Craft Market Tips: Lessons Learned as a Beginner

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to set up a stall at a small craft market, and I walked away with a wealth of insights.

Craft markets can be a lot of fun, but they also involve a lot of preparation. If you're new to the scene, here are some helpful craft market tips for beginners to make your first experience smoother and more successful.

1. Price everything Make sure every item is clearly priced. Shoppers often shy away from asking for prices, so having visible labels helps them feel more comfortable browsing.

2. Create engaging displays Using unique display pieces not only enhances your stall’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as a fantastic conversation starter. It’s amazing how a quirky shelf or vintage prop can draw people in.

3. Offer samples or open items Some people need to touch and feel before they buy. If possible, have samples or open items available for those who need more information or a tactile experience with your products.

4. Support your fellow vendors Building a sense of community is crucial. Get to know the vendors around you and show them support. Whether it’s through a friendly chat or sharing a shout-out on social media, small gestures go a long way.

5. Bring your own snacks Buying food at the market can add up quickly. Packing your own snacks and drinks can save you money and keep you energized throughout the day.

6. Hand out business cards or freebies Consider bringing business cards or small freebies to hand out to interested visitors. It’s a great way to make your stall memorable and give people a way to connect with you later.

7. Make your business name visible Ensure your business name is prominently displayed in multiple places. This helps people tag you on social media if they take pictures, which is great for getting your name out there.

8. Be ready to chat A friendly smile and a willingness to chat go a long way. Know your products well and be prepared to answer questions or share stories that add a personal touch.

9. Vary your display’s heights and shapes Use various heights, shapes, and sizes for your display items. This not only makes your table more visually appealing but also makes it easier for customers to navigate.

10. Use a Point of Sale app Using a Point of Sale app like Yoco makes it easy to keep track of inventory, tally up orders, and charge customers. It’s especially useful when things get busy!

As a newcomer to craft markets, I’d love to hear from seasoned stallholders: What are your top tips for running a successful market stall? And to all the market-goers out there, what do you love to see at market stalls? Your insights could help make the experience even better for everyone!