I Lost Money at this Craft Fair || And other reasons I probably won't do it again soon
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- Опубликовано: 21 окт 2024
- It was a hot, sweaty day that ended with me losing money and feeling a little garbage-y the next day. If you're thinking about doing a craft fair, maker's market, or other sales event, give this a watch first to see if it's really worth your time. This definitely isn't a "How to Prep for a Craft Show" video; maybe more of a "How NOT to Prep for a Craft Fair". Anyway...enjoy!
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Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License
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Music: Adventure Beyond by Alexander Nakarada (www.creatorchords.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License
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I used to do a renaissance faire which would start out hotter than hades and usually end up cold. Lots of clothes too. One thing I always did was fill a bucket with water and put it under my counter. I put a few drops of lavender oil in it, and kept it fed with ice cubes from my cooler throughout the day. Nobody knew my feet were in an ice bucket. I did once drop a sandwich in it which wasn't ideal..
That would have been lovely! My husband and I talked about having a bowl of water out for the dogs walking around. Did you have luck selling clothing? What were your most popular items?
I do something similar when vending when it is hell outside, I use a styrofoam cooler filled with cold packs, with a barrier between the ground and the cooler (small piece of insulation) poke small holes in each side the. Set a fan on one side so it intake/output through the box. Aluminet is super clutch for keeping the sun off your shelter, I just picked one up for this purpose.
Also -wear the cold packs- make a waist pack out of muslin and set it at the small of your back or better yet set it in between your shoulder blades.
@@KatieMakesStuff ah yes always a bowl of water and some scooby snacks for the woofas
I love a good learning experience and whatever you paid for all that stuff was cheaper than university😊 you are better prepared for the next time you do it and you will probably curate your store more to the audience that expect in your next venue. I thought your store looked fun. I couldn’t tell a lot from the pictures that you gave us but your product lines seem to be quite varied. I think a lot of the booth that I go to and have experienced seem to have a little bit more focus. That being said, I love that you had a makers booth instead of a leather makers booth or a sewists booth.
Maybe in that vein, you could provide some small leather making project kits . Whether aimed at children or adults, those kind of things can be really fun and popular. a lot of people want to give experiences instead of objects as gifts. Kits are a great compromise to those who want it all.
But.... did you finish eating your sandwich?
It took us a full year of doing markets to really get it figured out. There are certain markets we avoid and others we won’t miss. We are now in our third year and have 2-3 markets every weekend in different locations with helpers running the additional booths. We get messages almost daily asking us to attend events, we turn more down than we attend. We know what to take, how to set up, and the approximate number of shoppers that will attend. We do very well now, but it used to be a struggle bus and I wanted to pull my hair out! I learned to have nothing to busy because it takes away from the products. I also learned not to price each item individually, people hate that from handmade vendors for some reason. I also learned to have a variety, but mostly lower priced items, which may change when the economy levels out a bit. We also only take 3-5 different types of products to each event. Too many choices is just too much for them to try to make a decision. Don’t invest anymore in your set up than you can make back in a few events; yes even starting out. People don’t care about branded bags or catchy tags, those are expenses you can use toward tables, display items, tent weights, tent walls, etc. The biggest lesson I learned is not to be too talkative; greet them, tell them your specials or popular item, and let them know you’re there to assist. If they need help you’ll learn when to approach.
Great advice!
Oh goodness I have so many tips!
For the branded bags: I tie my shop cards on a ribbon on the handle for now but I want to block print the logo in the future.
I use water jugs and sandbags for my tent weights. Less to carry, I can dump them out when breaking down if needed, and they have not failed me yet.
I picked up narrow folding tables on Marketplace, they are only 1.5ft so it keeps it roomy inside the booth. I have tiered displays (that I plan to bolt down but have not as yet) to bring the eye up. I sell a lot of smalls so it keeps it from looking cluttered. I weigh those down as well to keep them somewhat bump proof.
I don’t do shopping threshold or free gift promos but I do bundle deals. If someone hits a threshold I’ll gift them a little something extra at checkout. This IMO leaves a more positive shopping experience than expected rewards. This also lets me giveaway based on stock levels. Also if I run out no harm no foul.
I could go on and on if you want, I can keep sharing on your KoFi.
I wouldn't bother trying to sell jackets during hot weather. No one is thinking about or planning for cold weather. Save your jackets for when temps dip. You'll have some people buy jackets who come to the faire under-clothed and are looking to buy a jacket just so they don't freeze during the event.
Yep, learned this one the hard way. Not sure why I didn't think of it, but at least I still have all of them for this fall 🤷
What I’ve learned from doing the occasional craft markets, and from selling for six years at our local farmers market, is that people might really love your stuff but they don’t want to pay what it’s worth. I knit socks and make various sewn and quilted items, including leather bags. I’ve also sold on Etsy. The price people WANT to pay is generally about what materials cost. I once had a lady ask me if I’d make her a lap size Ragtime Quilt (raw edges) out of flannel. “I’ll give you $10.” 😳 Materials cost is closer to $75. Craft markets are long days, and seldom worth my time and trouble.
I also have Square so I can do credit cards. I have a sign showing I take credit cards “for amounts over $25”. People that do want to spend $50 and up for your nicer items likely didn’t bring that much cash with them. For totals of $25 or less, I don’t want to mess with the fees. I will occasionally take PayPal or Venmo when asked, but it makes bookkeeping more challenging the more forms of payment you allow.
Grocery bill is at a all time high, ridiculous amount just to feed yourself let alone a family. What you’re doing is great, and I’m glad you realized that people go to markets hoping to find stuff for $25 and under.
If you're a sewer, why not rebrand yourself? Following trends, and your sunburn, vegetable gardening is huge. Harvest gathering aprons with deep pockets, sun hats made from old quilts, you could call them bed head hats etc Packaging, I think old fashioned brown paper and string is a nice touch for upcycled items, and your expensive coats. Get a friend to wear one and walk around all the stalls getting noticed as they go!
I have done and still do a lot of shows. I think you action items you came up with are spot on. One thing I think you need to do is not bundle in all of you supplies as an expense for this one show. For instance, your bags, tablecloths, and battery you will use for future shows so I would project how many shows you will do this year and divide that cost and allocate it across all this years shows. You should apply the cost of your materials for the products that sold at this show. I would also recommend that you “specialize a bit more perhaps in the leather goods area because not many vendors do those where there is more competition for things like your swim coverups, IMHO. I think for a one day (5 hour) low cost show you were successful.
HI Katie, I also do craft shows and there are some that I only did once due to people wanting me to give things away. I learned that when listing prices to list the lower priced items first and then go down to the highest. Some people read the first couple of prices and if they are too high they walk away. Lower prices lure them in the booth. I also find that Fall/ Winter shows are better because people are looking for gifts for the holidays. I always bring a microwave to heat up the rice bags so people know what they are and how to use them. They sell great in the winter. I live in the northeast and it gets pretty cold here so people are coming in from that cold and love to feel the heated bag I have out to demo. I tell them that it's great to use to warm you up in the winter. Just to stick them in your bed before you get in and you have no more cold feet. There are many reasons someone could use them. I find that people like some gifts for teachers, friends, co workers, baby sitters and such. So small items add up and you don't put out too much money making them. Hope this helps. Your items look amazing. Blessings to you and your family.
For the most part, if the price for admission as a vendor is low, it’s going to be small inexpensive things that sell. $35 is low for where I live.
I always did better if I was working on something in the booth. There could be 50 items just like the one I was making, but they wanted the one they saw me make. ❤️🤗🐝
That's a great point about the booth fee and its connection to the average budget of shoppers. That would help temper my expectations and adjust my stock to better fit the folks coming through. And I like the idea of working on something! I'll think about that and see how I can use it for my setup. Thank you!!
@@KatieMakesStuff You’re most welcome and I hope it helps🤗❤️🐝
This can also bite you in the inverse too. I did an event last month and I came prices with accessible items, and everyone there was selling at a much higher price point. Everyone told me I was charging too little but that was my misstep I would have made triple my total easy if I realized it was going to be like that.
@@kalka1l I know! Sometimes there is just no anticipating what will happen. But above, I was talking about in general, and I found that to be true most of the time. It never hurts to bring a few expensive items if you think it will be a lower price show and vice versa. Another way to tell if you need more expensive items is if the show is juried.❤️🤗🐝
I've paid $35 to 50 for "booth" space...just a spot on a lawn at the park or sidewalk space.... every time I lost money.
Hi, Katie,
The algorithm gods brought me your video. I watched the first couple of minutes. Then made myself a cup of coffee and happilly settled down to enjoy the rest. My mom used to do art fairs back in the day and if it were an outdoor show I'd slather myself in Bain de Soleil and keep her company. Your story really brought back wonderful memories. Mom was very talented and every year she did two very high-end juried shows and as many small shows as my dad could tolerate. (He loved being with her and an art show took up weekend time they could be spending together -- doing something that WASN'T an art show.) What I learned from those years is that there are countless variables and just when you think you've figured it all out, another factor turns up and complicates things. Soooooo.....my best advice is to continue to participate in these as long as you are growing and learning. When they are no longer enjoyable and you are dreading the thought of yet another one, STOP.
Your booth looked great! I agree with you, though, put your higher priced items in the middle. One thing that lifts the aesthetic of your booth is a nice rug underneath. Keep an eye out for people giving away their indoor outdoor carpets this fall. The thin ones can be rolled and moved easily, and I feel they are worth it. I like all the other set ups.
The "profit" on these sorts of things is why my mom quit her craft booth in a craft mall in the 90's.
I thought about a rug but wasn't sure I wanted it. However, if I could've gotten my feet out of the grass I think my allergies would've thanked me. I'll definitely keep an eye out and see what I can find! Thank you!
I used to display at arts and craft shows. I paint on wood with great detail . I was selling a very detailed Santa for $20 but another vendor had the same wood cutout painted solid red for $12. She sold her Santa I did not. Spending hours with a booth is completely exhausting. It just wasn’t worth the entrance fee, loading and unloading the car and setting up and taking down. I resorted to open houses in my home and at friends who were kind enough to have one. I sent invitations to friends and neighbors with a note to bring their friends. I did not want complete strangers in my home. I did great and would practically sell out. Good luck to you!
Ohhh lawd I did a couple of craft fairs with my micro macrame jewelry & suncatchers.
Those were enough for me. 🤦🏻♀️
Exhausting & disappointing. I would rather GIVE my handmades to loved ones than deal with the cheap-os at those fairs.
They wanna give 25 bucks for something that took 7-8 hours to make.
Nope!!!!!
I'm aging out of shows, or as I call it "the carny life." It's changed so much since I started. There's a lot of overnight theft now which I've never dealt with before. I'm tired of the schlepping. Good to see a younger generation coming up! Now I sell in galleries and wholesale to gift shops and boutiques. Good luck to you!!
I am a soapmaker and B&B items. I did shows for about 8 years. What a crap shoot it was. I had several shows that I did every year and they were never the same twice. We did an Irish festival one year and there were 3 of us working the booth and could barely keep up with sales. The next year we did it again and couldn't give soap away. I found it very stressful as they were a lot of work with no guarantee of financial success. However, they were very good for getting your name out there and I would often get website sales from people who bought from you at the show or saw you there. Many of them were 2 or 3 day shows and the first day I would be very enthusiastic but by the third day I was dragging, exhausted and grouchy. Some shows seemed like they would be mediocre and turned out to be great. You just never know. One thing I did learn was how to pack everything in an organized manner so that setting up and tearing down is quick and easy. Your things are very beautiful and I hope you can do better in the future.
I love your perspective and especially the point about getting your name out there. I was able to hand out a lot of business cards and once I get my website done, I think the networking will be a lot more successful and worthwhile. I'm sure I'll do it again, maybe when the weather decides to chill out...literally!
@@KatieMakesStuff You might also want to try some holiday markets. I used to do a small local harvest festival that went for the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. I live in a very small tourist mountain area, but people come up here by the droves for Thanksgiving and Christmas. They loved getting gifts that were made locally. If you have something like that near you where people are in the mood to buy, you might have some better luck .I quit doing summer shows because some of my products would literally melt. Hand made lip balms, sugar scrubs and whipped shea butter do not care for hot temps. Plus, I figured if I was hot and tired, shoppers were too. I couldn't really make anything while I was doing shows, so I would wrap soaps. People do love to see you doing your craft. I would also stand at the front of my booth and give out lotion samples to people and many of them would walk down the street a ways but then come back after they felt how nice my lotion made their skin and look around a purchase a bottle of lotion and usually some soaps as well. I think you just have to find ways to draw them in sometimes. And yes, hand out business cards like crazy, be friendly, introduce yourself, chat people up. People love to talk about themselves and a friendly how are you doing today or compliment them, (I like your top, it's so summery) is a great way to get them talking and looking without being a pushy sales person. Which I am not. I am sure with practice, you will get the hang of it and find you niche. Good luck!
I would change the tablecloths from that buffalo print to a solid color. Best of luck
That was going to be my suggestion too, I agree. The checked cloth detracts from seeing the items as they blend into the cloth too much, a plain lighter coloured cloth would make the items stand out.
I sell antiques but at craft/farmers markets and went this past Sat - 8/3. Even though I was under a tree and near the water so there was a breeze, the humidity was killer and it was 88 degrees. The problem was there were very few customers, I only sold one item, and made a whopping $5. People have way less expendable income these days and unless it's something they really need or want to gift, they aren't buying. And although this is normally a tourist area, no one I asked was a tourist and if they were, they were at the beach.. I've done shows for over 30 years so I'm a pro. But I think that indoor shows with air conditioning are best, and fall and winter are better times to sell. Although Etsy costs to sell on, it saves a lot of grief and stress. Love your logo, maybe get a banner printed to hang at the front of your main table and spray paint your metal displays black for a more cohesive look. Most professional printers can make you a rubber stamp of your logo in a couple of different sizes. You can get the self inking kind but they are more expensive. If you don't have a local printer, there are shops on Etsy that will do that for you. And I find that having less things on display and spread out more works better - maybe because people get overwhelmed by too many choices. Also, having a vase of flowers or even greens, that don't cost you anything, can add interest to your table. If you are selling a lot of leather, then a vase of dried grasses and flowers can add to the rustic "prairie" feel. Also, try not to have any personal items like drinks, or even fans on your table. Good luck and let's hope the weather gets kinder!
I feel you sista, I did one craft fair and just did not enjoy it. It was not fun or friendly or pleasant overall. I think there are some of us who just do not enjoy this scenario. No specific complaints, made a bit of money, met a few nice people, but it was really a long, long day feeling judged. Once was enough for me. We each have to find our joy and online selling is a much better fit for me. Good luck and enjoy the journey!
I follow a woman and her husband here on RUclips and have watched them go from very tiny little business in an older home to WOW. They did videos in their home, on their kitchen island showing them making things, painting things...and now they do the same thing in a much larger old house that they completely gutted and rebuilt, they also have a shop/store in an old church in their town that is huge. They are super creative, friendly couple. What made them was two things I think-to my knowledge they do not do fairs or anything like that. They sold online from their website, they started a RUclips channel and they do lives, showing them working on the furniture, painting, printing, making molds with air dry clay and putting it on picture frames, etc. people enjoy watching folks make things. So, website store, YT channel showing your items, and linking your website so people can shop and buy your products. Keep at it! I thought your leather items looked amazing, so I will be looking to see how to find you. You're friendly, speak well and I think you will blow up the way they have. I love your logo and the stamp you made. It looked fantastic. I agree with someone else-the buffalo checked cloths are too busy-I would put solid white, flat Cotton sheets over them. I have used flat sheets in white (king size) as curtains for years and for table cloths. Good luck! PS-I hated working outdoor booths too-heat, bugs, no close bathroom, etc.
@Laladybug2011 Would love to see them to what is their channel name?
@@beachcitybay4497I would like to know also 😊
@@beachcitybay4497they won't tell you, it's not appropriate to tell you their name. You can't promote a competitor via a similar channel.
@@christinecote4639they wont tell you, it's not appropriate to promote a competitor's channel on a similar channel.
Why support other makers? The folks you’re talking about are awesome and I have learned a lot from them. They are in Utah so are they in the same state?
I think Christmas season would be excellent for you because you have such beautiful things that would be great gift ideas (make a sign for that too) ❤😊
I'm not a vendor, but can I suggest that you perhaps display bigger signs for the $5 and $10 stuff at the fairs that cater to lower budgets? Seeing the low prices from a distance might encourage people to come closer and check it out?
That's a great suggestion!! And getting feedback from potential buyers is almost more important, so thank you for that!
I am a hand quilter, did my first show in 2016, I had a woman walk up and loudly state, "I can get a blanket at Walmart for $25" I said, "Have a nice day". I did not sell again until November 2020. OMG, I sold 5 quilts in the first 30 minutes. Duh, I need to price higher. Listen to what they say, sometimes. I am focused in throwing nothing in a landfill, when I am done squaring off a quilt, table runner, etc I throw the remnants into a draft busters for doors. I sell for $5. I make up several "tubes" people love that. Past 3 years bowl cozies, no I won't do them, I make Quilts. Wasting fabric, never, Pot holders, key chains, Coasters. I love using every last paper.
I am working on making quilted Checker Boards, purchasing the checkers through Amazon, flip over the checker board you have a nice table runner. Booth costs, Each year I buy something, 2 years ago I purchased 3 sides for the tent, When I hang my quilts, no one is walking behind touching, they are also not blowing into someone's else tent. I do not sell on line, the only social media I use is Facebook. I have a day job, depending on size of a quilt ,could take one week to make to a king size that takes 3 weeks to piece and then I managed to have it hand quilted in 6 weeks. The exposure from each show, handing out the cards, flyers telling them I will help them finish their quilts they started years ago. My work is word of mouth, Bring a project to work on in the booth. People will stand over my shoulder and I answer their questions. Others see I have a crowd watching and this entices them over to my booth, what is she doing?
I do about 6 shows a year starting in September, this year I was invited to a prestigious show, you only get in by jury and someone recommending you. It was indoors, Christmas in July event. I did not make my booth costs, sold some small things and had I only purchased one space instead of 2 I would have been fine. I did have one woman come back 3 times to look at a quilt, touching it. I gave her a flyer with a listing of my next shows with my #. I would not be surprised to see her again. As for getting change, I stocked up in July, I am set for the rest of the year, one less chore to do for the rest of the shows. Keep going, your items are lovely, your leather bags are gorgeous.
Handmade quilts are wonderful. Years ago, I found some handmade quilts, all hand stitched in a store that apparently imported them from other countries. I have two of them, and I have used them constantly, until they are in tatters except for the solid back. They are the most comfortable, breathing, friendly-feeling bed covers I have, and they are so worn you would think they were lace or stenciled. But I love them. Thank you for doing quilts. They are precious, and all of your energy and intentions go into every piece. We can see which quilts are hand stitched and which are machine done. I don't knock machine stitched quilts either, but it's like homemade bread done either by hand or by machine. You can taste, feel and know the difference in quality and the energy the bread gives off. I love that you don't let scraps go to waste, too! The very last pieces could go into a number of things.
Thanks for making these videos! Very informative and also so fun to get a glimpse into what it takes to man a stand at those kinds of markets!
I quit doing craft shows long ago. You work so hard and spend so much money and then the customers offer you about half of what you spent not to mention your time! No more!
I agree. I used to do antique shows. It was toward the end of May one year, and I put up my EZ up canopy. Got everything set up and it looked good. It started snowing. As if that weren't bad enough it started blowing. I was holding my tent poles for dear life, no gloves. Items were falling and blowing, and I was chilled to the bone. Didn't make enough to cover reg. fee because so few people came. The ones who did were walking through quickly and leaving. No more!
Same here, one year of craft shows and I had enough.The high cost of renting space, dealing with weather.The experience doing craft shows during festivals was just giving spectators something to do, a total waste of my time. Big job loading, unloading & setup, then repeating the process in reverse. It was a good decision 7 yrs ago to have a booth & It's close to home, no regrets!!
For your headbands, jumble them in a basket with an obvious sign, people enjoy rummaging for one that will match their style.
Small, low price point items that attract children placed at the front is a good idea, children will either buy with whatever spending money they've been allotted, or will go get their parents to show them what they want.
Don't give up!
I sell clothes at events and I like to put my most expensive wow items at the back and around the sides, up high so they can be seen from a distance. I also wear something that I have in stock at a higher price point, and I always sell at least one of them. Gridwall is great for displaying small things - I like to have a section or two of it right out front.
I’m so impressed with all you did for this craft fair. Taking notes from your video and all the tips in the comments. I print my logo brand on fabric paper that quilters use for my fabric pieces. I used a laser printer for that. For logos on craft bags and paper journals, I print on faint scrapbook paper, cut out with guillotine and glue to the bag or journal. Maybe one day I’ll get a stamp made, but since I’m just starting out this is it for now.
Thanks for sharing your experience. It helps a lot! - Kathy 🌻
You can get printable sticker paper! I've been using it for years to make labels and price stickers. I just printed a bunch of my logo to stick to my bags for an event next week
You just have to do it and learn what works for you!😊
Ohhh you didn’t have a tent!!! That’s a big one to invest if your going to do a booth
I used to do craft shows but my back can't take it. I had ok shows and dumpster fire shows. I rent a booth at an antique mall/ craft shop. I spend the same amount of one day show for a whole month rental. I visit monthly for a clean and reset. I make more this way and never went in the hole.
That’s a good point! Near Dallas the shows are SOnexpensive even at high schools. If I do t do well this fall I may consider a booth. I also have lots of vintage/antique items I could sell with a booth.
I crash for 2-3 days after a market. Its phyically and mentally exhausting.
Love the video 😊
I have never managed such a booth at a fair, but when I was younger, I used to sell souvenirs in a small shop.
I'd advise you to put the expensive items on display inside the booth or at the center as you said. Try to attract the buyers' attention with nice colorful signs with the special item of the day, or the ones on sale.
It's a good idea to offer little gifts.
Maybe try to style a couple of items that go together on a mannequin.
I LOVE having a Special of the Day sign! That's a great idea!! Thank you!
Always double check what other events are happening in your region. Depending on what else is going on, staying home is sometimes your best bet.
I did a terrible craft fair that scarred me and I haven’t signed up for one since. Lost money after the booth fee and gas to drive there. I ended up just drinking the free beer until time to go since there was almost ZERO foot traffic! Such a learning experience for me
That was my experience too. it seems like in my area the big heavily attended shows are already full, but new markets that I could get into never got people there. And it wasn't like the people putting on the event gave us any booth rental back after they failed to get people there.
Katie hi. A little suggestion would be to put tissue paper in the totes and the little pouches so they can stand. It will dress them up. Also, maybe a scarf around the neck of the blanket sweater/coat and possibly a belt. The leather bag at the left of the table with the long strap would also look good with the sweater. Good luck.
Interesting video!! Hard lesson learned- the more craft fairs you do, the more you change your mindset- outside vs. inside craft fairs, fairs which charge an entrance fee vs a free fair- and whether you will do a craft fair which features children’s sections
Oh, I am done with craft fairs… I am always losing money. If I do it, it has to be just for fun, knowing that I will lose money. I have my regular job, I craft on the side, and gift my creations. I just do it for myself. We are all in the same boat ladies, according to the comments😂
I used to do many small events, and looked at it as building my "resume" so I could increase odds of getting into bigger shows. Take photos of your booth (needed for applying to juried shows), chat with other vendors & you may learn about other shows that you may want to try! It is a process finding where & how often you want to vend. But even the same show year to year can vary from fantastic sales to just covers costs...
Don’t be shy about splitting a booth at some of the larger events too. Try not to let the initial outlay daunt you (the power bank comes in clutch when the weather cools).
Keep going, you have some great things. From my experience, I find that people want to spend a little money, so I carry some things less than $5.00, and where permitted I take baked goods. They always sell. You really have some fabulous stuff, don't despair, you just need the right buyers. Good Luck!
No 2 fairs are never the same, even at the same venue. Table looked well displayed. Observation, I know you bought the tablecloths but they looked chequered, This may be a ‘busy’ look to put under some of your items, crisp solid colour can sometimes look better. Keep at it, get your name and products known and people will come back to you Even commissioned leather bags, (but please take payment upfront)
Interesting thought about the tablecloths. I'll make some adjustments there and see how that impacts visibility!
To add to the tablecloths: spandex doesn't wrinkle. I keep my two burgundy spandex tablecloths just balled up in my supplies tote or shoved wherever I need to. No way am I taking the time to iron my cloths before a show or neatly fold/roll them when packing up
You have a good attitude about it because I don’t have much to spend and hate in when sellers seem to take it personally that you’re just browsing. I don’t know if this would make any difference but maybe you could have a “best sellers” section where you show what’s popular. People love to buy what they hear others are going for.
Thank you! I always try to do everything as if I was the shopper. I'm a painfully introverted shopper and will often pass up buying something if I feel even the slightest bit of irritation from the shop owner. So it does me no good to take browsing personally; I've had plenty of people come back to purchase and I wonder if that attitude helps them feel more comfortable coming in. 🤷
@@KatieMakesStuff I’m just painfully introverted full stop! lol Love your empathy. Have a wonderful day!
Do you have plain color blanket jackets?
Like you said put lower price up front
I love your attitude 😊
Sunscreen is a must!!!
I just vended my greeting cards at a huge NYC bazaar. I felt the extreme heat and the hours are long. The best part is trading ideas with other vendors and chatting with customers. Market sales seem slow in many places but go with your passion and continue.
I definitely think signs with a deal of some kind would be great! I do deals like “$4 each, 3 for $10” anything that attracts people to buy more, spend more.
Your graphics, labels, etc are so perfect! I bet your learning curve will improve and your prep will super improve. Don't give up.
On the hoodies, consider plain colors for everything but the back. Maybe put the logo material on the back snd embellish pockets on the front. ;-)
Btw, there are portable fans that can be USB charged! Then you can use your battery bank at leisure fir other things.
You covered alot of items you will need for future shows , but I totaly get it ! Love the thought of just selling sewing supplies, even leather supplies - you could have a rack of made items as inspiration instead of suffering over being a maker....Here's my secret, have a free box out in front of your booth- used to stock it from 'bag days " at the thrift store , but you could do anything you can source super cheap. People will usually buy something after getting a freebee - but th other vendors will be jealous!
Do not wash your face just use water if you're worried about dry skin or bags underneath your eyes use some cold pressed castor oil it is the best thing people tell me all the time I can't believe you are 55 years old you don't even look 40
If you are getting itchy irritated eyes, better start washing face with tea tree soap...parasite dermodex causes crusts etc.
I stopped doing markets and shows, since I got older, I just can’t slug and set up/tear down, anymore.
One thing I learned early into my markets/shows,
Was this….do not do them during the spring, summer, fall…Unless it’s a Big Event with Vendors.
So a car show…yes
A music event….yes
Fair…yes
Anything, that is drawing people in for an event, with vendors.
Christmas just know your demographic in each town, but rule of thumb, is $1 to $30 and sales will happen, anything higher is gravy!
I’m in a Vendor Market store with my business partner,we just opened our second booth, and expanded our original booth.
Our original booth is jewellery and accessories, and sewing items, tumblers, etc.
So our second booth is Crafting Supplies and tools.
We noticed on Facebook, lots of people asking where to get paints, or fabric, etc…..so we opened this second booth. It’s only been a month, but we made a profit!!
We love the booth life, we go in once a week and stock, we choose our prices, pay rent and 10% on our sales!
We get a deposit every 1st of the month, and buy what we sold out of, or feel we need for projects.
We have been in this store about 6years now, we are in a year round tourist town, which helps!lol
Don’t give up!! Just find you niche!❤
I make and sell soap and other bath stuff. I completely understand the exhaustion of doing vendor booths. Especially, when it's hot. I don't have the humidity here but it does get between 105-113 mid summer. So I tend to avoid outdoor booths during then. In determining whether or not your event made money (if you're going to continue to do these types of events), the cost of your battery, table clothes and other items that you don't sell but will continue to use, should be spread out across all of your events for the year and not all lumped into the first event you do after purchasing them. Anyway, I loved your items. I would have bought a bunch of things, lol.
If you're doing a craft fayre then do your own advertising all over social media, and locally too,saying where you will be selling. You don't know how well it's been advertised, sometimes events aren't publicised very well at all.
First video of yours that I've seen. The Jackery is nice for a LOT Of things HOWEVER as far as the fan situation goes the Jackery is NOT the way to go. Instead consider RYOBI They have a $59 7" whisper quiet portable fan. These run on the rechargeable Ryboi batteries. I purchase them in a package of 2 Four- amp hour batteries. On the medium setting on the fan one 4amp hour battery will run the fan for over 12 hours.
Everyone who experiences my Ryobi fan ends up loving it to the point they want one and I usually end up gifting them one. They are AMAZING and work for power outages and so much ore!
This was great,, thanks for sharing! Yes, that are exhausting. You're probably right about putting cheaper stuff up front to draw them up. 😊
I used to be a vendor at consignment shops and do craft fairs. It's not for the weak! Lol😂. Unfortunately I encountered a lot of people taking pictures and stealing ideas for their own projects. Very disappointing.
I think your logo is absolutely stunning! That's the most gorgeous dark goth vibe i've seen--i really hope one day you do a brick and mortar all themed around that as your brand--it would be stunning!!!
Def agree with just bringing lower priced items to markets. Higher price is for online/physical store. Maybe bring 1-2 mid to higher end pcs, but end of day ya gotta think of markets as a cash biz--how much cash do ppl typically carry? low to none--so merch needs to be on less expensive side.
It's little eclectic for market too. maybe focus on one to two types of product-maybe leather and the eye bags. The eye bags are gorgeous btw and should be big draws.
I think a lot of ppl are over fairs now bc of the economy and the return isn't as great as online. Mosaic Imagine has a new crafters thing that's the new-Etsy only better. Your brand def deserves an online footprint. I love all your products and wish u the best!!💐
Your blanket jackets are gorgeous 😍
Maybe it's the last thing on people's minds in the hot weather but you could try making light hearted jokes about how, when the colder evenings/months come they'll wish they'd have bought one in preparation!
My sister crochets and does craft fayres here in UK and watching you prep reminds me of her, she wears herself out and always questions why she does it to herself......then she does it all again!🤗
I think I was meant to find this video! First of all! Thank you!!! Thank you for 1- making this video! its informative, and you are delightful. 2- Thank you for being real! lol I totally feel your pain when ??" How in the heck do I have this many grey hairs and still getting zits??" or the crazy "organized" or my version of a million lists of things I still need to do... or just thought of as I'm half way through...... What was I doing again??? and 3- all your tips are useful and made me add a few more items to my lists... Do I need a fan for an indoor show? In October? ... In Idaho?? Do I need a heater? lol The last craft show I did was ... think back ? "when was toll painting a thing?" Yep... that's a long time! I seriously do not have any misconceptions that I will even break even... with all the "necessities" I've purchased, Bags, grid cubes, display hangers, table cloths, ... still haven't even gotten a tax id... or any idea on how to sort all that out. But regardless of how this "first show" for me turns out. I'm going to keep making stuff and hopefully someone will love it! But thanks for the encouraging video (I'm keeping with the positive vibes and I'm going to make it!) 🤩😜
recently took the family to a market - and my husband I would kind of look from afar before committing to walking down or near an section so a sign or something always catches my attention. Family knows anything with fabric or sewing I'm going to want to "go see". But what I've noticed lately is if we see booths with things we can make ourselves, we are less likely to look regardless of the price. That being said, there were some booths that had stickers or one had these little cute tiny figured for free and my kids dragged us down there and we ended up buying from them - we probably wouldn't have walked that way without that little nudge from the kids. You also had a lot of things that were different like leather, and sewing and jackets and cover ups - maybe it's a bit overwhelming since you're eye cant settle on anyone one type of thing? idk Sorry you didn't make out better - lovely things!
Kudos to you for all the effort to go out and do the show…people love to have craft fairs to walk through, even if your sales are less than stellar. ❤️👍🏻🙌🏻 In your business model, it may be that the craft fair functions mostly as advertising for your online, or custom sales…? I might make your “show” inventory a more targeted selection of items in a certain price point…say $ 5-$25. A very simple display of smaller items, that you have plenty of, that anyone can afford. Then one showcase only of well-displayed higher priced items…to highlight your specialty things…I agree that “less” is sometimes more, when helping people choose something to buy…Thanks for the video!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I have done two craft fairs here in the UK, never again. One in my town crowded out on opening and empty after they had their coffee and food. The other was catered by a company who charged £2 for Nescafé and water.. The big problem was that people would not pay even reasonable amounts for home made items which is really what craft fairs are about. They would sooner buy cheap elsewhere. Other vendors had similar disastrous days.
Selling things from a thrift store is odd and I’m confused about fleece beach coverups. Thank you for having bags; it drives me crazy when vendors don’t have them. I think your stamp would work fine. I would try mounting it on a piece of wood so you can get even pressure. The main tip is to not wait until the week of to get ready and never start packing up before the show’s end time.
Many stores are moving away from plastic bags with their logos. Best Buy is for example. I bring my own & reuse the ones I have. Mexico 🇲🇽 has stopped using plastic bags altogether.
Personally...I LoVE shows...I've MASTERED my "look" + I want my jewelry OUT THERE!!!! I do "deals" alllllllllll day long...I take any + all advice from EVERYBODY!!! I'm COLORFUL+ very ECLECTIC....which reflects in my tables..I "look" for items that aren't displays + "make" them displays...Different Heights are key! Vintage items work for me, especially since, I mix Vintage w/Modern materials...throw in a SPLASH of ETHNIC...it attracts ATTENTION allllll day long! COLOR + More COLOR on top...calming colors on tables...Try AGAIN...your pieces are too cool to not be seen. 🎉
I did try some height differences this time and liked the look, but dang it takes SO MANY THINGS to just set up the displays. And I'm such a maximalist that I love to see that you are also a "more is better" seller.
How do you draw people in? I feel like I can schmooze enough to turn many of the visitors into buyers, but they have to come in first!
@@KatieMakesStuff Incense? Shiny things toward the back? Maybe a mirror backdrop for something?
I avoid summertime craft fairs like the plague! Too hot ,🥵. This is my third year , ( still a newbie at this ) I have one fair in Oct and Nov. (indoors ) this year.
Christmas is the season that represents most retailers sales for the year . I will try an early spring craft fair next year .
By the way your crafts are beautiful and should have been a stellar seller . Don’t give up !!
Take a small note book and keep track of each market you do. This way , next year you have your notes
I had the same experience. I made about half what I invested in it. And I can't say I enjoyed the time spent. I did learn a lot. If I don't again I'll have more prints and cards rather than just high priced original art.
I’ve noticed that people who go to craft/art fairs are browsers and most likely aren’t going to want to drop $200+ on a handmade item. Most go for the atmosphere and not really to buy. I’m an artist who used to do art fairs. The vendor fee, the cost to set a nice display, and the time and energy it took was never worth it for me. If you have lower priced items to sell, it may be worth it. I had a bunch of original art that people were trying to haggle down to $20. I quit doing fairs and just sold my paintings online.
I hate outdoor shows. Bad enough to have to set up the display without having to deal with the tent. We also prefer two and three day shows.
After doing this for 15 years, we have a basic layout but it depends on how much space we're allowed.
I have found that you have to have a whole lot more inventory than you need to sell. First of all, it makes your booth look full. Secondly, you will most likely only sell about 20-25% of what you bring. So if you need/want to make $2,000, you need to have at least $8,000 worth of inventory. Nothing is lost, as those unsold items can be completely recycled to your next sale.
I love the mannequin ideas that would really draw me in dress it up with your jacket and a bag make it look like an outfit summer time concentrate on your beach coverups and headbands maybe a beach bag out of fabric or water bottle cover ,look like a hip person on the way to the beach for the day later in the year do warmer clothing. I like the idea of offering to do their own blanket , but don’t commit till you see the blanket, and definitely take a deposit, too many people get burned that don’t take a deposit,and I agree too many different items as you include more of your handmade reduce your other odds and Sods if you really want to still sell the fabric items you have thrifted have them all together in a basket at the side ,with a bargain sign on them, concentrate more on your crafted items and some markets if they are on a continually basis will take people time to know you,and decide what they really want to buy from you especially if you have a few more expensive items, if you have your leather bags on the mannequin make sure they are hard to take off .still lots of light fingers at markets and you can’t be everywhere at once. Keep the music low. I would not come into a booth with music playing as I have hearing problems ( deaf in one ear limited in the other) and I can’t hear you over the sound of the market, hate asking the same question more than once. Good luck though and it is all a learning curve. As you decide what way you are going to sell your items.
I found when I used to do craft fairs, if I calculate how much the item cost ( what was needed to make item) and add hourly cost. Then I doubled it. I used to sell potpourri ( no filler, all botanicals) before the big burst of it. Sold well but I only did Seasonal fairs…
I don’t do outdoor shows anymore for my art works. You have to deal with set-ups, break-downs, the wind, the dust, the heat, people getting chatty but not buying and carrying enough cash.
Best time of year was October/November because people are looking for gift items. Best seller was hobo-style bags in vintage fabrics I found at estate sales. Each was one of a kind.
I’m 79 years old and I have never used soap or creams on my face and have no problems whatsoever!!
I don’t do any Spring or Summer shows. My shows start in September- December. Also invest in some rolling storage containers or a portable wagon. You will LOVE THEM. I am from Ohio and we have a lot of craft shows and farmer markets.
I have some crafts to sell. But I’m in Florida so listening to you makes me understand how hard a craft fair would be. I had skin problems most of my life. So I have advice for you
Pro tip for skin:
Proactive works but someone told me it’s addictive but i didn’t believe it. However I don’t need it anymore because I’m working on keeping it nice. So another tip is to get an electric zapper just for your face. You zap them then put dots of a good skin mask over night and they will be nearly gone.
You might be getting them from stress. So, the number one tip for the best skin, which I wish I had known years ago, is this: drink a lot of water and sometimes put a little lemon in it. Water makes my skin so much nicer. Also, you may be using the wrong stuff to wash your face since that’s when it started. Use something mild or something a bit more expensive.
Thank you for all of your tips 😊
I subscribed because I love your stuff and your video. I really love your found fabrics!
Thank you so much and welcome!
It absolutely never feels like I have enough things ready! I don't know how folks have so much stock built up to do multiple shows in a short amount of time.
Yesterday I did my third vendor event in the last two months - my sister has a home bakery and I do graphic design/cards/stickers/jewelry/etc., and we get tables together so we can back each other up. She's very popular, which has been a boon for my business since everyone comes to get her sourdough cinnamon rolls and then they drift over to me 😏 At least, that's usually the case - but yesterday, for some inexplicable reason, my table had more interest than hers. So far markets have been worth it overall, but it's so impossible to predict what will happen from one event to the next that I could see it becoming frustrating. I think what makes the difference for me is reminding myself that even if I made zero dollars from my designs, I'd still make them because it feeds something in me. Getting paid anything for it is a bonus. That helps me to manage my expectations going in - of course, design isn't my day job and I don't intend it to be, so mileage may vary. Anyway, istud scibunt populi veri. I would definitely have checked your booth out if I was at that event, your presentation was great!
i’ve never done a show, but i used to help my mom with hers. she had a lot of bad experiences. i just remember how cheap people were, people were always trying to haggle with her and would try to get her to lower her prices..it was insulting tbh. she rarely sold anything priced over $10. and omg the setting up and taking down is something i never want to experience again. the heat in the summertime and the absolute boredom when it’s not busy were awful too. it was always disheartening to see people come by and look and stuff only to walk away within 60 seconds…which is part of the game but still. there were several times where she actually lost money and many others where she barely made a profit. craft fairs aren’t something i would ever do
I like the idea of the headbands but they look too large for someone like me that has thin and fine hair.
I also do craft fairs here in Canada. To be honest ( because I think that’s what you need) I think your product line is way too specific to you and what you like. You are not sewing and crafting for you, it’s for the masses. You can obviously sew, that’s not the problem. You need to look around at what people are wearing and also buying at other booths. Make that. It might be cute little baby romper pants, it may be wet bags lined with plastic. I use Walmart shower curtains for this with trendy washable fabrics on the outside that suggest vacations. I once sold $2000 worth of place mats in sets of 4 at a Christmas 2 day craft fair. Your $45 jackets are more of an Etsy product. No one came to the fair with that kind of money in their pockets, trust me on this. Best of luck, you have the soul of a successful crafter.
Hi, just found your channel. Here are some tips that can help out- Talk to the other vendors and get tips from them, each craft fair is different, so do some research and see what price range fits that particular market. Keep investing in your signage, and get one of those stretchy table covers with your logo on it so ppl can see your booth from farther away. Keep smaller items at the front, larger pieces on the sides and back. Small in the middle if your booth is a larger one. Let ppl know your social media presence and always remember to have fun! Sometimes it’s not always about making money, but learning how to do it better for the next one. Steal ideas you see other vendors doing that might help your booth to look better and more organized. Good luck, and don’t give up just yet, most of the people I know doing fairs and festivals usually hit their grooves in about a year. Take every experience and learn something that drives you to making the next one even better and far more fun, even in the summer months. 😊
I’ve learned the hard way about pricing. 3x cost of materials is the price. It accounts for the time spent creating.👍
1st) Oh, I really [100 % sincerely] do feel for you - Soooo much work, prep, set up etc for No Profit : ( eeek !
So, please know that ''everything I write below' is b/c i want to HELP You ! : ) / there's NO Criticism here : ) ....
2nd) You are very Talented ! [period] : ) & have very UNIQUE products - which can be a Positive & a Negative ~ (more on this latter)
3rd) Please ''always'' put a Solid - NO PRINT (not yelling here btw, just trying to stress a point) : ) Cloth on your Table [preferably - Plain Pure White] then set your items on that ! Check patterns, Florals, Strips etc are ''way too'' BUSY : ( and will / do appear Cluttered ''&'' Confusing to your Customer plus they ultimately will 100 % ''detract'' from your items : (
4) I know that mannequins are quite $$$ Expensive, even if found at a Thrift store etc ''so'' I would *highly suggest* you/your husband getting some Plywood & cutting out ''2'' 'human shape & real human size body (front view only - as if you're facing someone straight on & talking to them) that would look ''life size'' from the Waist up Only - Paint the ''human plywood {sanded edges for smooth edges so it won't wreck/snag what you're going to hang on these} cut out'' BLACK (attach a metal T-bar pole) / etc or of-like (then place pole base into cement into a bucket like the tent pole buckets u made with the cement) & attach this on the ''back side' painted BLACK also to go with your Business color theme - Now you have ''2'' - 'mannequins' to ''Properly'' Display & SHOW-CASE your Sewn Amazzzing Blanket Jackets !! : ) (I think that's what they're called) ... As they are 'displayed' now, they look ''not their Best'' : ( they NEED to be ''POP'' / be Hung Properly ! I would also put 1 at each ''edge'' of your Booth at the Front !!!! Why b/c you WANT to ''draw people'' to your Booth - even IF they don't Buy that - It will get your MORE TRAFFIC to your Booth & ''then'' more of a chance to Sell them something else !! : )
P.S. The 2 plywood Cut-out would have their ARMS facing down of a 45 degree angle SO when you put your Blanket Jackets on them - Customers will SEE the print/details etc of the Arms as well - instead of them Hanging straight down : ( thus not seeing the ''full effect'' of your great blanket jackets ! : )
In future [as in right away or ''for sure'' BEFORE your next Show] you could / SHOULD also have a SIGN saying - Have a Favorite Blanket that You want Made into a [blanket] Jacket for your Wife, Child, Dad, Friend, Co-worker, Grandmother etc ~ We do CUSTOM ORDERS ! : ) You Could also say ... We can do a Favorite Sports Team, Singer, Movie, TV Show, Cartoon, Animal etc - We can make YOU a Blanket Jacket out of that too - Just ASK ME !!! : )
PART 2 on my TIPS for you to come ... : ) have to do an errand, Cindy
I bought a stamp with my logo on it on Etsy. It was the best investment I stamp the back of matted prints and my bags. For fairs I invested in a tall captains chair so I am eye level and don't have to jump up and down. I think it makes you more approachable also I knit so it doesn't look like I am watching the customer. I tell them feel free to ask questions. I hate doing outdoor fairs the last one was in the 90s and too windy to keep up an umbrella, they didn't allow tents. My favorite one is an Art Festival inside at a very wealthy town, it is a juried art fair so all high end stuff. Customers came looking to spend! I usually make 200 to 400$ that one I made 1,600$. So I was super happy. You have to find a good fit.
it didn't look very busy there, and that can be an issue. just a roll of the dice. i think your stuff would sell better at those craft fairs that are inside high schools for the band fundraiser or at community halls. sometimes it's just not the type of crowd for your stuff.
Some how the algorithm of you tube brought me to your channel with this video! Subscribed! Liked!
Great video, if I ever do a booth, I'm going to add a clearance rack, as that is what would draw me in. I helped my DD do a booth at a church event, beautiful tiny fresh florals.....def lost money....wasnt enough 1-5 items in my opinion.
I am a shopper and I absolutely agree. I always look for discounted items first. It's automatic for me. I rarely pay full price for something, even if I want it really bad.
The last market I did was last year, one of the last markets of the year and it was so cold and surprise stormy! I sold one $15 crochet fox and had put out over $100 for the spot 🥲
I was so disheartened that I havent done one since! I want to try again in nicer weather, I just feel so intimidated to try again
Try putting your Logo craft foam ( right side up) and roll ink on it for an inked logo on the outside of the bag. Practice on a grocery bag. It’s worth a shot ???? Everyone that goes to a craft fair wants to walk away with something small and inexpensive. Sometimes you only have five of the item that sells out and you wish you would have made 25 ugh…..it’s a crap shoot. Spring and Fall are the best times for outdoor shows. Of course you have to deal with Mother Nature. Good Luck, you have the personality and the creativity for it! You go girl!
I am so happy your video showed up in my feed. I have been thinking about doing a craft show, but I haven't been brave enough to try it! I love to see, but always wonder if what I make is good enough to expect someone to actually give me money for it! I make walker bags and designed a seat cushion so it would be a matched set. I gave some to a couple senior centers, but I would really love to sell them. I just dont know how to get that going. I also have made a bunch of KitchenAid mixer covers with a matching slider pad.....again with the "matched sets"! I found yoyr video really interesting, and you answered some questions Ive wondered about. New subdcriber, too!! ❤ Your items are beautiful and its obvious that you are very talented!
I would say it's definitely worth it to see if what you're making has an audience. I'd definitely start with a smaller show closer to the holidays. I'm definitely going to take a bunch of these suggestions here and try again later in the fall. I haven't seen anything like what you describe anywhere so you definitely have a niche. A good setup/display could bring in a lot of business!
@@KatieMakesStuff Well thank you, that's so nice of you! You wouldn't happen to have a KitchenAid mixer, do you?? Lol!
@wendysmobilehomesweethome423 I actually do! It doesn't get much love but once or twice a year it's the star of the kitchen!
@@KatieMakesStuff I would love to send you a cover & slider mat, if you wanted one! If you do, and your mixer is a tilt head, I have a bunch of them made. I don't premake the bowl lift size, only by special order. I would be happy to send it to you, no charge!
I gave up on selling my art. Not a big turn out. Too hot. No sales. Lost money for the space renting. I now do like craft garage sales local. So not a traditional garage sale but my craft garage sale. 😅
I sell my watercolor art at a local once a month art market in the downtown tourist area. It's likely my last year as I'm getting older and prepping, packing, hauling tables and display racks gets wearing on the joints. That being said......I've loved doing the markets and meet so many great people. Sales are sometimes good, other times not so good. This year I have a half price bin and many of my sales came from that bin. My older pieces are in it and some smalls. I realize this year it's the economy that is holding back sales. For tomorrow's sale I made new, bolder signs to show my prices and hopefully draw more customers in. September is the last month at the art market, and I may get in a few more local fairs/ markets/ fests before the end of 2024.
It is hard! I am a paper crafter, cards, little books, tags etc. It is hard to make a lot. But at least mine is not too expensive to make just time consuming. Face it we do not usually get paid enough to cover pur time. I loved your items!
My head is so sensitive and even hats bother me. Glad I’m not alone.
Oh man...any bit of pressure makes my head ache. The change in atmosphere pressure gives me migraines, stuffy sinuses, headbands, tight-ish ponytails, etc. It's SO ANNOYING!! But I can wear these headbands all day, thank goodness
Patti J. Good, on RUclips does craft fairs...I think she has a table set up video! With the economy the way it is, luxury spending is at a high time Low...hobbies, crafts, spending on decor...comes after the purchase of groceries nowadays! Maybe a November show, closer to Christmas would be more successful.
I am in my 70’s. I have only washed my face with products maybe three times and each time the reaction on my face was like a chemical burn so after the last time I went back to a clean facecloth with warm water. I don’t feel the need to use any products on my face. My sister is 10 years younger than me and has many more wrinkles than me. I’m ok with my skin care routine. Nobody else’s opinion counts😂
I have had DUD shows where I sold not one thing. The biggest thing is to know your market. Sounds like this was a cute market but not a high end market. Your goods that you made are a higher sticker point. You need to find the right market to go to. Also you do leather, sewing, handmade jackets and towel cover ups - lots of diversity but maybe niche down your product line. These are all suggestions and only my opinion. LOL and don’t do outside markets ever again - too many if’s - it could rain, it could be windy (too many variables). The BRIGHT SIDE: Now you have all your supplies for the next market. I love the stamp you made - go to a Rubber Stamp maker and have them make a stamp - it would look wonderful on your bags. Good Luck on your next INDOOR Market.
Hi Katie....Lynn from FL...just my 2 cents here...I love crafty fairs and hand made things. (not home made )...before I tried doing one I would stand back and take notice which booths had the best activity...gave me an idea what potential customers were looking for...and the majority of the booth had the smalls in the front and things that could be picked up and handled and checked out...( I'm big on doing that lol )...and hopefully that created interest in the higher priced things....I noticed your leather things right off and that my dear mite be the direction you mite want to stay selling...Being creative beings that we are can get us in trouble by making things that aren't interesting ( been there done that ) and thin where you live has a big thing that can decide on what sells...like Fl. beachy items are always good and thin leather too...and the primitive items are not that popular here...a northern thing ? BUT you are on the right path...do a closer to Christmas one and bring your cover ups, they are really cool...a cool idea is make leather tags with your name on them...source leather in different colors... can buy in different grades and find a boho purse pattern...(made those years ago). AND have fun. I enjoyed talking to my customers'....miss those days. I'm an ole lady now (75) and trying to do a show now just isn't my thing .... but I'm still crafting for family and personal fun.. This is truly what's its all about.
Have you tried fun foam to emboss your logo on to make your stamp and add a handle because of the size hope that helps !