05/05/2026
I wanted to update everyone on a situation I've been struggling with the last few days.
Later this month (May 22nd - 24th) I was scheduled to be at Madison's Brat Fest. On Friday, I was informed that they were closing the indoor vending area and forcing all of us vendors who paid for inside spots to be outside.
I dont do outdoor shows as I have multiple health issues (including having had a quadruple bypass) that do not allow me to be outside in the heat all day. These three days would be 12+ hours outside, with no handicapped bathrooms nearby (I'd have to be driven to accessible porta potties), and I would have to completely pack up my booth each night and set it back up the next morning. To put it bluntly, this would create an incredible physical hardship for me. Even with help, this would drain my batteries in ways I cannot handle.
So as much as it pains me to do so, I have to withdraw from Brat Fest. I have to put my health and safety first. I have been agonizing over this and it is horribly disappointing as I have been making things for this show for months. I also needed a big show this month financially. As I was only given 20 days notice of this change, there's no picking up a comparable show in Brat fest's place. So, after my show this weekend, I will have an unplanned month off.
I know a number of customers were looking forward to seeing me that weekend. I just wanted everyone to know I did not back out of this show lightly and why I wont be there.