I still consider myself a rookie at art fairs and got into Ann Arbor, the Original this year. I've had people tell me it's overwhelming, a monster, and exhausting. I'm getting nervous. Maybe people just like to exaggerate.
We are in a booth space directly across from the fountain, inside a tented area with a 10 X 20 space. I can't decide if this is a really good thing, or if it's a "pay your dues as a newbie" undesireable spot. Any input?
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The first few year that I did Ann Arbor, I slept for 4 days afterwards because I was exhausted. I don't have that problem anymore. Here are a few suggestions:
1) Know where you are going to park before you get to the show. There are plenty of places where you can pre-pay. If not, find out where to park on Tuesday, the setup day. Some lots charged $10 per day. If you stay at one of the hotels, parking is included. I used to stay with relatives in the Detroit area, so I needed parking. If you stay at the motels by I-94 you will need parking at the show.
2) It was really fun staying at the Bell Tower Hotel, which is a block away from your booth. It has become really pricey though. I liked staying in the Detroit area because the drive to and from the show was relaxing. It's good to get away from all those people. Staying at the above mentioned motel/hotels by State St and I-94 gets you away from the show, also.
3) Bring plenty of water. Those 11 hour days(really 13 hours) can be brutal. That part of July, in Ann Arbor, are the hottest days of the year.
4) Be prepared for all kinds of weather. What would Ann Arbor be without at least one thunderstorm.
5) Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds coming in.
6) Pace yourself. You may want to decline the invitation when your next door neighbor asks you to come along for a night of partying(unless you go with Nels).
I want to clarify something. The original show used to be the best show in terms of quality and sales. But that was when the original show was across the diag on South University. People used to go there first and then to the other shows. Now State Street and the original show are right next to each other and they kind of blend together. Also, people have been going to this show for a lot of years and they have their favorite spots to hit first. Some people like North U, some people like South U, some people like Main Street, etc.
The original show is considered the best but might be second best for selling. But it should be a good show for you.
Larry Berman
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100
LOL! It may feel like it is night and day, Teresa, but it isn't really; 10 am to 9 pm the first three days and 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday. The word is that for that particular show the sales are best on the first day, so be ready and shiny! Is there a possibility for an electric hook up? If so, bring fans as Patricia said.
To assuage your fears, this is not "a pay your dues spot", but quite a nice place with shelter nearby, air conditioning indoors and a place to get fresh food and a bathroom.
No way! Air conditioning and a bathroom?! That sounds awesome. Whew...thank you all for the input. I'm feeling much calmer. :) I look forward to meeting many AFI members there. Connie, it was great to meet you at Broadripple.
Now if only I can make enough stuff. I do Krasl just before Ann Arbor. Back to work.