Skilled Hands

For Visitors: This event is FREE!! We hope you will come and be inspired to learn about and maybe even try some of the skilled trades that have made our country great. Adults and children alike are invited to participate. Look for a schedule posted at each tent so that you don't miss demonstrations and workshops. Our vendors have worked hard to make hands on learning fun for everyone! Feel free to thank them with a purchase from their retail area as well. (Prices will most likely range from $1-$300)

For Vendors: This is not your usual summer arts and crafts fair! We offer a 10X20 space for 2 days (including electricity if necessary) for just $75. In return, we require that you create a schedule and a plan for how you will do demonstrations and/or workshops throughout the 2 days. The more hands on, the better!

FAQ'S
1. What if my tools are too cumbersome to bring with me or would be unsafe for little hands?
Gather a group of samples that shows the process by which you create your product. Prepare photographs and other visual displays. Bring anything and everything that kids and adults would be allowed to touch. Learn some of the historical or scientific trivia behind your trade and teach that during workshops. End with giving out prizes to people who get correct answers based on what you taught. Your goal is to get people excited about buying local because they appreciate the process. Impress them with how much effort goes into each item you create!

4. Where can I get an application?
Go to  www.pepperellmillcampus.com/apply


5. Is this a juried event?
No. This is more of an invitational event, however we will still consider an unsolicited request for participation as long as space is available. Email us a little bit about yourself, your trade, and how you plan to demonstrate and educate the public. We'll let you know within a week if we think you would be a good fit. Be sure to understand that this is retail AND education. No exceptions.

6. How many workshops and demonstrations will I be required to facilitate? How long should they be?
We ask that you offer a minimum of 2 per day, each one lasting no less than 15 minutes. Demonstrations can last as long as you need. When facilitating hands on workshops, you should keep in mind that young children tend to have short attention spans. Try to keep projects under 20 minutes. We believe that the more you educate, the more likely people will be to appreciate and purchase your goods.

7. What if the whole place is dead by 2:00? Do we have to stay til 5:00?
Since this is the first year, we would like to see how it plays out. We expect to have large crowds all day, both days. Again, remember that the directors have a booth and don't want to sit around doing nothing any more than you do. They will let you know if you can pack up early. If you simply must leave early, please see #8

8. Must I be present at my booth at all times?
No. You may have your own volunteers man your retail area. Volunteers will not be provided by the Mill or HHD directors due to the small and inexpensive nature of the event. Please note, however, that you must be present anytime you have a workshop or demonstration posted on your schedule. If you fail to maintain these obligations, you will not be asked to return next year.

9. Will I have to pay for parking?
No.

10. Will there be restrooms or portable toilets available?
Yes.

11. When do we set up and take down?
Set up is from 7 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. We ask that everyone be completely set up by 9:30. If you are running late, please let us know by calling (207)590-1163. Failure to communicate and showing up unprepared will result in not being asked back next year.

12. How can I contact the event directors with further questions?
David: (207)232-6464, ToteRd@gmail.com
Bekah: (207)590-1163, bekahclark715@gmail.com