Dont ever feel embarrassed, I really felt for you making no sales but remember you showed up. You gave it a shot and put your name out there. I hardly make sales myself but get compliments just like you did. We all will have our time in the spotlight and start making huge sales. Keep going deep breathe and remember your passion.
omg this feedback is so sweet. Thank you for the kind words of encouragement! I had a market weekend that went well last weekend so it did feel good to not feel embarrassed again haha. Vilog should be up by the end of the day... hopefully. Because I have another market tomorrow LOL If you don't mind me asking, what types of products do you sell? Curious! And again, thank you for this comment
The economy this and last year sucks for nonessential products. It is valid to feel the way you are feeling, and this is a great idea to share your feelings as I know it is relatable. It does get better too. You have the skills to advertise yourself and I believe that you can grow as you go. ❤
That is so sweet of you to say, thank you so much! It's true that economy isn't doing great. I totally get it! I'm hopeful that it will get better and easier, and comments like yours are 100% helping.
Stumbled upon this! I've learned that for Vancouver markets and cons people tend to be so much pickier on what they buy, its sooo catered to the demographic! And it usually has nothing to do with your own work, its just you happen to be somewhere were people just aren't your intended audience. I recommend talking to other people at the markets and asking if they have a fb group or discord they all share, I found it helps so much to talk to other artist and see what's popular in the area, not only in art style/vibe but specific types of items. I wish I had some resources I could share but I dont live in Van anymore ^^' Hope things start to find their flow soon
@@TheMoonPiercer thanks so much! I've found that to be the case as well over the next few months! The same market won't even do the same two months in a row. So strange! I find that my demographics are within music festivals and conventions so far. Thanks so much for your input on this!! ❤️
Hey no worries…wasn’t a waste of time… you invested in learning from these growing pains that will make your future endeavors that much easier and much more precise with experience… looking forward hearing about great successes fromya
Thank you so much for those kind words! I have since updated my table so many times and have had successful events, but I definitely learned from this weekend for sure! Mainly to never expect anything haha
I feel every word of this. Been doing a few shows a year for the last 10ish years and I go through this every year. The build up, nonstop work, and anxiety leading up to a show just to be like utterly disappointed can be so crushing. Especially when hundreds of $ are tied up in it! You just gotta really hang on to the connections you make with the other vendors, show organizers, random shoppers and chalk it all up to a learning experience and a test run of your setup to look for ways to improve. I usually bring my wife & kiddo and my bestie to help so if the show is a bust at least we can have our own tent party lol. Wishing you the best luck at your upcoming shows!
Aww that's so wholesome! I am mostly on my own at those shows since my partner needs to drive my son for his weekend classes, so iPad sketching it is 😂 Thanks for sharing your experience!!
Must be discouraging to put in the work for markets just for them to not go well. I’ve been hearing a lot of artists/small business owners talking about how things have changed and how tough sales can be. Makes me scared that I’m late to the game and that it would really heartbreaking to try. It was nice finding your channel. You’re very talented. All the best to you.
Oh my goodness! That's very sweet of you to say, thank you! And I agree, it's very scary, but you are never ever late to follow your dreams. It's hard work, (very hard work) but it is SO SO SO worth it. I just had a market weekend where it was the opposite - my table was doing great while others were struggling. I'm currently editing it and it should be out soon - please please PLEASE don't give up!! Showcase your dreams! And if you have instagram, etc, I'd love to see what you do!!
Markets are hit or miss. I had a fair on Sunday and I, like you, had my hopes way too high! Ended up getting disappointed in my self. Love your welcome. Keep going 🥰
I've had five events this year so far (not counting two canceled because of rain) and one has been really good, one a small profit, and three disasters mostly due to attendance. The general feeling among vendors this year is that people are not buying like they used to. Keep putting yourself out there.
That's what I keep hearing from experienced vendors, too! Deciding to start this business this year feels like I've chosen the Hard Mode life challenge 😂 Thanks for your comment!
Totally sucks and you're definitely allowed to be emotional about it! It's a good thing you are, shows you care. However, all the Canadians whose market vlogs I have seen from the April 20th weekend had a sucky experience. Seems like there was just way too many other events going at the same time. Really good the newbies hardest as the more known people can get their followers to pop by and create a crowd. All in all, brave of you to go at this thing, applaud yourself! Personally I'm too scared to even start selling stuff (want to, but where etc. and the only place I know would have a good fit audience wise costs upwards of 500 -- that's like a month's rent for a weekend) so I'm just so excited for everyone who just *do* things!
Aww, that's so dope of you! Thank you! I know which shows you're talking about - I would not feel comfortable paying 500+ for a show, unless it's a convention for my type of crowd haha I didn't realize there were other bloggers who talked about the April 20 weekend! Now I'm curious! but thank you so much for your feedback
I absolutely love your editing style and the positive vibes on the footage, even though I know you were very down during them. I am just starting markets myself and so far have barely made a profit at 4/5 markets. But I'm learning so much, finding better venues and organizers, and resolved to stay positive and just track my growth.
I think that this is the right mindset to have, for sure! Thanks so much for this beautiful comment! It means a lot! What types of markets do you do, if you don't mind me asking?
@@SquirrelSprout I started with brewery markets because they're SO common here but they really aren't my vibe. Searching for more "craft" markets because I paint wood and make earrings. Most of the craft markets are happening this summer/toward Christmas so I am trying other things in between to feel them out. I also keep finding markets I would love to do when I'm already booked, so I am bookmarking and making notes for next year! Making vendor friends along the way and having them share where they vend is exciting and helpful!
@@evaempress That is super insightful, thank you! I didn't realize so many places held markets until I started applying to them, but brewery market is new to me! haha Good luck in your search as well!
I wish I lived nearby so I could come see you at the markets! I know it can be really discouraging not getting as much interest, I used to help my mom at craft fairs when I was younger and sometimes it's just tough. Your resilience and determination to make this work is really admirable and I'm really looking forward to watching you grow and succeed. ❤
Have you considered going inside a permanent vendor market? I’m not sure what is in your area as I’m an hour west of Toronto….but we have a permanent market in our store and your type of items always sell well. We’d love to have someone like you in The Market so hopefully you find success. Best wishes.
Oooh, we have those around here, too! There are "Makers" that are pretty popular, depending on location. When I can afford it, I'd love to join one of their locations, but at $300~ for a minimum of 3 months, I'm not sure I want to risk that loss right now. And thank you for the kind message! It's super nice of you to say
#cryitout , you are doing great Val, just a few set backs but don't be discouraged by this, you are out there trying and thats better than never doing it. ❤
I just subscribed after this video ❤️THANK YOU for being transparent, even when things haven't gone well. I'm a beginner at selling my stuff too. I've been lucky so far in that I've had really just THE lowest stakes, with my uni selling my stuff for me so I have no fees to worry about. Even so, there has been dispointments. On free comic book day, my uni ran a table in the basement of a local comic shop and I only ended up selling ONE thing all day. I'm also lucky in that I live in an artsy city in the UK, and there's art and craft events, conventions and artisan shops that sell local artists stuff everywhere. Do you have any small local comic shops, coffee shops, artisan shops or something similar near by? It can be worth approaching them with some of your work and asking if they'd be willing to stock your stuff? They'll usually take a percentage, but there's something to be said for the audience they can reach. Not as good as getting in on anime/nerd/artist/comic conventions, but they see people from all walks of life. Make sure that if they agree, you have a stack of business cards to leave with them too. Girl, keep at it. Your stuff looks amazing. Keep up the grind, I'm routing for you ❤️ Your display looks amazing btw. Love the peg boards! If I was to give you some advice from what I've seen, you need something "chonky" to sell. Button badges/pins, acrylic charms, enamel/metal/wooden pins. It just seems to be something that draws people over, and also something kids are more likely to want. I think with prints there's limited space to display them, so people are picky, and the issue with stickers is that once you've placed it, it's done, so people feel overly precious with them and devalue them a bit since they're "one and done". Wearables/accessories have this reusability to them so people seem more willing and less picky with them. Higher investment cost, but not as high as you'd probably expect, especially if you DIY stuff. Vograce and Zap Creatives are good options for some "chonk" items and have some rotating deals (Zap had a deal that was £35 GBP for 50 wooden pins, so I was able to make my money back at my first convention through my uni's table ;) ). Or you could get like a button press from Amazon or Aliexpress and make your money back quick since blanks are so cheap. I'm following, look forward to your future stuff! ❤️
Oooo I'm not sure about the, coffee shops and artisan shops but I will definitely check it out! Thank you for the suggestion! I need to be organized in everything before I start selling at shops. I can't even update my own Etsy hahaha Your comments mean the world to me! Thank you so much, you are so super sweet!! You're absolutely right about the sticker thing, too. I often get the "I won't know where to put them" comment. I do have acrylic charms and pins, but in very low quantity. What I need to do is sit down and make a mock-up of a 6x4 table, so where and how I could display everything on there. That's awesome that you're able to get 50 wooden pins for £35 GBP! For me it would probably equal to $80CAD after conversion though lol. BUT! I am sure I can look around, or even get a button press. thank you SO much for the feedback and suggestions! I highly appreciate it!
Thanks so much! Looking back on it now, I'm not as emotional, hahaha - but they really were a hindrance! It's definitely a lesson learned. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Just stumbled across this VLOG and I can so relate!! I have been vending at shows and cons for 30 years. And have had many moments like you have experienced in this video. I hope you have more positive moments than not as you move forward. This is already almost a month ago - so I'm hoping that when I go look for more vlogs that it's much more successful!! You have a cute set up! You do have lots of room to grow it - so much space to go up!! I also think that cons - big cons - are the perfect venue for you. Also people go to cons to spend $$$!! I just hit the follow button on your Twitch so I hope to catch a stream soon. Look forward to hearing of your successes!!
That is so sweet of you! Thank you!! I have had good experiences so far, and yesterday was my first outside market! I'll be editing that vlog this week. My table setup keeps changing LOL I am trying to find the best way for everything to fit in my car and to easily be set up on my table and down at the end of the day. I think i found a solution, which I'll be working on soon... I can't wait for my first con! That's going to be great. Here in Canada, there aren't a lot, so getting in one is nearly impossible. But I won't quit just yet! Thanks so much for leaving a comment! 30 years of experience, that's amazing!! Congratulations!! Let me know what username you use on twitch so I can recognize you! :D
yeah happens to us all hun. Did you take note of people who were doing well and what they were selling?Also quite good to check out markets before you do them to see if you're a good fit. Also look at other stalls setups to see if you can improve. It gets better as you learn new stuff.
Absolutely! Thanks so much for those comments! I couldn't apply to any art/craft/cons when I decided to start this journey as I was too late, as I'm doing general markets for now. Soon the geeky/pop culture types of shows are going to start opening their applications though, and I can't wait! I keep changing my setup everytime haha, maaan. Feels like a never ending thing!
this is SO hard. it took me a good year before i even worked up the courage to do a market. I did one two weeks ago where i made $60, drove 140 miles. I feel this struggle so hard. I also have had luck on some where i almost clear 1K! Its all sort of a dice roll! Heres to hoping your next market is fruitful and worthwhile!
omg that is a long way to drive for that amount of money! That must have been heartbreaking, oof! Thank you for sharing your experience. here's a successful markets!
@@SquirrelSprout overall i was a really good sport about it. I learned a ton about simplifying my setup, how to market products to a different crowd than im used to and a much more efficient breakdown post pop-up! Went to the same place the following weekend and had a great time and good sales!
@@MelMitchJackArt That's crazy! haha! I'm glad you had a great time that weekend! Also, I LOVE your videos! I'm so glad you reached out here and left a comment because I love your content :D I'll be talking to you soon for sure!
Oof i feel ya dude. I did a craft market on the 5th of May and only made $11 after spending $60 on the table. You gotta try a few different kinds of shows and venues. I wish we had more craft or vendor shows geared towards pop culture here
Right? My groceries look very flimsy with $11 profits, too lol Are you from BC as well? If I find more markets for pop culture / art etc I can definitely let you know! And I'll most likely update with a vlog, too haha.
@@RoseMegill Oooo, I don't know if you watch Hannah over at www.youtube.com/@itshansstudio but they are also from ON and do markets! Should definitely check them out :D
I've had two failed events at the start of the year. It happens, unfortunately, but it will get better! I think your work looks great and you definitely have what it takes to make it.
omg that is super sweet of you to say, thank you so much for the encouragement! I'm just done another weekend of market which surprisingly went well for me, so... still learning how this whole thing works haha!
Keep your head up! You're putting this out there which is super BRAVE of you and I've had the same experience with my small business!!!! I can have a $2,000 night and then a $200 night the very next week- it's about the customers, the vibe, and so much else- it is definitely NOT YOU!
it can be so hard starting out as a vendor at markets. Eventually you will find the perfect market for your stuff. Don't give up! WE've all been there, your set up looks great!
also... I am a market organizer in Edmonton and I can tell you that when ppl apply I never look at how many followers they have. I look at content and how engaged the applicant is. I know this is the case for a lot of organizers so don't let that deter you from applying to Cons and other events, you would be perfect for so many different types of events.
@@a.d.richardson7877 Oh my gosh, this is very encouraging! Thank you so much for your nice comments and for that tip! I'm always scared that because my social media is pretty new, they might dismiss me... So that's super good to know :)
another tip..when you do markets where you know there are kids mainly..put the stickers in front..i put out some freebie individual wrap candies as freebies to lure people in too lol
may 5th was my market but it was washed out due to rain how ever i had alot of stuff this year made no worrys right our rain date is the 19th lets hope people will come during may we have communions baby showers birthdays extra so our island is busy during month sof may may hurt our venders from bringing home da money. if worse came to worse ill have more inventory stocked for the next year. much luck dont give up.
That's very sweet of you, thank you! And I'm sorry about the rain ruining your market, that blows!! Hopefully all that inventory will be sold very soon for you :)
Your video put me through an emotional rollercoaster. First, I was laughing, then I was crying after your first day. Then I was hopefully for day two, but sad when it didn’t go well. I really wanted to give you a big hug! I want to say this: You did NOT fail! You have learnt and grown from this experience. ❤ Keep going; you’ve got this! Oh, I love the editing! 💜💜💜 You got a new sub 😊
I have those kinds of markets all the time. I have gotten over that embarrassment phase and spend the networking and people watching. I talk to all the people as they walk by and do the NPC thing completely. Talk to the kids and animals. I have display shelves for this upcoming season and done some switching around and thinning the herd of things i offer. Perhaps i had to much stuff for people when they check my stuff out. Every market/fair is a lesson for me. I just keep trying to learn all of them. I don't use social media much as where i live all they do is facebook around here 😕
oh my gosh, yes the Facebook scene is big here in certain areas too haha. I'm an Instagram person myself. should put your stuff on insta anyway so you can show others what you do! Maybe that could get the ball rolling... Thanks so much for your comments and for sharing your experience! I really appreciate it! I LOVE that you have display shelves for upcoming seasons! That's SO smart!
I do craft fairs (markets) here in the U.K. & it's very very hit & miss. Some days are great which means I'm beading like crazy to build my stock again some are awful.
❤ it’s hard I know - started last year and had 2 good ones and 2 that didn’t cover travel expenses. Did 3 so far all new and didn’t cover travel for all 3. It’s been rough. Live and learn 😅😅 I don’t do what you do at all but I watch a lot of cons and they seem like a big investment but the returns seem to be better.
Oh no! Travel expenses are ridiculously high, too! That's not cool at all D: I watch a lot of con vids as well (one of my fav is peppercut studios' vlogs) and everytime I see their expenses I'm like D: Yoooo.... But then they make 3 times the amount haha
Hi, this is the 1st video of yours I've watched. But I've done craft shows for the last 15 years and I'm also an artist (in the US). My table is more diverse as I do paintings, cards, plushies, floral arrangements, etc. But I hate to see you struggle in your markets. Your art is good, but I have a couple of thoughts. You can't control things like the economy. But if your market had a decent turnout and people weren't gravitating to your booth then it's either your display or that it wasn't your crowd. I think comic cons or school craft fairs would be good for stickers and digital artwork. But even then a lot of your items are blocked by the tall side pieces. So when customers are looking down the aisle they can't really see what you're selling. Your products aren't accessible to them to "shop" from a distance. People like to kind of look down the aisle before they go to a booth. So maybe rethink your side wall configuration. Gotta grab their attention to draw them in. Just a thought. Hope your next show is amazing. 😊
You are so insightful! Thank you for those tips! I have redesigned my walls (yet again hahaha) and the last market I was at seemed to have brought more attention to my products! So you are absolutely right that being tall and loud will help! I'm editing the video as we speak (it is a longer one as the market was a 2 day one) and reflecting a lot on my display! Your feedback is super appreciated, thank you so much for your help!
@SquirrelSprout oh good. I'm glad you got more attention/traffic this time. 😊 I've changed my booth and items so many times over the years. Lol. Trends change, inspiration changes. I subbed so I can watch your journey. 😊 Not sure how it is in Canada, but in the US, people are pretty burned out on Christmas spending. So, I use Jan-April to work on inventory. Everything I make is handmade and time-consuming. But those months may be better used working on your channel, getting monetized? Prep for market season and online sales (if you have a website or Etsy). But summer and holidays are where most of us make the bulk of our sales. 😊
@@katdelrio5316 I am learning that as well! There are maybe a handful of markets I would still like to attend during these months next year, but I definitely won't do 3 or 4 a month haha! Thanks so much for the sub! :D
That's a good idea! I've added more frames instead of just the prints, but we will see how it goes at this weekend's markets. I keep rethinking my setup 😂 but you are right! It might be too much. Sometimes less is more!
Please don’t feel defeated. Been to bad shows and not sold one thing and then the next one I sold over $1,000.00. I see from your products that you need to be at an Anime Con (Convention). Your items are really good but you need to reach the correct audience. Craft shows draw other people - you are correct it is not your demographic. ANIME!!!! People is for sure what you need. GOOD LUCK AT YOUR NEXT SHOW!!
Thanks so much for those beautiful comments! I am trying to get into anime conventions but it's so hard here in Canada lol. there are not a lot of them and there is fierce competition D: But I am definitely applying!
Best of luck at the future ones. Craft fairs are terrible for me, I do small cons like library conventions and such. Signage for the stickers hopefully will help next time. Dont let not having enough followers deter you from doing cons. Its all about your work and how you present it. You can do it! I'll follow you on twitch and ig, lets connect art friend!
That's so nice of you, thank you!! There aren't a lot of cons in western Canada and applying to them seems impossible! I waited until the booths opened for anirevo today. Refreshed so often, then all of a sudden it said 3 left! Put it in my cart, too late it was gone 😂 with? That first come first serve deal is brutal!! I'll follow you right back, thanks so much!
@@SquirrelSprout oh wow that is brutal. Sorry you didnt get a table. Where I am, we have this thing called first Fridays where all the businesses downtown have popups or different events that brings a lot of the people in the area to shop esp. on the holidays. Maybe something like a local brewery can have popups or team up with one to make an event. I would be happy to share how I do things here and see if you can apply them to your area.
Sorry about the lengthy rant at the end! I had a lot to say about my process of preparing and attending markets while juggling life. D:
Dont ever feel embarrassed, I really felt for you making no sales but remember you showed up. You gave it a shot and put your name out there. I hardly make sales myself but get compliments just like you did. We all will have our time in the spotlight and start making huge sales. Keep going deep breathe and remember your passion.
omg this feedback is so sweet. Thank you for the kind words of encouragement! I had a market weekend that went well last weekend so it did feel good to not feel embarrassed again haha. Vilog should be up by the end of the day... hopefully. Because I have another market tomorrow LOL
If you don't mind me asking, what types of products do you sell? Curious! And again, thank you for this comment
The economy this and last year sucks for nonessential products. It is valid to feel the way you are feeling, and this is a great idea to share your feelings as I know it is relatable. It does get better too. You have the skills to advertise yourself and I believe that you can grow as you go. ❤
That is so sweet of you to say, thank you so much! It's true that economy isn't doing great. I totally get it! I'm hopeful that it will get better and easier, and comments like yours are 100% helping.
Stumbled upon this! I've learned that for Vancouver markets and cons people tend to be so much pickier on what they buy, its sooo catered to the demographic! And it usually has nothing to do with your own work, its just you happen to be somewhere were people just aren't your intended audience. I recommend talking to other people at the markets and asking if they have a fb group or discord they all share, I found it helps so much to talk to other artist and see what's popular in the area, not only in art style/vibe but specific types of items. I wish I had some resources I could share but I dont live in Van anymore ^^'
Hope things start to find their flow soon
@@TheMoonPiercer thanks so much! I've found that to be the case as well over the next few months! The same market won't even do the same two months in a row. So strange! I find that my demographics are within music festivals and conventions so far. Thanks so much for your input on this!! ❤️
Hey no worries…wasn’t a waste of time… you invested in learning from these growing pains that will make your future endeavors that much easier and much more precise with experience… looking forward hearing about great successes fromya
Thank you so much for those kind words! I have since updated my table so many times and have had successful events, but I definitely learned from this weekend for sure! Mainly to never expect anything haha
I feel every word of this. Been doing a few shows a year for the last 10ish years and I go through this every year. The build up, nonstop work, and anxiety leading up to a show just to be like utterly disappointed can be so crushing. Especially when hundreds of $ are tied up in it! You just gotta really hang on to the connections you make with the other vendors, show organizers, random shoppers and chalk it all up to a learning experience and a test run of your setup to look for ways to improve. I usually bring my wife & kiddo and my bestie to help so if the show is a bust at least we can have our own tent party lol. Wishing you the best luck at your upcoming shows!
Aww that's so wholesome! I am mostly on my own at those shows since my partner needs to drive my son for his weekend classes, so iPad sketching it is 😂
Thanks for sharing your experience!!
Must be discouraging to put in the work for markets just for them to not go well. I’ve been hearing a lot of artists/small business owners talking about how things have changed and how tough sales can be. Makes me scared that I’m late to the game and that it would really heartbreaking to try. It was nice finding your channel. You’re very talented. All the best to you.
Oh my goodness! That's very sweet of you to say, thank you! And I agree, it's very scary, but you are never ever late to follow your dreams. It's hard work, (very hard work) but it is SO SO SO worth it. I just had a market weekend where it was the opposite - my table was doing great while others were struggling. I'm currently editing it and it should be out soon - please please PLEASE don't give up!! Showcase your dreams! And if you have instagram, etc, I'd love to see what you do!!
Markets are hit or miss. I had a fair on Sunday and I, like you, had my hopes way too high! Ended up getting disappointed in my self. Love your welcome. Keep going 🥰
Oh no! I'm so sorry it happened to you too. Thanks for the words of encouragement! And here's to better fairs!!
I know it's been over a month since this video, but I'm sending you big hugs, and you're super talented. Best wishes for future markets.
Oh my gosh you are so sweet!! I have been learning a lot since then and definitely have had more ups than downs! Thank you so much for your comment ❤️
I've had five events this year so far (not counting two canceled because of rain) and one has been really good, one a small profit, and three disasters mostly due to attendance. The general feeling among vendors this year is that people are not buying like they used to. Keep putting yourself out there.
That's what I keep hearing from experienced vendors, too! Deciding to start this business this year feels like I've chosen the Hard Mode life challenge 😂 Thanks for your comment!
Keep on working on your business. You are so sweet funny and talented. Sending you virtual hugs.
Oh my gosh, YOU are so sweet! thanks so much for those comments!
Totally sucks and you're definitely allowed to be emotional about it! It's a good thing you are, shows you care.
However, all the Canadians whose market vlogs I have seen from the April 20th weekend had a sucky experience. Seems like there was just way too many other events going at the same time. Really good the newbies hardest as the more known people can get their followers to pop by and create a crowd.
All in all, brave of you to go at this thing, applaud yourself! Personally I'm too scared to even start selling stuff (want to, but where etc. and the only place I know would have a good fit audience wise costs upwards of 500 -- that's like a month's rent for a weekend) so I'm just so excited for everyone who just *do* things!
Aww, that's so dope of you! Thank you! I know which shows you're talking about - I would not feel comfortable paying 500+ for a show, unless it's a convention for my type of crowd haha
I didn't realize there were other bloggers who talked about the April 20 weekend! Now I'm curious! but thank you so much for your feedback
I absolutely love your editing style and the positive vibes on the footage, even though I know you were very down during them. I am just starting markets myself and so far have barely made a profit at 4/5 markets. But I'm learning so much, finding better venues and organizers, and resolved to stay positive and just track my growth.
I think that this is the right mindset to have, for sure! Thanks so much for this beautiful comment! It means a lot! What types of markets do you do, if you don't mind me asking?
@@SquirrelSprout I started with brewery markets because they're SO common here but they really aren't my vibe. Searching for more "craft" markets because I paint wood and make earrings. Most of the craft markets are happening this summer/toward Christmas so I am trying other things in between to feel them out. I also keep finding markets I would love to do when I'm already booked, so I am bookmarking and making notes for next year! Making vendor friends along the way and having them share where they vend is exciting and helpful!
@@evaempress That is super insightful, thank you! I didn't realize so many places held markets until I started applying to them, but brewery market is new to me! haha Good luck in your search as well!
I wish I lived nearby so I could come see you at the markets! I know it can be really discouraging not getting as much interest, I used to help my mom at craft fairs when I was younger and sometimes it's just tough. Your resilience and determination to make this work is really admirable and I'm really looking forward to watching you grow and succeed. ❤
That means a lot Holly , thank you so much! And thanks for sharing your story❤️
Have you considered going inside a permanent vendor market? I’m not sure what is in your area as I’m an hour west of Toronto….but we have a permanent market in our store and your type of items always sell well. We’d love to have someone like you in The Market so hopefully you find success. Best wishes.
Oooh, we have those around here, too! There are "Makers" that are pretty popular, depending on location. When I can afford it, I'd love to join one of their locations, but at $300~ for a minimum of 3 months, I'm not sure I want to risk that loss right now. And thank you for the kind message! It's super nice of you to say
#cryitout , you are doing great Val, just a few set backs but don't be discouraged by this, you are out there trying and thats better than never doing it. ❤
Thanks so much for those kind words Panda!
I just subscribed after this video ❤️THANK YOU for being transparent, even when things haven't gone well. I'm a beginner at selling my stuff too. I've been lucky so far in that I've had really just THE lowest stakes, with my uni selling my stuff for me so I have no fees to worry about. Even so, there has been dispointments. On free comic book day, my uni ran a table in the basement of a local comic shop and I only ended up selling ONE thing all day. I'm also lucky in that I live in an artsy city in the UK, and there's art and craft events, conventions and artisan shops that sell local artists stuff everywhere. Do you have any small local comic shops, coffee shops, artisan shops or something similar near by? It can be worth approaching them with some of your work and asking if they'd be willing to stock your stuff? They'll usually take a percentage, but there's something to be said for the audience they can reach. Not as good as getting in on anime/nerd/artist/comic conventions, but they see people from all walks of life. Make sure that if they agree, you have a stack of business cards to leave with them too.
Girl, keep at it. Your stuff looks amazing. Keep up the grind, I'm routing for you ❤️ Your display looks amazing btw. Love the peg boards! If I was to give you some advice from what I've seen, you need something "chonky" to sell. Button badges/pins, acrylic charms, enamel/metal/wooden pins. It just seems to be something that draws people over, and also something kids are more likely to want. I think with prints there's limited space to display them, so people are picky, and the issue with stickers is that once you've placed it, it's done, so people feel overly precious with them and devalue them a bit since they're "one and done". Wearables/accessories have this reusability to them so people seem more willing and less picky with them. Higher investment cost, but not as high as you'd probably expect, especially if you DIY stuff. Vograce and Zap Creatives are good options for some "chonk" items and have some rotating deals (Zap had a deal that was £35 GBP for 50 wooden pins, so I was able to make my money back at my first convention through my uni's table ;) ). Or you could get like a button press from Amazon or Aliexpress and make your money back quick since blanks are so cheap.
I'm following, look forward to your future stuff! ❤️
Oooo I'm not sure about the, coffee shops and artisan shops but I will definitely check it out! Thank you for the suggestion! I need to be organized in everything before I start selling at shops. I can't even update my own Etsy hahaha
Your comments mean the world to me! Thank you so much, you are so super sweet!! You're absolutely right about the sticker thing, too. I often get the "I won't know where to put them" comment. I do have acrylic charms and pins, but in very low quantity. What I need to do is sit down and make a mock-up of a 6x4 table, so where and how I could display everything on there. That's awesome that you're able to get 50 wooden pins for £35 GBP! For me it would probably equal to $80CAD after conversion though lol. BUT! I am sure I can look around, or even get a button press.
thank you SO much for the feedback and suggestions! I highly appreciate it!
if that set up happens again..pre do a sticker that says.."look stickers"..on the back
So true!! A friend recommended I add more signage so I'm designing something for this weekend! Thanks for the suggestion!!
Your setup is really cute! Please don't be embarrassed. It seems like the pillars were really blocking you in, like you said.
Thanks so much! Looking back on it now, I'm not as emotional, hahaha - but they really were a hindrance! It's definitely a lesson learned. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Just stumbled across this VLOG and I can so relate!! I have been vending at shows and cons for 30 years. And have had many moments like you have experienced in this video. I hope you have more positive moments than not as you move forward. This is already almost a month ago - so I'm hoping that when I go look for more vlogs that it's much more successful!! You have a cute set up! You do have lots of room to grow it - so much space to go up!! I also think that cons - big cons - are the perfect venue for you. Also people go to cons to spend $$$!! I just hit the follow button on your Twitch so I hope to catch a stream soon. Look forward to hearing of your successes!!
That is so sweet of you! Thank you!! I have had good experiences so far, and yesterday was my first outside market! I'll be editing that vlog this week. My table setup keeps changing LOL I am trying to find the best way for everything to fit in my car and to easily be set up on my table and down at the end of the day. I think i found a solution, which I'll be working on soon...
I can't wait for my first con! That's going to be great. Here in Canada, there aren't a lot, so getting in one is nearly impossible. But I won't quit just yet! Thanks so much for leaving a comment! 30 years of experience, that's amazing!! Congratulations!! Let me know what username you use on twitch so I can recognize you! :D
yeah happens to us all hun. Did you take note of people who were doing well and what they were selling?Also quite good to check out markets before you do them to see if you're a good fit. Also look at other stalls setups to see if you can improve. It gets better as you learn new stuff.
Absolutely! Thanks so much for those comments! I couldn't apply to any art/craft/cons when I decided to start this journey as I was too late, as I'm doing general markets for now. Soon the geeky/pop culture types of shows are going to start opening their applications though, and I can't wait! I keep changing my setup everytime haha, maaan. Feels like a never ending thing!
this is SO hard. it took me a good year before i even worked up the courage to do a market. I did one two weeks ago where i made $60, drove 140 miles. I feel this struggle so hard. I also have had luck on some where i almost clear 1K! Its all sort of a dice roll! Heres to hoping your next market is fruitful and worthwhile!
omg that is a long way to drive for that amount of money! That must have been heartbreaking, oof! Thank you for sharing your experience. here's a successful markets!
@@SquirrelSprout overall i was a really good sport about it. I learned a ton about simplifying my setup, how to market products to a different crowd than im used to and a much more efficient breakdown post pop-up! Went to the same place the following weekend and had a great time and good sales!
@@MelMitchJackArt That's crazy! haha! I'm glad you had a great time that weekend! Also, I LOVE your videos! I'm so glad you reached out here and left a comment because I love your content :D I'll be talking to you soon for sure!
Oof i feel ya dude. I did a craft market on the 5th of May and only made $11 after spending $60 on the table. You gotta try a few different kinds of shows and venues. I wish we had more craft or vendor shows geared towards pop culture here
Right? My groceries look very flimsy with $11 profits, too lol
Are you from BC as well? If I find more markets for pop culture / art etc I can definitely let you know! And I'll most likely update with a vlog, too haha.
@@SquirrelSprout I'm in Ontario! But.... maybe the wrong part of Ontario 🤣🤣 (ie: not Toronto) but I do find the occasional pop up event!
@@RoseMegill Oooo, I don't know if you watch Hannah over at www.youtube.com/@itshansstudio but they are also from ON and do markets! Should definitely check them out :D
Actually my bad, they are not from ON 😬 now I can't remember which creator is from there, but I'll find them eventually 😂😰😂
I've had two failed events at the start of the year. It happens, unfortunately, but it will get better! I think your work looks great and you definitely have what it takes to make it.
omg that is super sweet of you to say, thank you so much for the encouragement! I'm just done another weekend of market which surprisingly went well for me, so... still learning how this whole thing works haha!
the vibe of your new set up rules!
Thank you so much! It has yet again changed, but I'm still loving it haha!
Keep your head up! You're putting this out there which is super BRAVE of you and I've had the same experience with my small business!!!! I can have a $2,000 night and then a $200 night the very next week- it's about the customers, the vibe, and so much else- it is definitely NOT YOU!
That is super sweet of you!
it can be so hard starting out as a vendor at markets. Eventually you will find the perfect market for your stuff. Don't give up! WE've all been there, your set up looks great!
also... I am a market organizer in Edmonton and I can tell you that when ppl apply I never look at how many followers they have. I look at content and how engaged the applicant is. I know this is the case for a lot of organizers so don't let that deter you from applying to Cons and other events, you would be perfect for so many different types of events.
@@a.d.richardson7877 Oh my gosh, this is very encouraging! Thank you so much for your nice comments and for that tip! I'm always scared that because my social media is pretty new, they might dismiss me... So that's super good to know :)
another tip..when you do markets where you know there are kids mainly..put the stickers in front..i put out some freebie individual wrap candies as freebies to lure people in too lol
Omg that's very smart haha! You're so right, I will have to have those at eye level, both for adults and kids 👀 😹
may 5th was my market but it was washed out due to rain how ever i had alot of stuff this year made no worrys right our rain date is the 19th lets hope people will come during may we have communions baby showers birthdays extra so our island is busy during month sof may may hurt our venders from bringing home da money. if worse came to worse ill have more inventory stocked for the next year. much luck dont give up.
That's very sweet of you, thank you! And I'm sorry about the rain ruining your market, that blows!! Hopefully all that inventory will be sold very soon for you :)
Your video put me through an emotional rollercoaster. First, I was laughing, then I was crying after your first day. Then I was hopefully for day two, but sad when it didn’t go well. I really wanted to give you a big hug!
I want to say this: You did NOT fail! You have learnt and grown from this experience. ❤
Keep going; you’ve got this!
Oh, I love the editing! 💜💜💜
You got a new sub 😊
Oh my gosh! you are TOO sweet! I'm sorry for the rollercoaster of emotions hahaha
I have those kinds of markets all the time. I have gotten over that embarrassment phase and spend the networking and people watching. I talk to all the people as they walk by and do the NPC thing completely. Talk to the kids and animals. I have display shelves for this upcoming season and done some switching around and thinning the herd of things i offer. Perhaps i had to much stuff for people when they check my stuff out. Every market/fair is a lesson for me. I just keep trying to learn all of them. I don't use social media much as where i live all they do is facebook around here 😕
oh my gosh, yes the Facebook scene is big here in certain areas too haha. I'm an Instagram person myself. should put your stuff on insta anyway so you can show others what you do! Maybe that could get the ball rolling...
Thanks so much for your comments and for sharing your experience! I really appreciate it! I LOVE that you have display shelves for upcoming seasons! That's SO smart!
I made the SAME EXACT display mistake last year at my December market. Accidentally hid like 25% of my stuff. I feel that pain.
Omg, isn't that infuriating/depressing ?? I'm so sorry you went through the same thing! D:
I do craft fairs (markets) here in the U.K. & it's very very hit & miss. Some days are great which means I'm beading like crazy to build my stock again some are awful.
Seems to be very similar everywhere in the world huh! And ooo, what do you bead? :D
❤ it’s hard I know - started last year and had 2 good ones and 2 that didn’t cover travel expenses. Did 3 so far all new and didn’t cover travel for all 3. It’s been rough. Live and learn 😅😅 I don’t do what you do at all but I watch a lot of cons and they seem like a big investment but the returns seem to be better.
Oh no! Travel expenses are ridiculously high, too! That's not cool at all D: I watch a lot of con vids as well (one of my fav is peppercut studios' vlogs) and everytime I see their expenses I'm like D: Yoooo.... But then they make 3 times the amount haha
Just found your channel, your display is absolutely amazing!
AWE! Thank you so much! It has changed a lot since this video because i keep updating it LOL but it's basically the same theme-ish!
@@SquirrelSprout very welcome:)
Hi, this is the 1st video of yours I've watched. But I've done craft shows for the last 15 years and I'm also an artist (in the US). My table is more diverse as I do paintings, cards, plushies, floral arrangements, etc. But I hate to see you struggle in your markets. Your art is good, but I have a couple of thoughts.
You can't control things like the economy. But if your market had a decent turnout and people weren't gravitating to your booth then it's either your display or that it wasn't your crowd. I think comic cons or school craft fairs would be good for stickers and digital artwork. But even then a lot of your items are blocked by the tall side pieces. So when customers are looking down the aisle they can't really see what you're selling. Your products aren't accessible to them to "shop" from a distance. People like to kind of look down the aisle before they go to a booth. So maybe rethink your side wall configuration. Gotta grab their attention to draw them in. Just a thought.
Hope your next show is amazing. 😊
You are so insightful! Thank you for those tips! I have redesigned my walls (yet again hahaha) and the last market I was at seemed to have brought more attention to my products! So you are absolutely right that being tall and loud will help! I'm editing the video as we speak (it is a longer one as the market was a 2 day one) and reflecting a lot on my display!
Your feedback is super appreciated, thank you so much for your help!
@SquirrelSprout oh good. I'm glad you got more attention/traffic this time. 😊
I've changed my booth and items so many times over the years. Lol. Trends change, inspiration changes. I subbed so I can watch your journey. 😊
Not sure how it is in Canada, but in the US, people are pretty burned out on Christmas spending. So, I use Jan-April to work on inventory. Everything I make is handmade and time-consuming. But those months may be better used working on your channel, getting monetized? Prep for market season and online sales (if you have a website or Etsy). But summer and holidays are where most of us make the bulk of our sales. 😊
@@katdelrio5316 I am learning that as well! There are maybe a handful of markets I would still like to attend during these months next year, but I definitely won't do 3 or 4 a month haha!
Thanks so much for the sub! :D
grass is cute, but it takes the focus off your stuff. why not just get a green background and accentuate with your art.
That's a good idea! I've added more frames instead of just the prints, but we will see how it goes at this weekend's markets. I keep rethinking my setup 😂 but you are right! It might be too much. Sometimes less is more!
I actually love the grass!! I would stop at your table @SquirrelSprout just because it looks so cute💚
@@angelaburant6257 awww! that's so sweet of you , thanks Angela!! 💚
Please don’t feel defeated. Been to bad shows and not sold one thing and then the next one I sold over $1,000.00. I see from your products that you need to be at an Anime Con (Convention). Your items are really good but you need to reach the correct audience. Craft shows draw other people - you are correct it is not your demographic. ANIME!!!! People is for sure what you need. GOOD LUCK AT YOUR NEXT SHOW!!
Thanks so much for those beautiful comments! I am trying to get into anime conventions but it's so hard here in Canada lol. there are not a lot of them and there is fierce competition D: But I am definitely applying!
IM SORRY BUTSTOP TALKING ABOUT BEING TRANSPARENT YOU REALLY DEPRESS ME.
Curious... Why does it depress you? Is it because I am transparent? 🤔
Best of luck at the future ones. Craft fairs are terrible for me, I do small cons like library conventions and such. Signage for the stickers hopefully will help next time. Dont let not having enough followers deter you from doing cons. Its all about your work and how you present it. You can do it! I'll follow you on twitch and ig, lets connect art friend!
That's so nice of you, thank you!! There aren't a lot of cons in western Canada and applying to them seems impossible! I waited until the booths opened for anirevo today. Refreshed so often, then all of a sudden it said 3 left! Put it in my cart, too late it was gone 😂 with? That first come first serve deal is brutal!!
I'll follow you right back, thanks so much!
@@SquirrelSprout oh wow that is brutal. Sorry you didnt get a table. Where I am, we have this thing called first Fridays where all the businesses downtown have popups or different events that brings a lot of the people in the area to shop esp. on the holidays. Maybe something like a local brewery can have popups or team up with one to make an event. I would be happy to share how I do things here and see if you can apply them to your area.
@@Dzhelasi oh that sounds really amazing! I'm always listening for tips and tricks so please do share! :)