Last wkd I worked my first festival/art market/wkd boutique/ get out on a sunny day and shop event. It was at Cheap Thrills in Phoenix & I learned a lot.

I learned I needed shade & I didn’t bring my own. A quick trip to Big 5 & now I’m set w a 12ft accordian style pop up tent. I learned I’m quick and had my whole table display ready in 45 minutes. Hence, enough time to boogey to Big 5. I learned people don’t like cheap candy. Next time I’ll have a small bowl of caramels instead of 5 bags of cheap sugar candy. I lkearned I need more then one 6ft table to display my wares. I learned when someone is at my booth waiting for a jewelry adjustment, don’t send them shopping. Guess what, they spend somewhere else and then change their mind on what they wanted in the first place. I learned  an apron is the most useful item of clothing. When are they coming back into fashion? I was right to take my own lunch & drinks. I learned it was great to see familiar faces. Thx Amanda & Jeni for coming by & supporting RMJ.

It was a bonus to  meet such lovely, friendly people also working the event. One woman I met was Beverly Barre. She’s a hair stylist by trade and two years ago she took up knitting and makes the most delightful accessories. I love this jumbo red felt flower. I took a vote and people thought I should buy the smaller one, but I really wanted the largest one. I didn’t need to ask. I knew I wanted it. She has them in hot pink and all kinds of colors.I  think next I’m doing pink to go on my purple wool coat. The live music was fabulous by Jamie Waldron.Cheri Montgomery did a different type of button jewerlry and had pretty displays. Jessica Evans of Yum …Confections  sold these wonderful desserts and one of them had bacon & caramel on a pretzel covered in chocolate. Yum.Mikako Hirate of Small BlueThings had really pretty beaded jewelry. Diane Drosendahl of Sunset Leaf Jewelry had beautiful paintings. Dianna Smith of Clearly Art Glass sold pieces made from fused glass. Jeanne worked her tail off and she’s put together a great event.,/p>

By the way,  the first woman who introduced herself to me that day was named, of course Pat. My mothers name. One more sign from above. Here’s to you mom. I know you’re looking out for me. xo. -Leah

 Come out & shop. Support your local artists. -Leah