The question is, are craft shows/fairs lucrative? And in short, yes.
But there is A LOT to know about and do, before booking your first gig.
But don't fret, because I'm about to list all the ins and out you'll need to know.
Over the years I've attended a few of these, and I have learned a few things along the way.
So, let's get right to it!
Where to find them and cost to start up
A good way to find craft fairs is to go to places like Facebook groups and see what's around your area.
Another great way is to ask around your local churches, and schools to see if they will be hosting to bring funding money and people in.
If you can book 1-3 fairs a month, you'll have a better chance selling and building your business!
When it comes to the cost to set up, it varies from place to place. Some are about $30.00 sometimes $50.00. Give or take.
Some offer tables and some don't. (But in the long run it is cheaper to buy your own.) and you will definitely need to buy your own chairs. Some offer electricity. And some are inside, and some are outside.
It's good to know what the weather is going to be in advance. As well as calling the people who are hosting it, to see what they offer, what days, and what hours.
(Make sure you get there at least an hour early to set up everything!)
The top list of things you will need to set up, is as follows.
A table or even two or three. (Depending on how much stuff you have.)
Table cover to look nice.
Outside open tent. (Optional for inside places, but handy when at outside functions.)
Storage bins to hold and keep your creations safe for transporting them.
A chair for each person at the table
Money box to hold your money and extra change.
Dress appropriate for the season or place you will be at. (Even in the summer, some places can be a little cool, so packing an extra sweater or socks is always good to have on hand.
Bags to put people's orders into
Calculator just in case.
Something to drink like water or coffee and extra snacks.
A book to read or craft supplies to have something to do, if you get bored.
Hooks to hang things up if need be and holders to place the hooks on.
Pretty battery powered lights for table to catch people's eye! (Optional.)
Set ups to show off what you're selling. Ex: bowls, plates, mini crates, and shelves. To name a few. (Depending on what you're selling.)
A log list of what you sell, and how much it is priced.
Banner. (Optional.)
Business cards with your name of shop, email address, and written link to online store if you have one.
Have a mini giveaway, for those who buy something, have them put their name in a jar, and if they are randomly chosen, they win something! And you can mail it to them later on or at the end of the day of the sale, you can give it to them then. (Optional.)
Create a spinning wheel, for people to spin after making a purchase, and what it lands on, they win. For ex: half off next purchase, mystery gift, buy two get one free.
And of course, what you will be selling!
What you're selling
When it comes to what you create and sell, you have to make sure if it's appropriate. Some places have the right to say no about such things that may be "not family friendly." type of things.
But if your stuff doesn't fit under that category, then you should be perfectly fine.
There are so many things that you can sell. And that's a wonderful thing.
I' have seen people sell candles, crochet items, jewelry, stickers, all kinds of artwork. And SO. MUCH. MORE.
Whatever works best for you, go for that!
What to know before hand
The few things to know before you get excited and put any money on your sitting spot.
First, you should have as much stuff to bring with you as possible. This will increase your chances at selling something.
When it comes to the colors of your set up, it's good to have nice and inviting, light colors that are appealing.
Don't forget to smile and show how happy and excited that you are to be there!
Making kind, short, small talk is good. But don't chew peoples ears off.
You want them more focused on what they want to BUY then on you. No offence.
When it's around the holidays, really get into it! People love it and it's fun.
Have everything priced and easy to see! This is a big one. Trust me.
And have a range of price options, Some low, medium, and high. That way everyone can buy something.
You are ready, baby!
If you have everything on the list, not counting the optional things, then you are ready!! Congratulations and best of luck to you and your shop. I sincerely hope you do great!
As a creator myself, who has recently got back into the game, I know what it's like. And I think every person who is a business owner to small crafter, should cheer each other on.
I actually have a craft fair scheduled at the end of September, with my mom. And I'm looking forward to immensely!
That is how I got the great idea to share this article, to help others.
And last pro tips: Create a check off list of everything that you need and have to do before. It's a life saver.
And pack the set-up stuff, (and if you are in a safe area, where you don't think people will steal from you,) have EVERYTHING packed and ready a day or two in your car prior to the sale day.
Another great way to show off your creations, (if it's something you can wear,) wear it to show how great it looks to the craft show.
And there you have it! A quick and easy guide to help you get on the right track for your craft fair journey.
Have a great day, loves. Xx. -A
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