Sonnet, Your inventory and booth set ups were gorgeous! Don't get too discouraged by sales being down, people don't have alot of money to spend on things that aren't a necessity. I have an Etsy shop and my numbers have been down all year. You are so sweet and talented, keep the faith, it will all work out! It sounds like you have so many good things in your future! All good wishes for your future success! ❤
You are amazing! All that hard work you do and you are such an inspiration! Sometimes ya gotta roll with the punches and go in a different direction. I love the pop-up-shop idea and if I ever get a chance to head your direction, I would love to come see you!
Don't apologize! You did an amazing job and you are SUCH a freaking inspiration... Not just as a crafter, but as a super, insanely hard worker! You absolutely amaze me with how hard you work and how much heart you put into your work and your booth. I don't even know how you were able to make so many trees, barn quilts, and flannels ALONE... I CAN'T WAIT to make over this little table with the English Toille like you did you using the same transfer on the picnic basket and/or cheese box. Again, you're amazing, you're super inspiring, stunningly beautiful, and so very sweet❤❤❤
OMG so glad I made the trip to see you at Cranberry Fest this year. Don’t blame you at all for letting it go, it’s not good when you do all that work and sales are not keeping up with the stress. I think your plan to have a show at home is a great idea and opening it up to other artists would be amazing!
Good for you, think a pop-up would be wonderful. I will really love to attend. I saw the picture of you and Connie. Love her channel also. Yes collaboration with other RU-vid designers. Great job, you are an inspiration and a amazing person & artist. Thank you for sharing the weekend with us.
Sonnet...I now have a brick and mortar store in Manistee Michigan for that reason...I have done shows for 15+ years and it's exhausting. I bought the store and after 3 years continuing to do shows, only to have 75% of our customers knew about the store.....I knew it was time to rethink my strategy.....the store has been the BEST thing for me...andy 50+ vendors.....good decision you will not regret it ..❤️❤️❤️
I can completely understand. I've had to stop doing craft shows due to physical disabilities and the stress/strain. Just holding out for a vintage booth somewhere. Hopefully soon.
Yeah, Burn-Out is a real thing and it sucks! I'm glad you're taking that advice seriously, Sonnet. Be forewarned though that doing your pop-up shop at your home will be pretty stressful in itself! But you thrive on stress! I'm sorry Cranberryfest was a disappointment this year, but maybe it's what was needed to keep you moving forward or in a little different direction. I noticed some cute things your Mom did and I would love it if you shared some of those smalls with us sometime! Can't wait for Friday's booth reset.
I’m vending at an indoor 3 day market in 3 weeks. The host/ coordinator has porter service available for a fee, but they will help with unload and load. Priceless.
There was definitely a reason that you attended the event at Debbi Beard’s. There were many obstacles placed in your path along the way which is what happens when God is leading us to something new. Satan likes to put obstacles in our way hoping that we will veer away from what God‘s path is for us. so, good for you that you persevered and got there and heard the message that the sisters and Debbie had. It is so true that when some thing doesn’t work out or it seems like something is failing it is often God just closing that door so that you will see the open window that he has for you. I feel like that is what is happening with cranberry fest. Though it’s difficult to say goodbye to it you are already seeing the light through the open window that God is guiding you towards. I look forward to all of the new things that you’re going to be doing and as always I just love watching your creativity and I’m so thankful for the inspiration that you have brought to my life. I’ll be praying for all things coming up for you and I can’t wait to see what you do with the new opportunities that are being laid before you. Congratulations on the flannels that was so clever and while I did not create 400 of them I did make five of them for my family for the fall and we’re going to be taking a family photo in them. We live across the street from the ocean and I thought it would be so cute to wear our flannels and some rolled up jeans standing at the oceans edge for our Christmas cards this year. keep doing what you do because you have definitely been blessed with an amazing talent. PS get some rest😉😁
I am amazed at what all you do. I told my mom what all you make for cranberryfest. She asked me if you ever sleep! Lol i also told her about your flannels. She asked me in a worried tone if we were going to make them now. We are killing ourselves just taking care of one small booth. Not sure how you manage 3 booths, all your videos, cranfest, etc. Must be that Wisconsin air!
I’m sorry Cranberryfest wasn’t worthwhile, and I hate that you felt defeated because of all the effort you put into the things you made. I had 3 small fairs this year and felt the same way. You will rise like a phoenix!
Sonnet, you have nonstop energy and such a phenomenal passion for what you do. You are always encouraging and inspiring. Whatever you fo next will be amazing. You give your all to your work and I am very certain that changing things up will be great for you and your mom and dad. I understand the let down. You invest hundreds of hours into a festival, thats 100s of hours of hard work. You aren't watching soaps and eating bon bons. I think theres so much uncertainty in the world right now. Prayerfully things get better soon. I do hope you find a great way to market your flannels because cold weather has arrived so people need to be wearing them.
I can totally relate! My normally biggest sale of the year, with the most set up and take down time, the same weekend as your sale, I sold only half the dollar value as last year! I also decided not to do that sale again. We often need to pivot. Wish I lived closer to be able to see your booths and any new ventures.
I am exhausted for you! My sales were down for shop hop this year too. I would love for you to do the other Cranfest. I can’t wait to check out your sale next year. I am getting out of resale this year too. I am feeling the burnout.
As you were prepping and talking about Cranberry Fest I felt it was a lot. After hearing you speak on this years experience I had a feeling this was it before you said it. I love your ability to let go of Cranberryfest and focus on the things that are more important. Peace and Blessings to you and your family. I absolutely love the support you and your parents have for one another. Cherish every moment with them. ❤❤❤
Sonnet you've worked so hard I know this is an old saying when one door closes another door opens and your trip to Debbies opened your new door. Another old saying work smarter not harder. Go with what you learn and and enjoy the ride. Don't look back and look forward to the great rewards that come you way. Life is so short and we have to enjoy what we do :) proud of you and tons of Blessings your way! Can't wait to see all your new ideas your such an inspiration to me and others.
Every festival isn’t the same. It’s a great idea to do a pop up next year, no packing, and you have a lot of stuff to sell. I like the stay inspired comment.
Wow your booth looked amazing, loved how you were able to get so much inventory in there and the staging was awesome! So sorry the sales didn't go as expected after all your hard work. I attended a similar event locally last weekend and the number of vendors was way down from last year. The pop-up shop sounds like a great idea....wished I lived closer! I love watching your videos and have learned so many techniques from you. Wish you all the best for whatever your future holds!
Was so excited to see the Cranberry Fest video and sorry to hear sales were down. Would definitely make the trip from Pittsburgh Pa next year to your home for your own sale and would be beside myself if more RU-vidrs joined you! Thanks for all you do to make crafting doable ❤and fun!
Hi Sonnet So glad I got to meet you at the show on SAturday. ( woman in black baseball cap and scarf from Land O Lakes.)YOU and your family were the only ones with a actual art booth this year. As I walked around the event I was soooooooo disappointed in the vendors and lack of actual artist vendors. They had a lot of tents selling FOOD!! Like what? Cranberryfest along with other art shows have really changed in the past few years. They are a TON of work and expensive to do. I am currently going thru burn out myself as a booth owner and community volunteer. Yesterday I hit a wall and I am going to start saying NO to things in my life that cause me stress. We all need to take care of our physical and mental health.You are making the right decision to step back. You will do great in your new adventures. Please continue to stay positive .❤️Joanne
So love your pop up shop plan! I live in St. Louis, but would love to try and attend. Sorry your numbers were down, I think we are all feeling the economy crunch. Congratulations on surviving another show!
As someone who used to run our community’s 4th of July festival I understand why they wouldn’t allow the cars and trucks on the grass in the rain….when it rains it destroys the grass, causing huge mud patches and ruts and literally destroying the grass causing the need for reseeding or sodding which is a major expense.. Plus it would limit the crowds because they of course don’t like to walk in mud. It really sucks for the vendors but I understand it. In fact we used to use a couple tractors and flatbeds with special tires that don’t destroy the grass and help the larger vendors tote their products. It was still a slow process but it really helped the larger vendors.
Our life is always changing. Changing for the better. I'm excited for you and can't wait for Fall so I can come to your pop-up. My sister and I will definitely be there. Indiana is just a hop, skip and jump from you. We are both in our 70's but we love traveling and adventures. Hopefully there are places to stay for everyone coming that way. I'm proud of your decision and excited for your future. 🎊🎉🎆🏩🏨🚐
I think you are making the right decision. As your business grows, you have to pivot and make decisions that make sense for you and how you want to grow. Every now and then I get the itch to do a craft show but then I give myself a little talk and doing that just does not make sense for my business or my life anymore. We just can not do all the things, even if we really want to.
Yay! I will be there for your pop-up shop!! I will also visit your booths to purchase something. I was so sad I couldn’t make it to Cranberry Fest this year, because it was my son’s birthday. I would love to do a craft day with you and other creative friends!
Oh my goodness I am so sorry what you and your mom and dad had to go through I am in Wis and I use to go to the cranberry festival in Eagle River but in the years I have seen such a different chance in Eagle River it's so sad my family I always stay in St German and made sure we're up for the cranberry fest but yes it changed 😢
Pop-up is the new yard sale...NO OVERHEAD$$ less stress. Yes!!! invite other youtubers. You have enough area to pull it off. MUCH SUCCE$$:-* I'll be watching.
Sonnet you are wonderful. You’ve started me on all sorts of creative paths. Really opened my mind. Creating is therapeutic for me. I don’t sell but take great pleasure giving things away. My creations help me feel better twice. You are so right to take step back from cranberry fest. Who needs someone yelling at you when first arriving. I’ve had similar experiences. Turned me right off. Plus the sales weren’t as good. The economy is tanking. Not your fault. Time to just enjoy life and your talents. Please take care of yourself and your family. Look forward to future videos.
Sonnet, I am so sorry that Cranberry Fest was so dismal. You worked so hard! Thank heavens for your tight bond with your parents! Your new idea sounds great. Look out, vender booths! Sonnet is on her way!
Sometimes, we need a break. You worked so hard on getting ready for Cranberry Fest. I can't imagine all the hours! I love workshops, it's fun to visit and just do a project. What ever the future holds you'll be amazing!😊
*Sonnet, your tents with staging looked AH-MAZE-ING and you had SO MUCH INVENTORY - WOWZA❣️‼️❣️ Call me impressed with your talent, creativity and work ethic. 😁💜😉 Applaud you for pivoting and letting Cranberry Fest go. A pop-up shop sounds fantastic. You could have VIP tickets for a day early of demos/make and take events before the pop-up and invite Connie from the Painted Photographer, Yvonne from GingerChickRehab who is in Michigan and Sherry from Canterbury Cottage who is in Illinois who all have RU-vid Channels. 🤔 Wishing you MUCH SUCCESS, Sonnet❣️💜💕🥰*
So glad you made this decision. The stress level has been noticeable for weeks, and I was getting worried about you! I will look forward to the details about your pop-up! Would love to come! Pat from Whitewater
Your 'fest booth setup was awesome - definitely a wonderful way to merchandise & display your items. I'm sorry that sales were down this year, especially when you put so much work into it. I do think it's the economy. I am glad that you have some other ideas and are doing a reset. So glad that you were able to gain some insight & inspiration from Jamie Ray Vintage & Debi's Design Diary. I follow both and am always in awe of what all of you create. So thankful that you share your creativity with us!!
I completely understand what you're feeling. I went through the same thing with the flea market. I.I'm just glad I decided to go to cranberry fest for the first time ever. I was so impressed with your booth. You are the only reason I went. I wanted to be able to support you and your efforts. I really wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors. I hope someday you will decide to do something up north. I would definitely love to attend. Good luck and God bless
Loved your recap of Cranberryfest. Your booth setup was fabulous. It's good to step back and re-evaluate what will work best for the future. A pop-up shop is a great idea!
Too worry about the Christmas show in my area, I am expecting a downward turn in sales but I always hope. I will be taking next year off and doing a few one day markets instead, during the year. My small booth may turn into a bigger one as well. You have to do what is right for you.
I’m so sorry to hear about Cranberry fest, you put your heart and soul in it, I have been with you for all three! But I’m so glad to hear your new idea I think it’s great and it will be so awesome, I’m excited ❤️
Sonnet your booth turned out great, both days. Such a bummer all that work to set up and then not a big crowd. You should do be proud of his well it all looks. ❤❤❤
I'm sorry your Cranberry Fest was spoiled by the rain and cold! But you have a good sense of what you can do, and keeping your business close to home really sounds like a great plan! I look forward to hearing more about this!
Everything that you said, I felt here in GA this past weekend. Even down to to your description of the crowd. Some other avenues of my biz are doing great but the show aspect is a NO go for me for a while.
So sorry to hear that Cranberryfest wasn’t all you anticipated. You put so much work and energy into all your items getting them ready. I think you made the right decision. Got to think of this as an opportunity to do something new as you suggested a show at you place! Wonderful idea. If you get a chance for feedback to the Cranberryfest people you should suggest they have a back up plan such as Boy Scouts or a church group helping to trek your wares in.
Wow Sonnet! What a weekend you had dealing with the weather and low turnout. I think you’re making the right decision on leaving and doing a pop up at your home. Are there any other festivals that are indoors and closer to home that you could participate in? I hope you’re now getting a little rest and relaxation.
Oh my goodness! Connie from the Painted Photographer was there to say hi! I love her channel too. Please keep in mind that the financial landscape has changed for many people now. The cost of groceries, gas, utilities are at an all time high. I'm certain this played a huge part in your turnout/profit this year. And yes, the weather was COLD here in WI which didn't help. Hopefully next year will be better. ❤ edited to say I hadn't watched your entire video when I commented. If you do a pop up at your home I'm only 1 1/2 hrs away, would definitely come!
Sonnet I’m so sorry Cranberry Fest wasn’t as successful this year! I don’t blame you at all for dropping that from your very busy workload! Keep on keeping on! Continuing to wish you much success!!
It's easy to see that you put your all into every project you undertake. I love the idea of a pop-up shop! We're heading to Valparaiso, Indiana, for weddings in June and in August. I sincerely hope one of those dates correspond with your pop-up shop opening! 🤞
You have so many new and creative ideas and the pop up sales will be great at your home. Just be sure you advertise everywhere you can to bring in shoppers. Also, have more than one weekend so new shoppers can come if they missed it. Sending good vibes to you and your Mom for future events. You got this Sonnet!😀👍🏻❤️
Where there's a "Will! There's a "Way!! You got this 👍, your talent is so incredibly unbelievable, ❤ ,I'm looking forward to your great next adventure (Bravo )
I’m sure it is the economy. I have watched you every year and you work so hard. I think a pop up store at your house is a great idea. So much less overhead and actual work/drive time and loading. Looking forward to seeing what happens.
I think it is a great idea that your do something at your home Sonnet. It would be so easy to set up on your own property less stressful. It is hard to say how well it will go when you do a community sale. The weather has a lot to do with the turnout. It hurts to have to haul a lot back home.
Sonnet, you work so hard and create so many beautiful things. Life throws us many curves and turns, and to take that new path can be daunting. Your idea of a pop-up is great! Invite a collaborator (or two) to join you and who knows, maybe it’ll be a better fit. Best of luck!!
Outdoor venues are tough, especially in the midwest where weather can change so easily/be a huge factor. It's too bad the organizers didn't alert vendors to the change in set-up, and then were rude when you got there. I've done shows where the traffic/sales just weren't there, and it is deflating. Glad to hear you're coming up with a new fall sale on your own - I hope it's successful!
I hate it that Cranberry Fest was not what you expected this year. I can’t imagine the amount of effort you put into that event and then to not have the turn out/sales expected. 💔 Count me in for the pop up! I’d love it if you could invite Heather from Create Your Own Cozy. Offering classes would be another plus! I’m from Michigan and I’d make the drive for sure. I love what you do Sonnet. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the great video! It was cool to see the pic of me and my granddaughter with you. I’m a bit disappointed that you won’t be back next year but I completely understand and I don’t blame you. I would Love to Come to your pop up shop if I can possibly make it. I think it’s a great idea!
Love the idea of a pop up shop! Can’t wait to follow this new journey. I love Flea Market Rescue on RU-vid. Maybe she would want to work with you. You both have a similar style. Best wishes to you!
Sorry Cranberry Fest was such a bummer. Let us know when and if you decide on a date for your own show! I live in Ohio, but am no stranger to Wisconsin. I will definitely make an effort to be there. Good luck with getting your routine back in order! ❤
I’ve done Warrens and just like Amelia wrote…so much china stuff. It was very disheartening when you see the person across the way unpacking box after box of bought items while you worked your butt off hand making all your goods. Good luck to you!!
I live here in Eagle River. I know that in previous years there were shuttle buses from different pick up points that brought guests to the fair grounds. This year they did not have enough drivers for that this year. It prevented people from trying to fight the crowds to get there.
WOW! Stressful! But you did an AWESOME job. My back would have killed me too. I can't do Art & Craft shows anymore. A windy day in an outdoor tent always freaked me out, every time a big gust would shake everything.
Sounds like a pop up shop would be fun. Wish I lived closet. Bummer, cranberry fest, I noticed that in some of the antique/vintage fair ground events were slow too. So much work and backache.😢
You have inspired me to do a festival! It's a small one that our downtown has. Have been working hard to get things made and thrifted. The economy and weather both have me a little worried, but we will just deal with that when it gets here. Do you have smaller markets that are closer that you could participate in? I was not into renting a space for the kind of money that the bigger places are asking. This is going to be a trial run for sure. If you offer things at your home, I think that would be fun! I would have concerns of people I don't know being at my home. I'm sure you will have some great ideas, can't wait to see what you do!
I think you have a wonderful idea with a home sale of your own. Including the Painted Photographer would be fun, it was nice to see the picture of the two of you. I would love to try and come from Minneapolis. Maybe a girls weekend.
The shape the world is in right now has really hurt the Midwest as far as vendor booths go a lot of people have struggled with gaining any profit so it wasn't you guys it's happened to everybody, but on a lighter note everything looked awesome ❤
