A Weekend Wrapped in Gratitude
I wanted to begin this post with an abundance of gratitude. The weekend-long Christmas Market has ended, and I’m finally sitting in a warm, comfortable chair with my feet up, pajamas on, and a cup of hot tea in hand. As I reflect on the two-day event—along with the whirlwind of days leading up to it—I keep returning to the saying, “It takes a village.” In my case, it certainly did.
From the friends and family who encouraged me to turn my art and jewelry into a real business, to the ones who helped quiet the negative voices in my head, I felt supported at every step.
My friend Anna bought my first necklace and earring set weeks before the market even happened. Jessica, Tania, and Janni made the weekend fun for our son so I could work with peace of mind, knowing he was safe and happy. Neighbors and friends came to my little trial-run market in front of my house, bought pieces, and gave me the confidence to take the leap to the big event.
Jessica even baked me a homemade pizza after my first night at the market—knowing I’d come home exhausted and likely without a plan for food. She was right of course. My sister picked up the phone during my moment of panic and gave me the feedback I needed. My dad played his role too: offering the pessimistic angles so I could prepare, yet supporting me unconditionally all the same.
And above all, there is Tim. His unwavering belief in my hobby-turned-business, his encouragement, and his help through two very long days of setting up and tearing down our booth meant everything. To all my friends near and far who cheered me on—“Thank you” barely begins to cover how grateful I am.
Saturday: Cold, Windy, and Discouraging
Saturday’s market was windy, cold, and slow. I made only a few sales and went home discouraged, my lower back in spasm. I honestly questioned whether it was worth returning on Sunday, but since I had already paid for the booth, I decided to try again. I made some new signs, rearranged a few displays, and hoped for the best.
Sunday: Rain, Kindness, and Small Victories
I’m so glad I didn’t give up. Despite a bit of rain, more people stopped by the booth on Sunday. They asked thoughtful questions about my process, chatted about art, and made purchases.
I met a young artist named Angelica and hope I encouraged her enough to share her work with the world. I spoke with a man from the UK searching for a gift for his mother, a couple from Mexico who recently moved here, and many people in Swedish—doing my best to listen and use as little English as possible.
The woman in the booth next to me had been doing markets for over a year and offered so much kindness and encouragement. She told me my booth looked amazing and that she never would have guessed it was my first market. That compliment alone made the months of preparation feel worthwhile.
I even received a custom order and unexpected interest in one of my paintings, which I hadn’t planned to sell yet.
The Gift of Community
The whole experience was a learning curve, but a joyful one. I left with new ideas, new energy, and a deeper appreciation for all the makers out there. You make it look easy, and now I know firsthand just how much work it truly is. And still—I find it worth every moment.
Feeling connected to your community and fellow artisans is a gift. Thank you, everyone, for being with me on this journey and for all your help and support along the way.
