Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexa Gould
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
**My Story**
My name is Alexa Gould, and I am the host and founder of Creative Crew Company, formerly known as Dallas Creative Crew.
**Where It All Started**
The journey began when I was 17 years old. A good friend invited me to be an art vendor at his small concert at a dive bar in downtown Dallas. He asked if I wanted to sell my artwork. Nervous and unsure, I decided to give it a try.
On the day of the show, I had only two prints prepared, with about 30 copies of each. I vividly remember making my first sale; the feeling was vibrant and exhilarating. The night continued, and I kept making sales, ending the night with over $600. For a 17-year-old, this was a game-changer. I was excited I started dancing on my table.
I continued selling my prints at that venue for the next three years, attending shows every Wednesday and Saturday night. In 2020, I decided to pursue my art full-time.
**The Next Step**
One late afternoon, as I sat contemplating my future, an idea struck me: to host my first art show, featuring myself and ten other artists. At the age of 20, I organized my first show at a local bar. It was a huge success. All the artists made great money, and I made many sales. But most importantly, I discovered my passion for hosting.
Not fully realizing the magnitude of what I had started, I paused my shows to focus on my work as an independent artist, selling canvases, traveling the U.S. to paint murals, and building a name for myself in Dallas.
**Reviving the Vision**
In June 2023, I felt a deep calling to start hosting shows again. Without fully understanding the impact, I started an Instagram account to take the next steps. I reached out to one location, which allowed me to host a show, generating enough content to secure the next venue. This led to bigger opportunities, and eventually, I landed prime locations in Dallas, including Grandscape and The Dallas Farmers Market.
We have hosted over 20 vendor shows in our first year as an official market, and we’re far from reaching our full potential. Now, our themed markets include performers, raffles, giveaways, on-site tattoos, entertainment, and more. We’ve become much more than a small craft show. Recently, we expanded to Austin, prompting a name change to reflect our broader reach. We have organically gained around 6,000 followers in the past year and look forward to continued growth.
**Reflections**
Now, at 24, I realize that everything I’ve experienced has led me to this moment. I love hosting and being part of a creative community. I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
**The Challenges of Entrepreneurship**
The road to success has been anything but easy. Working for yourself is not for everyone. There are countless problems to solve, and no one teaches you how to navigate them—you figure it out as you go. There were times when I ran out of money and went without dinner for several nights. I’ve been so broke that my bank account was overdrawn by $300.
I’m not suggesting this lifestyle for everyone, but I will say that entrepreneurship is neither an overnight success nor a linear journey. Setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but it’s crucial to never lose faith in what you’re doing. Your “why” must be stronger than your “how.”
Looking back at those hard times, I wouldn’t change a thing. They grounded me and pushed me to work even harder. The truth is, nothing motivates you more than knowing there is no safety net and that failure is not an option.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Creative Crew Company ?
**Creative Crew Company: More Than a Business**
Creative Crew Company is not just a business; it’s a community. Our Instagram page is a space where small business owners can connect, ask questions, get advice, and feel a sense of belonging.
Our market stands out because we bring something new and fresh each time. Whether it’s a fall festival, a Taylor Swift-themed market, or a Dia de Los Muertos celebration, there’s something for everyone. Our vendors vary with each show, ensuring no two events are the same.
We bring a young, fresh approach by featuring local tattoo artists doing live tattooing, DJs, and other fun, creative elements.
If you’re a small business, we’d love for you to join our market! We welcome first-timers and look forward to helping you thrive.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I feel fortunate to have amazing locations collaborating with me. In my first year, like every new business owner, I’ve made mistakes, but I learn from them and don’t repeat them.
I am grateful for the vendors who sign up for my markets and keep coming back. I truly feel blessed by the entire experience, but I know it’s my hard work that made it all happen.
Pricing:
- A vendor table is anywhere from $50 – $200 depending on the location and the magnitude of the market.
Contact Info:
