Craft Fairs TELL ALL - Things to Avoid when Selling Your Handmade Goods in Person

Craft Fairs and Trade Shows are challenging in SO MANY different ways. I go over my top 5 things to avoid when selling your handmade goods in person. These tips so apply to working any retail or customer service related job.
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Have you had any weird experiences when vending at a craft show? Do you have any words of wisdom for me? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Please let me know if you have any questions for me! I love to hear from you. Motivates me to make more videos.
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[@sunnydaye]

I was recently at a craft fair with my 85 yo mom. We were at one booth that had some really interesting items and I was in the process of narrowing down a couple of different pieces to which one I was going to buy. There was another customer asking if he could come into the booth and look. The owner looked at my mom (who was walking slowly with her walker) and rolled her eyes and told the guy, "she's taking forever." I immediately put down the item I was about to purchase and asked my mom to leave with me. I would never buy from someone who was so disrespectful to an elderly person. Mom obviously has difficulty moving around, but she got herself up and made the effort to go out to the craft fair. I'm still mad about that and it was two weeks ago.

[@iloveyouabunchofbananas]

Wow that is upsetting. I'm so sorry you experienced that. ❤

[@bippidyboppidyboo4428]

My favorite tip I can offer: Set up your booth at home and get it exactly how you want it. Take photos of it and bring them with you the day of the show. Then you have a blueprint of your booth! No wasted time or trying to remember how it looked.

[@christalcavanaugh]

This is an especially good tip if you need help because you can show your helper the photo!

[@susan3200]

Thank you for the tip!

[@janetfayard672]

Great idea!

[@deerhaven3350]

I finally started doing this after my second selling outing...excellent advice!

[@aaron6064]

Brilliant idea

[@paulreyes4865]

We had so many people take photos of our booth and art and then leave. It was a negative thing. Then we made up a small photo-board sign that had our web page and info on it. Now when people whip the phone out, we smile and ask them, "Oh can you please include our photo board in the background? That way you will remember who's booth this is!" So, at least we get our web page out there, and we turn a negative thing into a positive.

[@julianne-brokawfrey4569]

Great ideal!

[@itsgoodforthesoul9749]

love that idea. i was thinking of putting a sign in my shop that says you are welcome to take photos of our products however please hashtag or credit our shop on your social media. the way i see it, God is always going to give honest hardworking makers the edge and new ideas...go ahead and copy me...I got someone bigger on myside with more ideas..

[@JohnSmith-tl3kd]

People will just photo-chop out your web site info.

[@peewee7530]

They take photos of your booth to steal your set up or designs.

[@annwithaplan9766]

Peewee - Yes, sometimes that's true. Not always. I took photos at times because I either didn't have the money at the moment to buy something I liked and wanted to remember it and the seller, or I wanted to see if a family member liked it enough for me to get it for them.

[@christinehowell]

"Comparison is the thief of joy" - Theodore Roosevelt

[@ShoryoTombo]

One time, a customer was playing with her own bracelet and being judgemental with my stuff and she said, "I got this at walmart for $3.00..." before she could finish, her bracelet broke! I said, "well Walmart is down the street". I couldn't help it but it was that moment and everyone else around me busted out laughing. She felt like crap! My sale went up. Very rare situation but I did great. LOL

[@kimmyballerina6]

ShoryoTombo who goes to a craft fair to buy HANDMADE items and then say crap like that lmao, she must not know I guess that it takes time and materials to make something very special and they are paying more than mass produced products.

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

Yeah exactly. My time is valuable. They are paying for the time as well as my art !

[@ShoryoTombo]

We get the 'amateur shoppers' once in awhile, @@kimmyballerina6 LOL

[@kimmyballerina6]

Yup lol, but I guess there isn't anything we could do about them lol

[@canarypurpledesign]

KARMA! lool great story.

[@dianaday1]

I'm not a crafter, but I have attended many craft fairs in my life. I love buying well-made crafts and I appreciate the artistry that goes into them. However, I absolutely avoid any stalls where the artist is not engaged with their customers. If I walk in to look at an artist's goods and they don't greet me or even look at me, I am already turned off and will very likely walk right out. So, please engage your customers, even if it's just a greeting and a "thank you for looking" when they leave. Many times I have returned to stalls with friendly artists and purchased something later, once I have perused the whole craft fair.

[@user-zd3hn5cs5e]

But there's plenty others who like that. I can't stand it when they attempt small talk and get in your face. Not everyone is the same especially for a lot of people on the spectrum.

[@glorfindelchocolateflowery6392]

Wow someone sounds uptight

[@imnfewirose876]

Umm not everyone would want someone at you face.

[@noram.m7631]

You seem like a high Karen. Good for the crafters who didn’t see you.

[@vickiechandler3112]

i agree..find a happy medium...dont pester the heck out of your customer but dont ignore them either.

[@SpacequeenLin]

I enjoyed your advice, Olivia. I learned one lesson at a craft fair years ago. Never prejudge your customers. We were at the State Fair Grounds and had a wide mix of people in attendance due to the other events taking place. The well dressed ladies were the harshest critics of the crafts and the nicest most complimentary customers were the bikers attending the nearby motorcycle races. The Goth kids were so sweet as well. It was a very interesting experience and I'm glad my young son was with me to share it and learn.

[@shannonobrien2572]

Lindaann Stork - cool!

[@peewee7530]

99% of the time I can tell a lookie lou from a buyer. Older women are better customers but then again they are the first to steal from you.

[@stickerlady1774]

Peewee old ladies actually steal your product??

[@os2841]

That's because rich women know quality and most craft fair stuff is just that - silly cheap crafts. The bikers on the other hand are impressed because they never make anything by hand nor have an opinion or knowledge about art.

[@ankewynmalen1186]

@@peewee7530 What.....? They steal from you? I am older and feel a little hurt by the generalization.....!

[@theresamorgan1033]

Nice video.. I had an incident right when we opened at a Flea MKT. Two women came up to my tables. I'm a quilter and a painter. Hubby would cut things out for me. I quilted table runners, wall hangings, placemats,stockings and etc... The one lady picked up a runner.she was inspecting it like # 9 operator !! I ask if I could help her?? She returned saying, I'm looking for the tag that you cut off!!!! Omg!!! Her friend said lets go! She said,No! I hate to see someone say they made something they didn't !!! Wow! My hubby stood up n told her I made everything here! People were starting to look, even the other vendors.... I took a deep breadth and looked her straight in the eyes and thanked her soooo much for the compliment.. That was the best thing anyone has ever said !!! Her friend grabbed her ,apologized to me and started walking. I did yell, thanks for the compliment , again... Come back anytime!!! The other vendors came over afterwards and said that was the best ever !!! Kill them with kindness...😁😁😁

[@berneemartin4383]

Your comment made me chuckle - when I was just 12 or 13 years old my best friend and I made a bunch of salt-dough Christmas ornaments that turned out very fine. Her younger brother saw them and scoffed that there was no way that we had made them. I said the same thing you did basically that I thought that was a wonderful compliment! Her brother was just bug-eyed!

[@gunnarronn6730]

The things I want to call that woman, my upbringing wont allow… But I am in awe of how you handled it :-)

[@silverlagomorpha3177]

"How long does it take you to make this?" That's a hard question. I'm not only the Manufacturing Dept, I'm also Product Development, Purchasing, Shipping and Receiving, Marketing, Sales, and...equipment Maintenance and Janitorial staff. "Oh, Honey, you could maker these!" yes, she could, with $6,000.0 of equipment and 10 years of experience, she COULD make these!

[@peglund526]

Silver Lagomorpha i

[@peewee7530]

All the time I hear rude customers say of you could make this I always say but would you? No you cannot take pics of my product. Use your own brain to come up with the designs.

[@ambererickson7900]

Amen! These are the people who want something great but think that because we’re not major businesses with recognizable logos we don’t have value. Do they go to Target and say, “i could make this myself, your prices are too high” and expect they will give a damn about their opinions? Nah-uh.

[@peewee7530]

Exactly Amber Erickson - they seem to think that because are products are not mass produced our prices are too high - they don't realize they are probably receiving a one of a kind item that no one else has. But those ignorant buyers are few in numbers I mostly have customers that compliment my work and give me monetary tips because my prices are not too high. I sell in volume rather than expensive items.

[@marigeobrien]

Maybe I'm just the kind that makes lemonade out of lemons but I did craft shows for 3 years while my kids were little and had a completely different response to all those situations. Talking to other vendors is a great way to network, partner and learn about other shows. Sure, if NO ONE is around, you can complain about how slow it is. But my response was always, "every show has its busy and slow times." In fact, I managed to get a second income going because, through talking to others, I met the editor of a craft show newsletter (one FOR crafters) for my area and began writing articles for it. (If there isn't one in your area, you might consider starting one.) I never thought of other vendors as competition and, rather than compare my own work to others, if I liked something someone did, or I think someone did something better than me, I'd learn from them. I wouldn't copy, but I would take that idea and put my own spin on it. I thought of it as part of the creative process. Don't know if it has to do with the time or the place, but when I did craft shows (NJ/PA area in the 1990's), no one ever traded crafts. That seems really weird to me. And sort of rude. I mean, just because I want something someone else has, that's no reason to assume they want something I make. And it's sort of cheesy to make that kind of offer, if you ask me. As for customers, yes, they can be thoughtless and rude. I've had some say, "I could do that," or "that's a lot to charge." I would cheerfully agree and explain that what they're paying for is my time (usually including the amount of hours spent). Also, without letting every comment get to me, I would make notes if someone criticized me-- because criticism is a way to learn. As a crafter you should always try to improve, both your craft and your selling techniques. So take every criticism as a potential suggestion. I don't mean you should take them to heart, but think about what they say. Here's a few tips I found helpful: 1. ALWAYS make some small item that you can charge $2-5 for and make a lot of them. MANY people who go to craft shows do not intend to spend the big bucks. But if they find some small item, they will snatch it up. It's just the way it is. I used to make hand-painted items, many of them clothes. But I always had at least 100 hand painted bibs (which cost $1 and took 10 minutes to paint) and I could charge $5 for each. I usually sold out so I always made some money, even at slow shows. I also made Christmas ornaments for the pre-Christmas shows. Again, cheap materials, quick to work up and low cost. They flew off my table. Heck, I'd even make up candy toys (using wrapped candy and a hot-glue gun, making toy trains etc.) and sell them for $1. People with kids would buy them just to give them "something." 2. DON'T just make one type of item. That limits your customers. While those little items are great, try to offer something in every price range. As for the really expensive items, only make a few and be patient. They WILL sell. It just takes the right customer. 3. DON'T go crazy with your display -- or feel you have to put every item you have out. Bring a lot, but only put out a few items of each and keep the rest in bins. As you sell, replace items. A stall cluttered with too many items makes it hard for customers to see anything. Also, having too many items out may make it look like you never sell anything. Not good. 4. Cheerfully agree with rude customers. -- IF they say they could do it themselves, agree and chatter on about where they can get their supplies, how much they cost and how many hours it takes to accomplish it. ;) This let's them know in a positive way WHY they might consider buying yours rather than making their own. -- IF they say, "the vendor across the hall does a much better job," (which is a really low blow), again, agree that they have lovely stuff and everyone has their own taste. This reminds the customer that these things are matter of taste, which is different for everyone. -- IF they try to haggle, again, remind them of the cost and time put into a piece. BUT- if you are getting a lot of negative comments about your pricing, re-think what you charge. Crafters cannot charge $10/hour for their work. No one would ever buy anything. Sad, but true. The rule I went by was to take the cost of materials and double or triple that, depending on the amount of time spent. 5. Keep any breakable items up high so small fingers don't ruin them. Parents are not the best at watching their children when they shop. It's not a good idea to be rude to them or their children so if a parent isn't watching a child, keep your eyes on them and be ready to step in and politely stop them from handling items. 6. At big shows you may want to partner up with another crafter. While asking a friend or family member to join you may seem like a good idea, the fact is, another crafter understands the basics better. And those big shows are no joke. You'll be busy from open to close, with no bathroom breaks. Just be sure you agree on all the basics before the day (set up, sales, etc.), keep separate cash boxes and you should have a really good time. In fact, partnering is a good way to do craft shows when you don't have that much to sell. 7. If you're really well organized you can make up a list of all the items you brought and check them off as you sell them. Then, at the end of the day, you can compare the list to the money you've made. This makes it easy to see how much of which items sell best/worst. 8. Consider taking specialty orders or making personalized products. This expands your sales potential. IF you do, be sure to get a non-refundable deposit that will cover the cost of your materials just in case they change their minds. Depending on your craft, you may even be able to build up a client list of your own. And make sure they understand it IS non-refundable. 9. KNOW the kind of show you're going to. A craft-show is a craft show is a craft show-- NOT! Obviously, street craft shows are different from Christmas craft shows. But there are more subtle differences, as well. For instance, I quickly learned that hand painted baseball caps and visors would sell REALLY well at street fairs but would languish at an indoor/school just a week later. Also, merchandisers often attend the larger shows. I actually had a stall next to THE person who first created the Scrunchie, long before you could find them in stores. And I was at a show when I first saw those decorative flags that have become standard. Merchandisers "might" steal ideas but rather than risk law suits, they often buy the idea from a crafter if they can prove it's their original design. Yes, many original ideas are merchandised directly from shows. 10. Because of #8 and #9, above, it's a good idea to have a business card displayed in your stall. Some crafters even print up their schedules and put them out as a flyer so people can follow them. Anyway, those are just the points that come to mind. I hope they're of some use.

[@mariemin946]

Marige OBrien , Thanks for the added tips :)

[@kaycee7493]

I love your tips! Thanks for putting them out there! I'm sure it took you some time to write them all out, so, thanks again...

[@moonharp]

Ditto! Thanks for taking the time to add your own tips here.

[@countrycupboarddesignstudi1908]

This was SO helpful! Thanks so much!

[@lynnmking3008]

Wow, thank you for all the information.

[@michellegladiator4940]

Introvert here too!! I'm terrified to sell in person.Your video has given me some courage to get out of my safe zone and try a craft fair. Thanks

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

It takes practice and it still feels "outside my comfort zone", but you can do it! It's a great way to meet people and get your name out there. Good luck Michelle!

[@michellegladiator4940]

Olivia Hayward Thank You

[@peachneonpink7168]

I’m taking the leap and doing my first craft show in March... as an introvert I am terrified of the whole in person selling thingy. But I figured I wont get over it until I try. Loving your craft fair videos Olivia... its really helpful

[@StormChasingNinja]

I'm introverted too lol. But I've been doing shows here and there for two years and it's really help me out with not only business but with social interactions. Trust me it will get easier.

[@MrZigz2010]

I always remember my first swap meet when I had to sell everything i owned to go to Australia. I ended up selling the pickup truck I drove to the meet with all of my stuff in, and when the meet had run its day and I had pockets full of cash uncounted yet, I gave away all the rest of my stuff, turned, and walked home, 10 miles away. When I enter the public, I always try to equate that day to a front to put on in the public.. Nothing could jolt me, because negativity was not important from ANYONE, getting on the plane in 24 hours was! The ends justify the means, and life has a way of balancing the best with the worst, allowing you to pass thru and onward. I love your honesty. Best of luck with all of it.

[@tobyfitzpatrick565]

thanks for sharing. oh my goodness, yes, you hit the nail on the head when you said, "emotional roller coasters". Several times I wanted to burst into tears.

[@kay_hush]

I'm coming up to my first solo craft sale (I've always been part of a family group previously), and this was AMAZING information! Thank you so much!

[@MrAdrianaangel]

We exhibit in the Chesapeake Bay area and my brother paints crabs on weathered wood. Once We sold out and the other crafters complained to management about us but guess who management invited back for their show this year? :)

[@floskywalker6220]

Lol

[@anunohmouse7460]

I mean.... I'd be a little upset if I were one of those people too but to go and complain and try and bring you down is just petty. I'd just be looking to you as a shining example of good business and hope to get that good. Good on you for doing so well!

[@mohdshavez7718]

My wooden handicraft menuficring in Indai and carving contect me on this number 8077280811 whatsap Saharanpur expotar

[@missyidontgiveacrap9939]

Something is missing from this story...I highly HIGHLY doubt that the crafters would complain that you “sold out”. There’s definitely more to this story that you’re leaving out.

[@PrimateProductions]

@@missyidontgiveacrap9939 that's what I was thinking..that sounded pretty arrogant and I find it difficult to believe that others *_complained to management_* because they sold out?? What could they possibly say?

[@danieljames591]

Thank you for your thoughts and recommendations! Thanks for staying positive and passing on what you’ve learned. These are some great things that we can use in our retail-minded lives.

[@phyllissmith302]

I experience low sales, and everyone wants to trade with me. It gets to be very frustrating but I really love your tips on what to avoid. And what to do in situations. Thanks for doing this video I love it. And I look forward to more videos from you.

[@shelbydavis2312]

I watched this a couple years ago when I was thinking about starting a handmade small business and now I'm going to do my first show next month and I'm rewatching for tips! Such timeless advice! Thanks for posting!

[@TheMinnie419]

So much depends on one's attitude. If you can stay positive and not take rude and ruthless people's ugly remarks personally, you are sooooo much better off. People who come by your booth have had all of that time before that you don't know what set them off, so don't let their bad behavior spoil your day. You're good advice is wonderful. Thanks for all of it.

[@silverpromidi]

great advice and thanks for being vulnerable and sharing Yes, it is SO IMPORTANT to keep that energy up in your own little space

[@tonihall7810]

Well said . Have you found that some people are rude about your craft simply to try and get an item cheaper.... Crazy. No need to compare yourself to anyone else . It is your personal style and I would hate to go to a show where everyone had the same exact things . It's the differences that make it a fun fair. Thanks formsharing

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Toni - Sadly, yes, I have :( It's not a good feeling! Thank you!

[@peewee7530]

I REFUSE TO SELL TO ANYONE CRITICIZING MY PRODUCTS - And my sister and I make a lot of money at craft fairs so I know our products are good.

[@michellelentz7705]

Wow. Thank you so much. I've been doing shows for years but never thought about some of these points. It's things that I kinda knew but good to hear and be reminded. Thanks 😀

[@maryphillips7338]

Thank you so much for talking about this! My husband and I have been planning on going to craft fairs, it's nice to have a realistic view about what it may be like.

[@dibujandocondelein1509]

Thanks for sharing, you are right in what you say, especially when you talk about comparing, I always make the mistake of comparing myself with the other vendors, I do it all the time and sometimes that discourages me, we have to try not to do it, not It's easy but the idea of headphones is good, I like it!

[@vesnastankovic7542]

This was great, I have been researching "handmade knitwear online" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Veyillian Noncarlett Eradicator - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my brother in law got amazing success with it.

[@yelloworangered]

Thank you so much. This is valuable advice. Thanks for being open about the challenges!

[@JonnaMartinezCrochet]

This was great! Thank you!!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Yay! Thank you so much Jonna! I appreciate it.

[@annmariemarin5513]

Very, very well said. It is so difficult to disengage from negativity and comparison, but essential for success /longevity at fairs! Thank you for reminding me :) because I'm doing one in a couple of weeks!!

[@pattydevoux1143]

I have done craft fairs and such for years and know your advice will be appreciated by those starting out....You were spot on about the types of people one encounters. Such good advice Thanks for sharing!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Thank you so much Patty for the kind words! Means so much. xox

[@wolfofthed3ad66]

Hi, Hun! Thank you so much for the tips! I have my very first vendor show coming up and appreciate the advice!!!!!

[@carolanneallen9150]

Thank you for making this video! I got so much out of it and realized the things i was doing wrong. You hit every good point!

[@KathyBGood]

you are so positive, helpful & kind.thanks for great videos!

[@justgeorgiagirl1393]

I love your channel. You are exactly what we need in the KZbin community from someone who could relate to crafters

[@stephanieomeara4314]

Thank you for such a real and honest video, I am a little scared of my first fair on Saturday and now I know a little more what to expect I feel so much easier, thank you x

[@JozieLeePro]

Thank you for your honest input. Good advice. I’m contemplating my first craft fair. Never thought about any of these components. Been focused on overhead expenses, display requirements & completion of paperwork. Never thought of the social aspects of crafting. Appreciate your tips.

[@TheDoriette]

I appreciate this video so much. Thanks for making it!

[@joancosner9606]

Excellent advice Olivia. I've been doing local craft fairs for 12 years and I've learned to have the mental attitude of loving the making of my product and if I make money, even better! I do it for the love of the craft and money is a bonus. Also, I go in honestly wishing everyone great luck in their sales and I stay happy meeting and greeting. I've learned not to take things personal, it's hard but it really saves your sanity! Good Luck in all you do!

[@marymccloskey9450]

Thank you for being so frank. I’m working toward my first fair and fighting my fears.

[@lildebbie997]

I ran into your video while working, and although I'm not at all interested in craft fairs, your advice helps with all walks of life. In general we need to focus on the task at hand and not compare ourselves to others. Your personality is adorable also. love from Tennessee, and good luck!

[@sherryphilson8602]

I'm trying my first one this fall. Thank you for the advice.

[@esoterika89]

Thank you so much for this insight. I'll be doing shows in the near future and you covered things I might not have thought till afterwards.

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

+Portia Taalib-Irvin-El: Bey love hearing that!!!

[@Rachellefker]

Thank you for your tips! Good to know as I prepare for my first show!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

SO happy this was helpful! Good luck with your first show. It will be awesome. I have a few craft fair videos planned for the end of the month/early April. Stay tuned!

[@karenann849]

This is ALL sooo true and helpful. Thank YOU!!

[@rusticski]

Love your vids Olivia, always get great tips from you!

[@woodlandwilds7525]

Good advice. Thanks for sharing your realistic and objective experience. You could have just said it is all fun and roses but you were honest and explained what to be prepared about - and it never hurts to go into a craft fair prepared.

[@tlsnana9539]

Some great tips - from you and the commenters. I really appreciate the time you’ve given us.

[@sandraleishman878]

Thank you for sharing Olivia.

[@abigailtowne5797]

Love your insights. I'm about to do my first holiday fair in a few years and these are excellent tips!

[@Amsbury]

Olivia, Thank you for being candid about your experiences and your willingness to share your tips. Actually, I am a psychology major and a major crafter; and your video displayed great points in staying "out of your own head" and how the craft fair can be very challenging to one's motivation, self-worth, and confidence in themselves and their product. Thank you so much. Best wishes and continued success to you.

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

100% true! Thank you, Laura!

[@carrolmumford4763]

Hello Olivia. Thank you for allowing us into your most enter feelings. We all needed this information that you have given us. We just did not know how to say it out loud without hurting others. I became a new Subscriber and hit the bell. I am truly glad that I found you. Again, thank you.

[@marisarayfineart]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who finds craft fairs/art shows to be an emotional roller coaster!!! I've always felt it's the hardest part of the job. Especially the times when it's not going as hoped or expected. But somehow I always make it to the next one! Love the shirt you're wearing

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Right?! You are totally not alone!

[@stampingwithacraftychick8095]

Thanks for the tips and tricks. I am doing my second fair in November. I appreciate you providing an insider's perspective. I did my first craft fair in July . I made the mistake of signing up for one that was on July 4th weekend indoors, off the beaten path in the boonies. Not what I expected. It was very slow. But at the same time, it was a great learning experience. I did talk to other vendors. No one complained since they were seasoned and they knew the score. When they found out it was my first time, everyone was so helpful! Telling me about available resources, websites and social media pages geared toward craft fair vendors, good shows to sign up for and all about how the 'craft fair' and 'booth show' circuit works. However, I am glad you mentioned the 'trade' since I was unaware of that. Thanks so much!!

[@keahi8081]

Your number one advice about staying out of drama is absolutely key because I’ve had a fair share of people coming up to me being nice but FAKE at the same time.

[@nancy9704]

great tips on craft fairs. I've only been to a few, and I understand about the emotional roller coaster. Staying positive and focused is great advice.

[@youngmuffin24]

Thank you so much for sharing. I'm relatively new to the craft fair circuit. I've felt the same on so many issues, like the feeling of complete exhaustion when it's done. I appreciate you sharing :)

[@AngelM158]

Thank you for sharing!! I totally experienced all these scenarios. 👍😄

[@melissamodisette3322]

Thank you for the advice!

[@QueensYarnBoutique]

Great video!! I can relate to all of your tips.

[@ran59]

thanks so much! my first craft fair is in two days and im so nervous! first time ive actually helped ran it in our group. ill make sure to keep stuff in mind.

[@NaushSA]

thank you for all your advise. all valid points.

[@katable89]

Thank you so much for this! I am about to go to my first ever show tomorrow. It's only a small village fair but I've already looked my competitors up and my mind is playing me up so listening to your advice made me feel a lot more composed and prepared for tomorrow. ❤️❤️

[@whitneyjones2946]

Thanks! I'm prepping for my first craft fair this coming Thursday, and I know several of these tips will be helpful. Lol.

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

+Whitney Jones yay!!! Have a great show! It'll be amazing.

[@davidhill1220]

That was wonderful advice. Thank you!

[@canarypurpledesign]

Great video you got everyone to share their own little story. Engagement is off the charts.

[@sallysewing]

I love selling at Craft Fairs here in the U.K.! I particularly like outdoor events where I have my own gazebo, giving me a 3m square personal space to layout my items for sale. I can relate to all of the points you made, so I try very hard to keep all conversations, with other vendors and customers, upbeat! I can really relate to the comparison problem...I'm trying to train myself to appreciate other peoples talent whilst not demeaning my own. I think critical comparison can kill off your own creativity. Thank you for sharing via your videos!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

I never thought of outdoor events and having your own personal space. I like that. Totally true. Thank you!

[@UFCWARRIORification]

Good video/ thanks for sharing this. I had bad experiences with arts and crafts shows so I have not done one since 2008

[@RoseOriginals]

Your advise was spot on! Thank you for sharing!

[@groseillegrowa3659]

Thank you for your thoughts, Olivia ...

[@moogie3111]

Wow, very very interesting! I've never sold at a craft show, but you're right, I can't help but hear the vendors kvetching about this and that, and it kind of brings down the whole experience. Really excellent points all round!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Right!? Gotta stay positive and in the zone for a show.

[@davidhill1220]

Thanks Olivia. Had all this happen to me and I always say “Im never doing this again ! “ but family laugh because I am addicted to craft shows and I always go back. Your soothing and encouraging Thanks again Pat

[@salmajane3277]

Thank you for sharing so honestly. It’s refreshing to see. I wish you much success.

[@KatalinFodor.]

i had a lot to take away from your video! thank you for being real!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Thank you for the awesome feedback Kat! Subscribe for more. My goal is to be as REAL as possible ;)

[@libbyz.g.8411]

Thank you so much ! This was so informative I appreciated your tips 👍🏼

[@mycupoftea12]

I so appreciate this video! Consciousness-raising is so important. Great hints.

[@katericochran4634]

Great insight. I had never really thought about those things when I used to sell jewelry. I'm a Native American, and was born in Oregon. One year at the Pendleton Roundup my sister and I had a booth in a great location, our booth display was amazing and we were doing really well. But when a lot of people were walking by, one lady wanted to stop at our booth and her friend said "That's all fake stuff made in Japan. They all buy stuff from Japan and sell it here." I was absolutely horrified that anyone would think that let alone say it in our hearing, like we were invisible people. And then I got realy, really angry. There is already an invisible divide between different races in that town. I know, I grew up there. But to be treated so contemptuously, in the open, in front of a LOT of people was horrifying. As you can probably tell, it still upsets me to think about it. But I met some amazing people, got custom orders and sold jewelry I was wearing when we were tearing down our booth. But I never worked there again. And it's so true what you said about other vendors. Our booth was doing well, because I knew what price point people could afford to spend. And we provided quality for that price. And I knew how to engage with people. But a lot of the other vendors, with huge booths weren't selling as well. And at each place we sold, we learned what customers were looking for and it changed with different age groups. I had one very young lady bring her Father back to our booth because I had sold her something at a low price point, geared for her age group. He was the Assistant Director of the Roundup Association. Craft fair were an amazing opportunity for networking. But a lot of vendors didn't view us that way. But I did find it helpful, early on to look at different booths, at different events to see what they were selling, and selling well as well as who to gear the product to. I learned that some places just aren't worth setting up a booth at unless you had a lot of time to kill and wanted to sit and make jewelry with a rare sale, which I didn't. The best part was talking to people. But it was exhausting for me because I'm an introvert. Luckily my sister and I were able to trade off on who engaged with the customers. It was the personal engagement that makes a big difference.

[@annlouisephillips9484]

Kateri Cochran )

[@katericochran4634]

Ann Louise Phillips yes?

[@karentitmus1690]

I feel your pain! Truly! The best part of selling our craft is engaging with people. We know our pieces. We know how they are made. We enthuse! We are a million miles from mass production and the kind of buyers who 'get' out work respect its uniqueness and value its rarity. I love the pieces that I sell. My husband makes spellbinding cheeseboards and tablecentres from native British Wood (we are in the UK). He was turning wood but we had a change of direction when I asked him to make me a waney edged cheeseboard that could sit on my dining table when not in use and look rustic yet sophisticated: a slice of the outdoor, indoors. My husband is a patient, clever, fastidious craftsman. The board that he made me has pride of place on our table, and I just love it! We now offer fabulous raw, elemental statement pieces that offer an opportunity for creative hosts to create a dramatic dining experience for their guests. But not everybody that walks up to our stall appreciates our work. We use burr oak, pippy elm - woods with wonderful 'faults' that display fascinating contour lines, patterns and colour variations. Each board is only deemed ready to sell when the hours of hand sanding has achieved a silk-feel finish. I stand at our craft stall - bursting with pride and admiration for the work that my husband does - and warmly welcome the hugely positive comments and sales that we get. But they do come at a price. Olivia's words are wise, particularly about dealing with rude customers. How hurt do I feel when someone says 'It's just a lump of wood' ? How indignant do I feel when someone says 'That's expensive', when we've worked out the real cost of working on a piece, then halved it because we wouldn't dare ask a living wage price? How choked do I feel when someone says that they can buy something 'just as good' from the local branch of a discount store? Sometimes I challenge rudeness, with patient explanation and a genuine need to explain the process by which our pieces change from raw felled log to something stylish and beautiful to grace a dining table or on which to display a wedding cake. Thank you Olivia and Kateri for sharing your thoughts and experiences, and as we prepare for our Christmas fairs, I shall remember your words. With warmest wishes, Karen

[@peewee7530]

Kateri Cochran - Usually it is the other vendors saying your stuff is made in Japan or China not the customers. They want your customers. I am also Native American born in Oklahoma though and my sister and I also sell a lot of product - I speak up when I hear anyone say anything derogatory or just laugh really loud. Other vendors sometimes I know are jealous that we sell so much more than them but we never hold up the customer so to speak we offer a reasonable price for our products and sell in volume which means we work a lot harder than those that sell much less for a much higher price. My sister and I both trade off who engages with the customers some like to buy from me and some from her - some days I just don't want to deal with them - I have more patience with buyers that ask a lot of questions and she has more patience that have customers who's kids touch everything.

[@lovingmyselfwell4569]

Beautiful just beautiful! ~X🎨X~

[@JajinkaB123]

amazing tips! thank you so much for sharing all your ideas! it really helped me prepare for the next market :)

[@debranealey5747]

Such wonderful advice. This also applies to farmer's markets. I have a craft booth at one and all 5 points you make apply to there as well.

[@mollyguthrie6127]

Thank you for the great advice and positive expertise!

[@joyslater17]

Thank you for the tips! Getting more into crafts myself, and hope to have the opportunity to go to a craft fair at some point.

[@huginanenvelope]

Thanks for being honest!

[@estherturner2232]

Thank you so much. I’m doing my first craft fair soon and this is great for me

[@yvonnethompson7309]

great advice it works in any retail situation as you mentioned. Very mindful.

[@ninibartolome5666]

This was great info! Thank you!

[@MsLunaWica]

Thank you, I'm a new crafter & preparing for my first fair soon I hope.

[@KPWritesFantasy]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm going to be doing my first crochet booth at our local Farmer's Market (eek! :D) and this is great advice! I've been doing a lot and I mean A LOT of research and you are the first to point out the nitty gritty things that one doesn't think about. Wish me luck and Happy Crafting, ya'll!

[@marquesn77]

Thank you for this video! I wish you could be in the booth next to me at my first craft fair, you're so encouraging !! ❤️🙏🏽

[@patriciamaxwell8489]

Thank you for your feelings, knowledge, tips!! Stay focused!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Thank you, Patricia!

[@lizarguello2924]

Olivia great & helpful video! A Holiday Fair crafter for over 20+ years ALL that you’ve shared is so true! Glad to have participated in one yesterday after a 2 year “COVID” break of fair availability in our area. There were many rooms of vendors and in my room of 8 there was a woman who confided in me because another vendor came before it opened, asked that an item be put aside and proceeded

[@amartinjoe]

you grow as a person by going out there and interacting with people - good or bad. thanks for sharing!

[@JustCallMeMeghan]

All great advice! I'd add to that, to know you're patrons and competition. When I was doing craft fairs on a weekly basis, I always tried to make sure I was the only paper crafter there, or there was only one other vendor who was also selling paper craft items. And it helps to know who you are selling to. I used to live in a "country" area, and found that most of my "fancy" items didn't sell, but my practical items did. TFS your wisdom with us! 💗

[@rmqbar9611]

Thank you for the tips! Very helpful!

[@zoramisamuelson2928]

LOVE the title!! Thanks for sharing.

[@frontporchanarchast]

We're gearing up for our first festival. Thanks for the tips!

[@rhondaeaton4708]

Thank you so much for your valuable info and expertise!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Thank you Rhonda!! I appreciate your kind words!

[@fannyfreckle]

Such a great and helpful video…thank you!

[@thevictorianedge5465]

Thank you for the information. I have my second craft fair coming up Saturday!!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

awesome! i hope you have an amazing show!!! sending you good selling vibes from berkeley, ca!

[@thomasheisler]

thank you for sharing your experiences, it is a great help to me, I am about to enter the fray of the fair, learning as much as I can.

[@camiliacarrero6480]

Thank you so much for the advice. It will be my first craft fair this December and I needed that!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

Camilia - Good luck! That's so exciting. You'll be great!

[@BellottoAdventures]

A lot of great information, I really appreciate you doing these videos!

[@OliviaHaywardTalks]

thank you so much! i appreciate your kind words!!!

[@emilieflagg1715]

Thank you for this very informative and approachable video!! I’m hoping to rent a booth for the first time in a few months though I know nothing about craft fairs... I’m going into it blindly but I’m extremely enthusiastic about it

[@aiyana1975]

This was very useful. Thank you. I plan on doing at least 2 craft fairs this year.