Sunday, April 19, 2009

"Super" Markets!!

I would like to share that I had a VERY successful downtown Roanoke farmer's market experience.
I was trying to determine what it was EXACTLY that made it spectacular. The financial part, of course. (I hadn't done that well previously, but last year was a crazy summer and all-- with my dad... me being brand new with no online presence, either.) So now I have sold a little online, at work, home party, and I am feeling more comfortable with 'the process.' I offered up a prayer to the Lord, that He would bless this venture, and reminded Him that this business is His to bless or not bless as He sees fit. Needless to say, I was blessed.
The other AMAZING thing was that I had a repeat customer from last year who was super excited to find me again! What an honor to be remembered-- but not just because I was an artist. She told me that she had told all her friends to come check out my stuff, because I had been a missionary. She supported an idea that I've had for a while, that I maintain personally. When I have the option of choosing, in business, who I want to deal with, if there is a Christian option, that is what I want to choose. (It's part of the reason I like Chick Fil A). I also felt great about having some unique Christian gifts. Not only the believers in Christ, but non-believers as well, were exposed to His Word-- and the Bible says that will not return void. So Praise God about that!
Plus, the weather was nothing short of GLORIOUS!! 70's and no rain! I almost didn't know what to do. That was all God, too.
Also, I received God's favor-- got one of the stalls on the market proper. No that may not seem like a big deal, but you are talking to a girl who has only ever had the tent/table option. Set up was a BREEZE! And my car was in the space behind me. I couldn't believe what a difference that made in the overall experience. No tent to deal with, no wind to fight, a feeling of comraderie with goat cheese vendors on either side of me-- it was fabulous.
I had fantastic rapport with the customers-- everyone seemed happy and enthusiastic. And one of each thing that I made-- necklace/earring sets, bracelet, box, earrings sold. I was especially excited about the sets, because I don't usually show those at work. It was just confirmation that my designs really spoke to someone's heart, enough that they had to have them, and that made me feel great.

The other super Market is the long awaited Christian market-- at the 1000Markets website (which is now Live). The rapport in the market is wonderful-- the name is Marketplace of Blessings. It is blessing lives, as we have opportunity to get to know each other, and write back and forth and pray for one another. It is what I've been waiting for in an 'online community' experience. I hope you will stop by and support those lovely artisans for all your Christian gift giving needs!

I will be at the farmer's market every Saturday that is sunny and above 65. Look for me! :)
* if you live in the Roanoke area, and purchase something online, please let me know, in the message box. I will refund your shipping and you can pick it up at the market. Because items are one of a kind, I want to tell you that if it is online, it is for sale. When I sell the item, it is immediately removed. Please do not be disappointed-- if it is online and you want it, buy it. Don't assume it will be at market the next sunny Saturday. :)*

4 comments:

  1. Gina,
    Thank you for sharing your market experience, it sounds like you had a wonderful day! Just knowing someone appreciates your gift enough to purchase a piece is much thanks in and of itself...you truly were blessed! Continued success!

    Melana

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  2. God will bless the faithful - thank you for honoring Him!

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  3. Awww, If I get in the area this summer, I will be sure to hit the Roa market to see you! :) Have you thought about selling at the Festival in the Park?? It may be too late to sign up--but maybe a thought for next yr. I want to do it--I still have a B&W photo I bought there as a teen!--but 3 days away from my children is too hard on me right now. :) But maybe someday.....(I like to dream!)

    :) Jen

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  4. I found your blog from your comment about Baby P. I am an artist and art teacher. I am enjoying checking out your work.

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