Recap: Steampunk World’s Fair 2014

Recap: Steampunk World’s Fair 2014

It seems hard to believe that we got back from the 2014 Steampunk World’s Fair just over a week ago. We are still coasting on all that positive energy. It was a very rewarding event and we are already making plans for a return next year. This year we unveiled our new Utility Belt Waistcincher that is currently up for sale on our Shoppe. We also brought along an array of novelty Steampunk and Neo-Victorian Print Boyshorts. This was a Steampunk World’s Fair exclusive item, but you can find our remaining inventory on the Copper Lune Etsy shop.

Our outdoor location on the Midway was looking less than optimal Friday afternoon as the skies darkened and the forecast was for much worse. Along with our neighbour vendors, we apprehensively set up our tent and wares while trying to dodge the first drops of rain that would soon give way to a deluge. We tried to persevere, but one can hardly blame the Fair attendees from taking refuge with the events ongoing within the host hotels. So we made it an early night.

The rest of the weekend however could not have been more ideal – sunny, warm, and gentle breezes. Our previous day’s wishes that we had been granted an indoor space quickly gave way to complete contentment. Everyone seemed to want to be outside and revel in the beautiful weather. The abundant sunlight showed our garments’ exquisite fabrics in the best of all light. This made the next step so much easier, getting people to try on our new Utility Belt Waistcinchers. As we pride ourselves on flattering and comfortable fit as much as design this type of hands-on interaction is invaluable. My conservative estimate is that over half of the women who tried on one of our garments then went on to purchase it. Perhaps my favourite purchase was a woman who actually walked in wearing a beautiful corset and chose to walk away wearing our Utility Belt Waistcincher in Cool Grey Plaid Suiting Wool. She even returned the next day to further reward us with hugs. Each and every smiling face brought on by one of my garments always reminds me why I love doing what I do.

Another highlight was our neighbours, and also first time fellow-vendors at the Steampunk World’s Fair, Wanderlust Tea. It seemed that every time we turned around they were there offering us a sampling of their great teas. Be sure to check them out. Tea, be it hot or cold, is definitely my favorite beverage and I have been enjoying both their Moroccan Mint and Raspberry Cream all week.

Probably the single largest regret of being a vendor at this great event is that it gives little opportunity to sample the wares of our fellow vendors or experience the great entertainers. Two of our favourite performers, Psyche Corporation and Unwoman were both in attendance, but I was only able to see maybe a total of fifteen minutes of them combined. And maybe someday, somehow, I will finally be able to see the spectacle that is Steam Powered Giraffe.