With art festival and craft show season in full swing, we're going to go over a checklist of things you should be packing to make life easier while at market. We'll break these down into categories; I always find it easier packing my van with this list and I'm less likely to have a slap-on-the-forehead moment while setting up at a show!
The Nuts & Bolts
Tent, Tent Sides & Tent Weights - tent sides and weights are necessary because you never know when a thunderstorm might crop up or winds might threaten to take your tent down.
Lattice or Merchandise Walls - depending on your merchandise, use the square footage in your space, typically 100 square feet, to your best selling advantage. Unused space won't add to your day's tally but don't make things so crowded that people will be overwhelmed!
Bungee Cords & Zip Ties - good for when you roll up your tent sides for the day and also for attaching your weights to your tent legs.
Inside Your Space
Tables - I use adjustable height tables because the closer you can get your work into someone's line of vision, the better! I sell fused and dichroic glass jewelry and keeping it at or close to eye level works well.
Table Coverings - your set-up reflects on your business, so make sure your table coverings are professional looking, hang to the floor and keep your extra inventory hidden underneath.
Display Racks - free standing or table top. I find that the displays I'm most drawn to are layered in height and have dimension. You literally have only a few seconds to capture someone's interest before they move on to the next tent.
Chairs - one or two in case you get the chance to sit down for a few moments during your busy day! For the most part, hopefully you'll be on your feet greeting customers and making those sales!
Area Rug - if your display could benefit from it, consider getting one of those outdoor/indoor area rugs. Depending on the pattern, it could give your space either a warm, inviting feel or a vibrant, contemporary one.
Business Stuff
these are all self-explanatory and it seems like I'm always adding to this part of my list!
Business Cards
Post Cards and Brochures
Credit Card Machine & Slips if you don't have a Smart phone
Receipt Books
Cashbox
Vendor Apron
Scissors & Tape
Boxes/Bags/Totes/Tissue Paper/ Bubblewrap
Lint Roller (to keep your table coverings looking spiffy)
Windex and eco-friendly wipes (for your mirrors and any glass displays)
A small dish of wrapped candies are a nice touch.
Stuff to Make Your Life Easier and More Comfortable
Cooler with Water Bottles and Healthy Snacks (you'll feel so much better if you're not snacking on what's usually available at events)
Sunscreen & Wet Face Cloths in reclosable plastic bags (I've been taking these for years and frequently just press against my face and the back of my neck during Summer shows - it really does freshen me up!)
Extra pairs of socks (if you've ever set up in mud or floodwaters, you'll know what I mean!)
and most importantly,
YOUR WORK!!!
So there you have Willow Glass' checklist for shows! I hope you find it helpful and if you have other items you think should be added to my list, please leave a comment below, and maybe you'll see your contribution on a future list!
written by Dee Tilotta/Willow Glass 6/2012
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