I’ve had the honor of vending at the First Thursday in the Pearl District since May of this year. Looking back, it seems like a completely different fair. As a new vendor in this business community and a new member of the greater Portland community, I was so nervous, self conscious, uncertain and frazzled! With every fair I partake in, my display matures and adjusts, hopefully to improve the aesthetic appeal as well as function. I’ve immensely enjoyed socializing with fellow artisans and sharing stories of successes, challenges, future goals. I have also met a handful of successful veterans who were so generous in sharing their pearls of wisdom!
Last week’s First Thursday was brilliantly sunny! My booth partner, Adrienne Cedergreen of Lys Bleu Designs, and I didn’t even have to set up the canopy, with not even a slight chance of rain! We have weathered the chilly, the windy, the down right dumping rain (I admit, that was pretty comical!)…and finally, the long awaited gorgeous, sunny day winked at us 
Wow, the energy of the entire place was vibrant! Friends, couples, girlfriends, bromance dining, sipping, dying of laughter throughout the outdoor seating, usual hoards of runners squeezing through the crowds, oh-so trendy youngsters, sophisti-clad business wo/men, and in large, smiley, jolly Portlanders and tourists basking in the sun.
It was especially a special night because it was the first time I had my friend, Leah, cover my booth. I have been crazy busy lately, juggling multiple big projects and that night was no exception. I had a meeting to run off to so I asked my lovely friend to cover for me after I set up, to which she enthusiastically accepted! I felt blessed to have such an awesome friend who would take time out of her busy life to help me out. She did amazing and had a lovely time! She even made some big sales for me! Oh, and if you are wondering, it’s no coincidence that I have a friend and a bag both named “Leah”. I name my bags after my friends and first customers who have supported me from the get-go — kind of like a tribute Thanks, doll!
“Oooh! Ooh! What’s up next for 5th Season?!”, you ask? Alberta Street Fair!!! It’s THIS Saturday, August 13th from 11am-7pm. Come one, come all! Uber excited about this one!
yay
fun times in a portlandia summer. fun pics 
Hello! I am inquiring to find out any information you can relay about vending at first thursday. I know that sometimes people set up with permission from galleries on the sidewalks, but i see in your blog that you had a tent. I’ve heard rumors that you can pay to vend and have a canopy. Is this what you’ve done and if so, who would I contact in order to apply to become a First Thursday vendor? Thanks so much! Suzi