Everything you need to know about doing a craft show

November and December are big holiday craft fair times. There is a ton of prepping, planning, buying, inventory, bags, on and on and on. And that's if you have done it a few times. Seriously though, it's not too hard and once you finish up your first show it all becomes a breeze!


For all you newbie's, here is a couple of lists of things you should 9and shouldn't) do, what you might need, and some good old fashion advice on how to do a successful craft show.

Pre-Gaming It:

1. As soon as you apply for a show, start planning as if you got it. That means research. Find out where you can get bags, business cards, credit card processing, ect. Once you are accepted, the dirty work is done and you can go ahead and order what you need.

2. Ask a buddy or two if they are free to help. More on this later.

3. Make! Use the majority of the pre-show time (what time you have available) to build up your inventory. The more you have the better. Remember that what ever is left over and doesn't sell can be sold on your online shop or at your next show.

4. Promote! Announce your show on your blog, Twitter, Facebook, to friends, family, co-workers, everywhere. These are the people who will pass on that info. If the show has posters to hand out, make sure to post those up in your neighborhood.

The Days Before:

The week leading up to your show is a good time to finalize your inventory and price your items. DO NOT do this the night before. I repeat, DON'T DO THAT!! You will work late into the night versus doing it slowly over a couple of days. The best way I have found is to bribe a friend or two with an alcoholic beverage or two and dinner to help. Two of my very good friends have helped in the past and I couldn't have been more thankful!

Historically I have always taken the day off work the day before a show. If you can do this it will help. If that's not an option, just relax. That day I gather up everything I will need and put it into one spot so nothing gets left behind. All my goods go into clear plastic bins. Last minute stuff gets wrapped up but the goal is to chill with your feet up and relax. Go to bed early. Seriously. Your mom is right.

Do's and Don'ts of a Craft Show

• Bring lots of cash and if needed change. To avoid change, I use whole numbers on everything.
  
• Take credit cards. You will loose business if you don't. Shoppers are more likely to buy if they can use plastic and it's possible they might buy more. Think of going into Target with only $20 versus your check card. Wanna bet you spend more with that card?
• Don't ignore your customers by only talking to your friends! This can be very unfriendly and unwelcoming. I have passed by a few booths because they couldn't stop and say hello. And for heaven sakes, don't read a book!
  
• On the flip side, don't hound shoppers. You can tell when someone works commission and you don't want to be That Guy.
• Have a plan for those Awful Questions. You know, where do you get your supplies? Did you know So and So sells something similar for less? Would you take X for this? Be prepared so you don't stumble for an answer.
  
• Wear comfy shoes. Wear layers. Bring tall stools to sit on when you need a break.
• Snacks are good, but try not to have a big chow down in front of people. Make sure to bring water.
• Remember that buddy or two you asked way back when to help? Here is where they come and help you load up, unload, set up and sell. I in no way could manage doing a show with out my friends Natasha and Kelly.
• Have a range of price-points. There is that magical $10 or $15 price-point that appeals to shoppers on a budget (and who isn't?). This doesn't mean that your couldn't have your $1000 paintings there either. The point is to have a range.
  
• Do carry pens, tape, scissors, safety pins, Ibuprofen, extra business cards, and a notebook for custom orders or a newsletter sign up.
• Do have a story. Why do you make these? Are the beads in your jewelry handmade by you or vintage? Do you like to use vintage sewing patterns or fabric? Where do you like to go as a photographer? One of the most important things to remember is that YOU made this, not a factory in China. People who go to craft shows go because they like to meet the artisans and crafters. Build up a good repoire with your shopper and you may develop a long-term and repeat customer!
  

Tips for the Eye-Catching Booth:

• Buy bed risers to raise your table up. This brings everything to eye level. That brings me to the next item...
• Bring your merchandise up to eye level. Think about those crowded shows where people are huddled around a table. Can't see anything, right? I use dress forms and vertical stands to help make my items more visible. If you have walls, use those too.
  
• A large banner or sign with your business name.
• A colorful tablecloth (or neutral if you don't want things to clash)
• Keep things tidy and approachable.
• Keep things consistent. Similar types of displays (wood, painted, ect), neatly printed or hand lettered signs, clever packaging - all these make your booth very pleasing to look at and enticing!