[TheForge] Suggestions, please

[Phlip]

First, I want to thank everybody for the suggestions- I'm stashing them and
looking them over, and thinking about them. Will likely try a few as soon as
I get decent weather.


Ene bichizh ogsen baina shuu...

> Which Renn Faire?  I know there's a new one trying to open up in Vernon,
VT.

This one's in Eastern CT. It's been going for a few years, but their
original smith got too busy to attend- and they want someone there, beating
iron. Will try to find out who it was, see what he has to say- for one
thing, I don't want to get in the middle of some foofarraw, and be the bad
guy for "stealing" his venue.

I got the lead because they contacted the CBG. As it stands, we're
discussing my going down next week (weather permitting) and looking over the
site and where I want to be placed.

> But definitely think small, quick, cheap (especially if you won't be able
> to take credit cards there) possibly interspersed with some more
> expensive/complex items made at home.

Am- that's why I'm asking for suggestions.

> - Small allows the customer 'touchy feely'.  This works really great for
> things that have many bends, curls, twists, etc.
> - Quick keeps their attention.  While you may get some people who will
> watch for an hour, most will probably only hang out for 10-15 minutes.

Yep. Found that out at SCA events and demos.

> - Cheap is important if you can't take credit cards.  If you're going to
> take checks announce it some how.  Many people assume businesses with
> transient customers won't take checks.  They know they don't have enough
> cash, and never ask if you take checks.

It's a thought.

> - Finally, be a blacksmith OR a seller but not both simultaneously.  Find
> someone to field product questions and take money OR someone to do the
> demo.  The demo is the main draw, but it also inhibits purchases since
> people don't want to interrupt you to buy.  Having a helper to make sure
> both bases are covered is a must.

Yeah, I was seriously considering taking my apprentice along- it will depend
on his mundane work schedule. He should be available for Saturday and Sunday
and teardown, if not necessarily Friday set up, but the guy has already told
me I can arrive on Thursday and set up if necessary.
>
> Daniel Crowther

Thanks, Dan ;-)

Saint Phlip,
CoD

"When in doubt, heat it up and hit it with a hammer."
 Blacksmith's credo.

 If it walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it is probably not a
cat.

Never a horse that cain't be rode,
And never a rider who cain't be throwed....



-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 265.6.11 - Release Date: 1/12/05