help at shows

[ruthpowers]

I am getting ready for spring shows and trying to figure out how to clone myself. I work a full-time job and find it hard to do a 2-day weekend then jump back into work on Monday. So I am thinking of hiring someone to relieve me some during the weekend. What wisdom do you all have about this that you can pass on to me?

I also have been thinking that I could possibly team up with another artist to share a booth. What are the pros and cons of doing this?

Thanks for all your help.

[Terry Ow-Wing]

I think that the best help you could have is to have someone help pack down. Make sure they know where things go and with care. During the show itself having help for relief doesn't really work a whole lot because when you walk away from your booth you worry - and you really can't relax. I have help sometimes but I let them do the running to go get lunch etc - not to take over for me to go around. When I have left someone in my booth I have walkie - talkies so I can be buzzed if there is activity in my booth. Last time I did this my help buzzed me and I did over a 1000 in 20 minutes. It also helps that all of my shows are local and I never have to drive more than 1 hour to get home.

On sharing booths I have no experience.

Best of luck!
Terry O.

[Paul Tarlow]

Hi Ruth,

The biggest challenge I believe you'll face is that buying art is often an emotional thing -- and speaking to the creator connects the buyer to the art and enhances the experience.

- Paul

[Sara]

I am getting ready for spring shows and trying to figure out how to clone myself. I work a full-time job and find it hard to do a 2-day weekend then jump back into work on Monday. So I am thinking of hiring someone to relieve me some during the weekend. What wisdom do you all have about this that you can pass on to me?

I also have been thinking that I could possibly team up with another artist to share a booth. What are the pros and cons of doing this?

Thanks for all your help.

I always hire someone to help during set up and tear down and for 4 hours during the middle of the day. I prefer not to leave my booth and have my assistant do all the running around, helping when I'm overwhelmed with orders and generally keeping up good cheer. Many I know who have a secondary job will take a vacation day either before or after to ease their other life.

As for sharing a booth, I don't have any experience with this . . . most promoters frown on this anyway.

It's all about energy and you've gotta be there for that transfer,

Sara

[Claudia Whitten]

Just a couple of other things to consider. Most shows require the artist to be there. Also, most supply a person who will sit your booth while you take a bathroom break etc. If they don't tell you, ask when you apply. I have done shows alone where this is a necessity.
The public likes to meet the artist and the advice on having help on set up, tear down and to do your running is excellent. I do shows close to home because I also work. The day off before the show has worked for me on the ones that are further away. Although, Mondays I am a little tired.
Good Luck on your shows Ruth..........Claudia

[ruthpowers]

Actually, Paul, one reason I was trying to find help was so I could do a show and your workshop on the same weekend in March. I guess that won't work. I appreciate all the comments. I was thinking it would be hard to be away from the booth, and you all confirm that. I have been able to get friends to help take down, so I guess I will do that again. And use up my vacation days. It is great to be planning for the upcoming year. I got so tired during Nov. and Dec. that I wondered whether I would want to touch glass again, but alas.... I do.