Doing Craft Shows
13–Oct–2007
A good idea is to attend the shows (as a customer) you are interested in this year if you don't plan to be in them until next year. Talk to the people selling things in the same category as your things to see how well they do at the show. I've done some inexpensive shows and wasted my money and time because I sold one thing all day. My pieces are more expensive so it's worth it in my case to pay more for a "good" show where I sell more. This is the "fit" part. You need to be in the right shows with the right customers who are looking for the types of things you're selling at your pricepoints. Easier said than done because you never really know until you try a show at least once.
A lot of shows require a tent or are outside and you will be miserable without one so I would buy one but not invest too much in it. I got a good one at Harbor Freight for >$100. Also get some easy to transport tables because they're often not provided.
Here's a good hint I've learned from doing a few shows. Have interesting displays that catch your eye from a distance. Lots of people stroll a little far away and if they can't see your stuff (I make jewelry) at least they can see what your stuff is on and if it's interesting they'll swing over to take a closer look even if it's just to figure out what the heck it is. I can't tell you how many people want to buy my "displays" but I won't sell them!
Be super nice and friendly and offer lots of information about what makes your stuff special. Ask questions to help them make decisions. Draw them in, don't just say "can I help you" . We all know that just makes it super easy to say "I'm just loookiiingggg.... and your sale ...is...dead...