My First Outdoor Fair: 95 Degrees, Plenty of Water, and a Whole Lot of Gratitude

This past weekend I worked my very first outdoor fair - It was Conway, South Carolina's Riverfest. There were about 200 vendors, live music, amazing lemonade and of course coffee. But I won't lie—when I saw the forecast calling for 95-degree weather, I wondered if I had completely lost my mind. Thankfully, I planned ahead. I packed more water than I thought I'd ever drink, stocked up on Liquid IV, (They should sponsor me - just saying) brought two fans, wore light clothing, and hoped Mother Nature would cut me a little slack. She didn't. It was hot. Really hot, but she was kind enough to send a breeze now and again. 

But here's what surprised me... Once the fair got underway, I barely thought about the heat.

The conversations started. The readings began. One client became another, and before I knew it, I had read for far more people than I expected. It reminded me that when you're doing work you genuinely love, even uncomfortable circumstances can fade into the background.

One of the biggest blessings of the weekend wasn't just the clients—it was the people around me.

My vendor neighbors were wonderful. They checked in on me, shared laughs throughout the day, and made sure everyone was staying hydrated. That's something I've come to appreciate about fairs. Yes, we're all there 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 become friends, and others may lead to opportunities I can't even see yet. That's the beautiful thing about putting yourself out there. You never really know what Spirit has planned.

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 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!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by my booth this weekend. Whether you had a reading, asked a question, told me that what I did scared you, or simply introduced yourself, you made my first outdoor fair one I'll never forget.

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.

Conway Riverfest 2026 and the debut of my new logo!!! woohoo!!!