Today, I'm wrapping up the final day of the Midwest Craft Con, giving you my big takeaways of the con, and sharing more delicious pictures. If you haven't checked out the Day 1 and Day 2 posts, make sure that you start there- now let's get started!
Day 3
Ah, the last day of the con. After the full two days before, I was ready to go home with my notes, snuggle up with my hubby and our dog, and what I learned into practice. Before embarking home though, there were just a few final things I wanted to do at MCC. The first was a panel, moderated by Claire J., one of the leaders on the MCC staff. She asked the panel, Toni Lipsey, Megan Green, and Stacy Wong, questions about the state of craft now, and what they expect to see on the horizon. Each member came to the panel with a unique perspective and thoughtfully shared their experiences. They reminded us that what we do as crafters is not easy, nor is the business side of a handmade business. It felt good to hear honest critiques and struggles of small businesses, and that there are many ways to find joy in your craft- it doesn't have to be your primary job just because you like it and are good at it. There is a lot of space for craft, even as new crafting businesses increase competition. The panel discussion gave me a realistic view of the crafting market now, but also kept me optimistic about what I bring to the table.
After the panel, the attendees had a variety of options on what to do next. Craftin' Outlaws had a craft fair upstairs, you could go out and grab some lunch, tour the museum, or even just head home. I decided to check out the craft fair first, since I had toured the museum already. The fair had a variety of vendors (some MCC attendees and speakers!), including home décor, jewelry, soaps, ceramics, and much more. I perused the stalls, but decided that nothing needed to come home with me that day and headed out to lunch on my own. I had a great burger on High Street, and then went to my very first Jeni's. I have always been a fan of their ice cream, and even got to have the Ted Lasso inspired flavor, "Biscuits with the Boss"-delish! From there I headed home to my boys and enjoyed a lovely night in cuddled on the couch. Pure bliss.
Now that I have given you a break down of what I did everyday, let me share my 3 big takeaways from the weekend.
The Midwest Craft Con is an investment. My 3-day ticket was around $370, plus most meals, gas to travel, and the hotel. However, I know that my ticket made sure that the speakers were paid for their time and provided lodging. I know that it paid for an amazing venue, the Columbus Museum of Art. And I know that making the investment in my budding small business was worth the cost of admission. I learned so many new ways to grow and shape my business towards my goals. Not to mention, I got to make contacts and network with people I would not have otherwise met. So, I feel satisfied with the price of my ticket and the weekend as a whole.
I was 100% fine going on my own. Before the weekend, I was a little nervous about going to my first con alone. Would I be awkward? Would I be one of just a ton of crocheters? Would it be hard to make buddies? Would I feel safe in the hotel and the city by myself? Thankfully, I really did not need to worry about any of the questions. The hotel was walkable to the museum, and I had no worries about safety. Everyone at the con is crazy excited to share their craft and learn about yours, so its easy to make friends. And, there was a WIDE variety of crafts. I sat next to a jewelry designer, who sat next to a vintage up-cycler, who sat next to a paper chandelier maker, who sat across from a children's costume designer. It was absolutely fantastic!
Strut your stuff! As a crafter, the MCC is a perfect place to wear/display your craft. Makers recognize handmade, and its a easy way to give yourself a confidence boost and show off your hard work! Before the trip, I knew I would incorporate at least one of my crocheted pieces into my look everyday. It let people know right way that I crochet, and that I make really cool stuff. Some crafts are easy to literally wear as marketing. Others may be harder, but having a business card on hand, or even a social media handle on your name tag helps start the conversation of what you make. After all, that is why you are there!
Have any other questions or comments about my experience at the MCC? Let me know below!
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