Pacific Pony Con 2017 Write Up

Pacific Pony Con 2017 Write Up

OK, now that I've fully had time to unpack, clean up and get settled back in at home I thought I should write up how the show was. Now many of you might not know but this was my first show as a Guest of Honor, not just a panelist, professional, exhibitor or workshop leader. I had no idea what to expect so I went in unsure. The trip down to San Diego was far easier than I thought it would be even in the rain which was a great relief as I had never made a trek this long alone.  I got there safely and the hotel was nice. I got my own room with two beds and a gorgeous view of the bay where I could see all the various Coast Guard and cruise ships docking for the night.

Set up was longer than I had hoped because I didn't realize I could have asked for help. No matter, the table was set up and everyone was super nice. It felt so different because they actually cared when I needed help and ran errands for me. I was treated with respect that I had not become accustomed to. It was nice. I had been worried because I wasn't sure how I would go about getting food as I was alone at my table and didn't want to leave. I had snacks but that's not the same as real food. But I was able to send out volunteers which helped greatly. Though I think I've had my share of salty food for the month.

The first day I had my very own Spotlight panel and while it wasn't super crowded it was nice being on a stage alone instead of just part of a group like all my other panelist gigs had been. People seemed really positive. Sales were brisk at my table though I did have to mention who I was many times. Either way most people were really kind and bought a lot of stuff. Prints, commissions and my dolls were the most popular items. I was surprised that Jereboa sold as well as he did but I was glad because he usually moves really slow at SDCC. I had my first convention commissions since 2001 which was less challenging that I thought it was going to be because this convention was very laid back. Also I didn't have to stand all day. I was able to sit and not yell to get people to come over. It was nice. I talked to a lot of fans, other artists and vendors so I wasn't totally alone. I was glad to have Sara and Tony as table neighbors. It was pretty chill. It was strange going back to an empty room though. I didn't do much in the way of panels and parties because I had something come up but I could hear the dance party all the way up on the 8th floor. XD

The next two days were fun. I sold even more. My second panel was different as I shared it with Tony and Sara but we did our best to answer all the questions given to us. We gave advice on self care, getting into art and characters we'd be. This crowd was bigger than the previous one. People seemed to enjoy it. We returned to our tables and got in a few more hours of sales. I donated a set of my dolls to the auction and they sold 10$ over asking. I'm always glad to help out.

Then the convention was over. I was sad to leave. The weekend didn't seem arduous like my other shows. I would love to go again. The relief of not having to worry about the hotel or travel cost greatly eased any of my concerns and everyone was very kind and respectful. It was a welcome change to the hustle and bustle of SDCC where it's easy to be overlooked in the rainbow sea of booths and stands. I hope I can go back next year as a guest. I had a lot of fun.