I did my first craft market, what an experience!

I’ve had the opportunity to participate as a vendor in a spring craft market, this was my first time as a vendor with a new business. Although I have attended many events where there are vendors, it felt good to be on the other side of the table. Since registering to be a vendor in February, I had been getting ready non stop for the big day. I spent most of my free time creating and doing business related tasks (i.e. ordering business cards, creating T-Shirts, and printing out thank you cards) too close to the event. It feels like March just came and went because up until the day of the craft market I was still doing last minute things. Life has been rocky lately and I have to split my time between work, tending to family needs, working on my craft, and remembering to reply to messages, etc. Whew sis is tired!

I went to sleep at 3 am the night before the event and only slept for a few hours. Set up time began at 9:00 am, my plan was to get there at 9:30 am the latest. I managed to be late because I was printing out business cards. I arrived at the venue close to 10:45 am, with 15 minutes before doors open; I was a bit nervous as I was preparing my table and looking around to see that all the other vendors were already set up. Thankfully my mom tagged along with me, it was great to have her as an assistant, she complained about working for free lol. Overall I had a great experience, I was amazed at the variety of vendors, I walked around and picked up some business cards and purchased a few things. The music was also on point, I was jamming the whole time I was there. In an event like this, word of mouth is really important. Also, I am thankful for the people that I invited and showed up to support me at my first vending event. My goal was to sell 25 earrings, I sold 13. I chatted with the vendor across from me and I explained to her that it was my first event, and she told me not to get discouraged. I really appreciated those words because it can be hard sometimes when people look and don’t buy. But that’s okay.

During this process I learned a lot, and will share some things that I need to work on. The best thing I did was purchase a utility wagon to transport my belongings. Hopefully this will help anyone who is thinking about becoming a vendor.

Time management

There just isn’t enough time in a day sometimes (sigh). Naturally, I take time to get ready, I don’t like to be rushed but somehow I'm always rushing when I’m late.I create a to-do list all the time, that’s how I’m able to stay on task and organized however my timing is always off. When I start creating, I am in my zone and leave other tasks on hold, this causes me to be behind. I learned that it is important to manage your time wisely and creating a deadline for each task will minimize wasted time or spending too much time on one task.

Budget

Everything costs (insert crying emoji here), I’m frugal with an expensive taste but sometimes I like to do things on my own that’s how I learn. Since deciding to turn making clay earrings into a business, I have put a lot of time, energy, effort, and money. I get excited when it comes to buying materials for my craft, having spent hundreds of dollars so far and it’s important to track.I haven't kept tabs on my expenses. I’m working on that.

How I’m getting ready for my next vending show

My next vending event is on May 1st and I’m excited about it. I’m currently taking a much needed break but soon I’ll be creating new styles and colors. I can be hard on myself when it comes to resting and taking breaks because I always feel the need to be doing something. I have also ordered professional business cards which I’m excited to see. To stay on track, I will create a list and deadlines to make sure that I don't repeat the same mistakes. I will also purchase a cash box and accept card payments because I’ve had a few people ask to pay via cash or card.

Check me out at my next vending event here:

Have you ever been to a market or pop-up shop? What has your experience been like? Comment down below.