How to Make Lemonade from Jewelry
by Zoraida.
(Patchogue, NY)
My table with just a little light
I just participated in a 2 day show at a Gem & Mineral fair. It was held in a new location this year and space was minimal. There was no AC, it was very hot (indoors) and I only had one, 6ft table. I forgot to bring a fan and a lamp. But what seemed even worse, I was all the way in the back, in a far corner against the wall.
A little dismayed, I thought “nobody is going to find me here, in the back, in the dark”. It could have been worse, at least I wasn’t near the restrooms! There was a fire door next to me that I was afraid to open for a breeze. It might set off an alarm!
I decided to make the best of it, put out my jewelry and put on my best attitude. I called my husband to bring me a lamp, any lamp, and a fan. A standing floor lamp is all I had and a tiny, useless fan.
At least I had a beautiful view
But it was all good in the end, customers found me. A few even joked about my spot sayings things like “Are you being punished for being a bad girl”, “Did you get a better price for this spot?”
One man said “I like this lady, she knows how to make lemonade.”
On the second day, I opened the fire door and had the best breeze and coolest table in the show. I did very well at that show. My favorite return customers all found me and had special orders to fill as well.
Beads and cabs I bought at the show
So despite my humble display, not great lighting, less than wonderful location and ventilation, it was the jewelry and attitude that made the sales.
