The best things about camp, for me, as someone just starting out are as follows: First, just believing I deserved to give this dream a serious go was important. Going to camp was literally and symbolically about investing in myself. Second, talking with people and hearing their stories and being asked to describe and explain my business helped me to clarify what I really want to do. Third-being around people who actually wanted to listen and who generously gave me such thoughtful and creative ideas, who are also going through similar things was extremely validating! Last, but not least, I made connections with people face to face and exchanged contact information thus expanding my support network!

[The most valuable thing I learned this weekend was] that I can do it. That there are resources and people to help me in my entrepreneurial journey. The most helpful were really just the more psychological – mental state teachings about being creative and the struggles that come with it.

It’s hard to say what the MOST valuable thing I learned is when everything was so valuable. I learned a lot about wholesale and E-Commerce sites – but I think the most valuable piece is the connection and networking with other like-minded makers.

I was skeptical that I could enjoy and benefit as much in year two as I did in year one, but holy crap! I had such an amazing time seeing other repeat campers, meeting new ones, immersing myself in a pool of like-minded people with shared experiences. I’m incredibly grateful. Also, kudos to Lydia for how she built the confidence of everyone she photographed and for sharing her knowledge so freely.

It is hard to put into words. I feel reenergized and unstuck. Big perspective shifts happened because of having this space and time. I keep telling myself this year is about evolution not growth. And to stop feeling guild around that

It’s invaluable to learn so many do’s and don’ts from teachers & other makers, both in an out of the classrooms at Camp Thundercraft. The “yes we can” vibe is inspiring and rejuvenating which is precisely what a solopreneur needs at the start of a new year! Thank you so much for using your limited time and energy to connect makers and help us be more successful through sharing ideas, resources, motivation, and support!

[The most valuable thing I learned ] was that I share the same fears, anxieties and struggles as everyone else. Being around others who are in the same boat gave me a boost of confidence and the drive to keep going. I feel really motivated to get into my studio today, after months of going through a period of struggling with why I’m doing this. Feels like I have my focus back.

I went into camp not really thinking my business was even a business. The most valuable thing I learned at camp was that my business can be as big as I make it, as extensive as I want. It all depends on how much I am willing to put into it. I think I learned that by simply having the time to talk to and listen to other business owners like me. It was nice to know that we are more alike than different. I also learned that there are are so many lovely people/artists in the community who can share their experience and knowledge.

I got way more than I expected out of camp. I am still glowing even weeks later! There was so much to process, and I’ve made so many awesome connections, and done so much work to my business since the second I got home. It was a truly incredible experience. Thank you so much!