Wednesday, December 10, 2008

From Hobby to Home Business: Entrepreneurship in Montana

By Kristin Ross

Many of us have hobbies that allow us to create wonderful works of art; like painting or drawing. Or create from wood marvelous pieces of furniture or sculpture. Or cook delicious meals, cakes, and pastries that will satisfy even the most discriminating of palates. All of us love our hobbies, and there are those of us who would want nothing more than to turn these hobbies into a business, and begin to make the activities that they love into a living. What does one do then when such an event comes into their lives?

But how does one get to participate? Is there anything you need to know in order to join a nearby trade fair or festival? Going about it the traditional way, that is, making phone calls, travelling, and networking could turn into an exhausting ordeal that might make the transition from hobby to small business more trouble than it's worth. But don't let such an obstacle keep you from your dream of being the next successful business owner in Montana.

Looking for information would be a good first step. There are many trade fairs and festivals in Montana that will allow you to showcase your works to a broader audience. But looking for the right sort of information is an activity that may take a lot of your time and involve a lot of travelling and networking. Wouldn't it be nice if someone already did this work for you, allowing you to maintain your focus on your hobby?

A database of trade fairs and other events that are happening around the country then would be the sort of information you need. By finding out when the festivals near your area are, you would then be able to plan your creations as these events come, allowing you to present your best work at a large festival.

The fruits of your labor are most important to you, especially when they come from doing something that you truly love. Participation in festivals and trade fairs around the country is just the thing that will bring you the recognition and rewards you richly deserve. And who knows, maybe you'll be the next big thing to come out of Montana?

Join a service that will regularly inform you of the next festival or trade fair in your area. And get involved. Not only will you be making a name for yourself, and making a living doing what you love. You may just make yourself yet another reason why Montana is such a great state.

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