Moving forward - story 4

Year 2017 finally showed a little hope for the better. I found a factory that could offer me quality fabrics. I worked with several wonderful influencers who sewed fabulous things with my fabrics and shared them on their social media channels. Past challenges were still causing trouble but I had faith that I could turn things around. I just had to work even harder and put everything on the line.

I was turning 40 years old and decided it was time to second guess all the choices and decisions I had made in my life. I had always thought that exhibiting at fairs would not be an option for me. With my social anxiety issues I could never stand in front of all those people and sell my creations. But now it was time to think what if... What if I could just dive in and take a chance?

In September 2017 was my first fair exhibition at Helsingin Kädentaitomessut. The sales were modest but the experience was tremendeous! And I was hinted that the yearly craft fair in Tampere is absolutely the best in regards to sales. So I decided to take another plunge and book a stand at Suomen Kädentaidot in November 2017.

Me at Helsingin Kädentaitomessut 2017.

Me at Tampereen Kädentaitomessut 2017.

The fair in Tampere was a great success - in every aspect. The sales were good and I felt like a winner after making through such a big event with my lacking social skills. It was exhausting but also so much fun. I loved all the drive and energy at fairs - exhibitors not competing with each other but working together to make the event as memorable as possible for all customers.

In 2017 I certainly overdid myself and had trust in moving forward developing SHALMIAK. But how long could this positive development continue?

Stay tuned for more SHALMIAK stories...