  Unlike the east coast of Florida, no one was arguing prices with me.  I was also approached by show chairs from some of the other shows on the west side of the state.  I hope to be able to do more in that area. 

All in all it was a great experience and I would love to participate again.

How about some comments from others who were there?

   

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  • I was selected as an emerging artist for this show. My experience with the judge was similar. He stopped in front if my tent for a few seconds and walked away. About 10 minutes later he was standing in front of my tent again and just pointed at a small piece I had hung low in the tent and the helpers swooped in to say that I had 10 minutes to get it to the judging room. I ended up winning the emerging artist prize! Which is a nice bit of encouragement. My sales were also fabulous!
  • Hate that about judges rushing through. I go to a local show where everything is so predictable and skewed it's stupid. The same person wins the $1,000 grand prize every year I've been there, did fe years before I ever attended, and will continue to do so until she stops attending. Same with the second prize. Other prizes are given to newcomers, no matter how bad the craft or art is; but, the sales are good enough for me to keep going for now although I'm thinking about switching off now with another show. I've noticed (for me) if I skip a show from time to time, sales become better.
  • This was my first time doing Gasparilla. I was really thrilled to be accepted. It was actually my first big show. Not sure if that is why my sales were not great. I did make some money over my expenses and was able to stay with a friend to keep expenses low. Over all the show was run very well. I had trouble negotiating downtown traffic and got lost a few times, but other than that load in, set up and load out went smoothly. The food was really good and the artist party had plenty of food and drink. All the volunteers were nice and helpful. I had the same experience with the judge, only finding out he'd already come by from the hole punch. 

    I don't know if this show is the wrong market for my work. I will have to look at other shows I do in the area and see how well I do at them before I decide to try again. 

  • Andrea, this sounds like a great show.  I am glad you did so well.  It is always nice to hear good news reports about shows especially since so many people have told about dismal show sales in Florida.  Thanks and I hope some others weigh in on this show.  It would be nice if everyone there had a great show.

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