I've officially had my first Christmas market of 2024 and we're off to a flying start! I'm nearly out of chickens and slugs already (classic), and am a bit panicky about making enough stock to see me through to January, but so thrilled with the beginning of market season.
My first market to really kick it off wasn't actually a Christmas market (West Country Potters Association's market at Tavistock), but the turnout was brilliant and it was my first time exhibiting next to only ceramicists. I was daunted and apprehensive but, of course, it was such a welcoming event and the other potters were so sweet and supportive. I did a good day of sales (helped along by my lovely aunt and uncle in law), did a pot swap and had conversations where I realised I was the experienced potter - terrifying and satisfying all at once!
The Truro Christmas Market at Truro Cathedral was a massive success - nearly a record breaker and definitely up in the top 5 markets I've done in the last 3 years. It was hectically busy with a queue to get into the cathedral all day. I didn't have a moment to even go pee! I sold plenty of slugs and chickens but also a lot of my bigger vases I often don't expect to go. I had visits from fellow potters, from friends I made on the Waste Materials Course back in September from friends visiting Cornwall for the weekend and also a collector of mine! I was buoyed and so grateful for the support.
The best thing about markets is seeing your pots make other people smile - seeing them fall in love with a slug or pick up a mug and sigh that it fits perfectly in their hand. It feels incredible and while I was absolutely shattered afterwards, I felt satisfied that all this work and build up was worth it.
I'm now absolutely panicking that I don't have enough work to last me through the next few weeks of markets.... I made a bunch of chickens and slugs as soon as I had a moment after the markets and I'll be making many more this week. I also have to restock some shops with work and have a few social things in the calendar so the next two months are entirely manic.
Most importantly the upcoming markets are as follows:
Porthleven Shipyard Market: 15 Nov
Fowey Christmas Market: 22 - 24 Nov
Porthleven Christmas Market: 29 Nov
Helston Christmas Market: 30 Nov
Potager Garden Christmas Market: 1 Dec
Porthleven Shipyard Market: 7 & 8 Dec
Truro Christmas Market: 18 - 24 Dec
There's rumblings of another market being added into the mix... stay tuned.
I'll be ferreting away into the studio as much as possible in between my part time job and life, so follow along on Instagram to see what I'm making or visit me at markets! I'd love to see you.
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