People may see our renaissance faire booth, all set up at a faire, and think we’ve got it all perfectly together. The display looks polished, the products are ready to go, and we’re smiling like it’s the easiest thing in the world. What most folks don’t see is the complete chaos that happens before the gates ever open.

In the weeks leading up to a renaissance faire or craftfaire, especially a new one for us, life basically turns into controlled chaos. Suddenly I realize I only have 2 weeks left and don’t have nearly enough of that one product everyone always wants, and it’s back to late nights cranking out as many as I can before the deadline. Packing the trailer with my 17 year old son becomes a full-contact sport—like playing Tetris on hard mode, Between tents, displays, and boxes of handmade leather goods, it’s a day to skip the gym for sure. Luckily, he’s an expert.. 100 miles in to the trip you’re still not sure if you forgot the card reader. (Yes, that actually happened once... ahem... I sware it was only once. Lesson learned: always double-check the bag of electronics.)

And of course, there’s always a last-minute scramble. A display stand mysteriously breaks in storage, or the weather forecast decides to threaten rain just as we finish waterproofing the tent. No matter how much planning I do, there’s always some kind of curvebal... well... more like a knuckle ball, thrown at my face, with some Stank on it.

But here’s the thing: once the event actually begins, the stress fades into the background. Being a faire vendor has its challenges, but it also comes with some of the most rewarding moments I’ve ever experienced.The energy shifts completely. There’s something magical about watching the fairegrounds or market fill with people in costume, families exploring, and fellow vendors greeting each other like old friends. That sense of community is addictive.

The best part is seeing the work come alive. When someone tries on a pirate hat or one of my masks and their whole face lights up, I can feel every late night and stressful moment paying off. Those are the moments that refill my creative tank. And honestly, the behind-the-scenes camaraderie with other vendors makes it even better—sharing snacks, swapping stories, and laughing together when the wind knocks over half our displays.

Yes, preparing for Renaissance faire vending events is stressful. It always will be. But it’s also one of the most rewarding, energizing experiences I’ve ever had. I’d take the chaos, the exhaustion, and the long hours all over again just to feel that magic when the gates open.