I want to procrastinate going back into my studio, so thought I would write about this years N VA Fine arts Festival in Reston VA this past weekend.
One of the most important things about any show is the WEATHER, especially here where I lost my tent to high winds two years ago. This year, it was PERFECT, sunny and cooler than Michigan, if you can believe it. I had loads of people thru my booth, and did well, but did not sell quite as well as the last time - had lots of folks say, 'I love the necklace I bought from you two years ago, I always get compliments' and then walk on by. That said, I was quite happy with my sales. Did not get too much chance to walk around, but everyone commented on the quality of the artwork - no buy and sell at this show!
Extremely well run, with loads of volunteers passing out water and boothsitting. The Hyatt right across from my booth has some of the nicest first floor restrooms around. I don't know what folks at the other end of the fair did for relief. Parking in all the garages around the town center are FREE. I thought that setup and take down were a breeze- with booths on only one side of the street, it never seems too crowded to get your van in.
If I had my choice, I would spend every third weekend in May in Reston!
Comments
Leslie, it isn't often Virginia is cooler than Michigan. Glad that all things lined up perfectly for you.
Congrats on a good show Leslie - so glad you had good weather this time round :)
We did it once and never got in the few times we applied later. Loved the area and the quality of the show, sales were okay, so after a few rejections moved onto another place. Certainly a five hour drive is nothing, especially for good sales! I had a friend who consulted with the Art Center and helped them get the show up and running and attracting good artists. He was in a few times and then not again. He was miffed. He had quality work. Basically though what that says is that it is fairly run.
I am actually from Pittsburgh, so its only 5 hours for us. I was just reflecting on a post about the E Lansing fair where it was so hot.
It is expensive, but no more so than the Ann Arbor fairs, and not such long hours. There is a good clientele with good demographics, too. I have applied four times, and gotten in twice.
Thanks for procrastinating, Leslie. I've been watching for a review of this show. It was probably the most important one last weekend for what's happening at the preeminent shows.
It's quite a drive from Michigan, yet you're happy? Do you apply every year to this show? If so, what makes it special when you could be a lot closer to home in E. Lansing with lower expenses? I've heard complaints about the fees. Sounds like you think they are fair.