Whether you’re a seasoned seller or a craft show newbie, projecting professionalism is key to success. To help you put your best foot forward, I’ve compiled a list of 17 mistakes to steer clear of at your next craft show. Some may seem trivial, but these pitfalls, whether silly oversights, inexperienced slip-ups, or persistent bad habits, can significantly impact your business if left unaddressed.

1. Arriving Late:

Give yourself ample time for setup. Unpacking during the event not only puts off potential customers but also inconveniences your stall neighbors.

2. Being Unprepared/Forgetting Something:

Create an event checklist to ensure you have everything you need. A well-prepared event bag can be a game-changer.

3. Not Looking Presentable:

You are your brand’s representative; maintain a clean and tidy appearance. Branded attire can add a professional touch.

4. Untidy Display:

A messy neighbor can bring down your stall. Keep your display organized, as a cluttered booth is off-putting for customers.

5. No Table Covering:

Invest in a well-ironed table covering that reaches the floor at the front for a polished and professional appearance.

6. Flat Display:

Create height in your display to ensure your products are visible through the crowd. Flat layouts can be easily overlooked.

7. Placing Products out of Reach:

Avoid setting up displays so high that customers can’t reach items. Ensure everything is accessible for a better shopping experience.

8. No Variation in Pricing:

Offer products at different price points to cater to customers with varying budgets. Avoid devaluing your stall by solely selling cheaper items.

9. No Prices:

Clearly display prices, as customers may assume products are expensive if not marked. A price list in an A4 menu display can be a convenient solution.

10. No Change:

Always have enough change for cash transactions. Pricing items with round numbers can minimize the need for excessive change.

11. Not Accepting Card Payments:

In today’s market, there’s no excuse for being a cash-only stall. Various card payment options are available, and they can significantly increase sales.

12. Not Respecting your Stall Neighbor’s Space:

Respect the allocated space of your neighbors. Avoid encroaching onto their area or causing disruptions with table adjustments.

13. Unprofessional Attitude:

Maintain a positive and engaged demeanor. Sitting idle, glaring at others, or displaying frustration can drive customers away.

14. Pouncing on People:

Avoid aggressive tactics. Let customers approach your stall naturally; forcing interactions can make people uncomfortable.

15. No Flyers for People to Take:

Provide flyers for customers to take, especially if they aren’t purchasing on the spot. Include contact details and encourage social media engagement.

16. Talking to your Neighbor’s Customers:

Respect your neighbor’s space and customers. Engaging with visitors to neighboring stalls can be perceived as rude and unprofessional.

17. Packing Away Early:

Stay until the end, even if it’s been a slow day. Some customers prefer last-minute purchases, and packing early disrupts other traders.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide on steering clear of common craft show pitfalls. We’ve all been guilty of a few, but learning from them is part of the journey. If you find yourself ticking all 17, maybe it’s time for a new adventure!

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.