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A quick overview of how we prep for summer fetes and crafts shows

Over the years we have attended many craft shows, Christmas fayres and summer fetes, selling everything from cupcakes to crafts to face painting. This experience has taught us everything we truly need to prepare for a craft show-both ourselves and our stock!

 Here I will tell you all I have learnt and help you prepare for a craft show.

Write a craft show checklist

When preparing for a craft show or fete I’ve found the best thing to do is to write a checklist that is universally applicable and covers everything you’ll need down to bottles of water and a camera. This can then be laminated and used every time you are packing the car before a show. For example, our list contains things such as gazebo, tables, chairs, table cloth, mirrors etc. (Scroll down to the bottom for our sample list!)

Write a list well and you will only have to write it once to be prepared for all future craft shows.

Follow a theme and look good

It’s important as well that not only does your stock look good but that your stall is inviting and comfortable. Not only for your customers but for you as well. 

When it comes to setting up a stand it’s a good idea to have a “look” in your head for your brand eg a colour scheme or a theme. Ours is dusky blue and mint colours; a relaxed beachy theme as it fits well with not only our crafts but ourselves. All our display equipment is themed to this as well. I have another blog post showing you how you can make your own so that it is all themed into your own design perfectly. A stand that is neat and easy on the eye will attract more customers.

Think about lighting. Lighting is very important so your customers can see your wares. Consider where each event is. Will you have electricity? Is it outside or inside-is it well-lit or dingy? Strong camping torches are a great source of light whereas fairy lights add a decorative touch!

Don’t forget pricing. Whether it’s products beautifully packaged with clear prices just for craft shows or (very clear) signage over items. Having pricing that is easy for potential customers to see is very important when preparing for a craft show.

Think about finances

When booking fetes it’s also good to have a clear idea of what you are trying to sell and how much you’re willing to pay per stand.

Apply to as many fetes etc you can as early as you can and keep a record of all contact details, who you have heard back from and who you have not. It can be a good idea to get a wall planner or clear calendar to keep track of your dates. Also, remember that each event will expect you to bring different things-tables/chairs/gifts for the raffle etc.

Think about what type of events suit your products. If you sell crafts that appeal to children or parents local school fetes could be fitting but if your items are more age sensitive then maybe not! Up and down the country are a host of events especially in summer and the run up to Christmas. These range from small and local to big, weekend events. Steam rallys or steam punk, vintage 50’s or vintage Victorians going niche with your products and attending the right events can be a real boost to sales. You can find events on social media, local magazines and on websites such as UK Craft Fairs. Even weekly markets can be the right place for the right product.

Remember Practicalities

When booking events remember it’s also important to know how much time you need before fetes depending on what you’re doing (ie if you have baking to do!) so that you leave enough gaps to get ready for the event! Don’t overbook yourself! Customers can tell if service providers are unhappy or stressed and will find it off-putting.

One last key thing is to think about whether you will be doing events by yourself or with a friend/partner. Some events can be quiet so you will spend a lot of time sitting around but having someone to chat to (as long as you don’t ignore customers!) and cover you while you pop to the loo is very helpful. If you don’t want anyone with you on the day perhaps see if someone can help you pack/unpack as sometimes time is very limited for this.

Our top tips summed up to prepare for craft show success

In case you want to skip the reading here are our top tips

1. Write a universal checklist-remember behind the scenes too
2. Create a stand that is welcoming
3. Have an on brand ‘look’
4. Remember lighting and visibility
5. Have clear pricing
6. Think about finances and weigh money in and out (perhaps expensive shows would fit your products best or maybe cheaper more frequent shows)
7. Pick the right type of event for your crafts
8. Dont over book yourself
9. Team work makes the dream work
10. Keep having fun! Book events you enjoy as customers will notice. If your having fun work feels a lot easier too!

Sample list to prepare for a craft show

Here is our packing list that we follow when packing the car the day before an event!

So there are some key points for getting ready for craft fairs. What do you do to get ready? Let us know in the comments below!