So you've been working hard to set up your business, maybe you've started an Etsy store and you're struggling to make sales. Perhaps you feel like giving up, or imposter syndrome has you convinced that your products are not good enough. Sound familiar? Maybe you've started asking yourself, should I sell at a craft market?
Craft fairs are an excellent place to market your products for a number of reasons. Here are 5 benefits to selling at craft markets...
5 reasons you should start selling your products at craft markets
1. You can physically get your products in front of customers
Between the saturation of 'handmade' products on Etsy, and the ever- changing algorithms on social media platforms, there is no guarantee that your target audience will see the products you have to offer. At a craft market, they can touch the product, see the colours and check the fit. Plus, they can take the product away that day instead of dealing with possibility of unreliable postal services.
2. Opportunity to interact with your customer base
Today, many people are as invested in the crafter and crafting process as they are in the products themselves. Just take a look at social media. The most successful artists and crafters share aspects of their lives including behind the scenes sneak peeks. Well why is this? It's simple. Generally, the people attending craft markets, art fairs and local events are actively looking to support small handmade businesses. They don't want a generic product from a faceless corporation: they want to see the passion, the love and creativity you have for your craft. It's an opportunity for potential customers to see and interact with you.
3. The opportunity to connect with other creative people
Being self employed in the creative sector can at times be quite isolating. Craft shows are the perfect place to meet other creative, like-minded people. From sharing information about reputable companies, discussing ideas for new products or simply some words of encouragement from someone who understands, talking to other traders is one of the best parts of a craft market. I have made lifelong friends at craft shows who have supported me on this journey - I would not be where I am today without them.
4. They are a great place to try out new product ranges
Social media alone is not enough to gauge potential customer reactions as we all know the algorithms do not guarantee views. Before adding new products to my website, I take them to craft market and see how well they are received. Whether the item sells or not, customers will always give you their (usually complimentary thoughts) at craft markets whether you ask for them or not.
5. Build local connections
It's likely that most of the craft markets you will attend will be local to you. Many people want to support small local businesses and will try to support local events if they can. Even if a local customer does not make a purchase on the day, chances are they may make a purchase at a later date. As well as potential customers, attending local events can generate contacts within your local area that can support you with various areas of your business including financial support.
BONUS - 6 quick tips for a successful craft market
1. Do your research on the craft markets in your area
There are many companies and venues offering craft markets at different price points. Not all events will suit you or your products. If you can, pop along to the market beforehand to see how it is organised, what footfall is like and talk to some of the traders about their experiences. There will be a lot of trial and error so do not give up just because one market was not quite right for you.
2. Give your customers multiple payment options
Always have change for cash purchases and buy a card reader if you can. Please check with the card reader provider as many insist that you are registered business (not selling a couple of items) and some providers have limitations on what you can sell. You can also generate a QR code for Paypal to give buyers another payment option.
3. Think carefully about your stock
There are two main things to consider when creating stock for your craft market:
- You need to make enough stock to sell at the market to cover your pitch fees, plus a profit to make it worth your time. Start making stock early and give yourself plenty of time! It's a careful balancing act and something you will get better at with experience.
- Consider the audience of your craft market and what they would be looking to purchase. At most markets you generally you want lots of your cheaper products and a few of your pricier product, but consider who is likely to attend the event and what they will be looking for.
4. Plan your stall set up in advance
The organisers of the market or fair will tell you the size of the space you have in advance and what stall equipment you can bring. A visually engaging stall with a clearly thought out layout takes time - usually more time than you have to set up. Plan out your table layout in advance at home - (trust me, you'll be thankful you did!). This links to tip number 5...
5. Price your items in advance with clear prices visible to customers
Work out your pricing structure in advance. Know exactly how much you will be selling items for and clearly label items. Make your pricing labels at home beforehand (if possible typed and printed). It looks more professional and many customers would rather walk past your stall than ask for a price. Keep it simple.
Examples of my pricing labels
6. Interact, interact, interact
Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, craft markets are all about people. Talk to other stall holders, the event organisers and most importantly your potential customers. A 'Hello' and a smile is enough - you do not need to aggressively sell - just be polite and engage with the people at the event.
Hopefully this post has been useful. Craft markets are certainly unpredictable and take a lot of trial and error, but they have so much potential for creative makers. Let me know in the comments if you have any further questions about craft markets. I'm always happy to help.
Wishing you craft market success!
Heidi :)