Have you just signed up for your first craft show? Preparing for your craft business’ public debut may be exciting, but it can also be extremely unnerving. Here are some tips to help you get ready for the show:
1) Experiment with different setups.
Your booth display can greatly affect your sales, so put a lot of thought into how your booth will actually look. Find out the dimensions of your designated space ahead of time so that you can play around with different booth arrangements. It helps to take pictures of your different setups so you can see what works and what doesn’t.
2) Be flexible.
While you should definitely have a specific booth layout in mind ahead of time, you should also definitely have a backup plan (or two). You may have to deal with unexpected layout issues and requirements on the fly.
3) Stock up on inventory.
It may be difficult to determine just how much inventory to prepare for a craft show, but it’s always better to be overstocked. Don’t join a craft show only to take custom orders when your limited stocks run out. Give shoppers a lot to look at and a lot to buy!
4) Put some thought into your prices.
Pricing is always a little tricky, but it helps to have a wide price range of products available. By offering items in various price points, you’ll have a little something for everyone.
5) Don’t just sit there.
Don’t just sit behind your table and stare at the people passing by. Make customers feel welcome in your space by getting out there and talking to them! Tell these shoppers about your beautiful items and let them know why they’re worth purchasing.
6) Hand out business cards!
Many shoppers will show interest in your items, but will probably not make any purchases. Handing out business cards will make it easier for them to order your items at a later date or occasion.
7) Take advantage of the opportunities.
Your primary reason for joining a craft show may be to make a lot of sales—but selling your products shouldn’t be your sole motivation. Put effort into marketing your products, too. Take the opportunity to network with both vendors and customers, hand out business cards, and get people to sign up for your mailing list.
8 ) Befriend your neighbors.
You’re bound to come across some of the same vendors at future craft shows. Make friends with your fellow vendors and you may be able to learn from each other’s stories and suggestions. It also helps if you need a friendly face to watch over your booth while you go for a restroom break.
Hopefully, these tips help you out at your first craft show. The most important tip of all, of course, is to have fun!
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