On May 8th, I had the incredible honor of being one of the featured AAPI small businesses at a vibrant vendor fair hosted at the HQ campus in Sunnyvale, California! This marked my second time showcasing and selling my artwork at their headquarters — and was super excited for an invite back!
For those unfamiliar, AAPI stands for Asian American and Pacific Islander — a rich, diverse group of communities whose cultures, contributions, and stories have shaped this country for generations. Every May, AAPI Heritage Month shines a light on those histories — including the journeys of immigrants, refugees, artists, entrepreneurs, and families like mine.
As a Vietnamese-Chinese American artist raised by a family of immigrants and refugees, events like these mean so much more to me than just a place to sell my work. They’re about visibility, pride, and honoring the resilience of my heritage. Being able to show up, share my art, and represent even a small slice of the AAPI community is something I’ll never take for granted.
Although this was a small, private event limited to just two hours, I still wanted my booth to feel magical and inviting. I set up my 10x10 tent with two tables and a walk-in layout — something I prefer over the traditional “artist alley” setup with cube panels that feel more like a drive-thru window. Instead of creating a barrier, I wanted people to step into my space, browse, and experience the world I’ve built through my work.
Because of the short time frame, I didn’t bring my full product list — but I made sure to feature my top sellers! My plushies, magical dresses, and angel wings were displayed proudly on a grid panel wall, catching the light and drawing in curious visitors. The weather was beautifully warm, which added to the cozy and cheerful vibe of my setup.
I was also surrounded by an inspiring variety of fellow AAPI small businesses — from artists and bakers to crafters and makers of all kinds. We were generously provided with free booth setups and a delicious lunch, which was such a thoughtful and appreciated gesture by the organizers.
All in all, it was a heartwarming experience filled with community, creativity, and culture. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate again and to continue sharing my story — and my art — with the world.
Here’s to more pop-ups, more connections, and more celebrations of who we are. Thank you LinkedIn!