Thursday, January 5, 2012

Natural Hair Shows, Vending & I

I have a love, hate relationship with vending.  

I applaud anyone that can mass produce anything they make.  Most artists don't like doing the same thing over and over.  There's got to be a break in the monotony, or seriously stubborn will-power.  Building inventory is a feat because you have to find and be able to buy supplies.  Then there's everything else.  The tables, business cards, mirrors, tools, displays, tissue, and bags. I know I'm missing something from this list and I will miss something once I'm at the show.  How much inventory is needed is a huge factor too.  I could buy a truck load of supplies and it will not be enough.

It's one thing to see items on the display.  It's when I demonstrate the product that gets the ooh-do-it-again.  I always get a little teary eyed.  But after a few hours of that, I want an assistant or a looping video of people putting on the products.  I want a whole team like Miss Jessie and them. 

Driving around in downtown ATL and on 20s, 85s, 70s is for the birds.   Driving more than two hours has my nerves on edge.  Sleeping in hotels, I can't stand it.  I don't want my skin touching the bed, floor, shower curtains, toilet.

With all of that said, the worst thing that happened to me is a lady tried to haggling.  Vendors have already cut prices ridiculously low for quick sells.  Don't insult us.

I've summed up what I don't like so here's why I still get out there every now and again. 

People recognizing me from the internet is so tickling. 

People buying and wearing my accessories is still surreal. 



4 comments:

Reaction Designer Jewelry + Accessories said...

That is really cute.

Carmennc said...

Hey! Thank you so much!

NubianLockedPrincess said...

I wish you beautiful people lived in the north! Carmen your locs are beautiful! you really need to show them off more often! Will you be making the flower hair jewelry you posted in a give away? I really loved the set!

KnottyAuthor said...

Girl, I fell ya. You forgot! ...
I hate taking inventory back home!

The hagglers really get me. I have found the shows to only be good for face time with my audience. Other than that, I break even or loose money-buying stuff. Thanks for your honesty. Its good to know I'm not alone. ....