This is such an exciting update — you can now find my hand-crafted items in my space at Static Hall in Melrose District!
I’ve considered putting my items in a retail space for some time now but didn’t feel right about the places I looked into. So why Static Hall?
First – compatible visions.
It’s very important to me to work in and with spaces that are artist-focused. When that isn’t the focus you find the space viewing the artist as their customer and then the artists are expected to bring in their own customers. Fees tend to be higher, there isn’t support for the vendors, long-term contracts, and a substantial commission comes out when things do sell. Spaces that are artist-focused still have contracts you there’s cost to being there, but the artist and the space are both invested in getting people in the door. I love that someone who sees my posts about Static Hall might go to see my things and find another artist who also has things they want. There are some great vendors who have things there and I’m not in “competition” with them — by that I mean I don’t need them to have a bad day so I can have a good one. I want everyone to have a good day!
Second – more than just space.
As a local vendor it’s challenging to do things like verify a business with Google because my “storefront” changes. Even though I’m out at CAM regularly, when we’re slowing down for the summer, or on weekends we just don’t have a market, I don’t have an address I can put down or give out. But now I do! That’s not a small things at all and I love the support for my business that comes with this.
Obviously I have a lot more than what’s there, but it’s a spot – an actual address – where I can establish roots and start to grow in a new way. A way I’m very excited about!
Third – the chance to work with great people!
I love great people and I love working with people I can trust who are supporting me in my business while I’m supporting them as well. Being a vendor can be lonely work and I’m grateful that I’ve connected to Central Arts Market, a lot of wonderful vendors who have become great friends, and now Static Hall and the owners and other artists who I’m looking forward to getting to know better. When it’s a good fit you just know it.
