Whether it's your first show or your a seasoned veteran, there are some simple steps to take to ensure you make the most at the shows you're vending at this year.
Here are 5 steps to successful selling at art & craft shows:
STEP 1: Identify the shows and events you would like to sell at in 2012 and outline the application process and deadlines for each of those shows. Then APPLY...before it's too late.
STEP 2: Block out the day before you have a show or an event to wrap up odds and ends…this will become one of your best habits! Being prepared for your show ahead of time will save you tons of time and energy during set up so you can mingle with other sellers and be ready to sell the moment the doors open!
STEP 3: Think strategically about the way you organize your products at a show...when your products are grouped to compliment one another, it helps to tell the story of what you've created and will likely result in increased sales!
STEP 4: When you're vending at shows, make sure to provide a list for customers to leave their email address to sign up for your newsletters and special promotions. Staying engaged with your customers and potential customers will almost always result in more sales.
STEP 5: Make sure to jot down notes right after your shows to capture your thoughts on what worked well and what you'd like to adjust for similar engagements in the future! These notes will become invaluable for the same show the following year!
BONUS STEP: Create a checklist of items you'll need for each of your shows. For those of you like me that like to check things off your list, I've included a printable version...just click on the link below to download and print!
What steps do you want to add to this list? Tell us how you find success selling at shows.
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3 Comments
The above steps indeed work well for selling at any arts & crafts sale. I have found that "location, location, location" is often the most important condition for a successful sale.
Being stuck in the backwaters or low flow areas is not desirable. That said, you don't always necessarily want to be located in the highest traffic flow locations either. High flow areas that still allow customers the room to browse are best. Think customer comfort with a dash of urgency so that the non buyers don't continue to hog all the space or loiter too long.
I hope my comment helps.
Best regards,
Hans :o)
Great addition Hans!
Thanks so much for the list! I'm just thinking about doing some craft fairs, and will be visiting a few to see how they are set up, what other shops are doing to display and set up, etc. Your list will be very helpful in helping me make decisions and be ready myself.
Thanks again!