I suck at public speaking.

Today was the Arts & Communications Expo that I’ve been preparing for- and all in all it was a smashing success, both for the high school kids involved and for my businesses. My aunt (and business partner! Squee!) came with and gave me a hand and proved herself very sociable, although she would argue that she’s horribly shy. (Not.)

I ended up nabbing a new web design client and handing out hundreds of magnets to juniors and seniors who seemed to LOVE my photo books and cut-outs. I met some “kids” (17, 18) that can potentially rock my assistant and internship positions… and a few possible models for future fashion and jewelry shoots. I even ran into some old mentors and friends. My high school art teacher- with whom I spent every school day learning from for four years… looked through my stuff and commented that I was “very good”. It even seemed that he meant it. I met new business contacts and potentially made some new friends.

Unfortunately, I think I blew my speech big time. I was really shocked to learn that I was the only local business owner speaking at the event- the rest of the keynote speakers were all PROFESSIONAL public speakers!! I haven’t spoken in front of a crowd like that in 15 years. I think the lady who asked me to do it remembers my ability of yore, and had no concept of the fact that I’ve been behind a lens and a monitor ever since. Of course I was last to speak, which means I had sat through four amazing, witty, funny, and inspiring speeches- given by people who had no need of notes. One chick even sang a song! I can’t sing! How can I touch that?! I could have had a heart attack on the spot when I reached the stage and looked out at the audience and saw the kids yawning already.

I don’t know why but I decided to ditch my notes and try and speak more casually. I lost like half my speech as a result. I do think that I managed to say what I meant to say- and make a bit of a fool of myself too. Everyone was so nice, telling me I did great. Big fat liars! But nice liars.

Right after I was done speaking the kids were turned loose.. and it was quite obvious that the kids were excited about what we had to offer- our booth was the busiest all day.

Perhaps they liked me better because I was an idiot, and therefore approachable.

I’m glad I did it. I think I could get good at public speaking again with practice. I learned a lot from today’s experience, and I think I helped a lot of kids too. That was the point. So I can take my lump and feel good about embarrassing the crap out of myself. I’ll definitely stick to my notes next time!!

And so, tomorrow is another day.