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NorthEast => Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival => Topic started by: Scarlett on July 21, 2008, 10:04:25 AM

Title: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on July 21, 2008, 10:04:25 AM
Okay, maybe an Invasion is a bit too aggressive a term to use, but who knows?  Maybe we'll be pleasantly surprised to see how many people are planning to attend on opening day.  If we get HALF the turn out as our neighboring GLMF did on opening day, it'll be a good thing.  Naturally, this list will include playtrons/customers only.  I'll go first...

Opening Day Attendees

Scarlett
Morwyn & Brad
DuCouer
Syrac
Pester
Mumsies
Dev

Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on July 21, 2008, 10:43:58 AM
We would love to be there (as you know), but alas, this is MDRF opening weekend as well  >:(
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: DuCoeur on July 21, 2008, 05:59:37 PM
I willbe there. and since Syrac is perennially absent from these boards I'll say it is safe to presume he will be in Attendence as well.

It is sad that PRF opens the same day as MDRF...We would have loved to try and repeat GLMF's opening with you Scotsman
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: kilted one on July 21, 2008, 06:44:59 PM
Alas, Lady Alchemy and I will be in North Carolina for the opening day, but lo we are ending a day early so we can be there as well.  See you all there, huzzah!!!!!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Lady Guinness on July 21, 2008, 06:49:44 PM
Quote from: DuCoeur on July 21, 2008, 05:59:37 PM
I willbe there. and since Syrac is perennially absent from these boards I'll say it is safe to presume he will be in Attendence as well.

It is sad that PRF opens the same day as MDRF...We would have loved to try and repeat GLMF's opening with you Scotsman

DuCoeur and Scarlett~ we would have loved to be able to be at PRF on opening weekend however we will make it at least one weekend to visit all of our Pittsburgh friends. We will have to raise a glass from each of our faires!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on July 21, 2008, 07:23:19 PM
You two better get up her at least once!  Or I'll have to flog the both of you.  Of  course, Lady G has probably been breaking in that flogger I gave her at VARF on Scotsman.  Oh, never mind! 
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on July 22, 2008, 06:22:10 AM
Quote from: Scarlett on July 21, 2008, 07:23:19 PM
You two better get up her at least once!  Or I'll have to flog the both of you.  Of  course, Lady G has probably been breaking in that flogger I gave her at VARF on Scotsman.  Oh, never mind! 

We may not be there to open your faire but we will surely be there to close it! I already have our hotel booked for closing weekend Sept 27/28 - so get your livers in shape for a hell of a weekend!  ;D
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: DuCoeur on July 22, 2008, 07:07:01 AM
OH NO...Drinking with Scotsman twice in one month (ORF on the 13th/14th and then on the 27th/28th).  Get it in shape?  I just may leave it at home that month....

WE will make it a closing to remember.  Maybe we can even get Scarlet and Morwyn to show up both days.  Hmmmm???
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Morwyn on July 22, 2008, 09:57:58 AM
Woohoo!  Scotsman & Lady G twice in a month....yes Ducoeur....I think both days would be most appropriate!  ;D
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on July 22, 2008, 10:12:40 AM
Quote from: Morwyn on July 22, 2008, 09:57:58 AM
Woohoo!  Scotsman & Lady G twice in a month....yes Ducoeur....I think both days would be most appropriate!  ;D

Who said anything about both ways er, I mean days!

I agree the only real way to experiance your pubs faire is to go for both days  ;D
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: PesterTheJester on July 23, 2008, 08:24:44 AM
I'm pretty sure I'll be there.  I'm still in debates whether Pester will be there or if I'll be someone else ;P  who knows
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: mumsies on July 23, 2008, 06:24:16 PM
I wouldn't miss it....not sure who will be my escort.....Mr. Mumsies, or Lady MacRee.....but, count me in!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Quiet One on July 23, 2008, 07:15:55 PM
I don't know if I will be able to make opening weekend (maybe Sunday) but I do have plans to be there for closing weekend.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on July 24, 2008, 06:00:56 AM
Quote from: Quiet One on July 23, 2008, 07:15:55 PM
I don't know if I will be able to make opening weekend (maybe Sunday) but I do have plans to be there for closing weekend.

HOOTIE HOOOOOOO! Awesome ... hope to see the youngling as well.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Charity Morgan on July 25, 2008, 08:48:03 PM
Quote from: Scarlett on July 21, 2008, 07:23:19 PM
You two better get up her at least once!  Or I'll have to flog the both of you.  Of  course, Lady G has probably been breaking in that flogger I gave her at VARF on Scotsman.  Oh, never mind! 

ummmmm.....Scarlett,
interesting typo!  or at least I think it's a typo!!!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Dev on July 26, 2008, 10:28:40 PM
I will try to attend the first day.

Actually, I might ask the day off.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on August 07, 2008, 10:19:16 AM
The Faire's website says the BOGO coupons will be available at Wendy's.  However, I stopped by a Wendy's today and they did not have any/  I asked when they would get them in and was told by the manager that they "are not doing it this year."

Is this factual or an error?  Has anyone else gotten coupons at a Wendy's yet?
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Terry Griffith on August 07, 2008, 11:14:42 AM
I just talked to Lori and she said that Wendy's IS doing it this year but they won't have the coupons until late next week.  The Wendy's managers won't know anything about it until they actually receive the coupons and the info.

Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on August 07, 2008, 12:33:39 PM
Thanks Terry!  I'll try again late next week.  See you this weekend at GLMF!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Mistress Charlotte on August 07, 2008, 01:59:56 PM
I know that many of the Wendy's ran out of coupons this year.  So get there.   I also heard....  But never confirmed...  maybe someone else can.   But I heard that they were accepting napkins from Wendy's as coupons because they didn't have enough printed.

So there's that...........
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 08, 2008, 09:37:49 AM
Charlotte, I remember Jim saying something about that last year.  If there are no coupons, just bring some kind of proof that you were at Wendy's.  Hopefully they'll do that again this year.

That said, I talked to Lindsy, our Marketing person, and she reiterated what Terry was told.  The coupons will go out next week.  All of the Wendy's in the area should have gotten a corporate memo about it, but each manager has the option to participate (hench the phrase "at participating WENDY'S restaurants.")
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Drusilia on August 10, 2008, 06:35:07 PM
I'm going to try my best to be there opening weekend!!!

The job I have now wouldn't allow me all of weekends off for the festival so I didn't audition. Funny enough I got the first two weekends off in the end. 

I am looking forward to seeing everyone though! :)


~*Tina
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: TiaLD77 on August 11, 2008, 12:50:22 PM
Well, so Far I know I will be there for Saturday,there may be an additional 2 or 3 with me not sure yet.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on August 18, 2008, 01:38:42 PM
FYI - I was able to get the the BOGO coupons at my local Wendy's today.  They should be out there folks.  Se you on Saturday!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Lady Celynn on August 18, 2008, 04:17:19 PM
I picked up a few extra BOGO coupons.  Just let me know if you need one.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: chris the green on August 19, 2008, 07:34:39 AM
I stopped in the Wendy's in the Waterworks Mall and talked to an Asst. Manager, they are participating but were waiting on the coupons.  I plan to stop in until they have them out, I'll keep you posted.   {:(|)
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: PesterTheJester on August 19, 2008, 10:19:30 PM
I may need a BOGO if I can't make it out to a Wendy's this week
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on August 20, 2008, 05:26:14 AM
I grabbed a few extras too.  If anyone needs one on opening day, just find me.   :D
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: chris the green on August 20, 2008, 07:06:18 AM
I have a bunch of extra BOGO coupons, too, if anyone needs some.  I plan to be there bright and early before opening gate, just look for me in the parking lot!!  {:(|)
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: DuCoeur on August 20, 2008, 08:32:57 PM
My worthless Wendys on McKnight was out of them..or maybe the little idiot didn't even know they what they were...I will try other Wendy's over the next couple days....
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 20, 2008, 11:05:40 PM
Chris, please be discrete about passing them out in the parking lot.  Security will take them from you.  Share them with your friends, but please let everyone else pay full price unless they go to Wendy's, too.

DuCouer, your Wendy's might have been out of them because so many people take more than they need.  I was a victim of that years ago at Subway.  They told me a woman came in and took a whole stack of them.  There were none left for the legitimate customers.

We have a new script for the gate show this year, and it's pretty good!  I look forward to seeing you all there!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: mumsies on August 21, 2008, 03:30:30 PM
Well...looks like just my luck...stopped in our local Wendy's, and even bought dinner, but no coupons. They had them, but they were out! Guess that's what happens when real life keeps me too busy to get out the door.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Terry Griffith on August 21, 2008, 05:09:18 PM
Alright, it's time for all those who scarfed up extras to speak up.  It just proves M's point if they are hard to find at the stores.  If you have family coming in the gate, that's fine but anyone who has extras needs to speak up and make arrangement to get them to the people on this forum.

IMHO, people who are going to the faire more than once (which is probably people on this forum) should get the BOGOs on opening weekend.  Playtrons add so much to the picture (even the pub rats, nay, especially the pub rats) that they should get a break before anyone else.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: mumsies on August 21, 2008, 08:58:00 PM
No more need to panic-I knew I could count on one of my family to come to the rescue...thanks Scarlett! See you all soon!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Lady Celynn on August 21, 2008, 09:04:03 PM
I have a few extra BOGO's so if anyone needs them just let me know.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Marilou on August 22, 2008, 08:24:23 AM
   We asked for two coupons at the drive-thru and got ten. Hope to be at the gate by 10am (is that early enough?) This mundane patron is not shy about sharing. Esp with you fine people.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: DuCoeur on August 22, 2008, 02:07:53 PM
I got some last night, and shared them with  few mundanes who expressed interest.

I have a few others and will gladly share them with others....But I am not scalping them, so iwhy would security have an issue?

I didn't p[ay for them, and am not reaping a profit. so i don't get it.  Why offer a free promotion (coupon says no purchase necessary), then whine when they are out there?  Will I ever understand these strange new PTB's?
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 22, 2008, 03:53:00 PM
Yeah DuCouer, this time I understand the PTB fully.

This works as a cross promotion.  That is, it benefits both parties.  Wendy's gets renfest fans to stop in and become Wendy's customers, and the festival gets regular Wendy's customers to come out and become festival goers.

When you hand a coupon to a mundane in the parking lot, neither party benefits.  Wendy's didn't get that person as a customer (or else he would have had his own coupon) and the festival doesn't get a new customer (since that person had decided to come anyway, at full price).

As you said, DuCouer, you aren't reaping a profit.  But you are taking away money from the gate receipts at the faire.  There may be no reason to care about any profit that the PTB may make, but keep in mind those gate receipts are also used to pay the street cast and the stage acts.  So who gets hurt in this?  Me.  Terry.  Jan.  Kip.  Any stage act who wasn't hired because there wasn't enough in the budget.  Any stage act that is making less than they might at another faire.  Anyone who wants this fair to become profitable and grow.

So sure, share them with friends and family.  Make sure all our fellow rennies have one.  I'm all in favor of it!!!  But I've also seen little old ladies actually stand 20 feet from the front gate and hand them out to anyone that approaches.  I hope you can see the difference, and that the second way is unfair to everyone involved.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Lady Celynn on August 22, 2008, 08:19:15 PM
What time is everyone planning to get there?  I think we'll be there around 10 or so...that is unless everyone else is going to be there sooner.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 22, 2008, 09:05:11 PM
The gate show starts around 10:30.  I'll be out to work the crowd, hopefully around 10:15.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: mumsies on August 22, 2008, 11:01:04 PM
I'm hoping to be there around ten..yes, hoping...and I know what you are thinking...but, I might surprise you! Looks like my "date" for the day isn't going to work out, Darla isn't going to make it...so, anyone unevenly paired for the BOGO...look me up! See you all soon!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Capt. Morgan on August 23, 2008, 09:06:36 AM
*looks outside at the beautiful sunny, breezy day and thinks about the driveway that needs to be sealed*

Hmmm...folks should be gathering in the Parking Lot, tailgating, laughing and hugging....

*Heads off to Starbucks for coffee*

Will be thinking of you guys and will do a mental "toast" around noon! Think of me and Dwyn as we slave away in the yard!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Capt. Morgan on August 23, 2008, 04:01:06 PM
Just got finished with the driveway...HOLY CARP was THAT a job! Hmmm...you guys are no doubt enjoying yourselves at the Pub (where else?) and the coolness of the lower part of the Shire! *sigh* Miss you all....
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 23, 2008, 09:50:50 PM
Wow!  What an opening day it was!  I have no idea what the attendance numbers were, but judging by the parking lot, and the crowds in the street, it was the busiest opening day we've ever had.

To all of you who were there, it was wonderful to see you again.  To absent friends, I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: DuCoeur on August 24, 2008, 06:28:19 AM
Quote from: Professor M on August 22, 2008, 03:53:00 PM
Yeah DuCouer, this time I understand the PTB fully.

This works as a cross promotion.  That is, it benefits both parties.  Wendy's gets renfest fans to stop in and become Wendy's customers, and the festival gets regular Wendy's customers to come out and become festival goers.

When you hand a coupon to a mundane in the parking lot, neither party benefits.  Wendy's didn't get that person as a customer (or else he would have had his own coupon) and the festival doesn't get a new customer (since that person had decided to come anyway, at full price).

As you said, DuCouer, you aren't reaping a profit.  But you are taking away money from the gate receipts at the faire.  There may be no reason to care about any profit that the PTB may make, but keep in mind those gate receipts are also used to pay the street cast and the stage acts.  So who gets hurt in this?  Me.  Terry.  Jan.  Kip.  Any stage act who wasn't hired because there wasn't enough in the budget.  Any stage act that is making less than they might at another faire.  Anyone who wants this fair to become profitable and grow.

So sure, share them with friends and family.  Make sure all our fellow rennies have one.  I'm all in favor of it!!!  But I've also seen little old ladies actually stand 20 feet from the front gate and hand them out to anyone that approaches.  I hope you can see the difference, and that the second way is unfair to everyone involved.



Again I say...why offer the promo if you are going to whine about how many are being used.  Wendys still gets the sponsorship...and the gate gets twice the amount of people that would normally attend....That is cross promotion.

Opening day was pretty good.  A few new vendors, altho nothing new as far as merchandise...The Shire looks great.  A few new building, altho still  no shade in the serengetti.

Congrats to Sadira on her new show.  Outstanding.  The Bawdy babes, now a duo,  Smart sassy and sexy as always.  And all the others....A very good opening day.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Drusilia on August 24, 2008, 07:20:47 AM
I can't wait!

My mom and I are going to be there today by 10:15 (at my nagging) so that we can see the gate show for once. After being on cast last year and seeing it performed I told her that it was an absolute must! :)

See everyone later today! :)
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scarlett on August 24, 2008, 07:53:22 AM
What a fun opening day!  The new wooden structures (noticeable from their fresh wood) are lovely and definitely enhance the look of the shire.  We spent some time topside playing games, eating, and shopping, but the lack of shade had us continually going down into the glen.  It would fabulous if JP extended the lattice & stand up tables to run the length of the upper part of the faire.  Cheap too, I'd imagine in comparison to other structures. 

It was amazingly crowded.  The advertising paid off.  I hope attendance continues to be high for the rest of the run, bringing money into the faire for further improvements.

It was great seeing everyone yesterday.  Sorry we left early, around 5:00, but the hubby had a huge blister on his foot from the rarely worn boots, and I felt a major headache coming on which I blame on my playing the Test of Strength game.  Those sledge hammers will do it every time.

I hope to return next weekend one day - not sure which.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion - Photos
Post by: ralf on August 24, 2008, 10:43:46 PM
Having found after last year's RenFest that some rennies had discovered and liked my pictures, I decided to post a link here myself this year.

Photos from opening day: http://imageevent.com/ralf/pennsylvania/renfest2008
(opening ceremony, royal procession, shire and people pics are online; the subgalleries for the stage acts will be populated over the next several days as I work through the photos)
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: kilted one on August 25, 2008, 06:00:27 AM
Truly wonderful pictures.  Thank you so much for sharing them with us!!!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Charity Morgan on August 25, 2008, 08:26:44 AM
Greetings!  The CHARMING Sir Wulf and I would like to thank our many friends who stopped by with wonderful greetings, and words of encouragements (oh, and he says to add the HUGS and KISSES!) it's times like these when it's really a blessing to have our shop directly across from the pub area where at least if we can't play with you we can see you enjoying the beautiful day when we have a moment to look out!  Dirk was able to watch Pub Sing from the window and managed to stay for the full day both days.  However this week he has a endoscopy procedure, so we aren't sure how much he will be there next weekend.  For me it was difficult because I am not able to flit around to see anybody (or anyTHING!)  I managed to get through both days but am paying for it now.  I am adjusting to the many new meds after the heart stent and I guess I just ain't as young as I think any more!  My "see you at the pub" has new meaning now!  So - have one for us!  It was grand to see so many of you and we hope you will stop in to say hello.  So....what did you think of the new acts?  Notice cast changes?  Howza 'bout the new Royal Garb? 
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on August 25, 2008, 08:30:11 AM
If your opening was anything like ours - you guys did great! I enjoyed the cross State toast with your crew. I assure you that Lady Guinness and I drank enough for all of you guys  ;D
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Charity Morgan on August 25, 2008, 09:18:40 AM
Scotsman...our pub missed you greatly!  How's your liver feelin' this UNday? 
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Scotsman on August 25, 2008, 09:22:24 AM
Quote from: Charity Morgan on August 25, 2008, 09:18:40 AM
Scotsman...our pub missed you greatly!  How's your liver feelin' this UNday? 
Excellent lass ... I have been training it throughout the off season to ready it for faire ... it's not how you start the race, but how you finish it  ;D Can't wait to see you guys again.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Charity Morgan on August 25, 2008, 09:29:25 AM
pace yourself my boy it's early in the season!  and remember ~ keep yer kilt down!  Morelandshire is already all aflutter 'bout yer arrival! 
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 25, 2008, 09:56:47 AM
Quote from: ralf on August 24, 2008, 10:43:46 PM
Having found after last year's RenFest that some rennies had discovered and liked my pictures, I decided to post a link here myself this year.

Photos from opening day: http://imageevent.com/ralf/pennsylvania/renfest2008

I realize the number may change, but as of now, picture #40 in the People section is a great shot of Lady Alchemy.  I wonder if her students see that expression often.
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Countess Westmorland on August 25, 2008, 11:30:53 AM
Oh, what a wonderful 2 days I had!  It was so much fun seeing all my friends, playing with people and, Professor, you made the most excellent escort for the joust and the dance. 

I enjoyed seeing all the pictures Ralf put up.  They are excellent as usual.

I can't wait until the marathon weekend next week. 

Jan (Margaret Tudor)
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Lady Alchemy on August 25, 2008, 04:59:33 PM
I must say that is a charming picture of me. ::)  Professor to answer your question...only when they do something very immature and stupid. 

By the way I think I got a few of those looks from my students today when I told them the reason I have no voice  was due to being a cheerleader for a JOUST TO THE DEATH!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: TiaLD77 on August 26, 2008, 08:16:18 AM
It was wonderful to see you all!. Some I did not get to say hello to....but there are a few more weekends to go!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: bershokwench on August 26, 2008, 01:23:57 PM
 Wish we could be there opening weekend but with the little one we don't have the money. We will try to be there for Celtic weekend. Saturday probly. Hopefully my husband gets his raise at work, then maybe we can go more than one day next year.  :-\
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: kilted one on August 26, 2008, 05:32:13 PM
Well as a new addition, I will have to say, I had a blast.  Granted, I screamed my voice into oblivion, but still it was great fun.  I am hoping to have even more fun this weekend.  Thank you to everyone that helped and had fun with me as well!!!!!
Title: Re: Opening Day Invasion
Post by: Professor M on August 27, 2008, 07:45:23 AM
Quote from: bershokwench on August 26, 2008, 01:23:57 PM
Wish we could be there opening weekend but with the little one we don't have the money. We will try to be there for Celtic weekend. Saturday probly. Hopefully my husband gets his raise at work, then maybe we can go more than one day next year.  :-\
Bershok, the little ones are free on Labor Day weekend.  It's Children's weekend.