Art-A-Licious was the last Art Fair that I participated in this summer as I "tested the waters" to see if this is something that I would like to do. And I have to say if I had any doubts, participating in the Art-A-Licious fair clinched it with a huge "YES"!
I enjoyed all of the fairs I participated in, but there was something about this fair that left me feeling like I could jump in the car next weekend and do it all over again!
Being new to this type of business I always have "nervous anticipation" as I drive to a new location. I was kind of nervous about the fact that I did not get anything in advance that showed me my location. I was to stop at a check-in point and pick up my packet on location. As I arrived I was greeted (from my car) by a very helpful volunteer that not only gave me my packet but took the time to explain bathroom locations and food locations, then made sure I knew how to get to my location. "Nervous anticipation" gone!
I was able to pull up to my location with my car to unload (which is always great). Although I did not need the help, as soon as I pulled up to my spot a volunteer was there immediately to see if I needed help setting up and let me know that there were student volunteers available to assist with my setup (great for those that need to set up alone). The downtown location is full of free parking so I was able to easily find a parking spot within less than a block once I was set up.
During the day the First Presbyterian Church and Library were open for bathroom breaks and the church also had water and light snacks for the artists. Volunteers stopped by quite regularly to see if I needed a break or water. (Friendly, cheerful volunteers I might add). It did rain on Friday but the crowds showed up with umbrellas in tow. The event lasted until 8:00 pm, which is dark this time of year but each location had access to electricity (no extra charge) to plug in lights.
Saturday was cool and sunny and crowds were quite steady. The Adrian marching band even kicked off the event by marching through the streets at 10:00. Nice touch. Band stages were set up in two locations and international food tasting was set up in another location. Again, volunteers stopped by regularly to make sure I was all set. Food delivery was offered by a couple of restaurants for lunch and I had a delicious cheeseburger, fries and coke delivered from Mandy's (I will be returning to eat there again).
"Nervous anticipations" started to creep up again as it came time to tear down. I kept wondering how they will be able to get all of the cars in to all of the locations for tear down and out again within a reasonable amount of time. At first my plan was to walk my things to the car (not too far away again) but I was reminded by my daughter that "we" would have to carry 45 lb sand bags to the car. So driving the car in was my only option. And again it was smooth sailing! As I drove in volunteers were there to greet the vehicles at the entrance, explain where to park and how to exit when I was done. Students were also available to transport heavy items to vehicles for those that did not want to pull in. When it was time to leave, volunteers where on the streets directing traffic. I was on the road home in 45 minutes from the time I started tearing down.
I did have my best sales at this fair, but I only participated in three events this year, am new to this and understand each show can be quite different as far as sales go. I am learning what prints sell, more about displays and how to recognize the type of buyers each event will draw.
I would have to say this event was very well organized, ran very smoothly, festive and I look forward to participating again next year.
I am looking forward to using the Winter months to plan for next year where I am hoping to participate in a larger number of fairs next year.
Comments
I am definitely looking forward to next year!! And being part of the "tribe"...
This was nigh a perfect review, Anne. Thank you so much. The organizer of this show reads this blog and participates in the discussions some times. I know he is reading and learning from everyone who posts here. So, thank you and thanks to everyone else who helps new show organizers learn "what artists want."
He started a discussion here several months ago exactly on that topic, "what do artists want?" and he got a lot of good info from many. Good job folks -- you helped him learn what to do and it definitely sounds like he was listening. I don't live far from Adrian and had it marked on my calendar to attend because I knew how serious they were about making this a good event (but got lured to Grand Rapids for Artprize, see my blog elsewhere about that.) Next year.
I'm very impressed not only with how well the artists were treated but the other amenities available and would definitely not have expected "international food." I have to say I love high school marching bands opening up a show. It's "show time!"
Congrats, on your first three shows -- hope you are looking forward to next season and more art fair adventures.
You wrote a great review. Welcome to the Tribe.