Finding My Place in the Jam Band Community

My First Asheville Pop-Up Experience

On April 10, 2026, I had the opportunity to set up in a new town, connect with a new crowd, and step deeper into a world that has always fascinated me—the jam band community.

From the music to the fashion to the artwork, and especially the community of people, there’s something about this culture that feels alive and constantly evolving. It’s a space where creativity and individuality thrive, and I could feel that energy the moment I arrived.

Setting Up at the Goose Flodown Pre-Party

I set up at the Asheville Music Hall for the Goose Flodown pre-party alongside three other incredible vendors. Each of them brought something unique to the space, mostly centered around clothing and accessories, and they stayed busy all afternoon.

My products stood out in a different way. I brought my handmade, non-toxic self-care items, including the “show survival” bundles I created specifically for this event. Even though I wasn’t offering what most people initially came for, I embraced that difference.

One of my favorite parts of the day was connecting with the other vendors. I even got to trade with each of them and bring home pieces of their artwork—something that made the experience feel even more meaningful.

More Than Just Sales

Of course, going into the event, there’s always that hope to sell out. But realistically, my goal was bigger than that. I wanted to make connections, learn the flow of vending in this kind of environment, and observe how others show up and engage.

I pushed myself to stay confident and start conversations. What I realized is that it’s not nearly as intimidating as it seems. People are open, kind, and genuinely interesting. Some of the same people I connected with at the pre-party I later saw in the crowd that night, which made the whole experience feel full-circle.

I also handed out all the bracelets I made for the show, which felt like a small but meaningful way to leave a piece of myself with others.

The Power of Connection

There’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot—how people can act as portals to entirely new paths in life.

A simple conversation with someone you’ve never met could turn into a friendship, an opportunity, or a completely new direction. The memories you create and the experiences you share can shape a whole new timeline. Or, you can choose not to engage and stay in the same patterns, the same loops.

That idea stayed with me throughout the entire experience.

Trusting the Process

This event reminded me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

I’m learning more about this world every time I step into it, and at the same time, I’m allowing the world to learn about me—my story, my products, and what I create through Soulshine Naturals.

I trust this flow. I trust that showing up, staying open, and continuing to connect will lead me exactly where I’m meant to go.

And at the core of it all, I’m doing what I set out to do—sharing my handmade self-care products with people who love the same music and energy that I do.