Discovering Nest Fest 2016: A Journey into Creative Inspiration in Charlotte, NC

This past weekend, I traded my paintbrushes for an exciting creative excursion, venturing up to Charlotte, North Carolina, to immerse myself in the inaugural Nest Fest 2016. The “2016” appended to Nest Fest signifies its debut, and based on the overwhelming success and vibrant energy I experienced, I am absolutely certain this will be the first of many such inspiring gatherings. This event was not merely a market; it was a celebration of creativity, community, and the beauty of handmade and vintage treasures.

The journey itself was a pleasant two-hour drive, a scenic prelude building anticipation for what lay ahead. As I pulled into the serene, picturesque setting, any lingering doubts about the travel time vanished. Every mile was truly worth it, and I returned home feeling incredibly enriched and grateful for the experience.

Throughout my visit, I couldn’t resist capturing the magic of Nest Fest through my lens. I’m thrilled to share a selection of the photographs I snapped, hoping they convey even a fraction of the charm and inspiration I encountered.

The Vision Behind Nest Fest: The Nester’s Creative Sanctuary

For anyone who frequents the world of affordable DIY and home decorating blogs, the name Myquillyn Smith, affectionately known as The Nester, will undoubtedly ring a bell. Myquillyn, a true pioneer in the “it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful” philosophy, and her husband embarked on a remarkable journey a few years ago. They acquired a sprawling rural property, envisioning it as a haven for creative events. Nest Fest was born from this vision, designed as a delightful fusion of a curated vintage flea market and a vibrant crafts fair.

Their expansive acreage provided the perfect canvas for such an ambitious undertaking, offering ample space for vendors, attendees, and the rustic charm that defines Myquillyn’s signature style. It was inspiring to see how their personal dwelling transformed into a communal space, fostering creativity and connection among like-minded individuals.

The Transformed White Barn: A Hub of Creativity

One of the most impressive feats on the property is “The White Barn.” What once stood as a dilapidated out-building has been lovingly restored and transformed into a breathtaking meeting and event space. It’s a testament to the power of vision and hands-on renovation, embodying the very spirit of DIY that Myquillyn advocates.

Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a cavernous, yet incredibly inviting space, bathed in natural light thanks to its pristine white walls and thoughtful design. It’s a versatile venue, perfectly suited for intimate gatherings or larger-scale events like Nest Fest. While the majority of vendors were spread across the picturesque outdoor grounds, the White Barn served as a beautiful anchor, offering an indoor retreat and a showcase of sophisticated rustic charm.

The minimalist yet elegant aesthetic of the barn allows for endless decorating possibilities, making it a dream location for any event organizer. Its transformation alone is a source of immense inspiration for anyone considering a renovation project.

A Bustling Scene of Inspiration and Discovery

Arriving precisely at 10:00 AM, just as Nest Fest officially opened, I was met by an already bustling crowd. Clearly, the word was out, and eager attendees had gathered, ready to explore. The entire property was meticulously decorated, imbued with Myquillyn’s distinctive, effortlessly chic style – a blend of vintage finds, natural elements, and thoughtful details that made every corner feel welcoming and inspiring.

Every vendor’s booth was a treasure trove, a carefully curated display of unique items and creative presentations. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I found decorating inspiration at every turn. It wasn’t just about buying; it was about soaking in the atmosphere, observing ingenious ways to display goods, and gathering fresh ideas for my own home and creative projects.

The variety of offerings was truly impressive, ranging from carefully selected vintage decor pieces that whispered stories of the past, to exquisitely crafted French-milled soaps that tantalized the senses. There were handmade textiles, unique artworks, rustic furniture, and charming home accents – a testament to the talent and passion of the local artisans and curators. Each booth felt like a small, independent shop, offering something special and often one-of-a-kind. It was a delightful sensory experience, with sights, sounds, and even scents contributing to the overall charm of the festival.

The market was thoughtfully laid out, with vendors strategically placed to create natural pathways for exploration, encouraging attendees to wander and discover. This thoughtful arrangement enhanced the overall experience, making it feel less like a crowded event and more like a leisurely stroll through an open-air gallery.

Beyond the shopping, Nest Fest cultivated a genuine festival atmosphere. Live music drifted through the air, creating a cheerful backdrop, while an array of food trucks offered delicious culinary delights. Many picnic tables were scattered across the grounds, inviting attendees to relax, savor their meals, and simply bask in the glorious fall day. It was an opportunity to connect with friends, make new acquaintances, and truly enjoy the vibrant community spirit that Myquillyn and her team had so skillfully created.

My Unplanned Treasure: A Vintage Metal Chest

My usual strategy at craft fairs and flea markets is to do a full reconnaissance lap, taking in all the vendors before circling back to purchase anything that truly catches my eye. However, Nest Fest had a delightful surprise in store that completely derailed my typical approach. Tucked away in a far corner, I spotted it: a vintage metal chest with an array of small drawers, exuding an undeniable charm.

My heart immediately did a little pitter-patter. This wasn’t just another item; it was *the* item. Its uniqueness was evident, and I knew instinctively that if I wanted it, I had to act fast. A clear vision of its perfect placement and utility in my “studioffice” (my combined studio and office space) immediately materialized in my mind. Without hesitation, barely fifteen minutes after arriving at the event, I made the purchase. It was an impulsive decision, yet one driven by a profound sense of “this is meant to be.”

Now, this delightful metal chest has found its new home in my studioffice. I haven’t quite decided on its final look or modifications yet; I want to take my time, contemplating how to best customize it to perfectly suit my needs and aesthetic. It reminds me of another beloved piece of furniture I own: a library file cabinet, which once resided in my studioffice but now serves a purpose in my husband Ed’s office. I’ve missed having such a distinctive and functional piece, and I’m overjoyed to welcome a new, unique treasure to organize and inspire me in my creative sanctuary once again.

In addition to the metal chest, I also found a fantastic “OFFICE” sign at another booth. I’ve wanted one for ages, and the price was just right, making it another perfect addition to my studioffice. These finds truly made the trip unforgettable.

Continuing the Hunt for Inspiration

After securing my prized metal chest (and ensuring it was properly tagged for pickup), I resumed my exploration, meticulously visiting every remaining vendor. Even after my purchases, the wealth of creative ideas and decorating inspiration continued to flow. Each booth offered new perspectives on styling, repurposing, and creating beautiful spaces.

One particular display that truly captured my imagination was a glass canister filled with shreds of book pages. It was such a simple, yet incredibly effective and affordable decorating idea, transforming ordinary items into a visually appealing accent. It’s these kinds of clever, accessible DIY ideas that make events like Nest Fest so valuable.

Another item I absolutely adored was a dress form adorned with a skirt fashioned from Kraft paper. This idea resonated deeply with me, as I used to work in retail display and even have a dress form that I covered with Kraft paper many years ago. In the early days of my blogging journey, I actually owned two dress forms, one of which I gave away in a reader giveaway. My remaining dress form is currently stored in my attic, but after seeing this brilliant display, I’m absolutely inspired to dust her off and create a similar, stylish Kraft paper skirt for her. It’s a wonderful way to breathe new life into an old piece and add a touch of unique artistry to a space.

Looking Forward to Future Nest Fest Events

My time at Nest Fest 2016 was nothing short of wonderful. This inaugural event, by all measures, was a resounding success. The impressive turnout and the vibrant energy of the crowd are clear indicators that this will not be a one-time affair. I departed with a full heart, brimming with new ideas, and already anticipating the next Nest Fest. It truly felt like a pioneering event, setting a high standard for future creative festivals.

For its future iterations, I plan to make it a shared experience, bringing along friends and family so we can collectively revel in the unique atmosphere, discover treasures, and enjoy a day filled with creativity and community. These events are not just about shopping; they’re about gathering inspiration, supporting artisans, and connecting with a shared passion for beautiful, handcrafted, and vintage items.

Do you share a love for attending craft fairs and vintage flea markets? Are there any particular events in your region that you eagerly look forward to each year? I’d love to hear about your favorite creative excursions!