I had so much fun at my first craft show. My grandpa made me a super cool display, my table looked pretty good for my first time, and the other artists were really sweet and nice to meet.
It was Noah’s idea to bring his puppy;) She was wearing a Mimi Green collar of course.
My mom and sister stayed with me all day and Dan brought the kids, including Cessie, down for a bit. But I have to say that it was exhausting. I did learn a few things that may help anyone who wants to do a show.
Craft Show Tip #1 — Dress in layers. I would have been doing a bit better in the morning if I had brought a jacket and a bit better in the afternoon if I had worn shorts. Yes, it is still cold here in NM in the morning time – can’t wait till we are over that!
Tip #2 Have a game plan about what you are going to say about your product. I didn’t think too much about that, and I am sure that even if I had it would have needed to be tweaked in practice, but at least I would have had somewhere to start. I may have sold more if I had "sold" my collars and leashes better.
Tip #3 Make sure to network with the other vendors. I met a lot of really cool women that I hope to work with again– plus now they have my info which is key. Sometimes it is about who you know.
Tip #4 Go in without expectations. Just like anything else in life, if you don’t expect things to happen you won’t get disappointed if they don’t. I wasn’t sure how it would go, which I was glad about later when I realized that I had a massive show/sewing hangover of sorts. I was so tired, I am still getting over it!
Tip #5 Have a colorful display. I looked at craft displays on Flickr before the show and got some great ideas. The more attention you can draw to you the better– this really means color and multi level views. If your display is flat you might find that your sales are too. And you can quote me on that one;)
i have never done a craft show and am going to attempt my first one in two weeks! I love your homemade display. i sell hair accessories and thinking this will work for me as well if i maybe hang various strands of ribbon to it and clip my bows or flowers to it!! thanks will definitely pass this on!
I sell dog collars and have thought about going to the trade shows with them but didn’t know how I could display them all effectively. You just showed me. I love your idea. It is great and will display all the collars without taking up a whole lot of room. Thanks. Great idea.
Hi there, I wanted to let you know that I have featured this display idea on my blog as I think it’s great. Hope you can stop by. Cheers, Marie x
Good advice! I haven’t been brave enough to attempt a craft show yet, but hopefully soon I’ll have the guts. Your collars are great. When we get another dog, I’ll definitely keep you in mind 🙂