I watched a lots of videos in UA-cam about selling at craft markets. Your videos are the best, and this one is by far the most comprehensive. Thanks a lot for the time and effort you put into it. You are a legend
In my last event I was talking to a neighbor vendor told me she never buys anything from other vendors. I then asked her so you buy from Amazon? I always buy from my neighbor vendors! Support small businesses! ❤️
Yeah I feel like a lot of vendors who say that end up saying they want to protect their profits and not spend all their money at the show. It's initially a good thought, but if you end up spending money in department stores or online like you mentioned, then that money is gone regardless and never really "saved"
I don’t buy just to buy. But if there is something I’m currently in need of I try and get it from other vendors. Usually Christmas gifts. Also all my hats and scarves and gloves are all from other vendors
@@amazingracie212 I enjoy it for my Christmas shopping the most. It’s nice to have a list and browse an event with specific people and their interests in mind.
Great information. Two additional things to consider...1. I would suggest giving out a calendar printout of other shows you will be participating in for the year to both purchasers and browsers. 2. I prefer to sign my crafts but not include a date - people shy away from old, dated items.
#85....this is so important. It is not fun packing and setting up, so in between always, always have fun!! I always have fun at events. I love to do them, just having issues with the loading and set up due to back issues. That is definitely not #85. LOL Thanks for the videos.
Good information that we can actually use. Would you talk about how to assess if the event is going to have a lot of customers? I’ve done 4 fairs this year and 2 were absolutely empty of shoppers. Most of us vendors didn’t even make our booth fee. I can’t keep this up if I’m going to lose money, and the organizers don’t seem interested in improving the customer flow, since they make their money on the vendor booth fees.
Scout for existing craft fairs with a track record. Or at least get into events that charge a paid admission, and therefore, have a very accurate history of attendance figures based on paid attendees. Shows that are free to attend are considerably more difficult for an organizer to track attendance and a lot of times, this is where you get attendance “estimates” that aren’t accurate.
It took me a couple of days to go through all of this video. I'd get a great tip and then go off and work on it for my shop, like record keeping and organizing ideas. Thanks for the help!
Thanks for all the info. You fed my love of lists😂 My husband and I are just starting out on our craft fair adventure, and we appreciate your shared knowledge and experience.
This is comprehensive! I listened all the way through and jotted down some notes to self along the way. I’m gaining confidence about selling this fall for the first time in 30 years! Good thing I listened-we didn’t use the square back then just cash. I’m still not up to QR codes but I may print a few business cards. And it’s very helpful to hear about tablecloths being to the floor. I may just use 2 white across the table then 1 more across the middle (I have a ton). If I continue I might invest in the stretch ones but I have a plethora of ones from other events. Thanks a million for all your hard work! Let’s get these facts out so more local high school groups organize a craft fair. Around here (north of Dallas) there are many great big shows but almost no fund raiser for charity ones. I found two in Denton , TX (nearby) that have been around for many years to benefit the high school choir. But seems like other high schools are missing a good opportunity (band boosters, tennis etc). Not as much work as some of their other fund raising.
Susan - thank you so much for taking the time to write this comment! First off - I’m very glad to hear that this video is boosting your confidence! That’s tremendous! I can see the excitement in your message and I hope you have nothing but great success at your upcoming events! Secondly, I want to say thank you for the message because it motivates me to keep on creating these tuo videos! I agree in that the smaller events are very important - especially for local organizations that need some fundraising and attention. Here’s to a strong rest of the year! 😃💪👏
You're like the Bob Ross of craft show knowledge 😁 it's just really pleasant to listen to you, aside from all the fantastic info and advice!! Thanks so much ❤
I have to say thank you for this video because I’m going to my first craft show and im in panic already . Was really important to me each step on this video ! I subscribed and o wish I could give as many likes you deserved! ❤❤ thank you
Love your work! You have a great presentation style and really practical ideas. Now if only craft fairs and markets were as prevalent here as they seem to be in the US. I feel well prepared by your tips but…all dressed up and nowhere to go!
@@howtocraftfair I’m in Sydney Australia. There are very few markets and events, the ones there are can be very expensive for a stall and some require you have your own public liability insurance which also impacts costs.
I wonder if the startup costs will be worth it at this point... Tablecloths, signs, displays, tags, business cards, bags, etc how long does it take to make a profit? Sounds like I would never be out of the red.
All of those things you listed can be acquired for less than $250 combined. Hop on my website here where I’ve got all the items laid out for new vendors: howtocraftfair.com/my-shop Absolute necessities I would start with are tablecloths, price tags (or signs), bags for your customers. Those three elements will be around $100. After that, invest in a nice sign or table runner advertising your business to start getting your name out (as well as business cards).
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am preparing to do my first market and your advice has been so welcome and covered so many things that I hadn't considered. You are so generous to share so much knowledge and I am very grateful. Best wishes from Australia.
I would love to do a booth review if you ever feel like it. Reach out if interested! That way, I can add another country to the list! Thank you so much for commenting and being a fan of the channel! - John
Wow! Amazing video with so many priceless tips. I’m preparing for my first Craft Fair. And I thought I had covered most the things to do, to take care, to plan. You proved me wrong. I’m so glad I found your video. Thank you! New subscriber here.
Hi John Thank you for a great upload. I am a new subscriber 😊 After 30 yrs in the corporate world, I have studied artisan soapmaking, and I am having my first market next month. It is a HUGE change for me, so thanks for all the tips and advice. Sending greetings from Pretoria, South Africa 🇿🇦
Thank you so much for checking out the channel and subscribing! I hope that you find great success in the artisan world! Please stay in touch and keep me (and everyone on the channel) up to date on how you’re doing. You got this!! 💪💪
This was an excellent video! Even though I'm an experienced, juried artisan, I haven't done any shows for a long time. I actually learned a lot and it also reminded me of many things I had forgotten about. I plan to watch it again and take notes for when I'm ready to get back into selling at shows again...thanks!
Awesome tried and true nuggets of gold, sir! All 101 of them. Wish I came across this video when I was starting out. Subscribed. Have a great festival season!
Thanks for doing this video. My wife and I are getting ready for our first craft show and your videos have been exactly what we needed to help us get ready.
You outdid yourself again John. Outstanding information once again. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and time in providing so many tips & important info. Bravo 👏🏼 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
This was incredibly helpful for my first holiday marketplace. Thank you very much for taking the time to be so helpful with all this advice. I've subscribed! God bless
Great tips! Glad I found this video and became a subscriber. I’m a craft fair organizer as well as a crafter. Glad you have this channel dedicated to craft fair info! Thanks!
Hi Deanna! Thank you so much for checking out the channel and subscribing! It’s always great to connect with people who are both organizers & vendors. I hope you have a tremendous finish to your 2023! 😃
I watched even more of your videos and gained a lot of insight and plan to share your channel with my vendors! I book both crafters and direct sales (Avon, Scentsy, LulaRoe, etc) at most my events. I do have one strictly makers only craft fair a year. Thanks again for creating this channel!
@@deannalynnsorenson8505 I appreciate that so much! If you’d like, I could mail you out a bunch of my business cards for all the vendors? Let me know and I’d be happy to send them out! howtocraftfair@gmail.com - John 😃
Worth the full listen! Going to check out your previous videos. I almost felt like tou were using my last event as a case study because I made so many of the mistakes you touched on!
Hi..love the video and all the great advise. Thankyou!! I am a beginner sewer that wants to sell tote bags at my 1st craft fair in october. Is it ok to tell people I'm a newbie to sewing and craft fairs??
Thank you! Yes it’s definitely okay to mention it. Especially if that gives you an ice breaker for starting little chats with the shoppers who approach your booth. Good luck to you and have fun!
Very informative content. You can tell you spent a lot of time preparing. You speak very well and easy to listen to. I’m preparing for my first pop-up event and preparing can be overwhelming so your information is very help. Look forward to more videos. Thank you.
Hey Bambi! Thank you very much for your kind words and taking the time to comment. I agree that the first show can be overwhelming but I bet it’s going to fly by so quickly for you and you’ll have so much fun! Enjoy it and let me know how it goes! 😃
I just found u today and I am so grateful I came across one of your videos. That u so much for sharing all this information. I’m excited to binge your content. Again, that’s so much!
Thank you for your kind words! Glad to have you as part of the community! Be sure to check out the comments section as you watch videos because a lot of times, vendors are helping out and providing some additional tips! 😃
26:34 I suggest getting a Google voice telephone number that way you’re not giving out your personal phone number if you don’t have a storefront. And your email should be something with your company name in it when ever possible.
Thank you this is incredibly helpful! I realize there is an art to having a successful event. I have been just winging it! I am excited about implementing these tips!
Thanks for all of the great tips! I was the helper for a couple of years, now branching out on my own. I bought the tall director chairs to be face height, rather than standing all day. We’ll see how that works! Once I have my assortment and samples done, I may send you my mock up pics for evaluation.
I’m doing a pop-up for the very first time at the end of July and another one at the end of September, and this is very good information. I was gonna bring some other things besides my hair oil but now I know to be minimal on that. I am very nervous to do my first one thank you for the tips.
Hey Kristen! Thanks for commenting and I’m glad the video helps. You can do it and you got this! Sometimes it’s better to reveal to other vendors and even the shoppers that you are a first timer and a lot of times you’ll get some nice people that will make you feel comfortable and throw some helpful tips your way. Have fun and thank you so much for watching! 😃
Incredible, If I could add one more to this list would be to maybe offer your services to said craft fair, maybe offer your skills to said craft fair, but apart from my silly item this was a fantastic and realistic list.
This was absolutely fantastic! A whole chanbel dedicated to vendor events is such a great idea. I'm doing my 1st event soon and am overwhelmed with the costs to get everything right.... Is there a water proof tent that you recommend?
Thank you so much and try not to get too overwhelmed with the first show! You got this! Always reach out if you've got questions and either myself or someone from the awesome community here will help in the comments section! I have a few recommendations for craft fair supplies (including a great canopy) on my website here: howtocraftfair.com/my-amazon-links
I am so grateful for all your information. Thank you! I’m new to selling so I need a lot of info 😅. Currently, I am shopping for a rain proof canopy. I live in Southern CA & have a show on Oct 28. It’s been a rainy summer and continues to rain now, on & off, so I want to be prepared just in case. Can you recommend a BRAND name for a reasonably & reliable canopy? I don’t want to get my products wet, lol. I am ordering your recommended “chef” aprons after this (great tip).
Thank you so much Elena! The brands I typically recommend are ABC Canopy and Eurmax USA. I also really like Displays2Go because so much of what they sell can be customized to fit the theme of your business - colors, logos, etc.
71- get a bar stool if you cant stand. It gives you the height while also giving your body a break. It doesnt look like you're relaxing at the tailgate event.
I am so thankful for all the tidbits/tips you have shared. My first event is coming up at the end of the month and I have been slowly getting stuff together (not even actual product) but things like the proper tablecloth, I'm on the lookout for an apron (which I have one but I need to dye it to get rid of the logo on it),etc. I feel like I'll never get all the little things together. Again, Thank you for all of this priceless information.
Try not to stress too much - keep in mind that even veteran vendors who have done shows many years are still constantly making little improvements and adjustments. Just try to get a little bit better at each show than the last and you’ll be in great shape! Thanks so much for leaving a wonderful comment - being open with me and everyone! Have fun and good luck! You’ll do great! 😃👍
Wow! This is amazing!! Thank you for all the wonderful tips. My sister and I are having our very first Christmas market on Dec 9 at the Mississauga Cranberry Market and these tips are extremely helpful. Thank you!
I just had a fair that has a reputation as being really profitable. Unfortunately, I was put in the barn. The facilitator was very demanding upfront. I was extremely disappointed that a jewelry vendor set up right next to me. The organizer, organized the indoor buildings but not the barn. She also failed to put signs in the building notifying customers that there were vendors in the barn. We got only 1/4 of the shoppers. Unfortunately we paid the same vendor fee only we didn't have any wi-fi and our products and tables/cloths got very dusty.
Oooo it’s a big pet peeve of mine when organizers host a show with more than one building, but they don’t let the shoppers know about the other buildings. Also when they place similar vendors next to one another. Definitely sounds like you got the short end of the stick on that one. Here’s hoping for better shows for you during the rest of 2023!
Same thing happened to me a few years back and it was a four day event and I was so done after that. Needless to say I haven’t done any more markets since. Want to try again.
I would recommend ordering them. The cost of business cards has become pretty reasonable especially if you’re able to buy in bulk to get the price per unit lower. Just be sure you’re REALLY set on your design before you order like 5,000 cards and then wish you would have done something different with the design 😂
I am a ceramic artist/ potter and I have my first show this summer and due to my financial situation I am limited on Kiln rental and clay and for me I can make 50 pieces a week but it all comes down to drying before heading to the kiln I only get to the kiln once a month so I got less than 5 months to make another 50 pieces. But now I wonder if 50 is too low for my wares.
Ive seen ceramics/pottery vendors come to a show with less, so I wouldn’t worry too much. Focus on the quality of your product, rather than the quantity. That’ll make a lasting impression 😃
Thanks so much for your extensive information! QUESTIONS: I am planning to get a booth at our local County Fair. (8 x 8 is the only size) The fair runs 9 days, plus 2 setup days for 175.00 at the end of September. I'm planning on attending this event next year, and am now creating inventory for the Fair and subsequent local events. I won't be able to make enough goods for this year. BUT... what about doing Make N Take booths? My work is in both paper and fabric, with mixed media enhancements. Would this be a good idea if I wanted to attend this year without a huge inventory made? It would have to be a quick turnover craft.
I think you would be better off game planning long term instead of trying to rush to come up with something for this year. I’ve always found Make-n-Takes to be a bit stressful because things tend to get bogged down at the booth if the event is busy and has good traffic. Ideally, you want transactions to happen quickly to essentially have a revolving door of customers. Of course, you want to take a moment to genuinely connect with your shoppers, but I fear that you will be occupied with a customer and other shoppers will see that you’re busy and just move on. I don’t know if there’s a ton of foot traffic at this event, but basically $20 a day is a very vendor-friendly price and it might be best to REALLY prepare - envision your booth, the full setup, practicing an 8’ x 8’ booth in your yard or garage if you have to - and then approach next year ready to have an amazing week and a half at the fair.
@howtocraftfair Thanks so much for your detailed response! That's what I was thinking as well... I'm making stuff... it's just going to have to stay packed away for a while!
So, i know you Said to work the tax into the price so that i can have a round number, but how do you deal with that when you are someplace that has a higher tax rate?
It’s okay to adjust prices from show to show. That’s actually a pretty normal practice for vendors and many do this based on factors such as demand (if the show has a track record of strong attendance), fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, and location. Just be sure to have your prices set going INTO the show. Avoid adjusting during a show.
How about prices for simple country fairs that people don't have a lot of money to I'm trying to make my prices reasonable with my product and on top of that I'm braiding hair California you don't have to be licensed
Good info, but there are too many lazy greedy event organizers who price their events at extreeme prices like $400 for four hours or worse, send out a few post on their limited followers accounts and nothing else, and use the survey they send as a filter, so if anyone is critcal of thr event youre just banned/ghosted. Not enough good people out there organizing reasonable priced events...
I watched a lots of videos in UA-cam about selling at craft markets. Your videos are the best, and this one is by far the most comprehensive. Thanks a lot for the time and effort you put into it. You are a legend
Thank you so much! That means a lot - I appreciate it!
In my last event I was talking to a neighbor vendor told me she never buys anything from other vendors. I then asked her so you buy from Amazon? I always buy from my neighbor vendors! Support small businesses! ❤️
Yeah I feel like a lot of vendors who say that end up saying they want to protect their profits and not spend all their money at the show. It's initially a good thought, but if you end up spending money in department stores or online like you mentioned, then that money is gone regardless and never really "saved"
@@howtocraftfair exactly. I am becoming a lot more conscious of supporting small businesses now.
Can’t wait for Thursdays episode
I don’t buy just to buy. But if there is something I’m currently in need of I try and get it from other vendors. Usually Christmas gifts. Also all my hats and scarves and gloves are all from other vendors
@@amazingracie212 that’s what I do too!❤️
@@amazingracie212 I enjoy it for my Christmas shopping the most. It’s nice to have a list and browse an event with specific people and their interests in mind.
Great information. Two additional things to consider...1. I would suggest giving out a calendar printout of other shows you will be participating in for the year to both purchasers and browsers. 2. I prefer to sign my crafts but not include a date - people shy away from old, dated items.
Thanks Ken! Those are some great suggestions!
#85....this is so important. It is not fun packing and setting up, so in between always, always have fun!! I always have fun at events. I love to do them, just having issues with the loading and set up due to back issues. That is definitely not #85. LOL Thanks for the videos.
Couldn’t agree more and well said!
This is awesome video, I am nerved racked thinking of how to get ready for my first craft fair at the church. Thanks a Mil
You got this! Have fun! 😃👍
@@howtocraftfair Thanks I appreciate it
Thank for these great DETAILS AND DESCRIPTIONS!! GREAT TIPS❤❤
I appreciate the kind words! Thank you 🫶
Wow, wow, wow. This is GOLD.
Thanks so much Cindy! Glad you enjoyed it! 😃👍
Good information that we can actually use. Would you talk about how to assess if the event is going to have a lot of customers? I’ve done 4 fairs this year and 2 were absolutely empty of shoppers. Most of us vendors didn’t even make our booth fee. I can’t keep this up if I’m going to lose money, and the organizers don’t seem interested in improving the customer flow, since they make their money on the vendor booth fees.
Scout for existing craft fairs with a track record. Or at least get into events that charge a paid admission, and therefore, have a very accurate history of attendance figures based on paid attendees. Shows that are free to attend are considerably more difficult for an organizer to track attendance and a lot of times, this is where you get attendance “estimates” that aren’t accurate.
@ thanks! I have avoided the shows with the large booth fees but maybe that’s a mistake.
It took me a couple of days to go through all of this video. I'd get a great tip and then go off and work on it for my shop, like record keeping and organizing ideas. Thanks for the help!
Im glad it’s been a help to ya! 😃
Thanks for all the info. You fed my love of lists😂 My husband and I are just starting out on our craft fair adventure, and we appreciate your shared knowledge and experience.
Awesome! I hope you both have a great time at your first craft fair!
This is a GREAT list! Thanks!
You betcha! Glad they helped! 😃
This is comprehensive! I listened all the way through and jotted down some notes to self along the way. I’m gaining confidence about selling this fall for the first time in 30 years! Good thing I listened-we didn’t use the square back then just cash. I’m still not up to QR codes but I may print a few business cards. And it’s very helpful to hear about tablecloths being to the floor. I may just use 2 white across the table then 1 more across the middle (I have a ton). If I continue I might invest in the stretch ones but I have a plethora of ones from other events.
Thanks a million for all your hard work! Let’s get these facts out so more local high school groups organize a craft fair.
Around here (north of Dallas) there are many great big shows but almost no fund raiser for charity ones. I found two in Denton , TX (nearby) that have been around for many years to benefit the high school choir. But seems like other high schools are missing a good opportunity (band boosters, tennis etc). Not as much work as some of their other fund raising.
Susan - thank you so much for taking the time to write this comment!
First off - I’m very glad to hear that this video is boosting your confidence! That’s tremendous! I can see the excitement in your message and I hope you have nothing but great success at your upcoming events!
Secondly, I want to say thank you for the message because it motivates me to keep on creating these tuo videos! I agree in that the smaller events are very important - especially for local organizations that need some fundraising and attention.
Here’s to a strong rest of the year! 😃💪👏
You're like the Bob Ross of craft show knowledge 😁 it's just really pleasant to listen to you, aside from all the fantastic info and advice!! Thanks so much ❤
Haha Bob was amazing! Thank you so much - I’m glad you enjoy the videos! 😃
This is the best art market video out there thank you
I appreciate that! Thank you so much!
This video is a gem. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise ❤
I appreciate the kind words! Thank you 😃
I have done craft shows for years, but this is a good refresher and definitely I want to revamp my booth to renew my space!
#102, I subscribed the first or second video you did. I enjoy and am grateful for the advice you have given in each video.
Thank you so much! Glad to have you on board for so long - it’s sincerely appreciated! 😃
Thanks, this was an awesome summary of selling at craft fairs. Good tips. You could almost publish an ebook!
I’m glad it’s helpful - and that’s not a bad idea! Maybe someday haha
This was a great video for fair vendors of all types. Good job.
Appreciate the kind words! 😃
Thank you so much for your wealth of craft vendor tips. Much appreciated.!
You’re welcome Janet! Glad you enjoyed the video!
I have to say thank you for this video because I’m going to my first craft show and im in panic already . Was really important to me each step on this video ! I subscribed and o wish I could give as many likes you deserved! ❤❤ thank you
Aww thank you so much for watching, commenting, and subscribing! I hope you have a fantastic first craft fair - you got this! 😃
What? 101! Wow this time you outdid yourself! 🎉🎉🎉🎉
I just hope this video helps vendors. I tried my best to make this the most comprehensive craft fair tip video on UA-cam.
@@howtocraftfairthank you John. I learned so much from you. You’ll see my next booth upgrade! To die for!!!
Saved this video. Subscribed. This was awesome. Thank you!
@@changingwoman1494 thank you so much! 😃
Great tips! Thank you!
Thank you! Excellent tips, all 101 of them!
Appreciate it very much! 😃
This is SUCH good information! Saving to watch again later for sure!
Thank you very much! 😃
Love your work! You have a great presentation style and really practical ideas. Now if only craft fairs and markets were as prevalent here as they seem to be in the US. I feel well prepared by your tips but…all dressed up and nowhere to go!
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment! I'm glad you enjoy the videos! What country are you located in?
@@howtocraftfair I’m in Sydney Australia. There are very few markets and events, the ones there are can be very expensive for a stall and some require you have your own public liability insurance which also impacts costs.
Absolutely the very best video on all things craft fair and I’m definitely passing this on!
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me and I appreciate you taking the time to comment and spread the word!
I wonder if the startup costs will be worth it at this point... Tablecloths, signs, displays, tags, business cards, bags, etc how long does it take to make a profit? Sounds like I would never be out of the red.
All of those things you listed can be acquired for less than $250 combined. Hop on my website here where I’ve got all the items laid out for new vendors:
howtocraftfair.com/my-shop
Absolute necessities I would start with are tablecloths, price tags (or signs), bags for your customers. Those three elements will be around $100. After that, invest in a nice sign or table runner advertising your business to start getting your name out (as well as business cards).
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am preparing to do my first market and your advice has been so welcome and covered so many things that I hadn't considered. You are so generous to share so much knowledge and I am very grateful. Best wishes from Australia.
I would love to do a booth review if you ever feel like it. Reach out if interested! That way, I can add another country to the list! Thank you so much for commenting and being a fan of the channel! - John
Thank you for all the great tips!
You're welcome! :)
Wow! Amazing video with so many priceless tips. I’m preparing for my first Craft Fair. And I thought I had covered most the things to do, to take care, to plan. You proved me wrong. I’m so glad I found your video. Thank you! New subscriber here.
Thank you so much for your kind words and glad to have you join the community! I hope your first show is a huge success! 😃
You are absolutely A M A Z I N G!!!! Thank you thank you thank for thiese short but at the same time extensive tips!! Sending LOTS of love your way!!
This comment made my day! Thank you so much! 😃
Thanks so much for all you do! Your videos are priceless.
Thanks Candace! Your video is all set - uploading it tonight for the premiere tomorrow! 🥳🤩
Hi John
Thank you for a great upload. I am a new subscriber 😊
After 30 yrs in the corporate world, I have studied artisan soapmaking, and I am having my first market next month. It is a HUGE change for me, so thanks for all the tips and advice. Sending greetings from Pretoria, South Africa 🇿🇦
Thank you so much for checking out the channel and subscribing! I hope that you find great success in the artisan world! Please stay in touch and keep me (and everyone on the channel) up to date on how you’re doing. You got this!! 💪💪
Awesome tips, not even 1 to be missed. So practical and helpful! Thank you so much!
Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for dropping a great comment! 😃
Thank you so so much! I'm vending for the time and this was perfect.
You’re welcome! Glad it helped! Good luck at the show and have fun! 😃
This was an excellent video! Even though I'm an experienced, juried artisan, I haven't done any shows for a long time. I actually learned a lot and it also reminded me of many things I had forgotten about. I plan to watch it again and take notes for when I'm ready to get back into selling at shows again...thanks!
Thank you so much! What a great comment! I hope your future shows are a huge success! 😃👍💪
Awesome tried and true nuggets of gold, sir! All 101 of them. Wish I came across this video when I was starting out. Subscribed. Have a great festival season!
Thank you so much for the wonderful comment! 😃
Thanks for doing this video. My wife and I are getting ready for our first craft show and your videos have been exactly what we needed to help us get ready.
Glad to hear it Don! Best of luck to you at your first show! I’ll be rooting for you both to have an excellent day!
Thank you John. Great info to know.
You’re welcome - glad you enjoyed it!
You outdid yourself again John. Outstanding information once again. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and time in providing so many tips & important info. Bravo 👏🏼 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Thank you so much for your kind words! I truly appreciate the encouragement! 😃
Notification on:✅
This was incredibly helpful for my first holiday marketplace. Thank you very much for taking the time to be so helpful with all this advice. I've subscribed! God bless
Thank you so much for the wonderful comment and glad you subscribed and joined this great community! 😃
😁@@howtocraftfair
Great tips! Glad I found this video and became a subscriber. I’m a craft fair organizer as well as a crafter. Glad you have this channel dedicated to craft fair info! Thanks!
Hi Deanna! Thank you so much for checking out the channel and subscribing! It’s always great to connect with people who are both organizers & vendors. I hope you have a tremendous finish to your 2023! 😃
I watched even more of your videos and gained a lot of insight and plan to share your channel with my vendors! I book both crafters and direct sales (Avon, Scentsy, LulaRoe, etc) at most my events. I do have one strictly makers only craft fair a year. Thanks again for creating this channel!
@@deannalynnsorenson8505 I appreciate that so much! If you’d like, I could mail you out a bunch of my business cards for all the vendors? Let me know and I’d be happy to send them out! howtocraftfair@gmail.com - John 😃
Worth the full listen! Going to check out your previous videos. I almost felt like tou were using my last event as a case study because I made so many of the mistakes you touched on!
Thanks for taking the time to comment and check out the whole video! 😃
Awesome video. Your tips are invaluable to vendors. Thank you for teaching us how to be the best vendors we can be.
Thanks for taking the time to comment and I’m glad you enjoyed the video 😃
❤83 This is a good one people do this all the time they want to take photos and copy everything or do video tape everything
Excellent ideas !! Have been spending time going over products and table setup for Craft fairs 2024. Great advice . 😊
Thanks Catherine! 😃👍 never hurts to be prepared with a game plan!
Very thorough video! Love it!
Thanks so much! 😃
Great video. New to crafting. Thank you.
Welcome to the wonderful world of crafting! Thanks for saying hi! 😃👍
One of the best videos I've seen and so helpful for us newbies 🎉❤ thank you so much!
I appreciate that so much Laura! I’m glad you enjoyed the video 😃
Thank you! I took a lot of notes!
Excellent! Glad it was helpful for you! 😃👍
WOW! Thank you for this!😊
You’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Thank you for some great tips! I am going into my 3rd year and still learning what works best!
We never stop learning and that’s what I love about craft fairs! 😃👍
Thank you for the many great tips I've jotted down quite a few 👍👌
Excellent! Glad the video helped! 😃
We have done many of these. Thanks for the ones i didnt think about
You’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video. New to crafting.
Thank you for your effort. Amazing list of tips!!!
Appreciate it very much! 😃
Hi..love the video and all the great advise. Thankyou!! I am a beginner sewer that wants to sell tote bags at my 1st craft fair in october. Is it ok to tell people I'm a newbie to sewing and craft fairs??
Thank you! Yes it’s definitely okay to mention it. Especially if that gives you an ice breaker for starting little chats with the shoppers who approach your booth.
Good luck to you and have fun!
Very informative content. You can tell you spent a lot of time preparing. You speak very well and easy to listen to. I’m preparing for my first pop-up event and preparing can be overwhelming so your information is very help. Look forward to more videos. Thank you.
Hey Bambi! Thank you very much for your kind words and taking the time to comment. I agree that the first show can be overwhelming but I bet it’s going to fly by so quickly for you and you’ll have so much fun! Enjoy it and let me know how it goes! 😃
Thankyou very much...we know most of this stuff but but not all cause we still forget. But having a checklist on the checklists is appreciated 💕
Thank you! Great video!
Glad you liked it!
I just found u today and I am so grateful I came across one of your videos. That u so much for sharing all this information. I’m excited to binge your content. Again, that’s so much!
Thank you for your kind words! Glad to have you as part of the community! Be sure to check out the comments section as you watch videos because a lot of times, vendors are helping out and providing some additional tips! 😃
26:34 I suggest getting a Google voice telephone number that way you’re not giving out your personal phone number if you don’t have a storefront. And your email should be something with your company name in it when ever possible.
Thank you this is incredibly helpful! I realize there is an art to having a successful event. I have been just winging it! I am excited about implementing these tips!
Glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate you taking the time to comment! Good luck the rest of the way in 2023! Finish strong! 😃💪
Thanks for all of the great tips! I was the helper for a couple of years, now branching out on my own.
I bought the tall director chairs to be face height, rather than standing all day. We’ll see how that works!
Once I have my assortment and samples done, I may send you my mock up pics for evaluation.
The tall chair is the next best bet! :)
Thanks for watching! I'd enjoy seeing your booth when it's ready!
Such helpful info...thanks so much! Liked and subscribed!
I appreciate it! Glad you enjoyed the video! 😃
Thank you! Wonderful video, very informative
Appreciate it Lorrie! 😃
I’m doing a pop-up for the very first time at the end of July and another one at the end of September, and this is very good information. I was gonna bring some other things besides my hair oil but now I know to be minimal on that. I am very nervous to do my first one thank you for the tips.
Hey Kristen! Thanks for commenting and I’m glad the video helps. You can do it and you got this! Sometimes it’s better to reveal to other vendors and even the shoppers that you are a first timer and a lot of times you’ll get some nice people that will make you feel comfortable and throw some helpful tips your way.
Have fun and thank you so much for watching! 😃
Thank I appreciate that encouragement and tips I did follow you and look forward to watching more videos 🤩
Great video, thanks
You’re welcome - thanks for commenting! 👍
Very informative video. I learned a lot from it. You got an additional subscriber now😊
Glad you subscribed! Welcome to the community! 😃👍💪
Thank you so much. Your advice has been so helpful 💗
You’re welcome and thank you for checking out the videos! 😃
The epic list!
Great tips John, thank you👍✴✴✴✴✴ #letsgrow
Thanks for leaving a comment! This was my favorite video to make. Definitely the most difficult, but I’m glad people are enjoying it 😃
Great video watched the whole thing
That’s awesome! It’s a marathon for sure! 🤣
Incredible, If I could add one more to this list would be to maybe offer your services to said craft fair, maybe offer your skills to said craft fair, but apart from my silly item this was a fantastic and realistic list.
Haha thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed it! 😃💪👍
Thank you ❤
This was absolutely fantastic! A whole chanbel dedicated to vendor events is such a great idea. I'm doing my 1st event soon and am overwhelmed with the costs to get everything right....
Is there a water proof tent that you recommend?
Thank you so much and try not to get too overwhelmed with the first show! You got this! Always reach out if you've got questions and either myself or someone from the awesome community here will help in the comments section!
I have a few recommendations for craft fair supplies (including a great canopy) on my website here: howtocraftfair.com/my-amazon-links
I am so grateful for all your information. Thank you! I’m new to selling so I need a lot of info 😅. Currently, I am shopping for a rain proof canopy. I live in Southern CA & have a show on Oct 28. It’s been a rainy summer and continues to rain now, on & off, so I want to be prepared just in case. Can you recommend a BRAND name for a reasonably & reliable canopy? I don’t want to get my products wet, lol.
I am ordering your recommended “chef” aprons after this (great tip).
Thank you so much Elena!
The brands I typically recommend are ABC Canopy and Eurmax USA.
I also really like Displays2Go because so much of what they sell can be customized to fit the theme of your business - colors, logos, etc.
71- get a bar stool if you cant stand. It gives you the height while also giving your body a break. It doesnt look like you're relaxing at the tailgate event.
Cheers to that! 😃
Great information. Thanks for sharing.
Appreciate it! Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video!! How can I get your checklist and inventory charts?
Thank you so much! Please visit my Etsy shop at etsy.com/shop/howtocraftfair
I am so thankful for all the tidbits/tips you have shared. My first event is coming up at the end of the month and I have been slowly getting stuff together (not even actual product) but things like the proper tablecloth, I'm on the lookout for an apron (which I have one but I need to dye it to get rid of the logo on it),etc. I feel like I'll never get all the little things together. Again, Thank you for all of this priceless information.
Try not to stress too much - keep in mind that even veteran vendors who have done shows many years are still constantly making little improvements and adjustments. Just try to get a little bit better at each show than the last and you’ll be in great shape!
Thanks so much for leaving a wonderful comment - being open with me and everyone! Have fun and good luck! You’ll do great! 😃👍
Thank you for the words of encouragement
@@howtocraftfair
Wow! This is amazing!! Thank you for all the wonderful tips. My sister and I are having our very first Christmas market on Dec 9 at the Mississauga Cranberry Market and these tips are extremely helpful.
Thank you!
Thank you so much and I wish you and your sister great success! Have fun and learn as much as you can! 😃
I just had a fair that has a reputation as being really profitable. Unfortunately, I was put in the barn. The facilitator was very demanding upfront. I was extremely disappointed that a jewelry vendor set up right next to me. The organizer, organized the indoor buildings but not the barn. She also failed to put signs in the building notifying customers that there were vendors in the barn. We got only 1/4 of the shoppers. Unfortunately we paid the same vendor fee only we didn't have any wi-fi and our products and tables/cloths got very dusty.
Oooo it’s a big pet peeve of mine when organizers host a show with more than one building, but they don’t let the shoppers know about the other buildings. Also when they place similar vendors next to one another.
Definitely sounds like you got the short end of the stick on that one. Here’s hoping for better shows for you during the rest of 2023!
Same thing happened to me a few years back and it was a four day event and I was so done after that. Needless to say I haven’t done any more markets since. Want to try again.
Thanks man it my first event and I’m selling 3d prints
Wish you great success! Have fun out there 😃
@@howtocraftfair thanks
where can we get a copy of your tip #25 Vendor Checklist?
Here you go: howtocraftfair.etsy.com/listing/1469575480
And... Is it ok to print my own business cards at home? Or do you recommend i have them professionally printed?
I would recommend ordering them. The cost of business cards has become pretty reasonable especially if you’re able to buy in bulk to get the price per unit lower.
Just be sure you’re REALLY set on your design before you order like 5,000 cards and then wish you would have done something different with the design 😂
Please share this video on your social media!
I am a ceramic artist/ potter and I have my first show this summer and due to my financial situation I am limited on Kiln rental and clay and for me I can make 50 pieces a week but it all comes down to drying before heading to the kiln I only get to the kiln once a month so I got less than 5 months to make another 50 pieces. But now I wonder if 50 is too low for my wares.
Ive seen ceramics/pottery vendors come to a show with less, so I wouldn’t worry too much. Focus on the quality of your product, rather than the quantity. That’ll make a lasting impression 😃
Thanks so much for your extensive information!
QUESTIONS:
I am planning to get a booth at our local County Fair. (8 x 8 is the only size) The fair runs 9 days, plus 2 setup days for 175.00 at the end of September.
I'm planning on attending this event next year, and am now creating inventory for the Fair and subsequent local events.
I won't be able to make enough goods for this year.
BUT... what about doing Make N Take booths? My work is in both paper and fabric, with mixed media enhancements.
Would this be a good idea if I wanted to attend this year without a huge inventory made?
It would have to be a quick turnover craft.
I think you would be better off game planning long term instead of trying to rush to come up with something for this year. I’ve always found Make-n-Takes to be a bit stressful because things tend to get bogged down at the booth if the event is busy and has good traffic. Ideally, you want transactions to happen quickly to essentially have a revolving door of customers. Of course, you want to take a moment to genuinely connect with your shoppers, but I fear that you will be occupied with a customer and other shoppers will see that you’re busy and just move on.
I don’t know if there’s a ton of foot traffic at this event, but basically $20 a day is a very vendor-friendly price and it might be best to REALLY prepare - envision your booth, the full setup, practicing an 8’ x 8’ booth in your yard or garage if you have to - and then approach next year ready to have an amazing week and a half at the fair.
@howtocraftfair Thanks so much for your detailed response! That's what I was thinking as well... I'm making stuff... it's just going to have to stay packed away for a while!
@@KarenLeanneCreates2024 you’re welcome 😃 thanks for watching the video & commenting! 👍
So, i know you Said to work the tax into the price so that i can have a round number, but how do you deal with that when you are someplace that has a higher tax rate?
It’s okay to adjust prices from show to show. That’s actually a pretty normal practice for vendors and many do this based on factors such as demand (if the show has a track record of strong attendance), fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, and location.
Just be sure to have your prices set going INTO the show. Avoid adjusting during a show.
Hit the like button:✅
How about prices for simple country fairs that people don't have a lot of money to I'm trying to make my prices reasonable with my product and on top of that I'm braiding hair California you don't have to be licensed
You do need a tax license if you are making money selling something in California.
I don't mind negotiating with a customer. Within limits. I don't have anything that is similar to other vendors.
29:22 many hosts, require liability insurance
Jayne Leong
Good info, but there are too many lazy greedy event organizers who price their events at extreeme prices like $400 for four hours or worse, send out a few post on their limited followers accounts and nothing else, and use the survey they send as a filter, so if anyone is critcal of thr event youre just banned/ghosted. Not enough good people out there organizing reasonable priced events...
I don’t know where that is, but that seems like a tough market. Sorry to hear!
I have done craft shows for years, but this is a good refresher and definitely I want to revamp my booth to renew my space!
Glad it can help to motivate you! You got this! 😃😃💪💪
Thank you🙏