Vending at the International African Arts Festival: A July 4th Adventure in the Heatwave

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This past July 4th weekend, I had the incredible experience of vending at the International African Art Festival in Brooklyn. The festival spanned four days, and despite the scorching heatwave that swept through New York City, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding events I’ve ever participated in.

Overcoming the Heat

The heat was brutal, with temperatures soaring and humidity making every breath feel thick. But even the oppressive weather couldn’t deter the amazing crowd that showed up. People were determined to support the vendors and enjoy the spectacular performances. It was inspiring to see such dedication from both the attendees and fellow vendors.

A Successful Weekend

I’m thrilled to share that I sold out of most of my umbrellas and totes that I designed! It feels incredibly gratifying to see customers excited about my products. Many of them have purchased from me multiple times and often bring friends and family who fall in love with my designs as well. There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing a familiar face light up when they find my booth, and the thrill of introducing my creations to new customers.

The Therapeutic Side of Vending

Despite the challenging weather, the festival had a therapeutic effect on me. It felt so good to reconnect with my regular customers and meet new ones who appreciate my work. The supportive community and the vibrant atmosphere of the festival were truly uplifting. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do.

Check Out My Products

If you missed the festival or want to see more of my designs, you can visit my Etsy shop where most of the products I had at the festival are available. I’d love to hear from you, so if you have any comments or questions, please leave them below.

Thank you to everyone who braved the heat to support the vendors and performers. Your enthusiasm and support mean the world to us! Here’s to more successful events and creative adventures.