What an inspiring weekend at School House Craft! We had a great turnout for the Blogging 101 class. I enjoy that class so much, to be able to say the word "blog" aloud (which surprisingly I do not do as often as you'd think), in a room, with folks who have come to learn more about doing just that, is such fun for me. I met new people and had the chance to catch with a few I haven't seen in a while. And Peter's talk about branding yourself on Sunday was so great, I actually learned so much (although I kept raising my hand, which made everybody giggle, and giggle more when he wouldn't call on me!). I have so much new inspiration and so much to think about as I move forward in what wise craft will evolve into.
Back to regular posting tomorrow. In the meantime, I only took a few photos of the whole weekend, but here they are-
The Community Meeting Room at the Phinney Neighborhood Center was where we all gathered, regrouped, had food, and sometimes attended classes. The keynote speaker was Isaac Watson and he spoke in this room (I was able to catch part of the class on rejuvenating your creativity).
There's Peter, above, speaking on branding. I think he was worried and a little nervous (although he regularly gives talks like this to large companies like Amazon at his day job) but I assured him that this crafting community are some of the most supportive people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing (you are, you know). I think he felt that right away. Anyway, I learned a lot from him, and have some branding homework to do based on what he talked about. He and I don't talk business as it applies to me and wise craft much, in terms of how I want to nuture my own brand and thoughts like that, so it was enlightening to sit and listen to him in business mode.
Here's a quick partial room snapshot at our Blogging 101 class. We had an attentive, diverse group and I hope Marie and I gave them lots to think about (we even had visual aides this year, gah!). We talked about why blogging is important for any artisan or handmade creative business, especially when you are only able to grab your customer's attention through online sales (they can't touch, feel, or otherwise preview what you're selling in person). A blog creates a back story, a more personal side to that widget we've constructed by hand with care, we learn more about the story surrounding all of it through regular blog posts. I know I have purchased items online purely based on how much I like everything about what they do and how they present themselves online. I would love to hear thoughts from you on this subject. Its a big topic.
I also attended a great discussion on approaching shops and galleries as a handmade artist, led by Andie, Andrea, and Shalene of Portage Bay Goods.
Alright, I am completely inspired and ready to get back to work. Back tomorrow!
xo,
Blair


