- What is it that you sell? Ornate ear cuffs, Chain mail headdress, crowns, bags and more.
- Where are you located? Buffalo, NY
- What got you interested in starting out in this business? I have always created and love all things fantasy and nature
- When did you start selling ? In general or at renaissance fests? I started selling over 30 years ago at art shows, then comic cons and many others vendor events
- What was your local faire or home faire? My local renaissance faire was King Richard’s Faire in Carver, MA as I am originally from New Hampshire
- How are you compensating for this strange time we are in now? Well, for me it’s even more strange considering I moved to Buffalo just a little while ago and there really isn’t much for in person events for the types of things I make and sell. So I built a studio and sell everything through my Etsy shop. And I market heavily. I work all day everyday on my art and love every moment.
- What advice do you have to give to others that are just starting out in this business? Or how to stay in this business? Stick with it. Celebrate the victories and don’t let any disappointments dissuade you from doing what you love. Seek out other artists. Encourage others and stay positive! If you love what you do, it will always show!
- How do you handle thefts or copying of your works? I don’t honestly worry about this much. I actually make lots of tutorials showing others how I do exactly what I do. I also run some Facebook groups and do live videos where people can ask me any questions. I figure if I can do it, so can you. And if you want to work to succeed, I am more than happy to help! I always say, we succeed together.
- Are you doing any online sales or virtual performances? I am. I sell on my Etsy page which I am very proud of. I also have a YouTube page where I upload videos regularly and provide live demonstrations on Facebook and Youtube.
- Why Renaissance Faires or theme? What is it that made you so interested in this period? I love all things Fantasy. I have been into Dungeons and Dragons and all fantasy genres since I was little. There’s something about it that has always drawn me in.
- Describe your first experience with us or your best experience (could be worst experience if you want to share that) Oh that’s a good question! My best experiences have been the artists I have met along the way and how close we have become. We all just lift each other and share the same passions. As I said before, we truly do succeed together. With so much negativity out there, we must surround ourselves in kindness and love.
- In five years (or less) my goal is to: Have an established name for myself and not have to work so hard chasing sales.
- At faire, what was your garb/attire your usual go to? I usually dress in standard tavern maid garb. It is so comfortable for the day1
- What makes your act/wares unique or different? Everything is handmade by me and very unique. No two pieces are the same. I create a lot of custom pieces. My pieces are comfortable, nickel free and just enchanting accessories. They truly make a costume stand out!
- What makes you stand out? My pieces are eye catching with every shimmer. They catch the light beautifully and cannot be missed/
- What was your very first experience at a renaissance festival? What education or training if any do you have that led to what you do? I am completely self taught. I have always appreciated art and have been creating for as long as I can remember. When I decide I want to do something, I give it everything I have. My first experience was at King Richard’s Faire.
- What would you say to a new person looking to try out or vending? Don’t give up! Research other people’s experiences at the event before committing and make sure it will be worth it for you. I would also recommend getting involved in any and all events in your area. It’s so important to be a part of the community. You can do this by first just contacting your local Chamber of Commerce. Join as many Facebook Groups to meet your area of interest. And get involved! And lastly, engage with your clients and let your personality shine through! If you are ever at an event, talk to everyone you see, always bring a smile and if you can, don’t sit! Potential customers will walk straight past a sitting vendor every time!
- What is your go to for food at faire? You can name a food vendor or if you are a food vendor, what is your most sold item? Well, always a good turkey leg! I know that’s a go to answer, but it’s a big one!
- What’s your idea for the future of faires? I’d love to see more faires across the country. In the area I am located now, there are no faires. Which is a huge bummer. We have a small Ren Faire day for a few hours in our villages but it is not well attended. Also, when it comes to the bigger faires, I’d love to see more opportunities for potential vendors with a cost that doesn’t take all of your profits. That can be tough on the vendors. You can make a few thousands for a weekend but the cost to vend is more than the profit.
- Plug your website or fan page here (or both): Etsy: odinseyeart.etsy.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/odinseyeart Instagram: @odinseyeart
