Tips for Vending at a Craft Fair: Part III

So far my tips for being a vendor at a craft fair or makers' market have been about setup, booth displays, and interacting with customers and other business owners. For my final installment of this series I will talk about the best part: having fun!

I'm the last person to tell anyone to just relax and enjoy themselves at an event, my default setting is anxious. But over the years I have found ways to make being at markets more fun, and when you're having fun, you make a better impression on those around you. So here's a couple suggestions for how to do that:

Christmas in July at Southern Swells Brewing Co.:

1. Dress for the event's theme or season: If you've seen me at a themed or seasonal event, you've probably seen me dressed to match the occasion. Whether it is a Christmas in July market and I'm wearing reindeer antlers with a tank top, or a Halloween market on a Jags game day and I'm wearing beaded Jags earrings and cat ears, I love choosing an outfit and accessories to accompany whatever event I'm doing. This makes you seem more approachable, too, so it's a win-win!

Boo & Brew 5k at Ancient City Brewing Co.:

2. Accessorize your booth for the occasion: I don't go too crazy with buying accessories for my booth, but I do keep some props on hand so that I can be on theme or in season. During the winter I use snowflake garlands and ornaments, in February I add a garland of hearts, during Halloween I add spooky decorations. Before going out and spending a bunch of money on booth accessories, take a look at what you already have on hand, you likely already have items that you can use.

3. Do try to relax and enjoy yourself: Yes, setup can be stressful and tiring, and worrying about making sales can be a distraction. But once you're settled in and ready to vend at your event, try to enjoy it. Have genuine conversations with shoppers, meet your fellow vendors, if you're at a restaurant, bar, or brewery, try the fare at that establishment. Markets are also social events for me, so I try to let myself enjoy the full experience.

All in all, being successful at craft fairs and other events is just a matter of experience, trial and error, and confidence in yourself. Don't be hard on yourself if you're not perfect the first time, and let yourself enjoy it and be flexible!