So, what are the lessons that I learned?
1) Don't underestimate the time it takes to set up your table/booth. Since I kept my table display simple, I figured that I would only need 30 minutes (not the allotted 60) to get to my table and make it look pretty. I know, the more experienced of you are guffawing right about now. I managed to get everything laid out the way I wanted with two minutes to spare before the doors opened, but I was definitely sweating!
2) Do have bright and legible signage for the items that you're selling. I didn't do this and regret it. While the lack of signage encouraged buyers to ask me questions and chat, I think I lost some folks who strolled by and didn't want to engage. I also think that fun and cheery signage adds another creative element to one's table/booth.
3) Take lots of photographs of your table/booth before the craft fair begins. I was so rushed when the doors opened that I only took these two blah photographs which don't represent my table or the wonderful atmosphere of the fair. I tried to take some photographs during the fair, but it just never happened.
4) Finally, have a friend (thank you, Beth) and/or a sister (thank you, Esther) keep you company during the event. It's not easy having your creativity out there for people to look at and while they're not really judging you, it's hard not to feel personally on display yourself. I loved having Beth and Esther with me and it made the hours fly by.
Will I do this again? I'm not sure but I do know that the next Made By Hand craft fair is in mid-November so I've got some time to think about it.
Excellent advice, Evelyn. Congratulations to you, your sister and friend - You've successfully survived your first craft fair! That's significant, whatever you decide for the future.
ReplyDeleteIt's brave to put your stuff out there like this and try something new. It's also probably a great way to meet new friends. I'd definitely want people at my table with me to talk with and for moral support. Congrats! Your table does look great in these photos!
ReplyDeleteI can't say I've ever worked my own booth at a fair, but experience with others tells me that only the *most* experienced boothpeople can set things up quickly. I'm impressed you got in under the wire - and that they only allow 60 minutes for set up!
ReplyDeleteShould there be a next time - definitely more photos. :)
Thanks for the recap. I will keep this in mind when I make my first attempt this winter for my nephews' school. Even though you didn't get as many photos as you'd like, I think your items look great. What's next? A knit for pleasure??
ReplyDeleteIt takes a huge amount to do a craft fair table, and I take my hat off to you. Having done several tables, I can tell you that it gets easier each time. You'll also have stock that you didn't sell from this time to help bulk up your table for next time. People recognise you the more you go and the more you generate return custom. If you enjoyed the process, you should do it again.
ReplyDeleteI am impressed ! How fun !
ReplyDeleteA friend of mine does art/craft show and I've learned a bit from watching her. I've been waiting to hear how you faired at your show. Congrats on your first one.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like such an amazing experience for you! I would have never had thought about any of those things either. Next time you do this you'll be a pro. It sounds like even if it was a crazy experience, you still had a great time.
ReplyDeleteCraft fairs are so tough if you don't have thick skin. I have done enough to know that I don't want to do any more. :)
ReplyDeleteI applaud you darlin' on this trial run. Your table looks so cozy and what great tips you've given.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great tips. You did a great job with the table display. Even though it was a lot of work to prepare for, I hope that you enjoyed the experience.
ReplyDeleteGreat lessons, thank you for sharing!
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