Real Name: Vicki Presler
SCA Name: Lasairfhiona inghean Aindriasa
SCA title: THL
Years in the SCA: 10
Where did you start, what was your first event?
I started by going to an illumination class and then going to Sunday A&S/Armor making meetings in Hartstone. The first event I attended was Ice Dragon the year before it moved to the Armory. (2009?) I was starstruck by all the people in beautiful clothes and all of the merchants selling cool things that I had never seen before. I felt like I’d fallen into a fairy tale!
What is your persona?
Late 14th century Scottish/Celt. I also can be found wearing Roman, pre-Roman, pirate, German, or generic period garb; but I always maintain my Gaelic name.
Why did you pick this persona?
I based my persona off of a surname found in our family bible. After doing some research on the surname, I found an area of Scotland that clan Gunn would have been from. I’m very fond of my Irish/Scot roots so naturally, I started my journey there.
Do you have any group or household affiliations?
I’m a member of Knussling Hamn through my Peer; am a member of the pirate crew of the Bella Morte; and part of Cauldron Bleu-Thescorre’s cooking guild.
Tell us a little bit about your life outside the SCA.
I’ve worked for our county Community Service (MH/Drug and Alcohol Services) for just shy of 20 years as a receptionist and business office staff. I have two kids; a daughter who lives in DC and a son who is attending college in Corning, NY. I love to bake and cook, and am currently up to around 35 varieties of cheesecakes that I make for friends or parties. I enjoy making quilts as gifts for those that I’m close to, and I like to dabble and learn new artsy skills all the time.
What SCA activities do you or have you participated in?
As a member of Cauldron Bleu and guest cook in surrounding groups, I’ve been able to cook feasts or sideboard/dayboards for several events. I’m an appretegé (Apprentice and Protégé) to Mistress Matilda Bosvyle. I enjoy taking classes and learning new skills; then taking those skills and participating in the Æthelmearc Artisan Exchange or other projects. I’ve made scrolls for one AoA, and a few local awards, blanks or gifts. I’m a big fan of volunteering and do so as often as I can; whether as retainer, trollner, kitchen staff, or in whatever capacity I can be of assistance. I love coming up with new ideas for events, and started Hartstone’s Celtic Fire Festival, and am currently working on a new event idea. I also enjoy thrown weapons, even though I haven’t had the opportunity of late to participate.
Tell us a little bit about your SCA experience (jobs, offices, duties, etc.).
I have been deputy A&S officer, A&S officer, and Seneschal for Hartstone; I’m currently MOL and Steward for the Shire. This will be my third year as Co-Coordinator of Pennsic Royal Hospitality; I’ve volunteered for security shifts at Pennsic as well. I’ve had the pleasure of “autocratting”, being head cook or working in several kitchens, working troll, setting up/tearing down events, and offering my MOL assistance at events.
When you started in the SCA what goals did you have? My only goal was to meet new people and have a social life of some sort. I am forever grateful to the SCA for introducing me to so many wonderful people that in normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have had the pleasure of meeting.
What are your goals now?
First and foremost to have fun, and create a place for others to have fun. I’d love to learn to make some of the ingredients we use to cook with, and perhaps some cordials or other drinks. I’d also love to expand my cooking skills and try some different cuisines than the standard western European fare that I’m more familiar with.
If you could accomplish only one thing in the SCA in the next year, what would it be?
Simply put, make a difference. Whether it’s for a newcomer, or someone that’s been around for years, I’d like to make a positive difference in their SCAdian experience.
What advice would you give to a new person in the SCA, or if new yourself what question would you ask and who would you ask it of?
Breathe. Take your time. It isn’t a race, and you don’t have to know everything coming in. We are here to help you and guild you to those that can help you achieve your goals, no matter what those may be; there is bound to be someone here that can help you, just ask. Keep asking the questions, those questions help us all grow and remember where we came from. Try as many things as you’re comfortable trying and you’ll find your place quickly.
If you magically woke up with an SCA talent you do not already have, what would it be?
So many choices! Hhmm…I would love to be able to shoot archery or thrown weapons proficiently.
Don’t be modest, what award or honor would you like to receive above all else and why?
One day it would be wonderful to be a Royal, Peer, or Baroness.
If you are interested in participating in the “Populace in Focus” articles please learn how here: