So, here we go...
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I found an amazing article on another blogger's website about helpful tips and insights when it comes to going to a craft show. Here are some of the most helpful hints:
" The best investment I ever made for vending in general was a canopy (mine is an entry level EZ-Up) and a lightweight, plastic, folds in half table. If you are going to these events by yourself, do not underestimate how hard trudging across a field carrying your stuff is. A light table will make a big difference over a huge plywood folding table. And the canopy? Saved me in rain (yes, it rained during one of my fairs, ugh) and blistering sun. It also gives your set up a much bigger "presence." Eye catching is the key."
"Which brings me to your set up. A professional "look" will do wonders bringing people over. Make it cohesive, work your branding, have signage, and let the product speak for itself. Too many props will confuse the buyers, a totally plain table with just product looks "flea markety" - keep your set up decluttered but not so fussy that no one wants to touch your stuff. And SMILE! No matter how nice your product and professional your set up - if you're a grumpy puss, no one will approach you!"
" While this should be common sense - I didn't do this well. RESEARCH what the craft fair is like. How many people attend each year approximately? (That's the ONLY question I remembered to ask). How many years has the fair run, is it a longstanding tradition in that area, or is this it's first year? Is it handmade items only - or is it also an antiques market? What I most importantly forgot - WHO ELSE WILL BE THERE vending - specifically - how many other vendors with your type of product (for me, jewelry, which, I'll say is particularly cut throat). Are companies allowed (say, like Lia Sophia)? All these factors will help you determine if that vending fee is worth it."
To read the remaining of the article, please click HERE.
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I really enjoyed some of these displays and set up ideas I saw on Pinterest:
Pretty neat vintage set up.
A sample booth display
DIY picture frame jewelry display
DIY necklace display
Very neat earring display idea.
Awesome display idea.
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Here is another 10 tips I found here that I thought were super helpful for a first-time-crafter.
10 Tips for a Great Show:
1. Be friendly! Smile, make eye contact, I usually ask a question like “Hi, hows it going?”, if you like their bag, top, dress or whatever, compliment them.
2. Don’t get overly chatty, you don’t want to miss a sale or turn off a customer because you are in a lengthy discussion with someone else. This is especially important at check-out, don’t take too long or someone might not want to wait, do your best to be quick, or have a helper.
3. Have a display that best highlights your product. Solid color back drops, table cloths, containers, you don’t want your display looking too busy. You want the product to stand out. Fill out the booth but don’t crowd it. Put overstock behind or under the table and replenish as needed. Have a chair, but not one of those big sloppy camping chairs, they look messy and take up a lot of space.
4. Practice your booth set-up. Even if you are a seasoned veteran, you should always have a plan before you show up so that setting-up isn’t too stressful and you’ll be ready on-time.
5. Brand your packaging, have business cards, have a mailing list, have a memorable booth that people will keep talking about after the show.
6. Have a mirror! If you sell anything wearable you’ll want a good mirror, big enough that people don’t have to ask for it.
7. Work on something during the show, don’t read a book! If you are working on something, share the technique with your customers, don’t get into a craft zone with your head down. Having your head down is a definite turn-off to customers.
8. Have enough change and if you take credit cards, put a visible sign saying you accept cards. A lot of shoppers assume everyone is cash only and when they run out they’ll stop buying. Accept credit cards, you’ll make more sales. (Simple CC solution is the Square card reader).
9. Dress nicely, wear make-up. Dress like what you want to be, a successful crafter. Wear your product.
10. And lastly, arrive early! Pack the night before, get plenty of rest, eat a good breakfast. Shows can be like marathons, be prepared.
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Check out my first craft show on March 15th, 9 AM - 3 PM
In Robbinsville High School, NJ
Check back soon for another blog post on Wednesday, March 5th !
