Logically Illogical

I’m going to answer this publicly because some of you may benefit from this as well. 

Hello! yeah i remember you from last AX.  My first AX was 2007, it was a lot less competitive than it is now.  Back then I had this very self-centered attitude where I wouldn’t really care much about other artists, like how much they make, what they sell, what they make, who they are, etc.  This was a bad attitude because it sorta prevented me from talking and making friends with other artists, but having this attitude sorta helped ease off that pressure and nervousness.  In the end, you have to realize that you’re not competing with the other artists in a race; you’re trying to give back to your fandom through your art, and if you make money in the process, that’s even better.

The most important thing is to constantly remind yourself that it’s a con, and you’re there to have fun and be a fan.  This is especially important if you’re a first-timer.  If you treat the alley like a business where you keep counting your profit margin, chances are you won’t be having fun.  It’s usually difficult to break even on your first year, unless you have a really good fanbase already.  I didn’t break even the first year either, and second year I barely broke even (didn’t break even after factoring in food and personal expenses), so I’m telling you the same thing I tell everyone who’s starting: don’t expect much, and just enjoy the fact that you have a place to sit down, a chance to meet other artists, and a chance to recover some of your cost.

Also don’t forget to bring eyeliner/sharpie in case you need to draw in an eyebrow.