You may work alone, and perhaps you become lonely.
When you do talk about your hobby or business, you are met with polite, but feigned interest or a blank stare. What is the answer? Get together! Find others who share your interest.
You may be fortunate enough to have friends nearby, but few of us do. We have to work a bit harder to get together with like-minded individuals.
I just returned from a trip to Kentucky to attend SoapCon. Speakers on several topics of interest–customer service, color theory, legislation, creative packaging, making bath bombs and more shared with us. Several vendors were in attendance, as well, offering us the opportunity to check out their wares.
Various regions host smaller, shorter or similar events–Texas Soapmakers Association, Alabama Soap and Candle Association, Pittsburgh Soapmakers Gathering, Ohio Soapers, NE Bubbles & Blazes, to name several. And let us not forget the huge, annual conference sponsored by the Handcrafted Soap & Cosmetic Guild!
Whether large, small or in between, you are sure to enjoy yourself surrounded by those who share your passion and have skills to pass along. Make the effort to attend one!
Until next time, may your days be filled with bubbles and wax.
Beth Byrne, for Making Soap, Cosmetics & Candles.