July was an Exciting Month
July was a crazy month filled with lots of plans, events, and new experiences. We did a total of 5 market events over the course of July with lots of new product launches and designs being released both in person and online. It felt like every day was go-go-go which can be draining but also a lot of fun.
What we were not prepared for was the extreme weather circumstances. We had two events that had to shut down early due to weather this month (one for extreme rain and one for a rain and high windstorm). Dealing with extreme weather is never fun. Anxiety is high (especially when one strong gust of wind and all your products go flying), you're constantly checking the forecast and the sky trying to guess what will happen minute by minute. Plus, when the worst does happen and everyone has no choice but to go home early it can be devastating. While contending with the wild weather this month has SUCKED what has been special has been how our fellow vendors, makers, and creatives have rallied around each other and supported one another at times of stress. The Market community in Ottawa is so kind and welcoming and we have felt very lucky to not only be surrounded by lovely and supportive people but those same people have helped us quickly pack up our stuff, given us tarps to protect products, made sure our tent was secure, stopped products or signage from flying away, and even helped us squeeze ourselves into their car and given us a ride home (thank you again Katie's Creations - she makes awesome scrunchies btw you should check her out). They ways that we have been supported by our fellow makers this month has been so wonderful and deeply appreciated.
But after a busy month, a break was very much in order. As I right this I am on vacation back in my home province of BC visiting my family and long-time family friends with my incredible partner (who you may have seen at my market table) who is now my FIANCE! That's right ya girl got ENGAGED this week! Absolute kudos to my fiancé for a magical proposal and I feel so lucky to be able to share this moment with my family. I have been reflecting though how interesting it is that large social events or milestones or poignant moments alter our perspectives. On a personal level I'm am so incredibly excited for the new adventure that lies ahead for both of us, but as an artist I'm intrigued to see how this new adventure may affect my interests, my outlooks, and as a result how it may affect my works. I suppose all of that is to be determined.
