Finding the Bright Spots: Bayshore Makers Market Recap
Last weekend, Perry and I packed up the car (again!) and hit the road for Milwaukee, WI, for the Bayshore Makers Market, produced by Amdur Productions. I’d heard mixed reviews about this production company’s shows — some artists swear by them, some swear at them — so naturally, I had to find out for myself.
First, the good parts:
✨ The Amdur staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, which I really appreciated — it makes a difference when you feel seen and supported, especially on long, hot show days.
✨ The booths around us were top notch — so much talent in one parking lot! We had great neighbors, swapped stories, and shared plenty of “well, here we are!” laughs.
✨ And maybe the biggest blessing: we were able to stay with a friend nearby instead of booking a hotel. Not only did that save us money (which was huge considering the sales…) but it gave us the best kind of late-night laughs and reconnections we didn’t know we needed.
Now, the reality: this was the hottest weekend of the year so far, with winds so strong they knocked over Perry’s displays and damaged some of his pieces. The heat kept people at home (I don’t blame them!) and the crowd that didcome through just wasn’t buying. Between the weather and the production? Who knows — maybe a bit of both.
Was it worth it? Maybe not for the sales, but every show is a learning experience. We came home with some bumps and bruises (and broken art 😬), but also with stories, good memories with our friend, and new ideas for how to weather-proof our setups for the summer markets ahead. We'd love some ideas for paper prints!
This road isn’t always easy — but I love that we’re on it together.
Next Up
Next stop: Twin Cities Pride! 🏳️🌈
We’ll be set up in Loring Park, Minneapolis this Saturday and Sunday from 10–5 both days. We’re staying with friends again (thank goodness for good people who open their doors to traveling artists!) and we’re hoping for a busy, colorful, successful weekend. If you’re local, come find us — we’d love to see you there!
Thanks for being here for the highs, the lows, and everything in between. 💛
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Follow along on Instagram (@elevenafterseven + @signumsomnia) for behind-the-scenes peeks, packing chaos, and Pride adventures!