Just one year ago, I walked up and down the aisles of The Vintage Bazaar, a well-loved Chicago flea-market showcasing stunning booths with {vintage decor, furniture, clothing, and accessories}. I was in awe. How could these people muster up the courage to display their work and collections for the public? And SELL it? Successfully?!
Though each display looked thoughtfully curated, time consuming, and incredibly intimidating, it was also very inspiring.
I'll be honest. That day, I didn't go home and pick up a pencil and start sketching. I didn't go shopping for that perfect vintage piece that needed a little love before trailing off into someone's home. Instead, I stewed for a solid four months, arguing with myself internally. If I was to really see this through, where would I get the funds? Just how much commitment would it take? And, God forbid, what if no one would like my work?
One day in January {after being completely fed-up with the Chicago winter}, I took my first step on the pathway. I picked up that pencil and started with one simple drawing. That step led to the next one, and soon thereafter, I had an etsy shop and my first blog post.It was a long {well-needed} winter of designing, contemplating, connecting with others, creating a brand - and getting over my fears.
This past year led up to the most exhilarating event last weekend: I ended up on the other side of the exchange by setting up Persimmon Prints alongside Ruby Bird Designs {gorgeous furniture 're-invisioning' by my close friend Claire} to experience our first arts & crafts event at Custer's Last Stand. It was crazy fun!
The artist community is so encouraging. We met other adorable artists, such as Bee Bop Charms, Live and Conquer, Jacocalo Design, and Little Shop Around the Corner. Each designer's work was thoughtfully crafted and beautifully displayed. I looove my bohemian-inspired feather earrings that Live and Conquer created; they. just. might. stay on my ears for the next month. 
Needless to say, the feeling of intimidation fizzled away with the weekend, and I left Sunday with new friends and encouragement to move forward. I may not know what Persimmon Prints' pathway looks like, but God is revealing each little step to me as I walk forward faithfully.Persimmon will definitely be out-on-the-arts-town again.
