This past weekend, I participated in a local pop-up market. On paper, it was supposed to be a lively, well-attended event, with the organizers claiming over 375 visitors throughout the day. In reality, what I experienced was something very different—quiet aisles, low foot traffic, and a crowd that didn’t quite resonate with the world I’m trying to build with Live With Hu.
The lessons I learnt that day were invaluable.
Not All Exposure Is the Right Exposure
My booth was placed at the end of the venue, and I suspect many attendees never made it that far. But the real challenge wasn’t just visibility—it was fit.
Most of the vendors around me were hobbyist makers selling simple, handmade items. Many visitors were casually browsing for low-cost home decor or novelty gifts—not necessarily seeking meaningful, experience-driven brands.
Live With Hu candles are rooted in reflection, emotion, and storytelling. Our mission is to create sensory experiences that invite deeper connection—with yourself and with others. So naturally, this wasn’t the right environment.
But Here’s What Worked
Despite the misalignment, the power of the brand still shone through.
When I had the chance to explain the concept behind Live With Hu and our upcoming events, people were visibly moved. The Mur de l’Humain (a reflection game on the wall) made people pause. Our storytelling candles sparked meaningful conversations.
One visitor in particular—a vibrant, optimistic woman in her 40s—stopped by and connected with everything. She listened, she played, she smiled, she stayed. She was exactly the kind of person I build this for.
She even brought a friend over to share the experience, bought a candle, and promised to order more online.
That moment changed everything. It validated my vision and reminded me that the right people exist. I just need to meet them in the right places.
Takeaways That Will Shape What’s Next
✅ Craft-focused pop-ups aren’t for me. While they serve many makers beautifully, my audience is looking for something else—something deeper.
✅ My booth needs room to breathe. I packed too much into one table—five candles, a promo wheel, a scent game, a storytelling wall, and live DJ vibes. It was too much. A customer gently pointed it out, and she was right: I need to start with the story. If someone connects, everything else will follow.
✅ No regrets. Just data. I didn’t lose money. I gained clarity. And that’s invaluable.
What I’m Doing Differently Moving Forward
- Seeking curated markets that align with wellness, lifestyle, storytelling, and art
- Simplifying my booth flow—starting with brand connection, then inviting interaction
- Doubling down on experience-first storytelling, not just product display
- Refining my customer segmentation based on this live feedback
If You’re Building a Meaningful Brand…
Remember that not every audience is your audience.
It’s okay to say, “This isn’t my space.”
Sometimes, the most powerful growth comes from the moments that don’t convert—because they point you exactly where you’re meant to go.
If you’re building something bold, intentional, and emotionally rooted—I see you, I am you. Let’s keep finding our people.
#LiveWithHuExperience #HumanConnectionMatters #EntrepreneurJourney