This blog is about my season at Nor Cal Renfaire. About 8 weeks ago, I stepped up and set up shop at the Northern California Renaissance Faire not knowing what to expect, or how to make it happen. Let’s just say I have been ‘Going With The Flow’ and I’m so glad. It was a season I’ll never forget. Because it was more than a ‘season’, it was a combo of a career benchmark, professional development pinnacle, and a lot of personal happiness. Many friends new and old said, “Welcome Home”. And that’s what it felt like, coming home.
Benchmark:
Those of you who have followed along my journey to this date know that I’ve been regretting passing a golden opportunity for about 20 years ago to be a part of this show. Now I am there, a fulltime permanent vendor. And it was a successful run, like REALLY good for sales. Frankly I’m enlivened by the cash flow after almost 2 years of nothing. I feel happy! I’ve already signed the contract to be a part of the show next year. That good.
Professional Development:
I got a great booth helper, Alice. And, we hit it off! My management style (I think trainer/mother hen/fearless leader) and her style worked GREAT. She surpassed my expectations, and I think I helped her reach new levels too. At this time, she reports that it was her best year ever working at faire. I’m happy with that. Working with management was a learning curve, and not without a few bumps. Being the new kid can bring surprises, and I feel I got through them with some grace and a lot of acceptance coupled with a willingness to learn. I’m grateful to have had experienced friends there to ask questions of; and the marketplace team are seasoned veterans who were willing to take time here and there and explain things to me. I don’t think I have better bosses and advisors.
Personally:
I reconnected with so many old friends. Shannon! Larry from Dragonfly Studios, Richard the violinist, Jost in security, Adriana and Michelle. New friends too – I’m looking at you crazy kids at Cuthberts! My neighbors at Tickle Thy Fantasy were amazing – thank you Janine and all the lovely friendly happy wonderful people there. Plus, new cat friends – hello Falkirk and Captain Jack! My neighbors at Hearts Delight too – Vincent and the great Hearts family (those women rock)! They run quite possibly the most professional booth on the circuit. I am so pleased to be a part of our community and neighborhood. The coffee booth every morning, and the wonderful Mongers and Puritans, the awesome faire staff; thank you for the welcome! I didn’t recall everyone – please forgive me if I left you out.
There were fun social things too, though I attended only a few. I was pooped most of the time – so much work, even with great help. By the way, we need a third person at the booth. Anybody want a job? New company practices include a Sunday Lunch With Friends. What a great thing, a picnic every week with the fancy table cloth and really good food. Welcome Home.
And so:
Now I am back in the studio and on to new adventures. My spirits are lifted, my heart is glad, my career is back on track. 🙂 I’m updating my online shop with my inventory left from this great season, and adding more new things as the weeks go on. I’ll be posting all about new things, so check back once in a while.
~ Martina