Drop the temperature 20 degrees from a year ago, add better quality artists and you have an improved art festival.
We got to the festival at 10:30 and had to park in the second set of lots near the entrance to the festival. When we got inside, the increased crowds were noticeable. This isn't a large art festival and it is located right by the entrance so even those there for the garden had to pass by, a smart idea.
Got to see some new artists which is always enjoyable. The most crowded booth was a fabric artist with very stylish loosely woven ponchos and other pieces. They were relatively well priced compared to most clothing at art festivals. The only reason I didn't get one is my fear of snagging it. I wear too much jewelry that would catch on it.
The candle people were there and I just don't understand it. They are better suited to flea markets, farmer's markets or entry level craft festivals. This is not work that takes much imagination or dare I say talent.
I did see people carrying things and I hope all those people attending translated into sales.
We left around 12:30 and there was a line of cars almost a mile long waiting to get into the festival. Members get in for free and non-members paid $20/car to get into the garden.
Comments
My other informants, that were on the podcast with you, Ed and Judie Seidman, were also in attendance and pleased with the show, and of course, carried away parcels.
The show was only two days this year and I think last year it was 3 days (plus the members preview for both years)
I just realized that I was there on a Friday last year so that could have been the difference in the size of the crowd as well as the weather being wonderful this year.
And of course I bought things. I always do, it is becoming a problem cuz my taste is getting more expensive.
Thanks Geri, good to hear parcels were evident!
Thanks, Geri.
So, what do you think made the difference? Was it only the weather? I wonder why there were better artists when there was so much complaining going on last year.
This is such a lovely place (we did it the very first year, a long time ago, in its first iteration, where I made some great trades.) It can never get large because of the space. I hope the BG people were happy to have everyone there. It should be a good crowd pleaser for them and bring people back for their other activities.
Did you buy anything?