The Grind

As I reflect on this past weekend, its hard not to think of how far I've come as a person and a business owner. Growing and learning from my mistakes has been a blessing in disguise. Being a vendor at the Ignited Fashion & Art Show was a fulfilling feeling. The show was amazing and the fashions were incredible. I haven't quite reached the level I know my potential will lead me, but I am enjoying the stepping stones. It was a hectic weekend and a lot of things happened that could have deterred me. Let's recap.

1. I still have a 9-5 (in my case 3-11pm) job. 
2. My shirt had mini hole on it that came from nowhere. 
3. As I shopped for groceries and items for the event, I forgot to receive my money from the cash back dispenser at ShopRite. I was focused on other things and coupons at the self check-out station. I didn't remember about the money I left behind until 8am the following day. 
4. To explain number 3, I have to begin with the day before. I wore black tights, my bright green coat and my coral hoodie (with a long sleeved shirt inside of course). I was determined to start baking on time and finish off by 3AM the next morning. However; that was not my story. I still had the same outfit on that morning after baking all night. I quickly started running my last min errands at 7am. I was sleepy, tired and hype all in one. I parked outside my favorite supply store and waited for them to open at 9am. I figured I might as well kill two birds with one stone and take a snooze while I waited. I leaned my seat back, turned my car off and locked the doors. PERFECT! My dog accompanied me so I felt safe enough to rest. I set my alarm for 9AM and down went Frazier. When I woke up, something grabbed a hold of my thoughts. I then remembered about the forgotten money left at ShopRite. I screamed! Luckily, when I called ShopRite they were able to look on the camera footage and verify my receipt to confirm my story. A true kind soul came to that same self check-out station after me and returned the money. I was able to receive my forgotten money and was truly grateful for that kind customer. I wanted to personally thank them but, they were not able to locate details about them. 
5. Traffic and time management. I will acknowledge that we arrived a bit late for the event. While juggling everything, I wanted things to be perfect and organized so much so I forgot to watch my time closely. With the help of my assistant and my sister, we were able to set-up quickly at the event. It was a warm feeling when customers came to my table even before we had everything in its designated place. 
6. I had to change my Menu pricing at the event due to lack of change. (Quarters, dimes, nickels etc.) That was a learning lesson for me. 

These experiences always make me better for the next event. It has taught me to learn and pay attention to everything. Planning ahead saved most of my day but, I will acknowledge that time management is important. I'm never late to work so being late for the event was a definite NO! Even through many things trying to knock me down, we still prevailed and conquered. Many more great things to come.