First Craft Fair: How We Prepare
We have each hosted at craft fairs in the past. On our own. But this was our first together and we wanted to make sure this baby was as smooth as a baby’s rump! But not as messy. So we wanted to share a few tips we picked up here and there.
Make It Flowww
We have a variety of items from clockwork and steampunk jewelry to little girl’s hairbows to women’s fashion scarves. We created a sort of sweep across the table and put like with like, keeping the different types closely displayed together. Within the different types of items we then put them by color for an aesthetic appeal.
It Is All In The Show
We wanted a display that stands out as CLEAN with a little mess so people are inclined to touch, BEAUTIFUL to look at but not crowded or cluttered, and FUN to draw someone in and bring us a smile. What do you want yours to do for you?
How Many Clams?
Price your pieces because people want to look at something and know the worth, its the first question so don’t make them ask! We used these lil tags and choked up on the slack for smaller items, so they all came out clean looking. We also used the same color marker so they matched!
Preview
Set up your table and decor including all items. Try it out for size, make sure it all fits and fills. Ensure displays are steady and will not topple. Put your items in bags and label each so you know how they will travel to and from the fair. We even took a photo with our phone in advance just so we would not forget.
You don’t want to be tweaking and preening as the show starts: you want to be done and ready to make new friends and sales!
Plan, Plan, Plan
Pack the night before at the latest. This means everything from supply tools (something will break at some point) to water bottles need to be ready to go when you awaken all bright eyed and bushy tailed. Make a list and check it twice.
GO!
Be early, not when they open for set up, but before they open for set up. Often you can sneak in a few minutes early and work at a more relaxed pace. Be sure to introduce yourself to your neighbors and create a friendly bond: you are about to spend several hours next door to one another.
Money, Money, Money
Have change ready, most people bring cash to craft fairs. There is little reason you cannot take CC and Debit these days. Square is an amazing addition to our tech suave lifestyle and you can add it for FREE
More Than Anything
Have fun, enjoy and don’t sweat the small stuff. Laugh outloud, engage your customers and those that seem unsure about stepping up to your table. In all honesty, we walked away lack luster about our first show. But we were totally thrilled and tickled that we set up and broke down in record time with precision and knowing we were already ready for the next one!! We will be able to fill gaps and add product as we unpack.
It’s the one day a week I have some time to browse through and run into fun finds, and I want to share some of my faves with you!
