NOTE: Wiring IS Allowed!

I have so much to catch you up on- but this will be kept short and sweet for now:

Entries and displays CAN have wired gumpaste flowers. There is a mistake in the rules that was missed, and just in case I don't get that updated, wiring IS allowed! No problems, no issues, we won't even check for that. Wire your flowers and support your sculptures if you like! More importantly, get your registration forms in and get your creations going :)

Displays have no entry fee. If you want to display your work just because you're proud of it, or as a way to support the Gallery, we welcome you! We need to know about it (them) ASAP for space assigning purposes, so please submit a registration form and mark it "display only". We're gathering up prizes for anyone wishing to enter, so if you are entering something to win, the entry fee applies. There'll be more details and updates in a newsletter going out this week.

Any questions or clarifications needed? Email me- love hearing from you, and can't wait to see you!

Enjoy a frosty cold dessert tonite... tucked under the toasty warm covers, of course!

Exhibit Space, Sponsor Tables, and Displays, Oh My...

I really appreciate all of the positive comments and feedback that come in on most everything related to the Gallery and GGEP's purpose in life. It shows that our efforts do not go unnoticed, and you possibly love the sweet stuff (and food in general) as much as we do. Though organizing this event- any event- is hard and expensive work, it's so worth it in the end because of the people that enjoy and benefit from these efforts. Suggestions, ideas, and comments are ALWAYS welcome- as a matter of fact, we love hearing from guests, attendees, foodies, and vendors. There's always an open door (make that inbox!) when it comes to sincere and constructive input. We want to provide events, excursions, and classes that you will enjoy, be a part of and get excited about, and that will bring something fabulous to your life. If none of those things happen, then we've totally wasted our time and money- and yours. We wish to give you what you want, but we can't possibly know what that is if you don't connect with us and get involved.

The economy is a mess right now, we all know that, though I refuse to use the "R" word. We all are feeling the effects in one way or another. The situation is what we make it, and sitting around waiting for things to happen, improve, get better, whatever, on its own is useless. Still going to live life, invest in and grow my business, spend money (as wisely as always, of course), and still find ways to get wants and needs. Cut out completely? Never. Change some habits? Well, duh! lol The internet bargain shopping for shoes and serious markdowns may stop for a while if that means an occasional ribeye the size of a human head, with all the mushrooms and onions that'll fit on the plate is an option, or a splurge on a gourmet sweet every now and then is in the cards! Probably MITN (mo' info than needed- made that up!), but, hey... :)

Let's talk pricing for just a moment. If I could afford to feed anyone and everyone, I would do so just because. Same thing with the Gallery. Right now, though, not an option (see previous paragraph). The original plan for the Gallery, developed last spring-ish before the bottom completely fell out, involved 3 days, national and local advertising, big names, $$$$ booths, and all the bells and whistles. Nashville needs some focus on food, we thought. Economy crashes, financing dries up, corps cut back and/or fail, Gallery and GGEP gets caught in the crossfire. For a while, it was 'do we, or don't we?' Should we go forward with plans or wait until things improve? Hmmmm... but when will THAT be? Well... we opted to move forward, but downscale. Start local, establish our brand, make it super affordable, and get people interested.

Now, realizing that everyone's finances are different, and knowing that we really wanted locals to take advantage of this unique event, we drastically dropped the exhibit investment. We also realize that we still need to be more creative in making the Gallery accessible to everyone who wants to exhibit. I am always about negotiating and compromise. I like to find creative ways to meet a goal, and make a situation beneficial for everyone involved and make it possible for more participation. But on the flip side, exhibitors need to remember that we have lots and lots of costs to cover. Venue, advertising, rentals, labor, equipment, special guests- none of this stuff is free, and in order to offer a product (event) that hits the mark and serves its purpose and people, it has to be done all the way or not at all. My grandmother always told us as kids "If you're gonna do it, do it right the first time". I swear I apply that principle to every single day in my life.

So, with that said, here's a unique offer. We're applying the Priceline name-your-own-price theory here, to see if this will make your life easier. Exhibit investments are currently discounted at $250, but are going to increase to $350. Now through Wednesday night, Jan 21, exhibitors have the chance to "Name Your Price" for your exhibit at the Gallery. Reasonable offers will be accepted, no questions asked. Keep in mind that you'll be expected to confirm your offer with reservation and payment in full within 24hrs of your offer (online via PayPal or Google checkout or check mailed) being accepted. A reasonable offer will include a dollar amount that you can afford plus a donation of goods or services to the Gallery (please explain in detail), quantity, and its approximate value each. This is for exhibits (booths) only. Your communication will be 100% confidential. Just be reasonable and fair, please- we really do want to work with you and do what's best for the Gallery, so if you don't respond and get involved NOW, it's your loss! lol Send email to Melissa@sugarisart.com and you'll get a response within a few hours, possibly sooner.

Finally, a couple of cool links... Cakewrecks is too funny- and the name says it all! These pics are really great- this parent loves being a parent!

Enjoy dessert tonite... then have the leftovers for breakfast... :)

Gallery Updates and Treats

This has been a super busy and productive week (or has it been two?) and I'm really tired and still trying to play catch-up from family visits and meetings, but wanted to post a quick note to verify that my existence and efforts continue! :)

I also want to introduce you to Aleia, who just joined GGEP and is hard at work on the Gallery. You'll get to meet her soon, and may have occasion to talk with her before the event.

The behind-the-scenes efforts to pull together a fabulous launch event continues, and we still are being creative, and meeting people, and involving all sorts of fun sugar art and themed goodies. Since the purpose of this event is to celebrate the art of sugar and sugar as art, don't be surprised to see lots of non-edible creations that resemble and make you think of the real stuff- and we'll take extra care to indicate what can be eaten and what should just be admired. :)

This event is a personal mission and goal for me, and I really hope that guests, attendees, and friends really fully realize that the Gallery is a labor of love, a personal passion brought to life in Nashville simply because I love the art, I love beautiful food, and luscious dessert, and creative treats. It simply is amazing to me, and I want to share that so others can appreciate an art form that does not receive all the recognition that it should, especially here in Middle Tennessee.

I'm thinking of starting a site for food lovers, a site that offers free membership and members will talk food, share recent dining experiences, have meet-n-greets- basically a community of foodies. We'll be the source for posting and advertising food events and happenings, and will talk about new products and eateries and chefs and bakeries. I have NO IDEA what this undertaking would be called- but it should embrace both food and dessert lovers. Any ideas?

A new promo will be going out this week, that will offer anyone who wishes to have a place at the Gallery a less-expensive option than our already super-cheap Exhibits. That is being written up now, and should hit mailboxes by Tuesday. Remember, the best rate for Exhibits expires on Jan 15, so get those reservations and display entries in NOW! I was asked if you can sell- yes you can, and we don't take a penny in percentage. I never really understood that one. This new option will be for those who DON'T want to sell, but maybe give out coupons and flyers and samples, and show some displays. We really, really, really appreciate your support, and are looking forward to a great event. Bakers, pastry pros, chocolatiers, confectioners, and sugar artsits- THIS EVENT IS FOR YOU! We love what you do!

A small HINT: I want to tell you more about what's going on and who you'll see... and I will soon... please don't hold this against me... BUT I will give you a HINT to one of our special guests: check out the fabulous pictures for a glimpse of who's in store!

I'm so excited (and so nervous at the same time!) to have been invited to the Middle TN's ACF chapter monthly meeting next week, to visit with the chefs and present GGEP and the Gallery. Since GGEP will be focusing on the food industry, this is a great chance to meet this esteemed chef organization and get them involved in and supportive of what we're doing. Wish me luck PLEASE, and pray that I don't pass out- or worse- in front of them. I like to stay out of the spotlight, so this is completely freaking me out. lol

Finally for now, we are also organizing a Dessert Social that will take place Saturday evening before the Gallery. It will be a dressy casual event where you can meet the exhibitors and professionals and event organizers and basically schmooze and snacks. We'll know for certain this week, and of course will totally fill you in on the details.

Enjoy an amazing dessert tonite...