It is not a wrong decision to do my first show in Arnhem! It was an attempt but thanks God, it worked!
I have been so spoiled by the table neighbors, the customers and many friends from blogland during the weekend. I was fed on Dutch cakes, Belgium chocolate, ice cream, sandwich and coffee etc; I got several gifts from friends too. Those who have been bringing customers to me, encouraged me and helped me in Arnhem do make me warm and touched. (Yes, I also brought several pieces of Luce, MyFrenchCuisine, to Arnhem)
As a newbie of miniature shows, I am learning by playing! I am lucky to have Bob, my future tutor, served as my part-time taxi driver, and Audrey, my top Dutch sales lady who came from Rotterdam helped me in the show. I have been introduced to several well-known artisan and senior sellers, like Jens of Jens Torp Design Sliver Miniature, Jacqueline, Bert of aarts miniatures and Lida of The Mini Factory. I was surprised Phil of CraftGlass came to me and said hello when I was on the way setting up the table. When Angie Scarr passed and looked at my works, I could not help but tell her how much I admired her. She was a very important tutor on my mind. When she took my business card, she was curious about my name. Yes, “PETITGRAND” is a real name (from the hubby’s family) and it’s so perfect for the miniature world.
I appreciated Marguerite, the founder of Amis Jouet Ancien Patrimoine Miniature, Michelle and Chantal of Petits Bonheures came to me and brought me to know more French artisans in the show. They are all my stars!!!
During the show, I met 3 show organizers and I probably will consider attending some other shows in the future. I was happy and excited that many Italian friends came and invited me to go to Milan. I wish I could do everything but when I noticed quite many white hairs appeared recently, I knew I needed well organize the planning. I cannot do a show in a rush like this time. Too much pressure!
Several friends asked me if the result was good or not. Was 2000 euros very good and 1000 euros bad? I have no comments since I had zero show experience before. I love see cash coming to my pocket but the very important thing for me is I have packed a lot of friendship from Arnhem back home. My heart was joyful. I waked up at 03h30 yesterday morning and took 4 trains back to Nimes. It was a long journey but I was smiling all the time.
I miss my husband too. He has been in China and Japan since three weeks. We both have been working so hard when we separated. I will be very happy to have him back home on Saturday. Now what I want to do is take a good rest and EAT EAT EAT. I probably will keep cool and silent for a month again since there is still a huge task waiting for me.
The last thing I want to mention is I was pleased Carol and Tomas (True2Scale) came to my hotel on Sat evening. We had dinner together and walked along the river to their boat. I would never forget about this nice friend, who has been so kind, helping and encouraging me when I started the little business. I sincerely wish they both will also have great success in Madrid show in Nov. For sure, I hope they will consider coming and visiting me in France someday :-)
