I base this on the numerous reactions we had during the Global Pinoy Bazaar two weekends ago and the Assumption Bazaar just yesterday. These were our tickets to pass the virtual barrier and step into a physical space wherein people can see, feel, smell the shirts; ask about the designs and designers; get to know the glorified printers (the staff); and see how big this thing really is.

One of the common reactions was: “Your designs are so cool!”, to which we would say, “Thanks, but we didn’t design them.” Then they give us this funny look and I could almost see their thought bubble: “Pirated ba ’to?”

(Our new shirt tags.)

We explain our belief that anyone can design and the designs are done by anyone and everyone who joins the site and participates. We tell them about the voting system, the artist cash prize and royalties, and printing the designers’ names on each shirt for credit. “If you like the design, thank the designer.” We also tell them it’s not a new business model, but we believed in it so much that we wanted it here in the Philippines. Everytime we got the point across, people’s eyes would widen in – I would hope – amazement.

What made the experience more fun was hearing passersby say things like: “Uy! I know that site!” , “I’ve seen that shirt!”, “That’s my friend’s design!” or “I saw my friend wearing that shirt!”

One of the more memorable ones were the two girls who came by and instantly snatched up a League of Extraordinary shirt. One of them said, “This is by my friend Dani-Anne We found out Dani-Anne was a colleague and a talented graphic designer at their company. Coincidentally, Mon and I were wearing her shirt design that day (he copied me cause he thinks I’m cool) and I told her it was one of our favorites. I was hoping Dani-Anne could pass by so that we could meet her, but apparently she lived pretty far. Oh well, next time! (Right, Dani?)

We had so many quality conversations: from talking about business in general, partnerships with others, and just plain weather talk. I slightly lost my voice from talking so much, but I liked it.

(Carmen and Julian from Muscovado Shirts bought their own TIS tees!)

At Yabang Pinoy, Mon and I constantly spoke with Carmen and Julian from Muscovado Shirts (talented folk whom I hope would put their brilliant stuff here), our booth neighbors from Filed! (their organizers sold like hotcakes), Jenny and Luis from Tunic Project, a blogger who bought a shirt and took photos with us, plus countless others. I even got to meet Lorra and Elbert from Start Here. The bulk of our conversations were with customers, though. I can say we acknowledged each one, giving our time and effort in getting to know them (if they weren’t in a hurry) and having them jot down their emails so we could follow up with them and their orders.

The staff assessed the bazaar weekends and came to a conclusion: We couldn’t have sold if we dictated what shirts to print and sell. It was a constant surprise to see a design (we honestly thought would flop) sell a lot, and vice versa. This put truth into the whole concept of community-created content. You guys designed, you guys chose. Without your say, The Inksquad won’t move. Personally, we are forever grateful to everyone who contributes here.

- – - – - -

For the Inked designers, check your sales pages this week. Updates on your shirt sales should be completed by Friday.

Our next bazaar is The Great Holiday Bazaar on December 5-6 at the Rockwell Tent! Drop by and say hi!