I have been designing and making handbags and jewelry for a while - always just showing friends and family, and sold on the internet, but never sold in public.  So, a few weeks ago, when I was dared to go set up a table in front of the Met (Metropolitan Museum in New York City) I was filled with apprehension.  But, I decided to face my fears anyway! I bought a small table, a tablecloth, and wheeled them, and a few items, over to 5th Avenue in the middle of one sunny Saturday afternoon.  I was mortified.  Here are the thoughts that went through my head -

"What are people thinking of me as I wheel my stuff over to Fifth Avenue?"
"Is it true that I don't need a vending license, or are the cops going to arrest me?"
"Will other vendors be mad that I am infringing on their turf?"
"Will people like my stuff?"

I was shaking with nerves.  I had no idea where to look for space, but found a perfect spot, near a tree, not far from the museum.

Day 1 - I set up my table, put a few items out on it, and sat down.  I had some business cards, and hoped.  A few people came by, though most seemed to want to buy artwork from the people around me.  I noticed that I would need a few props to make my setup more alluring, and took some fast notes.

Day 2 - on Sunday, I bravely ventured right back to my spot, a little better prepared!  This time, I brought my mom.  When we arrived at my chosen spot, mom said,
"Heather, there's a cop right there, do you think it's safe?"
"Yes, mom, it's ok," I replied.
"Heather, the cop is coming over," my mom warned.

Sure enough, the cop did come over....only to caution us that the legs of my table were not opened up all the way and it might fall over!

This time, I made signs, I brought a range of products, more cards, a display for them, too.  And, I had a lot more passerby stop over.  My neighboring vendors came over to see my things.  Many, many people stopped to look at my goods and inquire about cost, and whether I have a website.  I didn't sell anything, but I met a lot of wonderful people, learned a lot from the experience (like, 5th avenue is NOT a good place to sell bags and jewelry) gave away tons of business cards, AND, most importantly, I got CONFIDENT.  It was refreshing to face a fear, and learn that I could turn it into a sense of pride and confidence.

Here's a photo of day 2 -


They say the 3rd time's a charm, and I will hopefully find out when I try again in a couple of weeks.

What talents have you been sitting on for a while, that you can try and show the world?  I dare you to bring your gifts into the public eye and allow people to ADMIRE you!  Make an action plan today - RIGHT NOW - and see if you can take the first step by this weekend.

Good luck!