Selling at a holiday market or craft fair: a first-timer's plan
How to pick a show, stock and price your table, set up the booth, and close out the day.
Holiday markets reward makers who show up prepared. You don't need a big inventory or fancy displays. You need a show that fits your work, prices you can defend, and a booth shoppers can read from a few steps away.
1. Pick the right show
Read the organizer's vendor page before you apply. Look for the date, hours, booth size, whether tables and electricity are provided, the setup window, the application deadline and the refund policy. Many shows ask for a sales tax ID, so check what your state requires before you apply.
Do a quick break-even: booth fee plus supplies plus gas, divided by your average profit per item. If you would need to sell more than you can realistically make, pick a smaller show or share a booth.
2. Stock and price
- Bring a few price levels: small add-ons, mid-range gifts and one or two showpieces.
- Price for materials, your time and the booth fee. Don't price only against the cheapest table in the room.
- Make simple gift bundles. Shoppers buying for several people like an easy choice.
3. Set up a booth people can read
- One big sign with your name and what you make.
- A payment sign listing how you take payment.
- Prices on everything, or a clear category card per group.
- Height: risers or crates so items aren't all flat on the table.
- Practice the layout at home and take a photo so setup day is fast.
4. Pack list basics
Tablecloth, tape, clips, scissors, bags, a cash float in small bills, a charged phone and backup battery, pens, order forms, water and a snack. Check the list when you pack up too, so nothing gets left behind.
5. At the booth
Stand up, say hello and tell people one thing about how you make your work. Offer a sign-up sheet for people who want to hear about future shows. Take custom orders on paper with a deposit policy written down.
6. After the show
Count cash and card sales against your starting stock the same night. Write down what sold, what didn't and what people asked for. Follow up with custom orders and your sign-up list within a couple of days, while they still remember you.