Can't Get A Word In Edgewise?

I hope everyone is in the mood for a little chit-chatting 'cause I'm feeling mighty talkative tonight. I first wanted to share with y'all some exciting news coming down the pike. Val at the Red Shed sent me this information on an upcoming fall event that y'all are just gonna love.

The Creative Connection is going to be held in Minneapolis Minnesota, September 16, 17, and 18. The Who's Who list of women ( including our very own Red Shed Girls!) involved are, for a lack of a better term, Rock Stars in our world. You've got to go here and read for yourself (while you're over there, be sure and check out the contest going on...insert big ol' dreamy sigh here!) and fire up the old brain cells to make plans to attend. Psst! It just happens that The Junk Bonanza will be taking place during that same time period and is only a hop, skip and a jump away! Be sure and see Val about travel arrangements to that. I'm sure it will book fast...so don't be lollygagging.

Next order of business....Anne just did a post asking what she, as a virgin vendor, needed to take to do the Big Show besides stuff to sell. Theresa did a fabulous post on what shoppers needed to bring, but I don't know if anyone has touched on hints for first time sellers, so I thought I'd help out.

Some things are a given like snacks, water, sunscreen...the same things shoppers need, but when it comes to being in the middle of a cow field, setting up shop for nine days...that's a whole different set of needs. Here is Part I of my survival guide to selling at the Big Show.

1. I always pack my entire closet. You never know when it's going to be colder than who'd a thought it or hotter than a firecracker. There is wind, rain...heck, we've seen ice! Don't believe for one minute you can run to Walmart and get a sweater or raincoat 'cause everybody has the same idea and the next thing you know...you're parading around in a trash bag...and proud to have it.
2. Bring bling and lots of it. No self respecting Texas girl goes out without something shiny...even when setting up. You've heard that song "I Got Spurs That Jingle, Jangle, Jingle"? We ladies like to jingle too...I said jingle...not jiggle! Can't do that unless you bring the ammunition. I pack a separate suitcase just for my artillery!
3. Starting out, you'll need a lot of small bills for making change, but before the show is over...hopefully...you'll look like you're getting ready to go to ladies night at the La Bare! Be sure and pack something to keep that money safely in. I've heard tales of purses being left in restaurants, in tents...even in the porta-potties...so plan on being your own Brinks.
4. Receipt books and pens are a must. Pens have a way of wandering off, never to be seen again and receipt books are great for keeping track of sales. Not every customer wants one, but it sure makes it easier come tax time.
5. Speaking of tax time...be sure and bring your tax resale certificate. We have had visitors (and you know who I mean...da da da da-a-a!) from Austin checking the numbers...so Caveat Venditor. I've been dying to use that term!
6. Anything you were using in the way of tags, stickers, rock, paper, scissors, glue, etc. when preparing to come down, bring. This also includes hammer, nails, glue gun, stapler, etc. Plenty of pretty paper and sacks are a must...although I have been known to use a grocery sack in my time if I ran out of the pretty stuff!
7. Any and all medications you think you might need. Don't leave home without 'em...and that includes liniment and Epsom's salts for all the aches and pains!
8. If you can fit it in...you might as well throw in the kitchen sink, but the one thing that is a must...a good attitude. Pack a smile and plan on a good time. Customers are there to shop, but they are also there to laugh. Provide them with that and I guarantee you'll have return shoppers.

Anne, I hoped this helped and I'll get Part II put together before we leave for the Mother Ship...how's that?

Last up...(I warned y'all I was feeling vocal)...Bella's Blessing Giveaway (thanks Debra). Tonight Jenn is adding a tussy mussy just like the ones she is making for party favors for the Bella-Da-Ball! Aren't they precious? Y'all know I didn't get brushed with any artistic talent, but thank goodness, my baby girl did. She's my go-to when I need something cute and I think these are Fab U Lous. One is going into the overflowing gift box tonight. BTW, this is the fabric that is used in Bella's room. Isn't it just 2die4? We're getting close to the big day and I'll be doing a recap of everything Jenn is giving away to make sure there is 12 gifts in all. At this point...I am so tired I don't know what day it is, so obviously I don't know what count I'm on. Trust me...there will be 12 or I'll give you 100% off anything at my tent at Zapp...or Cat Daddy...your choice, but only if I miscount! I think that's a wrap for tonight and as much as I love the sound of my own voice...I'll hush now so y'all can get back to watching American Idol!