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News and Notes

Exhibitor Show Reviews Appearing in the Mar/Apr 2007 Issue


Old Wethersfield Fall Craft Fair at Cove Park, Linda Willard, Cove Park, Wethersfield, CT October 7. 50 - 99 Exhibitors. One review received. Comments: 1. Linda Willard has continued to limit percent of categories, even in these tough times, and it makes such a difference - a good show! Everyone around me said they had a pretty good day.
Guilford Harvest Festival, Guilford Civic Women, Guilford Green, CT October 14. 50 - 99 Exhibitors. One review received. Comments: 1. This show had such potential, but was not well promoted. Most customers told me they stumbled upon it and were not prepared to purchase. Better organization and advertising might make this a good show as the location is lovely.
South Wilton Autumn Craft Festival, Artisan's Alliance, Wilton, CT October 22. 50 - 99 Exhibitors. One review received. Comments: 1. There didn't appear to be much advertising.
Christmas Craft Festival, Artisan Promotions, Inc., World Trade Center, Boston, MA November 3 - 5. Over 200 exhibitors. 11 reviews received. Overall Rating Good+ Were imports allowed: Yes Were crafts limited: Yes Would you apply again: 8 - Yes, 3 - No Comments: 1. Most attendees want low-priced items, won't spend even $45. 2. I am undecided about applying again as I plan to focus on the wholesale end of my business in 2007. The staff was friendly and the how does attract customers who shop for the holidays. Many come with gift lists and spend several hours, making a day out of it. However, the mix of handmade art and questionable import/resale products lessesn the quality of the show for both artists and customers. This was my first 3-day show and it was a good learning experience. 3. Even though jewelry percentage was under 20%, there was still lots of jewelry. Also, show rules state"No Sale Signs" but many booths had them. 4.Promoters do an excellent job - show is professionally organized, reduced hotel and parking rates are offered, attendance is marvelous. Our sales this year, our 6th at this show, were the best ever. 5.This was our first year doing the show. Friday and Saturday sales were slow, however, Sunday was a good day. We probably will apply to the show again. 6. Well organized and operated. 6. Terrible sales - too many re-sellers of low end. Was advertised as Fine Arts and Crafts - not true. None of fine arts or high end crafts sold well. 7. Some buy/sell and low end merchandise but overall good show.
St. Maurice Church Christmas Fair, Bolton, CT November 18. Comments: 1. Good fair all around. Good attendance. Good sales. Will be back.

EAST COAST ARTISAN, P. O. Box 4056, Monroe, CT 06468, PH 203-268-5511, FAX 203-268-2251, Email EastCoastArtisan@aol.com