Secrets of Selling at Craft Fairs: How to Get In, Make Sales, and Grow Your Business

 

Lesson Info

Evaluate the Show


Selling at craft fairs is a big investment of time, money, and resources – it’s also one of the most powerful venues a crafter has for getting products in front of people. In Secrets of Selling at Craft Fairs: How to Get In, Make Sales, and Grow Your Business, Nicole Stevenson teaches you everything you need to know about working the craft fair circuit.

Craft shows are complex affairs. From the application, to the preparation, to the actual hustle there are many variables to plan and prepare for. Nicole has been a vendor at over 300 craft shows and produced over 40 – in this class she'll help crafters make informed, strategic decisions about where to invest their time and effort. You’ll learn how to:

  • Find and apply to the right show
  • Develop your “look” using basic branding
  • Prepare for shows with products, checklists, staff, and a pitch
  • Merchandise and display products for maximum effect
  • Deal with pricing, permits, and taxes

Nicole will offer insights on troubleshooting common challenges so you aren’t left in the lurch without the equipment or information you need to do a great job. You’ll also learn strategies for keeping in touch with customers and building relationships with event producers that last long after the show ends.

The world of craft fairs is complex and it is not always easy finding the right match.  Secrets of Selling at Craft Fairs: How to Get In, Make Sales, and Grow Your Business makes the process of finding your perfect fit as stress-free and fun as possible.

Lessons

Craft Shows Should be a Part of Your Business
Introduction: How to Have a Successful Craft Show Experience
Why You Should Be Doing Craft Shows
Is Your Business Ready for a Craft Show?
Now is the Time for Craft Shows
Get Your Product Ready
Branding Your Business
Pricing Your Products
Smaller Craft Shows & Unusual Venues
Research Potential Shows
Apply to a Craft Show
Your Website & Online Presence
Writing About Your Business
Stellar Product Photos
Preparation: Create a Task Timeline
Marketing Before the Craft Show
Recruit Craft Show Assistants
Preparation: Packing Up Before the Show
5 Tips for Preparing Your Display
The Importance of Your Booth Display
Booth Display: Where to Get Inspiration
Brand Your Booth & Signage
Utilize Your Booth Space
Workshopping Booth Displays
Keep Your Customer in Mind
Engage with Your Customers
Sell with Storytelling
Craft Your Pitch
Conquer Craft Show Obstacles
Product Loss Prevention
How to Handle Difficult Customers
Strategies for Busy & Slow Shows
Discounts & At-Show Marketing
Celebrate After the Show
Follow Up with Producers
Connect with Customers
Build Your Community
Evaluate the Show
Plan for the Next Craft Show
 
 
 
 

Reviews

  • It was an awesome experience. I learned so much from Nicole. She is entertaining and so knowledgeable that I feel I left the show with soooooo much info. I loved being in the studio audience, I met so many great people, crafters and new friends I feel we all became one big support for each other. I am putting to good use everything I learned. I look forward to coming back to Creative Live for another learning experience. Craft Show Secrets taught me all the ins/outs of craft shows ...I'm excited for my next craft show. Time to Create!!!
  • Great Class! Full of practical information + tools about how to REALLY succeed doing shows. I have attended many a craft show and found an enormous amount of useful tips. I especially loved the bonus material! Thank you Nicole and Creative Live for keeping it real + FUN!!
  • I've been growing my business successfully online for the last six years, but hadn't shown my work in person for a decade. As a refresher, I took Nicole's craft show class to be sure that I made the most of the time I would have in front of my customers. Because of the preparedness and mindset that I gained from Nicole's teaching, my show was a huge success. My interactions with the customers, producers, and other vendors were genuine and joyful, building a stronger foundation for future business and relationships. This course took the worry and stress off my shoulders so I could enjoy the opportunity that I had. Thanks, Nicole! Tamara Kraft Pithitude
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