Makes Scents Daily Journal Entry .01
Running a small business this past year has been quite the learning experience for me. I’m not necessarily new to having a business since I first opened my shop in 2019, only selling candles on Etsy. But juggling my 9-5, my small business, being a mommy, and maintaining a relationship was quite the feat. Despite everything, I feel fulfilled, and to me, that’s what makes it all worth it.
I paused my shop for a few years when the pandemic hit. (That was a time, huh?) After having my baby in March 2023, I realized that summer that I needed something for me, outside of my 9-5 and being a mom. It hit me: I could bring back my candle shop and explore new hobbies to expand my product lines. It would allow me to be creative and give me another sense of purpose. So, that’s exactly what I did. I rebranded, tested out new fragrances, dusted off my old equipment, and relaunched by the end of summer 2023.
That’s when I got a message on Etsy about becoming a vendor at a local Upstate New York Halloween craft market. I’d never considered vending before and definitely didn’t know the process. Cue hours of YouTube binge-watching on how to be a vendor at markets. I eventually thought, “Why the hell not?” and took a leap of faith. I invested in a tent, tables, displays, business cards, you name it, I bought it. I felt prepared.
The event ended up moving indoors due to rain, which made me a little sad. (Tents aren’t cheap!) I wasn’t even sure if I’d continue doing markets when the outdoor season resumed. But I digress. The event day arrived, and I set up shop with my boyfriend and baby in tow. While it wasn’t the best event in hindsight, it was my first time selling in person, and I think I did pretty well. I made $180.
That first market sparked something in me. I decided to dive deeper into local markets, and I haven’t looked back since. I started popping up at a local farmers market that held an indoor season in downtown Troy, New York, during fall 2023. Over time, I discovered other markets, some new, some well-established. I even kicked off a YouTube channel to document the journey (although I post very irregularly). By the time the 2024 summer market season rolled around, I was all in.
Reflecting on My First Full Year of Markets
And that brings us to today: December 15, 2024. As I write this, I’m heading into my second-to-last weekend of craft markets for the year, and I couldn’t be happier. Don’t get me wrong, it’s been a fun ride and have definitely learned a lot such as:
- Pricing products for markets
- Merchandising my booth
- Engaging with customers
- Packaging products more efficiently
I’ve also gained exposure for my brand and networked with amazing fellow vendors. There’s still so much to learn, and I’m incredibly grateful for every step of this journey.
But alas, I’m tired.
What’s Next for Quien Soy Shoppe
I could use a break to collect my thoughts, finish my rebranding, improve online sales, and organize my studio space. Did I mention I rented a studio back in October? No? Well, I did—and while it’s been fun, I’d enjoy it even more if it weren’t such a hot mess. Virgo vibes. Nothing gets done unless the space is organized!
I hope this little journal entry finds you well and that you enjoyed reading a recap of my brand’s relaunch and my journey into the wonderful (and sometimes complicated) world of vendor markets.
Look out for daily journal entries where I share more inner thoughts about my small business journey and everything in between.
Thanks for reading!
~Ashley Rodriguez
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