Advice from another artist

I copied this post from the facebook group; “Vendor Display for Inspiration and Tips” with Kelsie Marie’s permission.

 This is for vendors just starting out:

This is my first year doing shows and I've learned a lot and had a lot of fun doing so. But I've also noticed some things from veteran crafters.
 

• Take their advice. Sometimes it may sound like they're nitpicking or ridiculing your products or set up, but (most of the time) they're trying to help you. At first it was a little tiring hearing everything I was doing wrong but I've realized that you do learn through experience and these crafters typically just want to share what they had to learn as well.
 

• Do not let other crafters make you feel small. I like to introduce myself to my neighbors and such, to be friendly, network and even possibly buy from them if they have items I'm interested in. There will always be the crafter that complains the show is "Too small" or the crafter that says "They usually make ___$xx___ (some astronomical amount) at these shows and this is unusual" .... or my favorite one that when it actually is slow, you have the crafter who likes to say they're still doing "Great!" Ya know, maybe these things are true, maybe they're not but don't let them intimidate you. If you're doing a show and you're comfortable with the size or crowd, then that's good. If it is smaller than you expected, remember you're new and it's still opportunities to network and promote. Either way being there is going to benefit your business, if you keep that mindset you'll have a good weekend.
 

• Try and not be so critical of yourself. This is where I struggle. Take the compliments. If you see someone making similar items don't compare. Always aim to improve but don't undersell yourself. We often take compliments for granted, but they do mean someone appreciated our work.
 

• My number one rule has always been to have fun doing it. This is a job You can enjoy yourself doing, rather than a normal 9-5 that can get stressful. If it's starts to not get fun, make it fun again. Take a step back, regroup and then get back at it. (This goes for veterans as well I suppose) Customers can tell if you're enjoying yourself at fairs and festivals, they feed off your energy. So don't work yourself to the point it's overwhelming. Keep it fun.

Good luck to all the new vendors! It's been a neat experience getting out there and I've learned a lot (this group has been very helpful!)

“ALWAYS be respectful and show gratitude to the event coordinator. I'll send an email after the event thanking them for hosting me so that's my last impression with them. It leaves me in good standing for future events and builds a good reputation for my business. This could be what makes you stand out from others. "