The year is new but there are things as a vendor we shouldn't forget.

Show season is kicking back up and many of them are having to extend their application deadlines.  We don’t know what the year is going to look like this time around, many of us are looking at costs and distance trying to make the best decisions to make the most with the least expenses.  While that is going on, try to keep in mind that rules are still rules and that promoters put them in place for a reason.

Parking:  parking for shows is a nightmare for us, imagine how it is for the buyers.  While other vendors might collect art, they generally only collect from one or two and not at every show they go to.  Sooner or later, they end up with no space on their walls.  Shoppers, on the other hand; come to spend.  If they have a hard time parking, they might just give up and go home.  I have heard from people, “I tried to go there one year and couldn’t find a place to park.  I just decided to bag it.”  “If I can’t find a place to park, I know it is going to be too crowded for me.  I stopped going.” Taking that in consideration, I always park where the promoters ask me to.  I might swing in close to dump my stuff but I then move my vehicle

If you bought a 10x10, stay in your 10x10:  Don’t sit your chair out in the aisle, you will block the flow of people.  Don’t put a card rack out front, because you interfere with your neighbor’s ability to be seen.  It’s inconsiderate and ruins the fun atmosphere that is conducive to sales.

If the promoter says not pets: it isn’t a suggestion.  I hate it when people bring their dogs and keep them in the display.  Most of the time, they can be well behaved, but I did one show last year where the dog was a small shaggy ball of bitey aggression right next to me.  Horrible little mop that chased people away.  It was also very loud for it’s size.

Be in your booth: People come to shows to meet the artist.  Yes, they want to hear what you have to say.  They are really interested in you.  Nobody else does what you do, it isn’t false modesty to talk about yourself and your art.  It is called “Salesmanship” and you make more sales if you are talking to people.

Be sincerely grateful: promoters put in a lot of hours to get the show to opening day.  They work hard for you and the show.  If you aren’t happy about the outcome, don’t come back.  It really is that simple.  Being there is a choice, one you actively made.  If it was the wrong choice, choose differently next year.

Do not start tearing down until the show closes:  You might not be making sales, but the guy next to you might.  When you start tearing down an hour before closing, you are ruining it for those around you.  It also is a poor reflection on you.  Quietly tidy up if you must, gather your garbage and take it to the trash cans that evaporate 20 minutes before closing, but be subtle about it.  Pulling out packing material and stripping your walls isn’t subtle, it is blatant and rude.

Help your neighbor:  We are all in this together and combined, we lighten each other’s load.  Watch your neighbor’s booth if they need a break.  A little kindness goes a long way.  If you have their back, there is a good chance they will have yours.

Good luck and safe travels.