The summer is almost coming to a close and the very best season is upon us. Fall just happens to be my favorite holiday because I get to wear sweaters and scarves, and I get to break out my favorite pair of fashion combat boots. But this is not about fall fashion. This is about the changing of the seasons for outdoor market vendors. Outdoor markets are at their peak during the summer months, so much so that you see one every weekend. The culture around festivals and outdoor markets is one that embraces artisans, local crafters, local foods, unique one-of-a-kind goods, and experimentations. This summer we have seen such awesome vendors selling food, unique wallets, medicinal local honey, and even a device that allows women to pee standing up (of course we each bought one)! With the fall, the winds come, the rain, and unpredictable weather. The focus on holiday shopping begins. There are more indecisive shoppers mostly because it is hard to shop for other people whereas, in summer, people are mostly shopping for themselves.
The majority of outdoor market vendors are local artisans. This is a very vulnerable position. We are making what we consider beautiful things and we are hoping you think so enough to buy them. Sometimes, we have great days, and sometimes we have terrible days that cause us to question whether or not we should keep creating. Alas, we keep creating because we love it. We are often asked, “how do you do it? stay out there for 8-10 hours each day selling stuff.” Our reply? “Because we love what we do and swell with pride when customers find their treasures.”
So, while the fun sandal wearing, hot, long days of outdoor markets comes to a close, remember that we are still out there ready for you find your treasure. As you slowly shift into your holiday shopping mode, remember the local vendors you supported over the summer. We hope to see you at the fall markets!