I have done three craft fairs so far this fall. Each one was a learning experience, and although I'm not making a pile of money at it, I am learning, and that is also important.
Providence College was the first one I got into. Since this was their first year, I must say I was impressed with the thought and detail that went into the fair. I'm sure that seasoned crafters will have noticed things that were missed, but that is inevitable, I'm sure. I suspect that next year, because more people will have heard about it, there will be more shoppers. What I liked about it: Lots and lots of room! There was room to walk between tables everywhere, so I didn't feel crowded. I did have an ideal table... the first one in the room. It is a good feeling when a shopper has made their rounds and then comes back to my table for their cards.
I signed up for one Sunday fair... and it was the following day. I won't do that one again, but not because it was on a Sunday. If I had read more carefully, I probably would have avoided it in the first place. It wasn't a 'Craft' fair, but rather, a 'Trade Show'. There is a difference. It was mostly home party companies, and in a very very crowded room. I think the Tupperware lady across from me did okay because she was able to book a few parties. But it was also a first for this Community Centre (I think) and so the shoppers were few and far between. And the vendors were crowded. Very crowded. I couldn't get into my booth without asking the folks next to me to 'let me in.' That would have extended to our whole row, except that there was a no-show, and so a table could be moved out of the way.
I was at St Norbert Community Centre this Saturday. Because I registered late, I was in a side room with 4 other vendors. Without knowing how the people in the main room fared, it's hard to determine whether that was an asset or liability. What I do know, though, is that we had a lot of fun together. We had time to chat, and so there was a comraderie there that I quite enjoyed. Rachel came out to help, and brought Josiah. At five months, he is certainly not a liability at these sales. He's very good, and loves the attention, and so people come close to chat just to see him.
In my conversations with other crafters, I am finding out where I should go (and not go) next year. Watching the shoppers (and listening to my daughter) lets me know what people want, and what they are not interested in. It's good to find a niche. If I could find a good source for barn board frames, I'd love to frame more of my photos in that way. I once had the number of a source in Southern Manitoba, but I wouldn't know where to find that paper after our moves, so if you know where to find a crafter who does that, let me know.
Besides cleaning and digging out my Christmas decorations this week, I will need to get some calendars and cards online. As soon as I do, I will post the address for the online store. I don't have any sales this weekend, but will be doing two more in December.
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