Craft show advice:
I have done several craft shows so I feel that I do have good advice to offer. The following information is just what I’ve learned over time about what works best. I basically work with jewelry…who doesn’t these days!
Types of shows:
I have done open house parties with my friend who does Mary Kay. What this does is brings in two different sets of clients. Usually someone will buy makeup and jewelry because they don’t want to leave one or the other out. She and I have done maybe a few of these together. We don’t make too much profit, but a lot of times gain new customers. The most important thing is to have fun and stay positive because you will always learn something new each time you do a show.
I only do shows that cost less than $100. This is because you never know how much you will sell and it will ensure you walk away with a profit. I always feel better if I make my show money back and then some. I’ve done free shows with the Fine Art Society in Fayetteville. Those are fun because I got to hang out with fellow artisans. I always did well at those shows because jewelry costs less than art work and I was the only jewelry lady at the time. I did a show at one of the local high schools, which I plan to do again. This show I didn’t make much, but the crowd was amazing and I plan to do better next year. One key tip I’d like to give you is that you should always have a seasonal item. Seasonal items are a hit and a sure sell. This particular show was at Christmas time.
Doing shows with a friend. This can be tricky! If you are sharing a table, be careful not to look too cluttered. Your other option is to just get two booths next to each other. If your working with someone else, be sure to not steal their customers. You can even help sell each others items. It is nice to have someone man your table in case you need to run to the bathroom or get food. Plus those long shows can be fun to have a friend with you.
Displaying your product:
This is so much fun! I suggest setting up the night before your show so it won’t take as long the day of. I would also say you need to find out whether you’re bringing your own table or if they are providing one. Know what size table you will be using. I can not stress this enough. ~Make sure your display is neat and eye catching. A good rule of thumb is to start high and work low. You can use boxes and books under your cloth to get the height you need. Think outside the box when you’re shopping for displays. Don’t just use the typical jewelry displays….you can make your own or use things that jewelry would look good on. I’ve used mirrors, big conch shells, serving dishes, 3 tiered stands, place mats etc. Get creative!
Scope out your competition:
Do a little observing of the other booths when you walk around. You will get display ideas, pricing and make new friends. I’ve met some really nice people at shows. I’ve even got offered to do a show while at a show. Other vendors can tell you about upcoming shows. I met a lady who does PMC and ended up taking a class with her. She and I have become good friends and I’ve learned so much from her. It is nice to meet new people and to learn from them. Oh, almost forgot to tell you... I’ve noticed that booth vendors are the ones that do all the purchasing. I’ve had people from other booths buy my items and I’ve bought so much from other vendors. Of course you end up spending your profit, so you do have to be careful of that. ;)
After the show:
Make sure you have business cards to hand out. All of my packaging and business cards match. This is good for presentation. Lets the customer know you care about what you do and that you sell quality work. Your business card should have a web address on it, so that they can buy something again. You want to work up a repeat customer base.
In conclusion, I hope you have noticed the most important things to take away from doing shows. Make sure you don’t spend a lot on your booth so you’ll make a profit. Of course the cost of a show usually is equivalent to how big a show is. The more expensive shows I leave to the bigger people. Make sure that you have a capturing display. Make sure you are friendly and talk to everyone that walks by your table. If you’re sharing a booth, be courteous to the person you’re sharing with. Make every show a learning experience. Most important bit of advice…..Have fun!
What it’s all about:
It’s not always about the money. I try to make my prices comparable to store prices. If you purchase from me, you are allowing me to continue what I love to do. A person can go broke doing art projects. Yea, you can shop at kohl’s and get something cheaper, but that special uniqueness won’t be there. Having something someone made, makes your piece better and more valuable to you. You will never see someone else with what you have….most likely!
To me, it’s more fun to support the artist!
