A Dream Come True: Namaste Brows and Boutique at the Minnesota State Fair

In just a week, I will be a vendor at the Minnesota State Fair. Even typing these words feels unreal. What was once a wish, a dream, is now becoming a reality.

Back in 2011, when I first attended the State Fair, I felt lost amidst the crowd. It was magical yet overwhelming with so many people in one place. A few years ago, I went with my now-husband, and it was a delightful experience filled with food, music, and fireworks. It was a magical date night that still lingers in my memory. Then, two years ago, we visited with our kids and enjoyed the animals and rides, making it a truly fun day.

During that visit, I told my husband, "What if I do something at the fair and work those 12 days to make some money?" He said it wouldn't be easy. I began sharing the idea with friends and customers at Namaste Brows and Boutique, and almost everyone echoed his sentiment—it wasn't easy to be a vendor at the State Fair. But they never explained why or how. So, I started to wonder.

Two years ago, I made it my mission to become a vendor at the State Fair, representing Nepali artisans and my collections. I started emailing the Fair almost once a week, diligently and courageously. Finally, after about six months, a lady named Pam replied. She asked, "You're not going to give up, right?" I said, "No. It's not about me. It's about making my family proud and helping the children on the streets of Kathmandu by sending them to school."

When I opened Namaste Brows and Boutique in 2021, I knew this business was about growing and giving. I wanted to help as many people as possible. I pray every single day that I am able to be useful to others. Finally, early this year, around mid-February, I heard that I might make it. In April, I got approved. My husband and I attended the orientation for the vendors of 2024. It was a huge gathering, and the training was very professional. I learned so many things about the State Fair that I never knew before. The security and system of the State Fair are excellent, and everyone was welcoming.

One of the most special moments was when families who had been vendors for more than 50 years were applauded. It was emotional. I knew that what I had done was plant a seed for my family and the Nepali community. Here, I get to serve my American community by providing handmade items from Nepal. I love sharing and talking about Nepali culture, traditions, and methods. In Nepal, I get to empower talented women. One of my most important responsibilities is encouraging kids to attend school.

I pray that everything I have ready to show and sell at the State Fair will be appreciated and sold. I pray that each person who buys from my collections will smile and appreciate what they have. All I want is to spread hope, love, talent, and joy.

Today, I ask for your prayers and best wishes for me, my family, and Namaste Brows and Boutique as we prepare for success as a vendor at the State Fair. See you at the 2nd floor of the Grandstand from August 22 - September 2, 9 AM to 9 PM.

My testimony is the power of manifestation, hunger, and hard work.

With gratitude,

Jeena Gurung Vomhof