Hello there! How is everyone? My life has been consumed with preparing for a huge craft fair coming in November. I have been working as much as I can building inventory. Lots of hats, scarves, mittens, and more. I’m so excited for this fair! I did a small one last year so this will be my first big one. We’re talking over 10,000 shoppers!
Ok I am a tad overwhelmed as well. The thoughts in my head are non stop.
Do I have enough variety? Too much variety? Will I have enough inventory? Will I even sell anything? How do I find the time to prepare with two kids and house to take care of?
Ha it sounds like I am in over my head a bit. But, I’m still really excited. I have an awesome husband who helps keep the kids busy on the weekends so I can sneak away to knit. I have a mom who has tons of experience in craft fairs and has been a huge help with ideas. So I have a lot of great support! Even if I am crazy for doing this. (wink)
Here’s a peak at what I have been making! I hope to add some new colors and styles I have made into my Etsy shop as well.
These are so cozy! I want everything warm and cozy.
Slouchy Hats I love the colors… I have many more to make!I wrote up a new infinity scarf pattern and am working on making more. These drape a lot better than my crocheted ones. I can’t wait to add more, especially to the shop!
Cute coastersI’m so excited to have some mittens added this year!
I’m sure I will post after the fair to maybe share my experience and even some do’s and don’ts. Now, back to work!
Do you have any tips or experiences with craft fairs? Please share! I can’t get enough help and advice.
Irene Heseltine says
Hi, my sister and I used to do craft fairs selling cross stitched items. I would say – and you probably know this! – have everything priced, have a variety of prices so there is something for everyone, have children’s and men’s items if you can ( children pester and people are desperate for men’s stocking filler items) . Also we found after setting up our first very beautiful and artistic stall, that people were too frightened to pick anything up in case they spoiled the display – we were much more casual after that. Unless you are very organised try not to take orders, they can be overwhelming at the very time you are tired from all the pre-fair efforts, and certainly, never take orders without a substantial deposit. Better to tell them about your Etsy shop or the next fair if you have one booked, you could follow this up with a business card or leaflet. We always included a leaflet in the bag with every purchase. Try to mention advantages like warmth and easy wash when people are looking, but always try to make contact and chat to people who are viewing your wares. Oh – try to arrive nice and early so you have a chance to set up as you want. Keep a record of everything you sell so you will know the most popular items and colours for next time. Hope that helps a bit, but enjoy the fair whatever, it is quite an experience. Irene xx
Mary Jane says
Irene you are awesome! Thank you so much for your wisdom! You have some great points and ideas. Thank you so so much! My mom had an idea to have a bowl of candy out to bring people in as well. Who wouldn’t love some chocolate? 🙂