Montclair art festival

Last weekend, I participated in the first art festival of 2025. The weather was cool, but the genuine concern was the rain; thankfully, it only arrived on Sunday morning. I think all the weather forecasters should be fired; the forecast kept changing every few minutes, and it was impossible to know when — or even if — it would actually rain!

These fairs are long, demanding days. You have to arrive early to set up your display, be ready by 9:00 AM, and stay energized and welcoming throughout the day. I make a point of not sitting down during the show. Back in 2015, at my first fairs, I would occasionally sit and rest — until one of the more seasoned artists came by and said, "Here, we don't sit." He was right! Since then, I've made it a rule to stay standing and engaged.

Since I began participating in these fairs, I've learned so much — not only about setting up displays but about adapting and improving. I must have changed my booth design a hundred times over the years, always striving to create a better experience. Despite the challenges, something truly special about these events fills me with joy. Every fair brings the chance to meet a vibrant mix of people from different cultures, backgrounds, and walks of life. Some stop by to admire the craftsmanship, others share personal stories that my bags somehow bring to mind, and many leave with a piece that becomes part of their own story.

By the time I get home in the evening, exhausted but grateful, all I want is a warm cup of tea, to relax my feet, and a quiet moment to reflect on the beautiful day that passed.