Finding My People at the New York Faerie Festival

For a long time, I’ve been creating with one vision in mind: the New York Faerie Festival. Even before I was ready to sell there, I imagined what kind of magic-loving, fantasy-dwelling, sparkle-embracing people would appreciate the kind of work I pour my heart into—bold, whimsical, textured pieces that feel like they came straight from an enchanted forest.

But the path to this festival wasn’t all fairy wings and glitter.

I’ve done plenty of shows over the past year. Some were decent. Many were duds. The kind where you spend hours setting up, invest time and money you can’t get back, only to end the day with barely a sale—or worse, wondering if anyone even saw your work. It’s exhausting and disheartening, especially when you believe in what you’re doing but it feels like you’re speaking a language no one understands.

So when I finally got to vend at NY Faerie Fest—the show that inspired so much of what I create—I wasn’t sure what to expect. I hoped it would go well, but nothing could have prepared me for just how good it would feel.

I sold more showpieces than ever before—including a $250 octopus hat that found its perfect person that weekend—proof that the right buyers do exist for bold, handmade art. I had buyers light up when they saw my pieces.

I had crocheters tell me how beautiful my work was. I had strangers thank me for pricing things fairly and sustainably. It was like finding my people, my audience, my place.

I didn’t walk away from Faerie Fest just proud of the sales (though yes, that part felt amazing). I walked away feeling seen. Like the audience I’d been dreaming of—people who love magic, creativity, and handmade art—actually showed up for me. They valued my work, connected with the world I’ve been building stitch by stitch, and made me feel like I belonged there.

For the first time, I didn’t feel like I had to justify my prices… or my style… or my presence. I just got to be an artist.

And that feeling? That’s what I’m holding on to!