05/04/2025
I didn't get many photos of this year, but I have so many takeaways!
This was my first year vending, but it was not my first year visiting. Being a vendor was so much more fun and interactive than I thought it would be. And I'm so thankful that I got to meet and talk to so many people while here!
The first thing I learned is... come on Thursday, not Friday π
π€£ It took me most of the day Friday during VIP time to get set up. I wanted everything to be perfect, but that's my own fault... plus, I missed out on the Chicken Run dinner the night prior π
The second thing I learned is... no matter who you are, you will find your niche and your group of people. The more you go, the more people you get familiar with and the more friends you make! It was amazing seeing and meeting so many people this weekend.
The third but most important thing I'm taking home is... everyone is human, and seeing everyone in person reminds you that they are not just words on a screen on the internet. It is so much easier to interact with everyone in person than it is online, and it's important to remember that text doesn't always come off with the same tone as if you were to speak. This is important since now that I know more about these people and how they act, I have a different level of understanding of their words.
Last but not least, keep doing what works for you. If your animals are healthy and you're confident in your care, that's what matters. There are so many different ways of taking care of crested geckos for example, that people tend to think their own way is the only right way. But it's simply not true. I want to share more information about how I care for my animals, and I don't want anyone to be afraid to ask me how I take care of my stock. I will always openly answer questions or give advice, I just don't think I've ever officially put that out there in words online, but it has always been something spoken about in person with people.
Thank you to everyone I met and everyone who wants to be friends! I hadnt gotten to take any selfies with anyone π even bribing with free stickers π€£ but I'll try harder next year, I need to break out of my shell more β€οΈ