My First Outdoor Fair Experience at Conway Riverfest

This past weekend, I participated in my very first outdoor fair—Conway, South Carolina's Riverfest. The event featured around 200 vendors, live music, delicious lemonade, and, of course, coffee. However, when I saw the forecast predicting 95-degree weather, I questioned my sanity. Thankfully, I had planned ahead.

Preparation is Key

I packed more water than I thought I would ever drink. I stocked up on Liquid IV (they should sponsor me—just saying), brought two fans, wore light clothing, and hoped Mother Nature would be kind. She wasn't. It was hot—really hot. But she did send a breeze from time to time.

Surprising Moments

What surprised me the most was that once the fair began, I hardly thought about the heat. Conversations flowed, readings commenced, and before I knew it, I had read for far more people than I anticipated. It reminded me that when you’re engaged in work you genuinely love, even uncomfortable circumstances can fade into the background.

The Community Spirit

One of the biggest blessings of the weekend wasn't just the clients—it was the people around me. My vendor neighbors were fantastic. They checked in on me, shared laughs throughout the day, and ensured everyone stayed hydrated. This is something I've come to appreciate about fairs. Yes, we all aim to grow our businesses, but there’s also a real sense of community. Everyone wants everyone else to succeed.

I also met some incredible new contacts. Some may become future clients, some may turn into friends, and others may lead to opportunities I can't even foresee. That’s the beautiful aspect of putting yourself out there. You never know what Spirit has in store for you.

Lessons Learned

Every event teaches me something. This one taught me that preparation matters. Bring the water. Bring the fans. Bring the electrolytes. But most importantly, bring an open heart.

I recently moved to South Carolina to grow my business, and every fair feels like planting another seed. Not every seed blooms immediately, but each one has the potential to become something amazing.

Would I Do It Again?

Would I participate in another outdoor fair in the middle of summer? Absolutely. Maybe with another fan. And perhaps another box of Liquid IV. Because beyond the heat were beautiful conversations, meaningful readings, wonderful people, and the reminder that sometimes the best experiences begin just outside our comfort zone. And yes, there was a coffee truck at the end of my row. See, my guides know what I need!

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thank you to everyone who stopped by my booth this weekend. Whether you had a reading, asked a question, told me that what I do scares you, or simply introduced yourself, you made my first outdoor fair an unforgettable experience.

Peace, love, and coffee,

—Melissa

ps: Have we met at a fair? I'd love to see you again! You can book an in-person or virtual reading, see my upcoming events, or learn more about my services here at melissawilkison.com. I hope our paths cross again soon.