Thinky thoughts about conventions and making money

[bluestareyed]

I have an idea. Its a baby idea, but it seems to be growing and developing speech capabilities.

I have been a relatively regular attendee at Anthrocon for a few years now, and as much as I enjoy the convention, its always a debate of whether the expense and the time off from work is worth it. Not only am I spending money to attend, that time off represents money I'm not making.

But what if I could make money at the convention? I spend a great deal of time just wandering and not doing anything constructive anyway, so why not?

Here is my idea, and any opinions from you all would be appreciated.

I'm thinking that I try to get a table in the Artist's Alley for at least one, maybe two days of the con. At said table, I will offer ear hats, headbands, maybe tails, and various costuming accessories (gloves/armwarmers etc) as well as take orders for custom work, all crocheted by me.

If it goes well, maybe I could consider building upon this at a later date.

One major glitch: if I decide to do this, I need a room to stay in.

Thoughts? Anyone? Beuller?

Comments

[bifemmefatale.livejournal.com]

Am I reading correctly--they don't charge for vendor space? I guess in that case the consideration would be how much the room and sales permit cost and how much you'd have to sell just to break even.

[bluestareyed.livejournal.com]

Well, the Alley is separate from the Dealer's Room which is the paid vendor space. I'm not sure I have the energy or the materials to do an actual dealer's table yet. i want to know if it is even a worthwhile concept. I figure starting with Artist's Alley is a good way to gauge if this is even feasible without adding to my costs.

[witchiebunny.livejournal.com]

If you can manage a $119 down payment for a room in the Doubletree, I'll split it with you.

[nightangel422.livejournal.com]

from what i know, the doubletree is full..ill check it though and get back to you

[nightangel422.livejournal.com]

ok, so from what i am seeing, its full e.e buuuut let me talk to a few friends, they have a suite and may be persuaded to share the living room...dunno yet. Its marisa and Wes dori, you met them at my All hallows party...

[bluestareyed.livejournal.com]

That could work.

[witchiebunny.livejournal.com]

Doubletree site still showed a room open as of yesterday.

[nightangel422.livejournal.com]

i just looked it up, and it said no vacancies. this is the message.
We're sorry; there are no rooms available that meet your criteria at this hotel.
We recommend you try one of the options below:
- Try changing your dates or criteria and search again.
- View Availability Calendar if you have flexible travel dates
- Contact a reservations agent for further assistance at 1-800-560-7753
- Select a different hotel from the list below.

[maikujaku.livejournal.com]

Speaking of ear hats, I should be able to pay you for mine this month.