One of my favorite arts and crafts fair is making its way back to my community, and I could not be more excited. The preparation and hard work has begun. I am trying to get everything in order and ready to go. So that way I will have plenty of items to sell and show off. When a new year comes around that means new fairs and festivals, and I am always reminded of my first year on my own trying to make it as an artist at my first show. It was crazy, but I learned from it. If you are new to arts and crafts fairs, then here are some things I learned my first year that might help you out as well.
- Preparation has to start more than a week before the show. If you like your sanity, or whatever you have left, make plans to get ready and prepared well in advance so you are not stressing out. You will be glad that you took your time and made sure all of your creations are thoughtfully crafted.
- Set up the day before the fair starts. If you get to the fair the day it starts to set up, you will be beyond frustrated, trust me. Take advantage of the fact that most festivals give you the day before to set up your booth. You will have plenty of time to get things ready so that people can see all of your crafts and you will have the space set up the best way possible.
- Have your prices clearly labeled. When you are talking with one customer, you will want prospective customers to be able to easily find the prices of items without having to interrupt you.
- Find someone who will be willing to help you. Fairs and festivals last for a good while during the day. During that time you will probably have to eat and maybe step away from your set up. A friend or family member who is willing to help you out by manning the station occasionally can be a huge help that you will truly appreciate.
Unfortunately for me I had to learn those things the hard way. Luckily, I lived and learned and now arts and craft fairs are fairly easy and a whole lot of fun. It is always nice to have your work admired and of course purchased!
