Behind the Scenes: Part 2

So guys, all these things I told you yesterday...still upset me. But in some ways, maybe this is a push to start something bigger.

I really do enjoy vending at the DGM and the RYM. But if it's a hostile place...maybe it's time to move on. I know we still have a few weeks to find out if we're RYM vendors...my hopes are not too high. I'm just being honest here. It's basically the same people, who jury both Markets.

For all our amazing customers who reached out...Thank You! I'm not sure what you can do. Last year we were "wait listed" at both Markets. At the DGM, after about a month...we sold weekly. The entire season at the RYM...I think we sold 2 or 3 times. So who knows.

Last year when we weren't scheduled...I had tons of customers emailing, calling, and texting me. Guys, it's not me. It's not my decision. And like I said last year...you have to ask the Market staff. Because I don't know. They don't really tell us anything.

You guys are the customers. And you have to be the ones, speaking up. This is your Market. And without you...the Markets are nothing. But a bunch of vendors. If there are vendors that you'd like to see...speak up. I'm not the only vendor in this position.

There was so much more to add yesterday. Like those people who kept turning us in...they'd come and take pictures of all of our items. I'd see them taking notes of our products. Guys, it takes a lot to build a business. And an inventory like we have. I research online. I buy patterns and books. I do testing for designers. I design my own products. The kids give me ideas...that I have to make come to life. Most of all, we work 7 days a week!

So it's pretty heart crushing to know, there are fellow crafters out there, trying to take your business down. Market life is not easy. There's a lot of work that goes into it. You see me on FB and Insta...promoting the Markets. I try and highlight other vendors. I want to help build up everyone's business. Not tear it apart.

And sometimes I think people who haven't done this, have no clue how much work is required. I HATE that other vendors were essentially "stealing" my Mom's ideas. And by the end of the season, there were a number of people making the same items. Guys, we all have great ideas! Don't go stealing other people's ideas.

What's in our future? I'm not a 100% sure yet. I'd love to say, there was a great mistake made. And we'll be selling this year. Because it is 95% of the fundraising that we do for our foundation. But I don't know. I've sold at other Markets. In other cities. Maybe this summer, I'll try that again. For the last 3 months, I've been selling on Facebook. So anything is a possibility!

But I'm really not sure. We'll continue to make things. Maybe for a few months, I'll concentrate on things that I enjoy making. Because when you get stuck in the Market Schedule...for months and months...I'd find myself making items that didn't completely bring me joy. But I did it, because they were what sold.

I'm just glad this happened now. I was about to invest in some signage, new business cards, and new equipment. We're in the middle of a rebrand of sorts. Like a new tent, chairs, and shelving. We were going to do things different this year. Glad I hadn't quite made that investment.

Lastly, to our customers, Thank You! For everything. We're still here. If you need anything. I'm ALWAYS here if you want to order anything. I can meet you around town. Thank You for your wonderful smiles. And your great support. You guys, are honestly the reason we kept going. 💕

Behind the Scenes: Part 1

Behind the Scenes so much goes on. Behind every business, it's the same. My parents owned a business for 45 years. I worked for a friend, who also owned his own business. So much goes on. And rarely, do you let the outside...in.

But today I am. Partly because I feel like our customers deserve an explanation. Partly because I'm sad. Partly because I'm upset. We were declined as DGM vendors today. No explanation. I tried to email with the management. Y'all we've been doing this for over 5 years! In fact, our little business is about to turn 20! I got nothing.

I wouldn't be so sad, if it wasn't for our customers. Guys when I say we have the BEST customers, I mean it! They're so supportive, encouraging, and fun to be around. The kiddos are the absolute BEST! They give me all my best ideas. I enjoy sitting on the ground, to play. We just have a great time. Every Saturday morning, I have a group of kiddos who come to visit me. I love watching the little babies...grow into kiddos. It's just a fun place to be.

And honestly, that is what the DGM was. A fun time. For 7 months out of the year, we got to hangout with friends. Friends that we met at the Market. Friends that we invited to the Market. Vendor friends.

About 2 years ago...things started to really change. Farmers started to be very disrespectful. There is a certain way the Market is run. Times when you can park and unload. On purpose farmers would go early. Park in our way, throw our stuff, and berate us. No one took us seriously. I mentioned this quite a few times to management...who told me they'd handle it.

Then we got "wait listed." I would probably have to say, because we spoke up. And every week, we were moved to a different location. Basically for 2 years, we'd have to email with the DGM team. They'd set us up. And we'd usually get scheduled about a month at a time. It wasn't horrible for us. But made it tough on our customers. The issues with the farmers got worse. Then we started having people report us. For not making our items. WHAT?!?!?!

That's all we do. My Mom is sick. With cancer. For weeks, we don't leave home unless it's for a doctor's appointment. Or I'm running out to pickup groceries. Crochet is our outlet. So to hear this, was very upsetting. Especially since, 95% of the time, we're crocheting at the DGM.

But we let it go. And we'd just sit and watch things at the Market. This is what upsets me. We have friends who are farmers. We vend next to farmers. We've helped farmers at their stands. Not everyone is bad. But I can tell you, for a Market that is ALWAYS trying to do things by the rules...they don't.

The dark side of the Market is...not everything is a OK. They have favorites. And openly show it. The rest of us...just have to deal. Farmers pay $5 a week. I think recently, in the last year or so, it went up to $10. Do you know they make thousands of dollars a week? I'm not lying! On a slow day at the Market, one of the smaller farmers who we vend next to, makes $8,000. In 4 hours! And they don't report all their sales...

Like I said, we've worked at those stands, we vend next to those stands, we see what happens. How is that fair to a Craft Business who has to pay $35 a week? They claim to be organic. I'm not saying every stand does this...but lots of them buy their produce else where. And resell. Whether it's other farmers...or the local big box store. Ever wonder why a certain farmer has perfect tomatoes in November? Just think about it...

You also have the prepared food stands and ready to eat foods. They pay $20 a week. Don't tell me that the bakery isn't making money. And they pay less than a crafter? It shocked me...that many vendors didn't know this. How?

Then you have vendors who don't show up. Or they're chronically 2 hours late. Or they leave early...because it's a slow day. There are vendors who don't report sales. Or those who work the system to chronically pay late. They park in customer parking. Show up on days they haven't paid...and aren't scheduled. But find a place to squeeze into. And the management turns a blind eye.

I've seen farmers refuse to accept DGM coins. That all of us have to accept. It's part of the rules that we sign before the season begins. And there are taco stands that accept WIC checks and SNAP coins. They clearly know they're not supposed to. Then you see them trading with farmers...who can accept them.

We all have to have a business license. Wait for it...except the Farmers. They're not required to. This year, all the vendors are required to have insurance. We're all supposed to not be using single use bags. You know what...people still do.

It shocks me, that I show up 3 hours before the Market opens. To set up on time. To make sure, I'm not in anyone's way. And I'm there, 2-3 hours after the Market closes. You know what, our management isn't. They're there to setup their stuff about an hour before. And leave almost as soon as the Market closes. In an area, that isn't the safest. How does that make you feel? I'm lucky to have friends...who are usually there as well. So I don't feel like I'll be robbed at any minute.

Then there is the way, that other vendors treat you. My Mom has been called an F#*!ing B*&$#^ more than once. By some of the most popular vendors and their staff. Why? Because she's walking too slow down the sidewalk. When? While the Market is on and she's shopping.

There have been vendors who push her. I had a guy try and throw some of our products in the trash. I've seen fights between vendors. Big fights. But no one ever says anything. That's upsetting.

So while, we're not going to be at the DGM this year...I'm not sure if I'll be applying in the future. As much as I enjoy interacting with our customers...the other stuff starts to tear you down. And I'm not sure I'm OK with that. Feeling unsafe and being treated a certain way. It's not the best way to run a business. Tomorrow I'll be back with some more. I need to talk to some of my vendor friends. 💕

Mid Summer...And I'm Stuck with What to Make

It's mid summer. Around here, our temps are averaging the mid 90s daily. And I can't even begin to think of cold weather items. I know! But it's been so hot! How do you crochet a blanket, sweater, or even a hat...when it's this hot?


I've been staying busy, testing a ton of patterns. And I'm really enjoying that. But I want to start stocking our shop. Before you know it, the Holiday Markets will be in full swing. And we all know what happens at that point. Crafters loose their minds. The twinkle of Christmas begins to escape you. And before you know it, you have 3 items left in your inventory. With 8 shows...in 2 weeks!


I'm one of those people, that crafts daily. I cut out patterns for my Mom. I crochet. I recreate a million things I see on TV or Pinterest. It's insane! I also fill totes with these items. There's one for every holiday, our Annual Dia De Los Muertos event, and gifts for family. These are totes that I fill. And don't necessarily take with us to the Market every week. But I know when September rolls around, I have a tote filled for Fall. Halloween costumes, pumpkin everything, and more scarves than I know what to do with.

Already our toys are down to a minimum. I'm about to cry. Because I just can't keep up. My big Rainbow blankets keep selling. Our baby items are the same way. I have a stack of new patterns that I'm dying to make. Instead I'm continuously trying to restock Cradle purses, mermaids, and photo props. I'm not complaining. We have such loyal customers. But I am looking for some inspiration...

I used to be a "professional' pattern tester. I'd get so excited to come home to a box of yarn, and a stack of patterns. Then when my Dad got sick...I just stopped. I know. But it happens. A year ago, I began doing it again. Slowly. Maybe once a month or so. But in the last 3 months, it's been at full speed. I probably make 3-5 items a week...testing for small designers. I love it! And it's been a much needed boost. I just needed to make my craft fun again. And getting to help other small shop owners has been a blessing!





But I'm still selling full time at the Markets. And I need to make stuff. But I just don't know what. Toys? Clothing? Household items? I think I'm second guessing myself, because we were Waitlisted at both Markets this year. Do I not make things that are interesting enough? Let me know.


What are some items that you make? Or that you are looking for. I'd love to know. It's hard to gauge if the new cardigan I'm loving...is something that will sell. Or should I be making a ton of those silly tacos I made last year? I think I'm just second guessing myself. After all, our business keeps growing. Regardless if we're at the Markets or not. Maybe our customers already know what they like.

2019 Goals

Do you have big plans for 2019? Was 2018 a tough year? For us, as a business it was one of our better years. Can't complain much there. We honestly only had 1 "bad" day at the Rail Yards this season. And one Craft Fair that didn't really work out. But it was a pretty good year.

But let's talk about personal stuff. It was such a tough year! We lost so many people in our lives. It's hard, when you realize an entire generation is slowly dying. The toughest, was my Nanie (AKA Grandma). She is the one that taught me how to crochet. That sparked so many things, in my life. Gave me so much creativity. Saying those goodbyes were so tough. Losing our dear friend, Landis was also difficult. In fact, they passed just days apart. Lastly, my brother's unexpected death...well we're still trying to make sense of it all.

My Mom and I both struggled with our health this year. In ways I cannot even begin to explain, I struggled. At my lowest point, I could barely walk. We both endured months of physical therapy. I moved on to aquatic therapy. Which, by the way, was a lifesaver! There have been countless doctors' appointments. And well, things still feel really uncertain. My Mom is stable in her cancer. Right now. She is doing so much better.

Me? Well, there are so many questions. I have a ton of tests and appointments in the new year. And fingers crossed, some answers. I was released from PT and AT earlier this month. And physically, didn't seem ready. But insurance only pays for so much. I shouldn't complain, I think I had 5 months of therapy. So I was sent home. And told to return if something else goes wrong...in a few months. I still have days, when it is difficult to walk. Most nights, I don't sleep. And my weight is all over the board. But I'm trying to physically do better.

But 2019, is just a few hours away. And all I can say is, I know it will be better. This year is going to be better. We'll be stronger. Two Crafty Hearts will continue to grow. And we'll continue to raise money for our foundation.

So what are my goals for 2019? I have a ton! For all parts of my life. Mostly, to stay positive, grow our business, and be more open to life experiences. But here are a few of my goals...

Two Crafty Hearts/Love For Blue Goals:

 1. Continue to grow as a business. We are entering our 19th year! Do you know it all began, when I ran for Queen at my church? I won. And we continued to sell our crafts. It wasn't until 2015, that we really started to expand our business. And put a ton of effort into it.

Applications are put in. And we're hoping that we get into the Downtown Growers' Market and Rail Yards Market. Hopefully weekly at the DGM. And semi weekly at the RYM. We are also hopeful about Craft Fairs and other markets in the coming year. Unfortunately, most people will tell you about things...after the applications are due. So it's up to me, to investigate and get things in.

And I'm still debating the entire Etsy thing. About 10 years ago, I sold a TON on there! It was a ton of work. But I enjoyed it. Maybe I'll get our shop going again. Another avenue to raise money.

 2. As far as our foundation, I'd like to have 4 fundraisers this year. I've set the dates. And we're looking at a 5K and Car Show in April, a Tea Party in July, a Dinner and Dance in October, and a Holiday Kids' Party in December. And of course, our weekly Market sales.

Part of this, is also looking for donations. You know, artisans, business people, and others to donate. Either a product, giftcard, or money. I was hit earlier this year, with a CRAZY expense to use a local park. So we definitely need some sponsors. I also use donated items for prizes, raffles, and silent auctions.

 3. Market ourselves. By this I mean, T-Shirts, bags, and hats. It's tough out there. I've been selling T-Shirts since 2015. And included bracelets. But I'd like to expand. I just need to find a reasonable source. Some places, make it unrealistic to turn a small profit.

 4. Be more connected in our community. And expand our presence. It's hard. Especially when you are trying to grow your business/foundation. I want to get our message out. I want to help more kids. And I know, this only happens by getting out and about in our community.

 5. Lastly, I want to be more steady on our online stuff. Like posting on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, our blog, and with our groups. I want to be consistent with our CALs, I want to start a Sip and Stitch group, and perhaps get another Crochet Class going.

So much to do! So little time. Lots of reaching out to our community. And asking for the help of others. That's the most difficult part. I wish I had another person...or army, to help me out.

Personal Goals:

These are the hardest! When I really have to look into my soul. And ask myself, what I want.

 1. Be healthy. I want to not hurt as much. To be able to walk. And eventually sleep. I want answers from my doctors. To continue with some sort of Aquatic Therapy. Maybe get back into yoga. Eventually, being able to walk my dog.

Nothing too crazy. I've lost and gained so much weight this year. And all I want to do, is be healthy. I've started to give away my "big" clothes. I don't want to be there again. At the same time, I don't want to be the woman I was in my early 20s. 97lbs, and always weighing my food...and working out. There has to be a happy medium.

More than anything, I want to feel good. I know I can't run anymore. And Zumba is out the window. But there are other things. And ways. Who knows, I might learn how to swim this year.

 2. Self Care. I did pretty good this year. Every Sunday, I had some "Me Time." With the exception, of the week my Nanie passed away. And by that, I mean just some time for myself. Sometimes reading, other times writing, maybe just listening to my favorite music.

I ALWAYS pamper myself a bit. With a face mask, some nail polish, and sometimes a bubble bath. But mostly, just time to focus on me. Pampering doesn't hurt. But it's about taking care of oneself. Your inner self. The part that needs the most care.

In 2019, I want to do all of this. And do the self care, that will make me stronger. Making time for my doctors' appointments, going to the dentist, or getting my hair cut. Those things don't hurt either.

 3. Reading. I LOVE to read. Like no body's business. And this year, I've really slacked. I've tried to pick up a book many times. But with everything physically going on with me...I just can't get it together. It's horrible. My goal is to at least read one book a month.

 4. Faith. I LOVE my faith. I hang onto it, like no body's business. It's the ONLY thing that has gotten me this far. I want to continue to read the bible daily, to study it, and keep my daily prayer journal going.

I would like to find a good bible study group. Or a group of ladies, who have the same love of God. Earlier this month, I went to a Girls' Night Out with my Mom. To my cousin's church. It was so fulfilling. Not our religion. But the faith was strong. And I enjoyed it.

This is what I miss most, about the community I used to live in. That sense of community. When we'd meet to study the bible, craft, or just hang out. I need to find a group like this.

 5. Speaking of...I want to have a "Local Circle." When I used to live by myself, in another city, I had that. A group of friends, that became my family. We'd worship together, play together, and perform together. We did life together. In every aspect! I miss that so much!

I want that here. Unfortunately, I didn't really keep up with my friends from school. And these days, most of my friends are of retirement age. I'm looking for a bit of a younger circle.

And when those people ask me why I'm not married...or don't have kids. Well, I have a new response for all of you. Do YOU know a good man? Honestly, this part of my life is...well let's not talk. Unless you know someone.

 6. Fun Mail Fridays. I'm really good about this, with our foundation. But I want to do this with my family and friends. About halfway through the year, it all fell apart. And I want to get it going again.

 7. Getting ready. As easy as it sounds, it gets lost. Especially when you are home. 90% of the time. I live in oversized sweats. Rarely wear makeup...or do much with my hair. I want to change that. Again, probably not were things were 10 years ago. But to get it together. Use some of that crazy makeup stash. Feel good about my hair...my cousin did an amazing job. So get it together girl.

 8. Stop being a "Yes Girl." Say what's on my mind. Don't be afraid. Stop avoiding people. They will still be around, if they were meant to be. But were does it get me, to always say yes? Be stressed out!

 9. Start those new businesses. That one, that includes my passion (baking). Continue to grow my blogs. And grow my YouTube channel. All things I once did. And LOVED. It's time to pick up that passion.

10. Hit those goals. By that, I mean a trip for my Mom and I, a new pup, working on the house, maybe a car, and hopefully a job. All those things, that require me to be doing better physically.

There you go. My goals for the year. How about you? Anything special planned? Big goals for yourself, business, or craft? I can't wait to see 2019! 💕