I have no idea why this was recommended to me, but I listened to the entire story! You are so engaging! I don’t really have a small business, but I resell my clothes and jewelry and shoes on Mercari.
Aww💕 Thank you so much for taking time to watch!! Maybe one day you will need this info!! Reselling items is also a business🤑 thank you for being here❤
Same! I was invested in this story! 😂 It reminded me so much of another fiasco in the fiber world a year or so ago. Events are not easy things to do, and folks go ahead and do it anyway. But I’m glad to have seen this, your bonnets are beautiful.
You are amazing. When one door closes, another door opens. I wish you much success. Now you can spend more time with your daughter during winter break.
This is my thought as well! Attorney fees will cost more than the actual booth fee. Thank you for this info❤ I'm going to give them some time to reply and then see what I need to do! Ugh this is so annoying we have to deal with this!
If she sign a contract she won't be able to get her money back it states that no refunds will be given once contract is sign. The reason why i know this due to the fact my sister and I used to do local fairs since 2021 we had decided that May of this year would be our last time ever being vendors at any fairs due to situations like hers
Specially when you have pictures of a great secure tent and they didn't deliver. Plus, you have their email saying how many people were expected each day.
The organisers of these shows and fleamarkets are always the sure winners in these type of events. It is quite risky now a days to pay such a huge of money in the current economic climate. All the best for your future endeavors.
Art buyers or fair goers have no idea how hard it is to make a living or even just make money back on sell what you make. You’re at the peril of the shows directors and promoters. The price of the space you have. And the amount and type of people who are there to stroll around the craft fair or festival. It’s crazy when people think you should basically give your hard work away. I think maybe it’s because no one really knows how hard it is and how expensive it is to actually sell your own merchandise? Or people just truly don’t care and want as much as possible for as little as possible. Yikes that got real grumpy towards the end but it’s true. I hope you are doing well and have a great and successful upcoming year. Cheers!!
WHO ARE YOU! 😄 I just found your channel…Or your channel found me! You are sooo…captivating and inspiring to listen to…can’t stop smiling watching you two! You work so hard! What ENERGY you have! I know from personal experience how hard having a small business is ( I had a very similar business) and you are AWESOME 🤩. Your schedule is grueling! Hang in there! I’ll confess you’ve got me motivated to back on my treadmill! I wish you well and many more blessings in 2025! YOU GO GIRL! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽😄
Whew! I was exhausted just listening to all this. What a nightmare. So sorry this happened to you. This is my first time watching your channel. As a crafter who sells also, I am definitely now a subscriber! Hope you have a Merry Christmas.
@thecraftloft right! I was so exhausted just reliving it to tell what happened😭 Thank you so so much for subscribing, i really appreciate your support!💕 I'm going to check out your channel as well! Have a happy holiday!❤️
You hit the nail on the head with the description, and it actually got worse after you left. This was a great video, and I know something great is coming for you!!!! I agree we should have made way more money on the second day. It’s sad that the people attending also had a bad time.
Thanks for sharing. I’m really going to sit back and evaluate all of the shows that I did over the past year. Some were great and some not so much. I now have a feel of the ones that were for me. It was truly a learning experience for me. I didn’t like unorganized events. It’s a pet peeve of mine. Good luck in the upcoming year!😊
Hi Gina!! yes, I'm going to do the same. It is def a pet peeve of mine as well! I pretty much had all my shows down except for the winter months, so now I just have to figure that out and ill be good! wishing you the best success😍
Thank you for sharing your story. I understand your apprehension on signing up for a first-time event. Definitely follow your first mind. Just take this one as a learning experience with bigger and better things to come!! I look forward to hearing about it. 😊
First year shows are OK if it's close, on the way to another show, and or really cheap. It's embarrassing when you've told people about a show etc...and then it flops, gets cancelled or... The up side of having made all that product is that you're ready for the next show(s). As for taking pictures for a website HATE IT plus everything I make is one of a kind. Only relented during the shut down and have only maybe 3 times done anything with it since. Always layer up when doing outdoor shows. At the very least keep a bag in the car, long underwear, extra socks, hat, gloves, turtleneck. Weird weather happens even in July.
Exactly right!! The hardest part for me was having to tell people that it was a flop and to not come out. girl, I hate taking pictures too, I really wish i had someone to do it for me lol..but now I have to take pics of all these items:( but you're right at least i have inventory for other shows! Wishing you the best in your business!!
Hi Tina. I’m Tina too, and a new subscriber! I have a small business also. I loved this first (for me) video. You have such a sweet voice and such a good attitude. I’m looking forward to seeing your future videos and hearing about your 2025 business plans. I’m working on mine too lol. Merry Christmas! 😊
Hi Tina!!! That's so cool 🤗 Thank you so much, you are so kind! What do you sell? I love that we all are doing the same thing, so that video will be right on time! Thank you so much for being here❤
The event people fumbled the bag. It should have been free to show up for the customers and you collect all the vendor fees. Or charge like 2 dollars to get in or something, money is tight in dec they can't be wasting tons of money just to get in. Now they won't have people wanting to vend with them again
This was my thought exactly! It seemed like they just wanted to hit a certain amount of money, but did not care al all about the vendor or customer experience. So, for next year they are going to lose a lot of business. If it were free even if they had a few kinks to iron out people would be less disappointed in the whole experience!
New subscriber! You just popped up in my feed and just love your attitude and wanted to support by subscribing. Can’t wait to see what you do in the future and good luck💜
You showed up in my feed and wow. What a mess. I used to do shows on the side. Weekend or for a week. It’s a lot of work and each show is different and sometimes you need to buy specific equipment for the accommodation or lack thereof. It’s a real learning curve. You made the right call on this one. Also, a space heater needs to be plugged directly into the socket and never on an extension cord or even surge protector. It can start a fire! Great attitude and some events are duds. I’ve never had one this bad but there’s a lot to learn here … not that you didn’t ask all the right questions. Sometimes you get taken. Great attitude a t least you have a lot of stock now!!
I have no idea how you ended up in my feed (mostly murder and mayhem 🙃). I subscribed anyway because I really like your vibe. You’re a great storyteller, too. Best wishes in all your ventures 👍🏼
It looks like a different type of a door is opening for you right now, Tina!!! I was SHOCKED you didn't have more views & subscribers! This randomly came up on my feed & the way you told this story made me feel like I had been here for the whole preparation. I'm angry too! They did not only all the vendors dirty but they did all their own customers dirty too! What a hot mess!!! I hope the algorithm blesses you though & you can get some of that sweet UA-cam money 😂🤣😂 Merry Christmas from Kansas City, Kansas!!! I subscribed so fast! ❤❤❤
Paige!!!! Omggg thank you soo much for leaving this sweet comment!! Girl, we could be angry together lol😭 they did both sides dirty for sure, girl it was a whole mess! Thank you so so much for being here!!💕 I really appreciate this comment!
Aww I’m really sorry this happened I’ve seen the hard work you put into this and I can’t believe it turned out this way I’m glad you’ve updated us and I love your positive mindset towards the situation I hope you all get a refund because they know they did yall dirty but like you said another door will open and the silver lining is that you get to spend more time with your daughter this holiday season and by gods grace you will make your money back in online sales xx
Thanks you so much sis!! I really appreciate your kind words❤ yes, lots of hard work, but I'm looking on the brighter side! We're small business owners and we're tough😅❤
Hi thank you for sharing your experiences...I am small businesses owner from Delaware 🩷💚...and for 6 years I have done the Kris Kringle Christmas Market in LaPlata Maryland on the Charles County Fair Grounds...It is a three day Market (Friday to Sunday) indoors. This year was the worst event...I barely cleared $1000. No one was really shopping. The people were out...they were drinking (they had wineries and beer dist. there, but barely anyone was shopping. I admire you doing an outside event in the cold. But I truly understand...cause i was hurt.
@anissabrookins-widman1286 Hi, Anissa!!! Such a small world💕 wow, ive been hearing so many stories of fellow small business owners having terrible shows lately🥺 this makes me sad because I know the hard work that went into everything! I'm Wishing you the best moving foward🤗❤️
We do the Kris Kringle also. Money was a little short. But it is a nice show. I am trying to figure out where this 19 day market was. My goodness if they charged 1100 that should have covered the gate.
thanks for sharing! it was tough to hear. cant imagine being in your shoes. even though i can only imagine your heartache, i can also imagine your motivation and inspiration now. i know in the future your luck and blessings will double. wish you the best. i do hope one or some of the vendors does sue the event organizers. that was foul play AND THEY KNOW IT.
Thank you so so much!!💕 it was hard for me to sit down and tell you guys what actually happened, but I know this video will help other vendors out there! And I totally agree with you. I'm waiting until next week to see what I'm going to do. ❤
I've done 2 events that placed my.booth outside of the vendor room (in a hallway). There were a few other vendors there too (one was a famous aritust/illustrator who was seated next to me). Both times we were assured that the hallways were very good locations. They werent. I sold more to other vendors than to actual customers of the event. Plus on top of table fees, each city charged a daily "itinerant vendor fee" to sell in their cities ($25 per day-minimum 3 days), even though I had a state seller's permit and business license.
Oh my goodness that seems so unfair:( I agree I was placed in the hallway at one event too and the foot traffic just isnt the same. those spaces should be much much cheaper! Everyday is a new learning experience for us vendors!
It’s tough when you have an experience like that to find the energy to prep for the next one. Thanks for ur honest review. Def gave me some things to look out for.
OMG! This sounds like that chaotic Ja Rule Fyre Festival from some years ago 😂 I’m sorry that you and the other vendors had a horrible experience and the customers didn’t get what they paid for. I recently did a five day event here in PA and it was a flop. At the end, one of the vendors asked her male counterpart, “Should I throw the vendor badge away?” He responded, “YEAH! They need to throw the whole show away.” 😩
Awww, thank you so much!!💕 I was definitely upset at first, but there was nothing I could do differently so I just have to move forward and learn from this experience! Thank you for listening💗
Things are definitely turning around for you 👏 So many of us are just seeing you for the first time with this video. I liked and subscribed. WOMAN...I feel this to my core!!! I have yet to spend that much rent or have an event that long (I couldn't physically do it) but I've had some one and two day events that made me want to close the organizer up in my tent! 😂 Kudos to you and I am looking forward to seeing what's next for you! ❣️God Bless honey 💪 Keep Hustling!!!
Hi, yeah, vending events outdoors in the winter time can be risky. Also always do research on the coordinators with their previous events. 19 day event with someone new to the city is a risk. Hopefully, things will work out for you.
Yes, I agree!! These organizers are well established in this area and all over, so lots of vendors came to this event because they have such a great name.
Wow, wow and wow! 😮 I would NEVER leave my stuff outside (a gazebo is as good as outside) for 19 days! Something that long should be done in a warehouse or similar. Charging so much to public just to get in?! AND so much for a ride?! What were the organisers thinking?! Curious how many vendors were left by the end of the show. What a major rip off for everyone! Thanks for sharing, sending love from Down Under ❤
You are adorable and I adore your personality. I heard you mention that you sell bonnets. I'm not sure if they are the kind you can sleep in, but this girl has a ton of hair and is really wanting to buy myself a bonnet or two to sleep in!
Aww, thank you so so much!!💓 yes, I sell bonnets that's you sleep in! I actually just added all the bonnets on my website yesterday! All of our bonnets are satin and reversible! Toddler bonnets can fit children up to 6-8 years old and adult bonnets are good from 8 and up!! 💕
I’m going to this event on Friday night and don’t remember seeing anything about vendors being there. Just lights and rides. It’s a shame they didn’t put the vendors in one of the many buildings on the property.
Wow! This video geabbed my eye because of my own experience with my local county fair this year. I thought I had a bad experience, but you really lost out big! I ended up just getting my 175.00 booth fee back plus 100.00. And then paid sales taxes on the gross sales! I have completely lost interest in doing markets after this. Our event was indoors, but people just were not buying. The only one selling was the lemonade vendor next door. My first day was 0 $!!! The second day was $5. Iended up donated over $ 2500 worth of my items to a local church for their holiday bazaar. I had $10,000 worth of inventory! Mine was a 9 day event, and a hurricane hit the Fair grounds the first day... canceling opening day!😢 I really do appreciate your story! As for me, I'm going to list the products I did not donate online next year , at the pre- holiday season. Merry Christmas! I know you are going to be recovering from this event. The good news is the tax deduction you can take for the heavy losses you incurred!❤
Hi Karen, og my goodness, I am so sorry a similar situation happened to you! I know how much wirk goes into making $10,000 in inventory. This definitely knocked me down a little, but i had great shows throughout the year so I still have hope in other shows! I will definitely be more cautious going into another large show though. You have such a great heart to donate that much inventory 🙏🏾💕 Gkd bless you for that!! Wishing you so much success on your business ventures!
I am so sorry that show turned into a flop. Like you said though, now you have additional inventory to add to your on line store and since you have that extra inventory I hope you get booming sales on line. I also hope you get your money back from that event. Even if it is the first year, they should have prepped better. The organizers should have visited a lot of other shows to see what is needed to run a successful event. The fact that they have already done other events means they were either just in this show for the payout or got in over their heads or someone who was supposed to be doing certain things bailed on them but the vendors shouldn’t have to pay for those mistakes. My hubby and I just started our craft business and did our first show at a friend’s church’s Christmas Bazaar. It was so much fun. I sew and crochet and I have a sublimation printer but haven’t gotten to use it yet. I also cant sew again yet after spinal surgery last year. I can crochet like my life depended on it but to out my head down long enough to sew is still too painful. My hubby does laser cutting/engraving and makes 3-D Filament items. Fidgets and ornaments and stuff like that. We decided on a name Fiber and Filament Workshop. We haven’t opened our Etsy store yet but we hope to have it opened by the beginning of 2025. (So far we have a facebook page, instagram page and tik tok page but either no or very little content as of yet) We need to get all of our ducks in a row to go from hobbyists to an actual business. Just in time to fill out that new form the federal government is requiring of all businesses. Does the paperwork ever end? Lol. Anyway, I am glad I found your you tube channel. I like your energy and I wish you only amazing success for 2025!!
Thank you so much for your kind words!! Yes, it's was a bummer because it did turn out to be a flop, but, I'm so grateful that I had an online community and website! I'm so sorry to hear about your spinal surgery, I'm sure you will be able to get back to sewing soon🙏🏾🤗 also, I love your business name, it rolls off the lounge very easily! I'm going to try and find you on Instagram so I can follow you! And, I'm sorry to say but the paperwork is always ongoing!! I have an LLC through Legalzoom so I'm very grateful that they email me right away when I need to sign or take care of any new information!! Wishing you so much success on your and your husband's business❤
@ Thank you so much!!😊 I can see myself sewing by end of January (at least that is what I am putting out to the universe) I never thought of using legalzoom! That is brilliant!! I will look them up. I would love a follow on instagram. I will head there now to follow you too. I followed you on here and look forward to many more videos and watching as you kill it at your next market. 😁 Only great things in 2025!! 😁
Wowzer! What an absolute mess! I do a three-day outdoor Christkindl Market in my hometown each December. It's very well organized & we're in wooden chalets. Even with a propane space heater, it's a challenge. I cannot imagine what your organizers were thinking!
Right, I know!! They really didn't think this through. I had a friend at another established show in the same city and everything was so organized and she had the proper outside sheds!
Same exact thing happened to me this year! It was a two day show in November with an experienced promoter. I paid $200 and we saw about 20 customers the first day after being promised hundreds. It was awful!
Really enjoyed listening to you. At the beginning of the video you mentioned that you sell multiple products. I want to start a small business myself, selling multiple handmade products. But I can't find anyone else on UA-cam doing the same thing. Everyone I've listened to talks about zeroing in on one or two products for a handmade business. Selling more may make your shop look busy or crowded and won't attract customers or will confuse them. But I enjoy making a couple of different things so it's great to see someone successfully making and selling several products. ❤ I feel encouraged. Could you make a video and share on: whether you've been told or heard the same thing, even from a customer and how you dealt with it, how you sell multiple products without getting overwhelmed by different orders and processing times and how you present your products on social media and your shop so that it doesn't look crowded. Lots of questions but I'd be grateful for any help. ❤
Hi Elaine!! Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to my video, I really appreciate it!! 💗 Yes, I would love to make a video about having multiple items in my shop! When I first did my research on opening a business pretty much everyone said to find a niche or " niche down" and it definitely made me feel like I was in a box! As a crafty person like yourself, I enjoyed making a few different things! I actually started my business making natural haircare because I struggled with postpartum hair loss, but in the process I gained a love for sewing! So, I just incorporated those items into my shop. To be honest, I love it and my customers love a variety to choose from!! You CAN do it and make it work! Now, if you have baked goods and sewn items, that wouldn't be a great business, but if you make lots of crafty things you can make it work! I really hope this helps a lot!! If you have any questions just let me know!! Appreciate you for being here💕
I do farmers markets and craft fairs. My product is all handmade. I too have a variety of items. What works for me is to have my core items that I always have and am known for. Then to also make what ever strikes my fancy. My core items have their own displays, so they are always easily recognizable when walking by. And then my other items, I have flexible displays that I use for those. Put like things together. Of something is its own category, try to give it its own shelf or display. When trying out new items, I usually make 10. Enough to see if there is genuine interest in the item, but not so much I cant donate or gift it if it doesnt sell. Unless you have someone to help you, find (or in my case, make) displays that are light weight but sturdy and that you can move/set up on your own. Do mock set ups in your home, and when you have a aet up you liked, TAKE PICS, and put them on your phone on an easy to find place. Its easy to get overwhelmed setting up and forget how you want things. Dont be affraid to ask other vendors for advice if it looks like they are doing well. Most are willing to help, they were starting out once too.
Sorry you had this experience. I've been an event vendor for decades and had a similar experience twice in all of those years. Both had vendor areas set up away from the main draw area. I got a partial refund from one. I canceled the other before the event because they had sent an event map to vendors that was totally different to the one in the promo flyer. I got a refund after threatening a lawsuit, but it was a real lesson. My mom did events for years and always refused to do long events, including Pigeon Forge. She said it wasn't worth the added expense or the amount of work for the possibility of sales. Promoters promote. They're more interested in all of the money They make. Thankfully, you weren't doing food vending. The both fees are higher, the health department inspection fees, and food products are a "use or lose" inventory. You may want to explore doing trunk shows, private art parties, church events n and even setting up in parking lots (with written permission). Hopefully, your future events are a better opportunity for you.
So sorry you experienced this as well🤗 I've had such great experience with doing markets and even a long fair that I just didn't even expect something like this to even happen. The event is still ongoing until Dec 30th so I'm waiting to see if they will respond then..ans then I'll see what I will do about this! I agree with promoters promote! They have been promoting everyday ever since, but have not gotten back to any of the vendors that pulled out😔 This was definitely a big lesson learned, but still encouraged for better events!
Just found you today and subscribed! This fair sounds like such a bummer. I see a possible class action lawsuit brewing but I don’t know if I would have the energy to go through with that myself 😅 I hope your online sales go well so you can truly put that unfortunate experience out of your mind. Cheers to an amazing 2025 🎉
@NectarHandmade Thank you so much!!💕 yeah, I feel that too. I'm dragging my feet with what to do next because I really just don't want to deal with this...Thank you for the well wishes!! ❤️
*Merry Christmas* to you and your family! Your video just auto played for me and you definitely have a gift for telling stories. I felt like I was sitting and chatting with a friend (complete with some “NO! Tell me you are joking” comments thrown at my screen whilst you were talking (I’m sorry this bad experience & waste of time/money happened to you)….I prefer UA-cam and don’t use IG because I’m also a ‘slow paced’ person and can appreciate that in others! I’m going to subscribe to your channel and check out your other videos. 🎄⛄️🎁
@GreatGreebo Thank you soo much!!!💕 girl, I was just telling you a story through the screen girl!! Such a terrible experience but I hope I can help someone else! We're in the same boat with the slow paced! So glad we connected!!🫶🏾💗
Oh no! That really stinks! My biggest fear 😆. Yes everything does happen for a reason! I also don't do events that get moved from previous years, especially if its temporary and only for that first year. I hope you get the money back, but at least you were blessed, and losing this money wasn't like every penny you had 😅 Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Glad to hear about your shop, because burnout is the most dangerous part of running a small business! Can't wait to see where your business goes! Your videos are very inspiring, and my sister is also wanting to make handmade lotions and and stuff, sort of like your hair care!
Thanknyou so much, Abbi!!💕 this was my biggest fear as well..it's unfortunate, but there is a lesson in all of this! ( never go to a brand new show😂) You're sister should absolutely start her buisness!! I always say go for it and see what happens!❤ Wishing you the very best in your business as well!!🤗
I stopped to watch your video. You seem so nice and positive. I’m so sorry this happened to you and the other vendors. I only did one show, years ago, and it was so much work. A lot of fun but not something I would do again. I subscribed and will go back and binge watch your videos.
Aww hii Vicky!!!🤗💓 Thank you so much! This means a lot to me. So glad you're here!! Yes, markets are a lot and not something for everyone, I completely understand!
They actually have a few outdoor markets this time of year, but they are better suited for the weather! This tent was not the right tent for the weather conditions..girl I was freezing to the bone 😭
Yes as vendors we need to check them out. We had one here they used stock photos to advertise the event. The local vendors knew it was fake but they had people come from 3 or 4 hrs away thinking it was what was advertised. I felt so bad for these people there were more vendor cars than shoppers
Omgg yess, it's so embarrassing for customers to show up to support you and it's nothing like they or you imagined 🥺 in this case they used pictures from another event
Sounds like the organizer of this show weren't well prepared or that they didn't give vendors honest / accurate information about potential customers attending the show. This is so wrong because artists invest so much money and time in stock, transportation and such. You're blessed with such a positive energy - Subscribed because small businesses are important for people and communities to thrive! Be Blessed!
Thank you so much!!😘 yes, I agree. For a show this big they should have been much more prepared! And also more transparent so we wouldn't be blind-sided! Thank you so much for watching 🫶🏾
They advertised to collect their fees, but neglected to organize properly to make it work for both, the customers and the vendors. I realize these events for the last 2 years only the show organizers are the ones who make money. I am in Florida and in my area we don't have many venues to do shows. The shows around this area are very poor.
I am so sorry for that bad experience. I want to attend a fair but I am afraid. But am going to to sign up fair this summer. I am so nervous about doing. You have such beautiful products and I will order some of your hair products and your pillows cases. I went to your website and I didn’t see any pillows cases. I always order from each small business website. I have a small business myself and it is not easy, my daughter just closed because the person who I built my site just took to long, so maybe by the Spring I will be able to launch.
Hi Catherine, you are so sweet💕 thank you so so much!! All my items will be on my shop by the end of next week! As for markets I say that you go for it! Doing a long fair is so different from doing a 1 or 2 day market! They are so so fun and you meet so many people! If you need any help at all, with where to start feel free to message me on instagram😊 also launching a website does take a long time in the beginning, but once you get it going it's easier. I started on Etsy and that definitely helped before I got my own website! Thank you so much for being here🤗
Ive never done such a long event, but my family has had a concessions business for 15 years. We do local events within around a 50 mile radius. Without fail, the larger events put on by professional event planners are a shit show for vendors. Because we’re in food, we still usually do well, but I’ve always felt bad for the makers/crafters. All these big event planners care about is making their big bucks. They cash your vendor fee checks and rake in the ticket money and they don’t care if you do well or not. It’s so frustrating.
Yess, I totally agree with this!! Typically the food vendors do better than crafters, but even in this case thr food vendors didn't get customers as well🥺 they ended up passing out fliers to the vendors for 1/2 prices because it was so slow for them. So sad really
@ ugh…I’ve said for years that vendors should be in charge of the events. Or at the very least someone who has experience being a vendor and understands the struggle and how to cater to them.
It took me 3 years to decided to stop doing state fairs due to the unorganization and the lack of sales May of this year me and my sister decided that this was going to be our last time ever doing any type of fairs. The customers wasn't spending and the only thing that was making money was the fair and the food vendors. It was hurtful and draining to spend over a week at these fairs only to make less than what I spent on the fees and to setup our booth. And it was also draining to have hateful customers that would rather be negative than to spend money
Girl, I feel you on this! It is so draining, especially went you spent so much money and time expecting for a different result! I definitely learned my lesson with this one. Wishing you the best success in your business endeavors!:)
I do not know why your channel popped up. Christmas miracle. You have great crismah- I cannot find the spelling. Just subscribed. If you need some extra cash, you should substitute in the elementary grades. The kids would love you!
I am very hesitant to do shows now. I have been too far to manny that where NOT what I was expecting. I always request handicap spacing. And I have been told that I will have handicap access and get there and expected to cross muddy grass in a wheelchair. Pluss dragging my cart behind me... I dont do shows anymore. I stick to what's local in my town only, and if it's in a PAVED parking lot. Pluss I have had bad experiences with other vendors (karens) not liking when in DID get a spot on pavement and they were in the grass or very unhappy I was put to the front of the vendors row cuz I needed short access to my car to unload and load back up.
Fyi, fire marshalls have told me and my coworkers to never plug a space heater into a power strip or extension cord as it is a huge fire hazzard. They are only supposed to be plugged into wall outlets.
@@shannonramiro6067 Hi, they had an electrical box in each booth for us to plug our heaters into. We just had to keep it below a certain amount of amps!
I'm not sure the organizer is totally at fault for ur lack of sales. I understand the tent set up was not ideal, however wind, freezing temps and lower than expected ticket sales r out of their control. As a business owner, 2024 was our worst yr ever since opening in 09' (upscale lodging/events). Ppl in general are cutting back. Also looking at 2024 Black Friday Sales Events, all of the stores where unusually empty this yr. Gone r the days when ppl used to camp out for deals. Maybe this is a sign for u to put your energy into online shopping only.
Yeah i understand that it may not be all there fault, but they could have told us how many years tickets were actually sold so we could plan accordingly. They emailed saying to expect these amounts of people for each days. I have done lots of markets including one huge fair where the booth fee was actually much higher and I had a great experience and that was this year. I also had another friend who did another 5 week fair and made over $50k..so ppl are still shopping! I feel that it wasn't organized or planned well at all. They could have put systems in place for us to have a better experience for the vendors and customers!
I am sorry this happened to you, please go through small claims court! Don't wait! They may promise you a refund but it won't happen. No they needed you before it even took place, that is why they were replying back to your emails! File suit in small claims court and get all of your money back!
Sun Fest ( multiple times a year) in Ocean City Maryland can be big sales. I know exactly what and where that show was and i can only say Timonium fair grounds is notorious for having these over charge at the dollar events and vendors don’t make the money they need to unfortunately.
@ stay away from Timonium fair grounds. Not many shows do well there because of price of admission tickets. I live in OC most of the year and several festivals down there do big numbers in vendor sales. Bike Week is huge.
@ i think you also learned an expensive lesson of never ever do 1st time events. You learned it early on and never go against that advice again is my best advice to give.
Aww thank you so much, Karen!!💕 I know you were rooting for me and I really appreciate that! I learned so much and I'm glad I was able to at least share so others won't do that same!❤
I would give them 5 years and then try again. I am sorry it was so difficult for you. Outdoor events in winter usually suck unless you are way down south.
Honestly reputation matters and this show had already had a very bad start. Without drastic changes like giving people what you advertise, promoting the many vendors and drastically cutting entry fees I don't see this show making to 5 years. This seems like this was a huge money grab by the organizers that may end in a law suit and/or bad media publicity.
One suggestion is that you could reach out to other vendors and send a group communication (yes, maybe through a lawyer) to demand at least a partial refund.
May the Creator make this situation right for you and the other vendors. Despite the ourcome, I did enjoy your story as I've never seen your videos before. And indeed business does always come with risk.
Thank you so much!! 💓 this was something that we thought of as well. We collectively sent emails, but that may be the next step! And yes, in business we take risks all the time, but this one just wasn't the best!💗
I had a show like this but it wasnt to this extreme. They didnt show the entry fee on the advertisements and the rides were an extra expense no one was aware of. The show has well over 2000 people show up but I only sold $60 of product because everyone felt ripped off at the door. Even my vendor neighbors hardly made sales.
Girl, wow it's crazy how common this is apparently😔 you would think they would want to be transparent to build trust! Sorry you had to go through that as well❤
I feel your disappointment your not alone but every market is different. We tend to create our own vision of the market and blame it on many things when we don't make the money we anticipate. From my experience none of that matters when you have a product everyone needs or wants. Most shoppers looking for a deal,something special or a treasure can careless about anything else. They want what they want and want a deal. Even if it's pulling out a flash light or shopping in the cold believe me nothing stops them. Since it was the first event in that area it's really hard to predict traffic and type of buyers. I think we all prepare for a sell out but I learned to do what's within your budget without creating a loss. I also learned to bring at least one guaranteed item to sell that will cover the cost or half the cost of my booth. I will not do a market unless i have that item and I'm confident there's a buyer. Instead of trying to sell 2500 to 4000 pieces maybe create a few wholesale bundles from your overstock or older inventory in order to quickly recoup your expenses from the market. It's important to have a few high dollar items like a bundle or lot so you can quickly get to your profit.
I totally agree with everything you said!! However, In this event we couldn't even get shoppers off of the walking trails to come see us! I do markets all year round and I have products that I know will sell. The prob here was customers were not even coming close enough to see what we had🥺 their was no signs or anything!
19 days outdoors?!I 😱 I could never!🤣 me and cold are not besties.. So sorry this experience was sooo poor.. Price actually doesn't seem too bad for 19 days but the fact that the tent was different then what you paided for is ridiculous smh
Girl, right!! Me and the cold aren't bestie either, obviously lol😅 yeah the price was very reasonable, I've spent more for shorter shows! It was just a terrible turnout. Thank you so much for watching❤
What a mess. It was a money grab without providing any value for the money - for both the vendors and the participants. Only very experienced organizers should be managing an event of this magnitude and it sounds like it wasn't the case. I've recently started doing craft fairs again after an absence of multiple years and it's been very disappointing regarding how many people actually show up and purchase, so am rethinking everything. This was a great and interesting video Thanks and hoping for better times ahead.
Yes, I totally agree with this! and now hearing other peoples stories it seems to be very common. They are not providing any value for what we are paying for and using complete false advertising. this year I had a pretty great year with shows, this was the only one where i was completely blindsided! I'm wishing you so so much success in your business endeveurs!! I hope this doesnt encourage you, but for you to be aware!
@ not really I have a business license to but I was told that to do business in different states you need a license for each state that you do business in
@terrycaudill8633 that is not necessary. It depends on the actual organization if they require that. If it's a reg craft show you dont need a business license at all. You just have to be sure to take taxes depending on the state. I've done fairs in multiple different states and never had to get a different business loce se for each state
I would have, but the amount of gas and tolls were ultimately not worth it for me. 350 on a Saturday is horrible so during the week I would expect around the same $15 a day which will be me ultimately losing 💰
Hi, I’m looking to become a vendor… I know you keep saying “1st year” was a red flag for not doing this fair, but what were some other red flags that could have been warnings, that this 19-day fair wasn’t a good risk?
Girl, this can be a whole separate video!! There is SO many things to take into account when investing so much into a fair and I have learned so so much! Like, I said I have done one long 10 day fair and it was a success, but it was also partially indoors...this was my very first time doing an outdoor long fair and their is just so many things! I'll write this down for a future video😊
I don't think I've ever been inside of a Harbor Freight store, but I've been hearing so many great things! I have one close to me that I need to check out now. Thank you so much!!💕
I have no idea why this was recommended to me, but I listened to the entire story! You are so engaging! I don’t really have a small business, but I resell my clothes and jewelry and shoes on Mercari.
Aww💕 Thank you so much for taking time to watch!! Maybe one day you will need this info!! Reselling items is also a business🤑 thank you for being here❤
same
Same. Watched video till the end.
Me too!
Same! I was invested in this story! 😂 It reminded me so much of another fiasco in the fiber world a year or so ago. Events are not easy things to do, and folks go ahead and do it anyway. But I’m glad to have seen this, your bonnets are beautiful.
You are amazing. When one door closes, another door opens. I wish you much success. Now you can spend more time with your daughter during winter break.
Thank you sooo much!! Yes, I agree I can now spend MUCH needed time with Xena girl❤ Thank you always for your kind words!
You are so beautifully positive. Even though you had this terrible experience, you've found a way to learn from it and stay positive. I love that!
Aww thank you so much!!! That means a lot to me 💕Thank you for listening!
You can take them to small claims court to get your money back. You don't need an attorney, and court fees are very affordable.
This is my thought as well! Attorney fees will cost more than the actual booth fee. Thank you for this info❤ I'm going to give them some time to reply and then see what I need to do! Ugh this is so annoying we have to deal with this!
If she sign a contract she won't be able to get her money back it states that no refunds will be given once contract is sign. The reason why i know this due to the fact my sister and I used to do local fairs since 2021 we had decided that May of this year would be our last time ever being vendors at any fairs due to situations like hers
@@AdventureswithAsh88I have been to some badly run shows and have gotten refunds on booth space in situations like this.
Specially when you have pictures of a great secure tent and they didn't deliver. Plus, you have their email saying how many people were expected each day.
The organisers of these shows and fleamarkets are always the sure winners in these type of events. It is quite risky now a days to pay such a huge of money in the current economic climate. All the best for your future endeavors.
I know! For a 19-day show $1300 is actually quite reasonable! I paid more for my other long fair- but the outcome was worth it there.
Absolutely, the show promoters are the money makers! Do your homework, please! Check BBB Complaints, etc.
Art buyers or fair goers have no idea how hard it is to make a living or even just make money back on sell what you make. You’re at the peril of the shows directors and promoters. The price of the space you have. And the amount and type of people who are there to stroll around the craft fair or festival. It’s crazy when people think you should basically give your hard work away. I think maybe it’s because no one really knows how hard it is and how expensive it is to actually sell your own merchandise? Or people just truly don’t care and want as much as possible for as little as possible. Yikes that got real grumpy towards the end but it’s true. I hope you are doing well and have a great and successful upcoming year. Cheers!!
Love listening to you! You’re so happy and positive, it’s like a breath of fresh air! 😊
Awww thank you so much, Sally!!! I appreciate you for being here❤
@@xmbeauty1479I love your positive attitude, thank you for sharing.
WHO ARE YOU! 😄 I just found your channel…Or your channel found me! You are sooo…captivating and inspiring to listen to…can’t stop smiling watching you two! You work so hard! What ENERGY you have! I know from personal experience how hard having a small business is ( I had a very similar business) and you are AWESOME 🤩. Your schedule is grueling! Hang in there! I’ll confess you’ve got me motivated to back on my treadmill! I wish you well and many more blessings in 2025! YOU GO GIRL! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽😄
Omggg hi Naomi!!! Thank you for this beautiful comment!! 💕💓 I'm so happy I was able to inspire you!🤗 thank you for being here!!
Whew! I was exhausted just listening to all this. What a nightmare. So sorry this happened to you. This is my first time watching your channel. As a crafter who sells also, I am definitely now a subscriber! Hope you have a Merry Christmas.
@thecraftloft right! I was so exhausted just reliving it to tell what happened😭 Thank you so so much for subscribing, i really appreciate your support!💕 I'm going to check out your channel as well! Have a happy holiday!❤️
You hit the nail on the head with the description, and it actually got worse after you left. This was a great video, and I know something great is coming for you!!!!
I agree we should have made way more money on the second day.
It’s sad that the people attending also had a bad time.
Yess, such a terrible experience, but God got us!! Now, we have this experience to know what and what not to look forward too!
Thanks for sharing. I’m really going to sit back and evaluate all of the shows that I did over the past year. Some were great and some not so much. I now have a feel of the ones that were for me. It was truly a learning experience for me. I didn’t like unorganized events. It’s a pet peeve of mine. Good luck in the upcoming year!😊
Hi Gina!! yes, I'm going to do the same. It is def a pet peeve of mine as well! I pretty much had all my shows down except for the winter months, so now I just have to figure that out and ill be good! wishing you the best success😍
Thank you for sharing your story. I understand your apprehension on signing up for a first-time event. Definitely follow your first mind. Just take this one as a learning experience with bigger and better things to come!! I look forward to hearing about it. 😊
Thank you so much, Jenna!! Yes, going forward I'm going to follow my gut for sure. Thank you for being here🫶🏾💕
First year shows are OK if it's close, on the way to another show, and or really cheap. It's embarrassing when you've told people about a show etc...and then it flops, gets cancelled or... The up side of having made all that product is that you're ready for the next show(s). As for taking pictures for a website HATE IT plus everything I make is one of a kind. Only relented during the shut down and have only maybe 3 times done anything with it since. Always layer up when doing outdoor shows. At the very least keep a bag in the car, long underwear, extra socks, hat, gloves, turtleneck. Weird weather happens even in July.
Exactly right!! The hardest part for me was having to tell people that it was a flop and to not come out. girl, I hate taking pictures too, I really wish i had someone to do it for me lol..but now I have to take pics of all these items:( but you're right at least i have inventory for other shows! Wishing you the best in your business!!
I watched your entire video because you are so articulate and because you demonstrate an abundance of positivity!
Og my goodness, thank you so so much!!❤ appreciate you for being here!
Hi Tina. I’m Tina too, and a new subscriber! I have a small business also. I loved this first (for me) video. You have such a sweet voice and such a good attitude. I’m looking forward to seeing your future videos and hearing about your 2025 business plans. I’m working on mine too lol. Merry Christmas! 😊
Hi Tina!!! That's so cool 🤗 Thank you so much, you are so kind! What do you sell? I love that we all are doing the same thing, so that video will be right on time! Thank you so much for being here❤
I so admire how much effort and patience you show!
Aww Thank you so much for that!! 💕
The event people fumbled the bag. It should have been free to show up for the customers and you collect all the vendor fees. Or charge like 2 dollars to get in or something, money is tight in dec they can't be wasting tons of money just to get in. Now they won't have people wanting to vend with them again
This was my thought exactly! It seemed like they just wanted to hit a certain amount of money, but did not care al all about the vendor or customer experience. So, for next year they are going to lose a lot of business. If it were free even if they had a few kinks to iron out people would be less disappointed in the whole experience!
New subscriber! You just popped up in my feed and just love your attitude and wanted to support by subscribing. Can’t wait to see what you do in the future and good luck💜
Hi, Melissa!!💗 Aww thank you so so much for subscribing!! I really appreciate that!🫶🏾
You showed up in my feed and wow. What a mess. I used to do shows on the side. Weekend or for a week. It’s a lot of work and each show is different and sometimes you need to buy specific equipment for the accommodation or lack thereof. It’s a real learning curve. You made the right call on this one. Also, a space heater needs to be plugged directly into the socket and never on an extension cord or even surge protector. It can start a fire! Great attitude and some events are duds. I’ve never had one this bad but there’s a lot to learn here … not that you didn’t ask all the right questions. Sometimes you get taken. Great attitude a t least you have a lot of stock now!!
This came up as a recommended video. You are so positive about a negative event. I hope better opportunities come your way.
Aww thank you so much!!🫶🏾💕
I have no idea how you ended up in my feed (mostly murder and mayhem 🙃). I subscribed anyway because I really like your vibe. You’re a great storyteller, too. Best wishes in all your ventures 👍🏼
@deeneeweenee- awww thank you so much for subscribing!!!💕🫶🏾
Your storytelling skills are amazing! I'm glad I watched the whole video. Good luck in your future adventures!
Oh my goodness thank you!!! I just wanted yall to feel like how I felt and understand lol😂❤
It looks like a different type of a door is opening for you right now, Tina!!! I was SHOCKED you didn't have more views & subscribers! This randomly came up on my feed & the way you told this story made me feel like I had been here for the whole preparation. I'm angry too! They did not only all the vendors dirty but they did all their own customers dirty too! What a hot mess!!! I hope the algorithm blesses you though & you can get some of that sweet UA-cam money 😂🤣😂
Merry Christmas from Kansas City, Kansas!!! I subscribed so fast! ❤❤❤
Paige!!!! Omggg thank you soo much for leaving this sweet comment!! Girl, we could be angry together lol😭 they did both sides dirty for sure, girl it was a whole mess! Thank you so so much for being here!!💕 I really appreciate this comment!
@@xmbeauty1479 🥰🥰🥰
I am so sorry that this fell through Tina 😢.i believe another door will open
@maureenmildred5064 Thank you so much girlie!!! God always has a better plan:)
Aww I’m really sorry this happened I’ve seen the hard work you put into this and I can’t believe it turned out this way I’m glad you’ve updated us and I love your positive mindset towards the situation I hope you all get a refund because they know they did yall dirty but like you said another door will open and the silver lining is that you get to spend more time with your daughter this holiday season and by gods grace you will make your money back in online sales xx
Thanks you so much sis!! I really appreciate your kind words❤ yes, lots of hard work, but I'm looking on the brighter side! We're small business owners and we're tough😅❤
Hi thank you for sharing your experiences...I am small businesses owner from Delaware 🩷💚...and for 6 years I have done the Kris Kringle Christmas Market in LaPlata Maryland on the Charles County Fair Grounds...It is a three day Market (Friday to Sunday) indoors. This year was the worst event...I barely cleared $1000. No one was really shopping. The people were out...they were drinking (they had wineries and beer dist. there, but barely anyone was shopping. I admire you doing an outside event in the cold. But I truly understand...cause i was hurt.
@anissabrookins-widman1286 Hi, Anissa!!! Such a small world💕 wow, ive been hearing so many stories of fellow small business owners having terrible shows lately🥺 this makes me sad because I know the hard work that went into everything! I'm Wishing you the best moving foward🤗❤️
We do the Kris Kringle also. Money was a little short. But it is a nice show. I am trying to figure out where this 19 day market was. My goodness if they charged 1100 that should have covered the gate.
I sure hope you get your refund, They scammed you,,,,, You are so cheerful and enjoyed listening to you,,
Thank you so much Nina!!🫶🏾💓 yes, they definitely did. It's so unfortunate, but I'm hoping they do something for us vendors & their customers!
Your positivity is truly inspiring.
Aww, thank you so so much Stephanie!!:)
thanks for sharing! it was tough to hear. cant imagine being in your shoes. even though i can only imagine your heartache, i can also imagine your motivation and inspiration now. i know in the future your luck and blessings will double. wish you the best. i do hope one or some of the vendors does sue the event organizers. that was foul play AND THEY KNOW IT.
Thank you so so much!!💕 it was hard for me to sit down and tell you guys what actually happened, but I know this video will help other vendors out there! And I totally agree with you. I'm waiting until next week to see what I'm going to do. ❤
Thanks so much for sharing this information ❤❤❤❤❤
You're so welcome, Yolanda!!!💓
I've done 2 events that placed my.booth outside of the vendor room (in a hallway). There were a few other vendors there too (one was a famous aritust/illustrator who was seated next to me).
Both times we were assured that the hallways were very good locations. They werent.
I sold more to other vendors than to actual customers of the event.
Plus on top of table fees, each city charged a daily "itinerant vendor fee" to sell in their cities ($25 per day-minimum 3 days), even though I had a state seller's permit and business license.
Oh my goodness that seems so unfair:( I agree I was placed in the hallway at one event too and the foot traffic just isnt the same. those spaces should be much much cheaper! Everyday is a new learning experience for us vendors!
It’s tough when you have an experience like that to find the energy to prep for the next one. Thanks for ur honest review. Def gave me some things to look out for.
Yes, you do have to regroup mentally to start the process of going to another event! I hope i helped so you know things to look out for!
OMG! This sounds like that chaotic Ja Rule Fyre Festival from some years ago 😂 I’m sorry that you and the other vendors had a horrible experience and the customers didn’t get what they paid for. I recently did a five day event here in PA and it was a flop. At the end, one of the vendors asked her male counterpart, “Should I throw the vendor badge away?” He responded, “YEAH! They need to throw the whole show away.” 😩
Oh my goodness, I can't believe this is such a common thing. Right, throw the whole show away..that's what I did!!😅 terrible experience, never again!
Get you a jackery generator 1500 W. It will keep everything running and you can take anywhere. Or 1000 watt
Girl, thank you for this! after this experience I need to be geared up!! appreciate you:)
I am so impressed with how you handled everything. And honestly, sometimes knowing when to cut your losses and leave is the smartest thing you can do.
Yess I totally agree, it all needs to make sense!! Thank you so so much💕
Thank you so much for sharing your experience . I just moved to a city in which I will have the opportunity to expand by selling at fairs.
My biggest fear. You seem so positive after all of it. I wish you the best, living and learning ❤
Awww, thank you so much!!💕 I was definitely upset at first, but there was nothing I could do differently so I just have to move forward and learn from this experience! Thank you for listening💗
Things are definitely turning around for you 👏 So many of us are just seeing you for the first time with this video. I liked and subscribed.
WOMAN...I feel this to my core!!! I have yet to spend that much rent or have an event that long (I couldn't physically do it) but I've had some one and two day events that made me want to close the organizer up in my tent! 😂
Kudos to you and I am looking forward to seeing what's next for you! ❣️God Bless honey 💪 Keep Hustling!!!
Thank you so much!!💕
Girl, i feel you on that too lol😭😭 these organizers are just too much!! So glad you are here🤗
Hi, yeah, vending events outdoors in the winter time can be risky.
Also always do research on the coordinators with their previous events. 19 day event with someone new to the city is a risk.
Hopefully, things will work out for you.
Yes, I agree!! These organizers are well established in this area and all over, so lots of vendors came to this event because they have such a great name.
Wow, wow and wow! 😮
I would NEVER leave my stuff outside (a gazebo is as good as outside) for 19 days! Something that long should be done in a warehouse or similar.
Charging so much to public just to get in?! AND so much for a ride?! What were the organisers thinking?!
Curious how many vendors were left by the end of the show. What a major rip off for everyone!
Thanks for sharing, sending love from Down Under ❤
You are adorable and I adore your personality. I heard you mention that you sell bonnets. I'm not sure if they are the kind you can sleep in, but this girl has a ton of hair and is really wanting to buy myself a bonnet or two to sleep in!
Aww, thank you so so much!!💓 yes, I sell bonnets that's you sleep in! I actually just added all the bonnets on my website yesterday! All of our bonnets are satin and reversible! Toddler bonnets can fit children up to 6-8 years old and adult bonnets are good from 8 and up!! 💕
I’m going to this event on Friday night and don’t remember seeing anything about vendors being there. Just lights and rides. It’s a shame they didn’t put the vendors in one of the many buildings on the property.
Right!! They should definitely do that! It's a win for everyone!
Wow! This video geabbed my eye because of my own experience with my local
county fair this year.
I thought I had a bad experience, but you really lost out big!
I ended up just getting my 175.00 booth fee back plus 100.00. And then paid sales taxes on the gross sales!
I have completely lost interest in doing markets after this.
Our event was indoors, but people just were not buying. The only one selling was the lemonade vendor next door. My first day was 0 $!!! The second day was $5.
Iended up donated over $ 2500 worth of my items to a local church for their holiday bazaar.
I had $10,000 worth of inventory!
Mine was a 9 day event, and a hurricane hit the Fair grounds the first day... canceling opening day!😢
I really do appreciate your story!
As for me, I'm going to list the products I did not donate online next year , at the pre- holiday season.
Merry Christmas! I know you are going to be recovering from this event. The good news is the tax deduction you can take for the heavy losses you incurred!❤
Hi Karen, og my goodness, I am so sorry a similar situation happened to you! I know how much wirk goes into making $10,000 in inventory. This definitely knocked me down a little, but i had great shows throughout the year so I still have hope in other shows! I will definitely be more cautious going into another large show though. You have such a great heart to donate that much inventory 🙏🏾💕 Gkd bless you for that!! Wishing you so much success on your business ventures!
@xmbeauty1479 Thank you, Tina!
I am so sorry that show turned into a flop. Like you said though, now you have additional inventory to add to your on line store and since you have that extra inventory I hope you get booming sales on line. I also hope you get your money back from that event. Even if it is the first year, they should have prepped better. The organizers should have visited a lot of other shows to see what is needed to run a successful event. The fact that they have already done other events means they were either just in this show for the payout or got in over their heads or someone who was supposed to be doing certain things bailed on them but the vendors shouldn’t have to pay for those mistakes. My hubby and I just started our craft business and did our first show at a friend’s church’s Christmas Bazaar. It was so much fun. I sew and crochet and I have a sublimation printer but haven’t gotten to use it yet. I also cant sew again yet after spinal surgery last year. I can crochet like my life depended on it but to out my head down long enough to sew is still too painful. My hubby does laser cutting/engraving and makes 3-D Filament items. Fidgets and ornaments and stuff like that. We decided on a name Fiber and Filament Workshop. We haven’t opened our Etsy store yet but we hope to have it opened by the beginning of 2025. (So far we have a facebook page, instagram page and tik tok page but either no or very little content as of yet) We need to get all of our ducks in a row to go from hobbyists to an actual business. Just in time to fill out that new form the federal government is requiring of all businesses. Does the paperwork ever end? Lol.
Anyway, I am glad I found your you tube channel. I like your energy and I wish you only amazing success for 2025!!
Thank you so much for your kind words!! Yes, it's was a bummer because it did turn out to be a flop, but, I'm so grateful that I had an online community and website!
I'm so sorry to hear about your spinal surgery, I'm sure you will be able to get back to sewing soon🙏🏾🤗 also, I love your business name, it rolls off the lounge very easily! I'm going to try and find you on Instagram so I can follow you!
And, I'm sorry to say but the paperwork is always ongoing!! I have an LLC through Legalzoom so I'm very grateful that they email me right away when I need to sign or take care of any new information!! Wishing you so much success on your and your husband's business❤
@ Thank you so much!!😊 I can see myself sewing by end of January (at least that is what I am putting out to the universe) I never thought of using legalzoom! That is brilliant!! I will look them up. I would love a follow on instagram. I will head there now to follow you too. I followed you on here and look forward to many more videos and watching as you kill it at your next market. 😁 Only great things in 2025!! 😁
Wowzer! What an absolute mess! I do a three-day outdoor Christkindl Market in my hometown each December. It's very well organized & we're in wooden chalets. Even with a propane space heater, it's a challenge. I cannot imagine what your organizers were thinking!
Right, I know!! They really didn't think this through. I had a friend at another established show in the same city and everything was so organized and she had the proper outside sheds!
Same exact thing happened to me this year! It was a two day show in November with an experienced promoter. I paid $200 and we saw about 20 customers the first day after being promised hundreds. It was awful!
Omgg!! I'm so so sorry this happened to you too. I don't know what's going on, but I don't like it!! Wishing you success in your other endeavors💕
Really enjoyed listening to you. At the beginning of the video you mentioned that you sell multiple products. I want to start a small business myself, selling multiple handmade products.
But I can't find anyone else on UA-cam doing the same thing.
Everyone I've listened to talks about zeroing in on one or two products for a handmade business.
Selling more may make your shop look busy or crowded and won't attract customers or will confuse them.
But I enjoy making a couple of different things so it's great to see someone successfully making and selling several products. ❤ I feel encouraged.
Could you make a video and share on:
whether you've been told or heard the same thing, even from a customer and how you dealt with it,
how you sell multiple products without getting overwhelmed by different orders and processing times
and how you present your products on social media and your shop so that it doesn't look crowded.
Lots of questions but I'd be grateful for any help. ❤
Hi Elaine!! Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to my video, I really appreciate it!! 💗
Yes, I would love to make a video about having multiple items in my shop!
When I first did my research on opening a business pretty much everyone said to find a niche or " niche down" and it definitely made me feel like I was in a box! As a crafty person like yourself, I enjoyed making a few different things! I actually started my business making natural haircare because I struggled with postpartum hair loss, but in the process I gained a love for sewing! So, I just incorporated those items into my shop. To be honest, I love it and my customers love a variety to choose from!! You CAN do it and make it work! Now, if you have baked goods and sewn items, that wouldn't be a great business, but if you make lots of crafty things you can make it work! I really hope this helps a lot!!
If you have any questions just let me know!! Appreciate you for being here💕
I do farmers markets and craft fairs. My product is all handmade. I too have a variety of items. What works for me is to have my core items that I always have and am known for. Then to also make what ever strikes my fancy. My core items have their own displays, so they are always easily recognizable when walking by. And then my other items, I have flexible displays that I use for those. Put like things together. Of something is its own category, try to give it its own shelf or display. When trying out new items, I usually make 10. Enough to see if there is genuine interest in the item, but not so much I cant donate or gift it if it doesnt sell. Unless you have someone to help you, find (or in my case, make) displays that are light weight but sturdy and that you can move/set up on your own. Do mock set ups in your home, and when you have a aet up you liked, TAKE PICS, and put them on your phone on an easy to find place. Its easy to get overwhelmed setting up and forget how you want things. Dont be affraid to ask other vendors for advice if it looks like they are doing well. Most are willing to help, they were starting out once too.
@@trinam2503This is such great advice!!!❤
@@xmbeauty1479
Thank you ❤
@@trinam2503
So helpful. Thanks.❤
Girllllll!!!! That sucked!! This was helpful for me! Keep up the good work. Hopefully I get to meet you soon!!
Girllll!!! This was CRAZYY😅 Thank you so much! I'm glad it helped😊 Thanknyou for always encouraging me!
Sorry you had this experience.
I've been an event vendor for decades and had a similar experience twice in all of those years.
Both had vendor areas set up away from the main draw area. I got a partial refund from one. I canceled the other before the event because they had sent an event map to vendors that was totally different to the one in the promo flyer. I got a refund after threatening a lawsuit, but it was a real lesson.
My mom did events for years and always refused to do long events, including Pigeon Forge. She said it wasn't worth the added expense or the amount of work for the possibility of sales.
Promoters promote. They're more interested in all of the money They make.
Thankfully, you weren't doing food vending. The both fees are higher, the health department inspection fees, and food products are a "use or lose" inventory.
You may want to explore doing trunk shows, private art parties, church events n and even setting up in parking lots (with written permission).
Hopefully, your future events are a better opportunity for you.
So sorry you experienced this as well🤗 I've had such great experience with doing markets and even a long fair that I just didn't even expect something like this to even happen. The event is still ongoing until Dec 30th so I'm waiting to see if they will respond then..ans then I'll see what I will do about this! I agree with promoters promote! They have been promoting everyday ever since, but have not gotten back to any of the vendors that pulled out😔 This was definitely a big lesson learned, but still encouraged for better events!
They deserve to be sued for what they did.
@staceytempleton1577 Girl, seriously! They really did us wrong..and even the customers are leaving bad reviews on Google too🤦🏾♀️
Sounds like its was a learning experience on both ends. TFS
@@theafricanhut For sure, I take everything as a lesson learned! You are so welcome💕
Just found you today and subscribed! This fair sounds like such a bummer. I see a possible class action lawsuit brewing but I don’t know if I would have the energy to go through with that myself 😅 I hope your online sales go well so you can truly put that unfortunate experience out of your mind. Cheers to an amazing 2025 🎉
@NectarHandmade Thank you so much!!💕 yeah, I feel that too. I'm dragging my feet with what to do next because I really just don't want to deal with this...Thank you for the well wishes!! ❤️
*Merry Christmas* to you and your family! Your video just auto played for me and you definitely have a gift for telling stories. I felt like I was sitting and chatting with a friend (complete with some “NO! Tell me you are joking” comments thrown at my screen whilst you were talking (I’m sorry this bad experience & waste of time/money happened to you)….I prefer UA-cam and don’t use IG because I’m also a ‘slow paced’ person and can appreciate that in others! I’m going to subscribe to your channel and check out your other videos. 🎄⛄️🎁
@GreatGreebo Thank you soo much!!!💕 girl, I was just telling you a story through the screen girl!! Such a terrible experience but I hope I can help someone else! We're in the same boat with the slow paced! So glad we connected!!🫶🏾💗
Oh no! That really stinks! My biggest fear 😆. Yes everything does happen for a reason! I also don't do events that get moved from previous years, especially if its temporary and only for that first year. I hope you get the money back, but at least you were blessed, and losing this money wasn't like every penny you had 😅 Thank you so much for sharing your experience!
Glad to hear about your shop, because burnout is the most dangerous part of running a small business! Can't wait to see where your business goes! Your videos are very inspiring, and my sister is also wanting to make handmade lotions and and stuff, sort of like your hair care!
Thanknyou so much, Abbi!!💕 this was my biggest fear as well..it's unfortunate, but there is a lesson in all of this! ( never go to a brand new show😂)
You're sister should absolutely start her buisness!! I always say go for it and see what happens!❤ Wishing you the very best in your business as well!!🤗
@xmbeauty1479 thank you!
I stopped to watch your video. You seem so nice and positive. I’m so sorry this happened to you and the other vendors. I only did one show, years ago, and it was so much work. A lot of fun but not something I would do again. I subscribed and will go back and binge watch your videos.
Aww hii Vicky!!!🤗💓 Thank you so much! This means a lot to me. So glad you're here!! Yes, markets are a lot and not something for everyone, I completely understand!
Thank you for sharing. I wish you all the luck. Sounds like the organizer is a scammer, shame on them.
Right, exactly! They dropped the ball on this one for sure
Bless your heart 😊
Thank you, Lilly!!🫶🏾💕
It's crazy that they would be having an outdoor market at this time of year
They actually have a few outdoor markets this time of year, but they are better suited for the weather! This tent was not the right tent for the weather conditions..girl I was freezing to the bone 😭
You kept your spirits high! However, they would have to render a refund!!
This!! They need to do something for us vendors! Thank you for watching:)
Hello from Frederick, MD!
Heyyyy Whinny from Frederick!!!👋🏾💕
That was not for the vendors to make money it was by design to grab the money from the customers and the vendors!
Very Teachable Moment...
Yes for sure!!💕
Girl I am so very sorry ❤
Thanks girlie!❤
Never ever do a first year event EVER! OMG the stories I could tell.
Omg! I typically don't either, but the way it was packaged got me 😅 NEVER again!!
@ yes they lied to you. I’d sue take it to small claims court I hope you kept all documentation and pictures of the set up.
14:27 omg i so been there i had a show like that last weekend
I'm so sorry you went through this as well🤗 these organizers gotta do better!
Yes as vendors we need to check them out. We had one here they used stock photos to advertise the event. The local vendors knew it was fake but they had people come from 3 or 4 hrs away thinking it was what was advertised. I felt so bad for these people there were more vendor cars than shoppers
Omgg yess, it's so embarrassing for customers to show up to support you and it's nothing like they or you imagined 🥺 in this case they used pictures from another event
Sounds like the organizer of this show weren't well prepared or that they didn't give vendors honest / accurate information about potential customers attending the show. This is so wrong because artists invest so much money and time in stock, transportation and such.
You're blessed with such a positive energy - Subscribed because small businesses are important for people and communities to thrive!
Be Blessed!
Thank you so much!!😘 yes, I agree. For a show this big they should have been much more prepared! And also more transparent so we wouldn't be blind-sided! Thank you so much for watching 🫶🏾
They advertised to collect their fees, but neglected to organize properly to make it work for both, the customers and the vendors.
I realize these events for the last 2 years only the show organizers are the ones who make money. I am in Florida and in my area we don't have many venues to do shows. The shows around this area are very poor.
I am so sorry for that bad experience. I want to attend a fair but I am afraid. But am going to to sign up fair this summer. I am so nervous about doing. You have such beautiful products and I will order some of your hair products and your pillows cases. I went to your website and I didn’t see any pillows cases. I always order from each small business website. I have a small business myself and it is not easy, my daughter just closed because the person who I built my site just took to long, so maybe by the Spring I will be able to launch.
Hi Catherine, you are so sweet💕 thank you so so much!! All my items will be on my shop by the end of next week!
As for markets I say that you go for it! Doing a long fair is so different from doing a 1 or 2 day market! They are so so fun and you meet so many people!
If you need any help at all, with where to start feel free to message me on instagram😊 also launching a website does take a long time in the beginning, but once you get it going it's easier. I started on Etsy and that definitely helped before I got my own website! Thank you so much for being here🤗
Ive never done such a long event, but my family has had a concessions business for 15 years. We do local events within around a 50 mile radius. Without fail, the larger events put on by professional event planners are a shit show for vendors. Because we’re in food, we still usually do well, but I’ve always felt bad for the makers/crafters. All these big event planners care about is making their big bucks. They cash your vendor fee checks and rake in the ticket money and they don’t care if you do well or not. It’s so frustrating.
Yess, I totally agree with this!! Typically the food vendors do better than crafters, but even in this case thr food vendors didn't get customers as well🥺 they ended up passing out fliers to the vendors for 1/2 prices because it was so slow for them. So sad really
@ ugh…I’ve said for years that vendors should be in charge of the events. Or at the very least someone who has experience being a vendor and understands the struggle and how to cater to them.
Sorry To Hear What Happen To You - But You Have A Great Attitude - Thanks - Calif-
Aww Thank you so much, I appreciate it!!💕
It took me 3 years to decided to stop doing state fairs due to the unorganization and the lack of sales May of this year me and my sister decided that this was going to be our last time ever doing any type of fairs. The customers wasn't spending and the only thing that was making money was the fair and the food vendors. It was hurtful and draining to spend over a week at these fairs only to make less than what I spent on the fees and to setup our booth. And it was also draining to have hateful customers that would rather be negative than to spend money
Girl, I feel you on this! It is so draining, especially went you spent so much money and time expecting for a different result! I definitely learned my lesson with this one. Wishing you the best success in your business endeavors!:)
Where in Maryland was this show? I live near OC would love to know where this was. Would love to network.
Hey girl! DM me on insta: xmbeauty6 and I will let you know! I just didn't want to expose the name on here!
I do not know why your channel popped up. Christmas miracle. You have great crismah- I cannot find the spelling. Just subscribed. If you need some extra cash, you should substitute in the elementary grades. The kids would love you!
Awww that's sooo sweet!! Thank youu!!🤗😘 funny I use to be a nanny!
I am very hesitant to do shows now. I have been too far to manny that where NOT what I was expecting. I always request handicap spacing. And I have been told that I will have handicap access and get there and expected to cross muddy grass in a wheelchair. Pluss dragging my cart behind me... I dont do shows anymore. I stick to what's local in my town only, and if it's in a PAVED parking lot. Pluss I have had bad experiences with other vendors (karens) not liking when in DID get a spot on pavement and they were in the grass or very unhappy I was put to the front of the vendors row cuz I needed short access to my car to unload and load back up.
Oh yes I totally understand why you wouldn't want to do them anymore, that's not cool at all. I'm so sorry you have had those bad experiences🤗
Fyi, fire marshalls have told me and my coworkers to never plug a space heater into a power strip or extension cord as it is a huge fire hazzard. They are only supposed to be plugged into wall outlets.
@@shannonramiro6067 Hi, they had an electrical box in each booth for us to plug our heaters into. We just had to keep it below a certain amount of amps!
I'm not sure the organizer is totally at fault for ur lack of sales. I understand the tent set up was not ideal, however wind, freezing temps and lower than expected ticket sales r out of their control. As a business owner, 2024 was our worst yr ever since opening in 09' (upscale lodging/events). Ppl in general are cutting back. Also looking at 2024 Black Friday Sales Events, all of the stores where unusually empty this yr. Gone r the days when ppl used to camp out for deals. Maybe this is a sign for u to put your energy into online shopping only.
Yeah i understand that it may not be all there fault, but they could have told us how many years tickets were actually sold so we could plan accordingly. They emailed saying to expect these amounts of people for each days. I have done lots of markets including one huge fair where the booth fee was actually much higher and I had a great experience and that was this year. I also had another friend who did another 5 week fair and made over $50k..so ppl are still shopping! I feel that it wasn't organized or planned well at all. They could have put systems in place for us to have a better experience for the vendors and customers!
Those tents look ghetto for real 😂😂
@@maureenmildred5064 😭😭😭 I'm done!!
I am sorry this happened to you, please go through small claims court! Don't wait! They may promise you a refund but it won't happen. No they needed you before it even took place, that is why they were replying back to your emails! File suit in small claims court and get all of your money back!
Stay positive
I don't like vending at places that charge for parking (unless its just downtown) nor charge for entry.
Yeah I agree the turnout is not ad good u less it's a really established event!
Sun Fest ( multiple times a year) in Ocean City Maryland can be big sales. I know exactly what and where that show was and i can only say Timonium fair grounds is notorious for having these over charge at the dollar events and vendors don’t make the money they need to unfortunately.
Deana!! Thank you so much for this recommendation! I may have to check this out!❤ and girlll how did you hit the nail on the head!? I cantt😂
@ stay away from Timonium fair grounds. Not many shows do well there because of price of admission tickets. I live in OC most of the year and several festivals down there do big numbers in vendor sales. Bike Week is huge.
@ i think you also learned an expensive lesson of never ever do 1st time events. You learned it early on and never go against that advice again is my best advice to give.
@deanawells4395 wow, girl thank you so so muchh!! Never againn
Sorry to hear you had a bad experience!!
Aww thank you so much, Karen!!💕 I know you were rooting for me and I really appreciate that! I learned so much and I'm glad I was able to at least share so others won't do that same!❤
I would give them 5 years and then try again. I am sorry it was so difficult for you. Outdoor events in winter usually suck unless you are way down south.
@aliciahart4227 yes, I agree with this!! However, I don't think I wanna try again🤣
@ 🤣😂 I don’t blame you. The cold would have done me in on the first day. My fingers don’t work…. I’m OUT.
Honestly reputation matters and this show had already had a very bad start. Without drastic changes like giving people what you advertise, promoting the many vendors and drastically cutting entry fees I don't see this show making to 5 years. This seems like this was a huge money grab by the organizers that may end in a law suit and/or bad media publicity.
One suggestion is that you could reach out to other vendors and send a group communication (yes, maybe through a lawyer) to demand at least a partial refund.
May the Creator make this situation right for you and the other vendors. Despite the ourcome, I did enjoy your story as I've never seen your videos before. And indeed business does always come with risk.
Thank you so much!! 💓 this was something that we thought of as well. We collectively sent emails, but that may be the next step! And yes, in business we take risks all the time, but this one just wasn't the best!💗
I had a show like this but it wasnt to this extreme. They didnt show the entry fee on the advertisements and the rides were an extra expense no one was aware of. The show has well over 2000 people show up but I only sold $60 of product because everyone felt ripped off at the door. Even my vendor neighbors hardly made sales.
Girl, wow it's crazy how common this is apparently😔 you would think they would want to be transparent to build trust! Sorry you had to go through that as well❤
I’m in Va I been thinking about doing events in MD maybe not
Hey girl! I'm sure Maryland has some great shows! I just didn't have much success with this particular one😭 Wishing you much such in your business💕
It was so suspenseful 😂
Hahaha😂😂😂 just realizing I'm a little dramatic lol!!
Wasn't it though🤤 Chile I was hanging on 2 every word she spit out.
@@simbasnow111 girllll😅😅❤ I had to tell it so yall could understand how i was feeling!!!😂❤
Commenting for the algorithm 😊❤
Aww girl, thank you!!🫶🏾🙏🏾💕
I feel your disappointment your not alone but every market is different. We tend to create our own vision of the market and blame it on many things when we don't make the money we anticipate. From my experience none of that matters when you have a product everyone needs or wants. Most shoppers looking for a deal,something special or a treasure can careless about anything else. They want what they want and want a deal. Even if it's pulling out a flash light or shopping in the cold believe me nothing stops them. Since it was the first event in that area it's really hard to predict traffic and type of buyers. I think we all prepare for a sell out but I learned to do what's within your budget without creating a loss. I also learned to bring at least one guaranteed item to sell that will cover the cost or half the cost of my booth. I will not do a market unless i have that item and I'm confident there's a buyer. Instead of trying to sell 2500 to 4000 pieces maybe create a few wholesale bundles from your overstock or older inventory in order to quickly recoup your expenses from the market. It's important to have a few high dollar items like a bundle or lot so you can quickly get to your profit.
I totally agree with everything you said!! However, In this event we couldn't even get shoppers off of the walking trails to come see us! I do markets all year round and I have products that I know will sell. The prob here was customers were not even coming close enough to see what we had🥺 their was no signs or anything!
19 days outdoors?!I 😱 I could never!🤣 me and cold are not besties.. So sorry this experience was sooo poor.. Price actually doesn't seem too bad for 19 days but the fact that the tent was different then what you paided for is ridiculous smh
Girl, right!! Me and the cold aren't bestie either, obviously lol😅 yeah the price was very reasonable, I've spent more for shorter shows! It was just a terrible turnout. Thank you so much for watching❤
What a mess. It was a money grab without providing any value for the money - for both the vendors and the participants. Only very experienced organizers should be managing an event of this magnitude and it sounds like it wasn't the case. I've recently started doing craft fairs again after an absence of multiple years and it's been very disappointing regarding how many people actually show up and purchase, so am rethinking everything. This was a great and interesting video Thanks and hoping for better times ahead.
Yes, I totally agree with this! and now hearing other peoples stories it seems to be very common. They are not providing any value for what we are paying for and using complete false advertising. this year I had a pretty great year with shows, this was the only one where i was completely blindsided! I'm wishing you so so much success in your business endeveurs!! I hope this doesnt encourage you, but for you to be aware!
@ believe me, I’m aware! But this was a great reminder of all the questions we have to ask and to trust no one!
@MyMountainHomeandKitchen exactly!!❤️
I’m sorry that happened to you guys. They definitely need to refund something.
I agree!!
How do you do different state shows do you have to have different license?
Hi, I have a business license, and I add the show info as a certificate holder for the duration of the show! Hope this helps
@ not really I have a business license to but I was told that to do business in different states you need a license for each state that you do business in
@terrycaudill8633 that is not necessary. It depends on the actual organization if they require that. If it's a reg craft show you dont need a business license at all. You just have to be sure to take taxes depending on the state. I've done fairs in multiple different states and never had to get a different business loce se for each state
@ OK now that was a great help. Thank you so much.
You're so very welcome!@@terrycaudill8633
If I spent 1300$ I would go all 19 days just because of that. But I understandg why you pulled out. It sounds like it was a shit show.
I would have, but the amount of gas and tolls were ultimately not worth it for me. 350 on a Saturday is horrible so during the week I would expect around the same $15 a day which will be me ultimately losing 💰
Good lord, they should have had this inside….19 days in horrible tents?!
Girl, yess!!
I hate photography as well!!
Sorry that your event was bad. I’ve been there and it definitely sucks!
Thank you, Tracey!!❤ I'm glad I'm not the only one! I dread photography days so much 😅
This sounds like it was organised by the same person as Wool and Folk 2023, if organised is the right word!
Girl, I'm not sure who that organizer is, but they need help😅
Hi, I’m looking to become a vendor… I know you keep saying “1st year” was a red flag for not doing this fair, but what were some other red flags that could have been warnings, that this 19-day fair wasn’t a good risk?
Girl, this can be a whole separate video!! There is SO many things to take into account when investing so much into a fair and I have learned so so much! Like, I said I have done one long 10 day fair and it was a success, but it was also partially indoors...this was my very first time doing an outdoor long fair and their is just so many things! I'll write this down for a future video😊
Harbor Freight for zip ties--cheap! Your positive attitude will go a long way towards success.
I don't think I've ever been inside of a Harbor Freight store, but I've been hearing so many great things! I have one close to me that I need to check out now. Thank you so much!!💕