It Was All New To Me!
The Craft Fairs and Artisian Markets were something I never thought I would be part of. I just liked going to them and walking around looking at everyone's talent. But, after thinking it over, I felt I had the need to share my new product with the public and what a great place to start.
In Hilton Head and Bluffton I suprisingly found so many regular events. My product being handmade and all natural seemed to fit many of our tent event requirements. My product is, G'Bye G'Nats! Bug Repellent. I wanted to tell people all about it because it worked and our bugs here are so bad it made you not want to go outside when they were the worst. And here, we are all about being outside!!
But, I was nervous to start because I didn't know where to start, so hopefully these helpful hints will ease the tension for you if this is something you've been wanting to do.
The Tent
So now what? Purchase the TENT. But which one? I decided to buy a 10 x 10 white tent. This seemed to be the one events deisred from the vendors. I made sure it came with the 4 panels incase of bad weather or just for privacy between vendors if you want. It is also good to fill up empty space in the back if you don't have any signage. Just make sure the tent is a quality tent. I read the reviews and made sure it was EZ to put up by one person. But, as I have found out there are always vendors happy to lend a helping hand. I also watched the YouTubes on the tent to make sure it was the one for me. Be prepared to pay between $250- $300. They should come with sand bags as well. Which you will need and make sure to purchase tent stakes for extra security.
Signage/Banners
Now you need to draw attraction to your tent. I chose getting vinyl banners pictured above. Again, do your homework and read reviews about the quality and clarity of artwork. I went with a company from Etsy. They have a lot of good ones, but before choosing look at their ratings and inquire about shipping fees. I had a long top banner made which I tie and got extra velcro to make it look smooth. And a big sign for the back, which fills up the empty space in back.
Tables and Coverings
I went for an "L" shape. So I chose a 6' table and a 5' table. It works out perfect and gives me room to put things like a fan, money box, or more decor. Also having more than one table helps with over crowding your front table. Just get creative. Since my product is an all natural bug repellent, I incorporated a natural theme with adding plants and more natural colors.
You'll have fun getting your own creative juices flowing. Just try different things and don't worry about changing it up if you aren't satisfied...it's only money, right?
As for the table coverings, I tried the stretchy table clothes many vendors use because I thought they looked nice, but for me I have things hidden underneath my tables and I didn't like that look, So I bought fitted, non wrinkle polyester table cloths. One set of black and one set of white. I love them.
Displays
Table displays you choose depend on your items you are selling. I actually googled this becasue I wanted to see different ideas. I came up with the conclusion that you need to put your own personality into it. What I did learn though, was that if you have a display that is eye level to your customers, it attracts them. I have one 4 tier shelf and one shorter 3 tier shelf. So it gives my table a nice look.
Extras
A fan is a must here in the Lowcountry. I have a commercial battery operated one that I set on the table and I bought an electric velocity fan that sits on the ground. Don't forget your extension cord. Hopefully, your event will have electricity!
Depending on your products, you will need cash, a cash box and a card reader. I have a minimum of $100 in my cash box. My card reader can tap credit cards or be inserted. I am very happy with it. I found that the more you do these events the more you end up adding to your table or maybe subtracting.
It's Show Time!
To calm the nerves, get there early to set up. You never know what the start of the day will be like so just be prepared. Being there in plenty fo time will calm things down and you can concentrate on your set up. I was SO nervous. I used to show horses and that is what it reminded me of. But, it is also very exciting!
As people start to come, I recommend standing. I actually just bought an anti-fatigue mat to stand on because I tested sitting down and standing up when customers went by and defintely the standing to greet and small talk worked much better! And sometimes, the ones that you knew were going to wonder by, actually stopped and bought a bug repellent.
Make sure you bring snacks and water. Your throat will get dry talking to alot of people. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and dress neat and professional.
One very important point that will help you is, always acknowledge everyone that takes the time to come to your tent and look at your products. Especially if they are in line waiting while you are helping another customer. Just atleast say, "Hi", or "I'll be right with you all". This makes everyone feel welcomed.
Remember to have fun and believe in yourself and your product. You are so talented! And my very last helpful hint is...bring your bug repellent...G'Bye G'Nats!