Thank you, West Virginia!

The Cheat Festival 

It's the first weekend of May every year and it's the perfect combination of enjoyment of the area through the Cheat River Race and kayaking all weekend long, a music stage with live bands all afternoon long, and the Art Market.  The festival raises money for the Friends of the Cheat, who work tirelessly to repair damage to the valley due to runoff from abandoned mines.

I took a pretty big step, submitting our work to the jury from the Preston County Arts Council.  I thought this would be a nice opportunity, and if we didn't make it in, my family could still enjoy the festival.  There would still be fun.  But Intentional Stones got in!    We were already very thankful.

With the help of my family setting up, the sales stall was beyond my expectations!  Everything came together beautifully.  My spot in the market could not have been better.  People could see me as they came in and I could see the stage for all the bands.  Especially important because there were people visiting me all day and evening. 

Meanwhile, the family had a great time enjoying wild, wet, adventurous fun.  Appreciating wildlife, climbing, playing down by the river, hiking, dancing and enjoying the beautiful day.   

Over the long day, they came back to bring me food from the great vendors and let me take breaks.  So, even though I missed Mina, who can't really pick up and travel for a random weekend, I had my team!

There were many talented artists- at the art market and playing on the stage.  My neighbors Cool Runnings- quilting and tie dye, and Smell like a Monkey?- sweet, whimsical soaps, among many others.  And the event organizers.  Everybody was very helpful and even loaned us power cords when ours wasn't long enough.  More experienced vendors definitely helped us stay prepared for the weather. 

With the crowds from all the different bands, I was busy at the art market all night. 

Nytesong and her awesome husband suggested taking part in the art market. They've run the downriver race for years. Our coming benefited both families, they were able to stay for the festival and the kids all had much more to do.

I have to say it was the best advice I've gotten all year. 

They get a huge thank you as well.  They've supported me a lot through the last few years.  Michelle's easy to make jewelry for, and her appreciation has been a big boost for me as an artist.  Rick's a small business owner and he's helped with getting us set up.  Our kids are dear friends, so they keep each other entertained, even when I have a million computer-related things to do. 

They're only two of the great friends I have who've been so supportive.  I love you all.

This festival was the most successful sales event we've attended, something we needed very much in the quest to be an art business.  We made good connections, I got a lot of wonderful and helpful feedback about our jewelry.    I couldn't be more grateful for this opportunity.  Thank you, West Virginia!

If you have a favorite festival or art event that you'd like us to try, please, mention it!

-Simbelmynë

Comments

[Bonnie]

Congratulations on such a successful weekend! You deserve it! I really liked the set up of your table/tent.

I have stayed away from art festivals/fairs with my weaving business, but your success makes me want to rethink this...maybe???

[Intentional Stones]

Definitely! My advice would be to find a way to talk to people who've vended there in the past, see what kind of crowd and if people are really serious about art or just bargain hunting. Avoid the bargain hunters (but you probably know that)

-Simbelmynë