Why I’m Not Doing UCU This Year

Every year, I hear from customers who plan their holiday shopping around finding me at Urban Craft Uprising — and I can’t tell you how much that means to me. I’ve been part of the show since the early days, and some of my most loyal, lifelong customers came from those weekends. In those early years, I even headlined their press coverage and was interviewed as part of their vendor features — a decade ago when they highlighted every artist’s story. (They eventually removed that entire archive, so I’ve kept my interview here.)

So I want to share why I won’t be there this season.

1. The short version

The Seattle Center Exhibition Hall has become incredibly challenging — for vendors, for customers, and for anyone with mobility limitations. Parking is expensive, load-in is physically demanding, and the aisles get so packed it’s hard to shop comfortably. My goal is always to provide a calm, enjoyable experience, and this space simply isn’t set up for that anymore.

2. The eggshell factor

Over the years, it’s become harder for long-time vendors to get in, and the application process has felt increasingly unpredictable. I’ve spent a lot of seasons tiptoeing around this reality — not wanting to jeopardize my chances by speaking openly. I know many of you have asked why your favorite legacy makers aren’t there anymore, and… well, you’re not imagining it.

3. A sponsorship shift

Last year I was told the organizers wanted to “give another business a chance” at sponsorship, which I respected. But when that didn’t work out and they circled back asking me to sponsor again, I was in a tough season and needed to invest those funds into keeping my own team afloat. After that, I wasn’t accepted to the show — and this year, I chose not to apply.

4. The real truth: I know how big this is

I know skipping UCU is a big deal — it’s historically been a major part of my holiday revenue. But instead of leaving my busiest season up to an unpredictable jury process, I’m choosing to focus on the stores and events that support my work year-round. It feels steadier, healthier, and far more aligned with where my business is headed.

If you’re a maker yourself — or just curious what really goes into preparing for a big show — I put together a full post with everything I’ve learned from two decades of craft and fine art shows.

5. Here’s where you can find me

Upcoming shopping events:

✨ Nov 29: mall Business Saturday Pop-Up — Bella Vita(Greenwood)
I’ll be popping up in Greenwood at Bella Vita on Small Business Saturday — the neighborhood where I opened my very first Crystalyn Kae boutique in the early 2000s. I lived and worked in that space, sold my own designs alongside other local artists, and was part of that community for over five years. Returning to Greenwood always feels like coming home, and I’d love to see you there.

✨ February 18- 22, 2026 Northwest Flower & Garden Festival —  (Convention Center)
This show is spacious, beautifully run, accessible, and a total joy to participate in. You can wander, breathe, shop comfortably, and discover so many incredible local makers.

And of course…

The very best way to support my work

Shop directly on my website or visit the stores that carry my bags year-round. They’re small businesses too, and showing them love is the most meaningful way to support us both.

And honestly? While everyone else is battling crowds that weekend, I’ll be in my slippers and a sheet mask, with cranberry–orange bread baking in the oven. It feels good to choose a calmer, more aligned way to serve my customers — one that lets me ship your orders with joy rather than exhaustion

Thank you for your support all these years. It means more than you know.