5 ways to sell more at Craft Fairs
Art festivals, craft shows, wine festivals—these events present incredible opportunities for marketing your handcrafted business.
To ensure that you sell more products and achieve greater success at the events you choose to participate in, there are certain strategies you can employ
- Select the right kind of event: Thoroughly research any event you plan to participate in beforehand. If possible, attend as a customer first to assess the landscape and observe the products available. When that’s not feasible, reach out to the show organiser and ask relevant questions about the event’s attendees. Additionally, examine the list of other vendors on the event website. It’s crucial to ensure that your products align with the overall quality and style of the event.
- Develop your story: Stories captivate almost everyone. Share with potential customers the story behind your craft—how you started, what you love about creating your products, and the unique qualities that go into their making. Highlight aspects such as hand-dyed yarn or eco-friendly supplies. A compelling narrative can help seal the sale by humanising your products and differentiating them from mass-produced alternatives.
- Price your products correctly: Pricing often poses a challenge for handmade artists and crafters. Instead of determining the value of your products based solely on your perspective, focus on what they will sell for. Remember, your business must turn a profit to thrive. Calculate your costs, including supplies and time spent, and ensure they are covered. Then, add a suitable markup. Research similar products in the marketplace to gauge appropriate pricing. It’s common to see handmade items underpriced or overpriced, so finding the right balance is crucial.
- Utilise an inviting display: Consider your table as a storefront, and potential customers as window shoppers. Create a visually appealing and welcoming display. Use vertical elements to elevate some of your products to eye level. Avoid overcrowding and embrace the principle of “less is more.” Incorporate lifestyle props like flowers or furniture to draw interest. Experiment with various table layouts and step outside to evaluate its attractiveness from a customer’s perspective.
- Actively engage with customers: One of the most valuable tips is to stand at your table (comfortable shoes are a must!). As a salesperson, your role is to entice visitors to purchase your products and convert them from lookers to buyers. Sitting at the back of your table can be off-putting. Stand and approach visitors, asking if they have any questions. You can discuss the quality of your products, share details about new designs, or enquire about their preferences or gift-giving needs. It may feel intimidating, especially for newbies, but remember that you are representing your products and are your own best salesperson. Strike a balance between being attentive and pushy, and consider preparing notecards with conversation prompts to practice. This aligns with the importance of refining your story (mentioned in point 2). Actively engage with people who visit your table and show genuine interest in your products.
To conclude...
By following these strategies, you can enhance your presence at art festivals, craft shows, and other events, effectively attracting customers and increasing sales opportunities.
Have a lovely day!
Love, Katy x
