Boy have we all been there and done that! The 1st year or two is very hard. I agree with the type of show being very important. I do not do shows that are secondary events to something else going on. If it is kid oriented, meaning things for kids to do, STAY AWAY.  Try to stick to shows which do not allow mart merchantice or wholesalers. Hand made by vender only. I too sell my work as ART not craft. I agree that matting and framing is very important as you will see those prices rise. I have signed up for 10 shows this year, my 1st being June 4th/5th. I live in Colorado so I have a wide varity of work to enclude western art, country singers, horses, wild life etc.I do have photos posted in my album of my set up. Plan to spend a bit of dough to make dough! LOL. Your display and presentation is very important. When setting up your display make it look like a store front. Professionalisim is also important. Dress and act the part. AFTER ALL WE ARE PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS!

With trial and error you will come through this down time. Do not get discouraged and take the praise you get for your work knowing you are good at what you do it is just a matter of finding your venue.

Deb