Compiled by Laura Pizzirusso
Reprinted with permission
The information below comes from both online research, writers who have written about this topic,
and Laura’s own experiences and learning curve.
Visual clutter.
Steer clear of, for example, loud table covers that compete with the items that you are selling. Your products should be the first thing customers see and be inviting. Also, please have tablecloths that cover the legs of the tables. This is not a tag sale, which welcomes hagglers.
Go up.
Shelves, risers, boxes under tablecloths/material, display racks, or grid wall panels. This can range from custom shelving to using wood crates found at craft stores or just grabbing items from around your house. Use what works for you. It’s always a win-win when a prop is aesthetic and useful. You can also find used or discounted items on Facebook Marketplace or new ones at places like Amazon.com or Displays2Go.com.
Branding.
This is your look. It can range from consistent signage to a color scheme. You want your space to have a cohesive look. Have your business name, location, and a logo if you have one , posted on a sign or banner.
Business cards.
You’d be surprised at how many business cards are missing critical information. You want an appealing card that includes your name, business name, and website, contact info (email is a given, cell phone number is great if you welcome that), and social media links. If you do custom work, let them know. If I had to choose between a “pretty” card or contact info, I’d go with contact info.
Flyers/Postcards.
Have a list of your upcoming craft fairs (include your contact info and upcoming craft fair venues and dates). I’ve seen some vendors print a half sheet from their home printer to fancy postcard types found at vistaprint.com or canva.com. Please, no large signs with advertisements for another show.
Signs.
Some people don’t want to ask for prices — maybe they are shy or don’t want to get sucked into a selling spiel. Have signage from price tags to table signs, whatever works best for you. Make it clear so even the browsers know your price point without asking.
Smile.
Genuinely smile at the browsers (smile at the customers too) as every browser is a potential customer. It’s tempting to look at your phone or read a book when there is a lull in traffic, but try not to make it obvious. Talk to your neighbors, get out in front of your table, and adjust your displays and products.
Talk.
Let browsers and buyers know about your products, such as value, detail, and what you enjoy about the craft. Make small talk and look for a connection. Don’t be pushy, but offer purchase suggestions/recommendations if they express interest.
Invite friends/family.
Recruit a friend or family member to man your table for your bathroom break(s) or ask an event neighbor to keep an eye out for you.
Create urgency.
Don’t put all of your stock on the table and overcrowd things. Keep extras under the table. Some booths may need to showcase most items — use your judgment.
Draw interest.
For example, if you are selling paintings, consider painting one at the event (when there is downtime). This will attract onlookers and may draw them to your booth.
You.
No matter what product (s) you are selling, you are selling YOU. Your customers come to you, choose you, especially when there are so many other options out there. You will find that there is always a market for handmade products over cheap, manufactured items that are available at big box stores. And they choose the magic that you put into your craft. Even with other crafters who make similar things, keep in mind that the customers are approaching you, not them. And smile (did I mention that yet?).
Also check out these online resources:
Vendor Display Inspiration and Tips Facebook Group
Vendor Booth Displays and More Facebook Group
Connecticut Craft Community Facebook Group (Handmade Only vendors)