This past weekend—Small Business Saturday AND Artists Sunday—we held our market with 177 registered vendors.
Despite the winter weather, 155 vendors showed up from across Eastern Iowa.
27 canceled, and we fully supported their decisions. Safety first, always.
While other markets chose to close, we were the only event that stayed open.
And here’s the amazing part:
The news crews showed up to talk to our vendors.
Shoppers came.
Sales happened.
And small businesses still had the opportunity to be seen and to sell.
Of course, being the only event open also brought some criticism from people and events not connected to ours.
Let’s talk about it.
1. We Took the Weather Seriously—And We Planned for It
We monitored the forecast for days.
We coordinated with the venue about plowed lots, salted walkways, and emergency access.
We communicated with vendors in real time.
The conditions were cold and messy, yes.
But the roads remained open.
Hawkeye Downs remained open.
An event director isn’t responsible for the weather.
But they are responsible for communication, safety, and showing up for those who can attend.
We did that.
2. You Don’t Cancel Small Business Saturday & Artists Sunday Without Cause
These are two of the most important days of the year for local makers and artists.
For many vendors, the income from this weekend supports their business through the slower months.
Without road closures or a venue shutdown, canceling would have harmed the 155 vendors who were ready and willing to work.
3. Professionalism Means Staying Focused on Your Own Event
While we worked hard to run a safe, organized market, a few outside events and individuals publicly bad-mouthed us for staying open.
But here’s the truth:
Professional events don’t tear others down.
They don’t fan drama.
They don’t shame vendors for choosing to show up and sell.
We stayed focused on our community.
Others chose something different.
4. We Support Every Vendor—Those Who Came and Those Who Stayed Home
If the weather made you uncomfortable, we supported your choice to stay home.
If you came, we were there to support you every step of the way.
Both decisions were valid.
What isn’t valid is attacking an event for operating safely and responsibly when all conditions allowed for it.
5. And Despite Everything… the Community Still Showed Up
Even with snow on the ground…
Even with cold winds…
Even with online criticism…
Customers still came.
Vendors still made money.
The news still highlighted our makers and artists.
The weekend still worked.
Final Thoughts
Being the only market open on Small Business Saturday and Artists Sunday wasn’t about being stubborn.
It was about careful planning, responsible decision-making, and supporting the small businesses and artists who depend on these days.
Let others talk.
We’ll keep doing the work—lifting up local makers, supporting creativity, and building a community vendors can count on.
Because that’s what Booth Bosses do.
Cynthia Freese (She, Her, Hers)
The Friendly Godmother of Made in Iowa
319 775 0458 Made in Iowa
