Recap of my 2025 Crochet Events

This year went by so fast, yet somehow the first event feels like it happened forever ago. I did a total of four events this year, and overall I had a great time. Most importantly, I realized I’m more capable than I gave myself credit for, even when things didn’t go perfectly.

Anime Los Angeles — January

I still can’t believe I did a four-day anime convention literally right after coming back from Japan. I’m known for putting a lot on my plate, but… yeah. That was a lot.

This was my third ALA in a row. Every year I bring less and less inventory, but this time it wasn’t too much of a loss since I shared a table for the first time. I was worried about fitting everything into a 3-ft space, but we were lucky enough to get a corner spot, so I brought a side table (huge win).

Sales weren’t great, but it was still a fun experience. I always enjoy ALA because it’s close to home and I love the ribbon culture. It’s familiar, comfortable, and always feels like a good way to start the year.

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Tsumicon — March

My third Tsumicon in a row. I almost backed out because I wasn’t sure if single-me could handle a far-away convention, but I drove to Vegas safely with the company of a friend. I also roomed alone for the first time, and even though I felt unsure at first, it became a quietly empowering experience.

Sales were amazing, as usual. I try to add something new every year so it doesn’t feel repetitive. Last year I had an “ass or tits” poll, and this year I added a truth or dare game with explicit prompts. It was chaotic, fun, and definitely fit the crowd.

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The Makers Hive Market — August

Honestly… my least favorite event.

I’m trying to stay positive, but the negatives outweighed the positives. I had attended this market before and thought the foot traffic was decent, so my expectations were higher.

First, it was one of the hottest months of the year. Second, I went alone, thinking I wouldn’t need help since it was only a four-hour event. The setup logistics were stressful — you had to park, unload, then move your car within 15 minutes, which is rough when you’re solo.

Sales were awful (I suspect my table placement). It was hot as hell, though thankfully friends came by and got me a drink. It’s a shame because the Anaheim Packing House is a beautiful venue with amazing food. I also learned that four hours is too short for the amount I paid.

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Anime Night Mart — October

I had always wanted to do this event, but previous dates conflicted with other commitments. I was incredibly grateful they allowed me to pre-register early. The table fees were affordable, it was a two-day event, and it ended up being completely worth it.

I was pretty nervous when my helper was running late since this was the largest setup I’d ever attempted. The mall was packed and hot, and being near the stage made it loud, which definitely added to my anxiety. Still, I managed to get most of the setup done on my own, and once help arrived everything fell into place- a small but reassuring reminder that I could handle more than I expected.

I took a lot of risks with new products this time: hair clips, k-pop Demon Hunters keychains, handmade anime earrings, and button pins. The hair clips and K-pop keychains were a hit. The earrings and pins… flopped 😭

Overall, this was my most successful and most fun event of the year. I told myself I’d only do this event going forward, but… the Westminster Mall closed, and Anime Night Mart’s next event is in Moreno Valley 💔

Final Thoughts

This year I surprised myself in the best way. I showed up, tried new things, handled challenges on my own, and learned what kinds of events truly work for me. Not every market was perfect, but each one taught me something, and that alone made the year worth it.