Doll Conventions

Last Ldoll I have my 'Aebele' on the table on the second (more calm) day. I had some nice responses of people who loved him but in general people didn't seem that interested. I think because the aesthetics of my work differe a lot from normal doll collectors. I also had a few people who didn't seem to understand the idea of porcelain ^.^''

I would look if a convention has a broad spectrum of dolls represented, then people with a broader look at the doll hobby will be there. Ldoll was a bit to much focussed on normal resin bjd's, despite all the french artist being there ^^''

It also kind of depends on how much a booth costs, and if it's worth it for you. I was at Ldoll with my wigs so the booth was there anyway but be aware that you might not earn back the costs of the booth.

I think presentation is the most important thing at conventions. I have been before to sell my jewelry and I found the fancier my display, the more people stopped to look. Big difference.

My porcelain Paperwhite dolls usually get quite a lot of attention, especially if they are in their matching ballerina outfits, which really stand out.

If you are selling just dolls and don't make a sale that day, you will lose the cost of the booth. But it is still really good advertising for your work. People like to see dolls in person and they will remember a quality display and a friendly face.

The hard thing is finding a convention big enough to be worthwhile. I have been to two that had very few people come at all. I would choose an established convention that draws a big crowd.

Yes, big is good! Even a "big" doll convention is only a few hundred people, not at all like an anime convention or scifi convention. I really don't think the smaller ones are worth it unless you have low price impulse buys, which my jewelry isn't, and your dolls certainly aren't! But after attending a few most doll collectors in the area use me as their go-to source for jewelry I think.

Did you see the photos of Larisa Morillo's booth? I think a luxurious looking display really helps. Something that says: expensive and WORTH IT!

Also I should say attending conventions is so much fun! If I didn't care about my bottom line I would vend at every one I can drive to, no matter what size. I love meeting other collectors (and showing off my dolls/my work!). It's just so fun to be around people who share interests. A lot of people asked me about porcelain dolls at the conventions, and I had fun explaining how cool, unique, hard work, etc they are.

Maybe you could make a little view book showing progress photos so people can see how much work making your dolls is!