Pros:
- The spot rental fee went 100% to a good cause - a charity called The Dog Project. As an animal lover, it's awesome to know my money went to something good. I figured even if I didn't make any profits, at least I lent myself to a good cause.
- The day was beautiful. A little hot, but a very sunny day which just tells people to go out and venture!
- I got my business cards and magnets out there to many people. Advertisement was the main point of this fair, so I was happy!
- I sold enough to make back what I paid for the rental.
Cons:
- This fair wasn't very much of handmade craft fair as much as a Goodwill/Vintage/Old Junk sort of fair. Those kind of fairs are fun, but when you are one of the only people selling handmade and expecting handmade prices, compared to the rest of the people who are selling cute cheap curios for a dollar, you're not going to sell very much!
- Only made two sales. :( Most people just ignored my table completely.
All in all, I'd have to say the craft fair was a bit of a flop, but it was a good learning experience. The people who did stop to browse commented on the quality of my fabrics and crafts, as well as how cute and different they were. I think that my items were well received, but this venue wasn't quite the place to sell them, because very little of my target audience was there. Most importantly, I got my name out there, enjoyed myself, and met a few very nice people! Next time I think I may want to invest more money into a more handmade oriented fair, such as one of the Renegade Fairs, next time it comes to NY.
I also got in a little bit of shopping done while my mama manned the table. The woman stationed next to me had all old vintage fabrics that she sold me for 25 cents each, and the family on the other side of me had an adorable planter holder which is just perfect for my windowsill garden!
For the rest of the day, I think I will just do a little bit of Etsy listing. I also have an essay to write - I should probably do that! Hehe! Take care, friends! ;)
The fair may not have been a huge success, but you're being too modest about the acceleration in your online sales!
ReplyDeleteI think you're doing a great job! This whole journey is like a roller coaster, we'll always have our ups and downs, just like life:)
ReplyDeleteI did the same thing when I first started out, you'll figure out which events will better suit your business. Sometimes it takes awhile but you'll learn something from each event you attend. I have a full time day job so for me attending a local farmers market run on a private property in an old barn works out perfect for me. It all takes time but you'll find what's best for you. From the amount of sales you've had so far in your shop I think you will do good so keep on sewing and creating! Cheers, Chantal
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