Florida is known as the Sunshine State, and for good reason; it is one of the few places in America with a warm, tropical climate, and the ambience is always sunny with all the fairs and festivals occurring all year round. Aside from the tried-and-tested annual festivals that have been running for many years now, there are also fledgling organizers that struggle to take off from their first year. To many people who have talents to show, be it a skill in cooking or an ability for crafts, then this is the place to earn a little extra.
If you are one of these artsy people, more power to you. I support your notion of making a quick buck off doing something you love. However, it's important to make sure to be able to attract a lot of potential buyers. In the next paragraphs are a few tips and tricks I've learned from talking to some of the "fair regulars".
*An appealing booth attracts customers: Even if you have absolutely spectacular craftworks, having them on a drab booth or stall will certainly not attract any buyers. You're selling your art, not fish in a market stall. Something as simple as a colorful cloth over a table or a banner will help. If you're selling food, you certainly shouldn't have your booth next to a dumpster. And make sure to keep your area clean.
*Talk, not intimidate: Basically, your crafts will not sell themselves. Make it an effort to go around your booth and talk to potential customers about your creations. Tell them why they're special, but remember to not ply them with too much information. Be casual! If you notice someone having doubts, try offering them a similar items they might be interested in.
Be prepared for changing weather: We may be the Sunshine State, but Florida receives it's fair amount of rainfall. You may know that Florida weather may also be unpredictable. Sheets of thick plastic to cover your crafts tucked away nearby will be a necessity once rain decides to drop. Have something heavy at hand to keep them away flying away, too. And bring an umbrella, as getting sick will be a big inconvenience.
Lastly, don't overdo it: Don't cram so much paraphernalia on your booth that your crafts get lost. Don't talk so much you forget to listen to your customers' concerns. And don't bring so much anti-rain equipment, you don't bring enough of what you're planning to sell. - 20785
If you are one of these artsy people, more power to you. I support your notion of making a quick buck off doing something you love. However, it's important to make sure to be able to attract a lot of potential buyers. In the next paragraphs are a few tips and tricks I've learned from talking to some of the "fair regulars".
*An appealing booth attracts customers: Even if you have absolutely spectacular craftworks, having them on a drab booth or stall will certainly not attract any buyers. You're selling your art, not fish in a market stall. Something as simple as a colorful cloth over a table or a banner will help. If you're selling food, you certainly shouldn't have your booth next to a dumpster. And make sure to keep your area clean.
*Talk, not intimidate: Basically, your crafts will not sell themselves. Make it an effort to go around your booth and talk to potential customers about your creations. Tell them why they're special, but remember to not ply them with too much information. Be casual! If you notice someone having doubts, try offering them a similar items they might be interested in.
Be prepared for changing weather: We may be the Sunshine State, but Florida receives it's fair amount of rainfall. You may know that Florida weather may also be unpredictable. Sheets of thick plastic to cover your crafts tucked away nearby will be a necessity once rain decides to drop. Have something heavy at hand to keep them away flying away, too. And bring an umbrella, as getting sick will be a big inconvenience.
Lastly, don't overdo it: Don't cram so much paraphernalia on your booth that your crafts get lost. Don't talk so much you forget to listen to your customers' concerns. And don't bring so much anti-rain equipment, you don't bring enough of what you're planning to sell. - 20785
About the Author:
Sam Weyland is a big fan of Florida Craft Shows. She knows many people, and would suggest Florida Craft Fairs to find the closest Florida Fair near you!
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