Firstly a very belated Happy New Year!
Things to take with you
This is the final part in my Beginner’s Guide to Craft Shows.
I’m afraid this is going to read more like a list than a blog, but here goes…
You will need all or at least most of the following:
The Basics
Table & Chair – if not provided by the organiser. Even if you want to stand up all day a chair is always useful – if nothing else to put you coat on!
Both of these should be as portable as possible, but you will need to balance this with how robust they are. I use an old wallpaper pasting table if I really have to. It’s very portable, but not that stable. If you can afford something a little more substantial I would recommend you go for it.
Table covering – many event organisers request this and stipulate that it must reach the floor. In any case it should enhance your display.
A cloth that reaches the floor also allows you to use the space under your table to store all your empty boxes etc.
Your stock! – say no more!
Your Display Materials – All those things you use to display your stock at it’s best. You may also want signs on your stall to tell people about the things you’re displaying, their price etc.
Gazebo – If you are going to an Outdoor Event and do not have the luxury of being in a marquee this is essential. I treated my gazebo to side walls last year and when the rain came down they were invaluable!
Other Display Items
Banner – This is not always necessary, but if you do decide to have a banner think carefully about how you are going to hang it. I’ve got a banner, but don’t use it very much as I still haven’t worked out a sensible way of displaying it.
Lights – You may not need these, but they are particularly important for those of us selling jewellery or if the venue is particularly dark.
Mirror – If you’re selling things that people wear (in my case jewellery) it’s a good idea to have at least one mirror to hand. This gives your customers a chance to try things on before they buy.
Business Cards – Always make sure these are on display for people to help themselves to. On numerous occasions I have been contacted after an event by someone who took a card.
Behind Your Stall
Float – Make sure you have a good selection of notes and coins with you to give your customers change. You also need some way of keeping it safe throughout the event.
Pen, Paper & Clipboard – I always write down what I’ve sold and of course details of any orders, contacts I’ve made etc.
Scissors, Sellotape – Always useful.
Extension Lead – Useful if your stall turns out to be not that close to the power sockets.
Always Useful - Pins, screwdriver, hammer, tape measure
Tools – if you choose to make alterations or customise items there and then.
Insurance documents. Not always asked for, but good to have with you just in case.
Refreshments
Small snacks – Even if you are there all day, make sure that your food is cut into bite sized pieces. That way you can eat your lunch discretely!
Drinks – Food and drinks may be available at the event, but there’s no guarantee that you will be able to get away from your stall to go and buy them.
Some organisers do look after their stallholders well, providing a regular supply of drinks. Some don’t.
Sundries
Mobile phone – In my case mainly used to update my other half on the day’s events.
Camera – Not essential, but you may want it with you if you decide to take photos of your stall.
Tissues
Layers of Clothing – I tend to find when I first arrive and am setting up my stall I get very warm. Then as the day progresses I cool down a lot. So, at the risk of sounding like my mother, layers of clothing is my answer.
Cardboard to stand on – If you are outside on a cold day this will help to keep your feet warm!
Well that’s all I can think of for the moment.
Please use the comments on my blog to add anything I have forgotten to this list.
I hope you have found this of some use. I wish you luck with any events that you may be attending in 2011.
