Craft shows and local vendor markets can be an excellent opportunity for artisans and small business owners to showcase their products and connect with the community. However, before committing to a vendor spot at a local market, there are several important steps to consider. Here are five crucial things to do before booking your Hometown Vendor Market spot.

1) Check Out Craft Sales as a Shopper

If you’re new to craft shows or vendor markets, it’s essential to experience them as a shopper first. Attend a few local craft shows to get a sense of the atmosphere and the types of products that people are selling. This will help you better understand your potential audience and what works well in these settings. Additionally, take this opportunity to chat with other vendors at the event. Crafters often have valuable insights and recommendations to share with newcomers.

2) Talk to the Organizer

Before committing to a vendor spot, initiate a conversation with the event organizer. If the show is an annual or bi-annual event, find out as much as you can about its history and what you can expect. Some key questions to ask might include:

• How many times has this event been held?
• What kind of turnout does the event typically receive?
• How many vendors are expected to participate?
• What types of vendors are usually present?
• How will the event be advertised?

It’s essential to ensure that your products align with the craft show’s target audience and theme. If you have budget constraints or limited inventory, inquire about shared tables or other cost-saving options. For a comprehensive list of questions to ask event organizers, check out our article on “10 Questions to Ask Before Committing to a Craft Show.”

3) Consider Your Workload

After gathering information from the organizer and fellow vendors, assess whether you have enough time to prepare for the event. Consider factors like the number of products you intend to showcase, the time required to price and tag each item, and how far in advance you need to start creating your inventory. It’s not uncommon for vendors to begin crafting products months in advance and work late into the night just before the event, ironing, tagging, and making any final adjustments.

4) Take a Look at Your Schedule

If you’re planning to participate in multiple markets during the summer or holiday season, ensure you don’t overbook yourself. Be mindful of the timing between events, giving yourself enough time to restock in case you sell out. Also, consider your personal commitments, potential custom orders that may need to be fulfilled post-event, and any obligations to retailers who carry your products. Avoid over-scheduling to prevent burnout and maintain the quality of your work.

5) Figure Out Your Costs

Before committing to a vendor spot, it’s essential to calculate all your costs. Take into account expenses such as the table fee, materials for your products, and travel costs (including gas if the event is not local). For first-time vendors, consider essential expenses like a tablecloth, display props, or any other equipment that may not be provided by the event. Ensure that your expected revenue can cover these costs, especially if your products have a lower price point.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to choose the right vendor market for your business and make informed decisions that contribute to your success. Participating in Hometown Vendor Markets can be a rewarding experience, both personally and professionally, and taking these precautions will help you maximize your opportunities in these vibrant community events.

Have questions, or comments, or need assistance in preparing for the upcoming Hometown Vendor Market? We’re here to help! Contact us at info@hometownvendormarket.com for any inquiries, feedback, or general questions. Our dedicated Hometown Vendor Market team is passionate about ensuring our vendors are well taken care of.

We understand the importance of a supportive community, and that’s what we aim to provide. Rest assured, we’ll respond to your inquiries within 24-48 hours, helping you make the most of your experience at our markets.

Your creativity is what makes Hometown Vendor Market truly special, and we can’t wait to see how you showcase your unique products. Let’s make every market day an opportunity to shine!