Setting up your first market

Written By Sophie Coon

Congratulations on securing your spot!

Feeling a whirlwind of emotions is entirely normal—excitement, joy, and maybe a touch of apprehension—as you embark on this new chapter. Setting up a booth for a market can indeed seem daunting, especially if you are working within a tight budget. But fear not, you're not alone!

In this blog, I am excited to share my journey and insights into various aspects of setting up a business, starting with the booth setup for in-person markets. Whether you are a newbie or contemplating applying to a market, my aim is to offer valuable tips and guidance to help you navigate the process confidently.

Get ready for some practical advice on maximizing your booth setup, even with limited resources. Keep in mind that every business is unique, so while my experiences may differ from yours, I hope they will serve as inspiration and guidance.

Let's transform that initial dread into excitement for the possibilities ahead!

First things first, let's understand the constraints and requirements of your booth. These factors are influenced by the location, your transportation means, and your product line:

  • Booth footprint: How much space will you have for your products, yourself, and your customers? This determines your setup and what you can bring.

  • Venue regulations: Are there any prohibited items or required items from the venue?

  • Product presentation: What is the best way to showcase your product line?

  • Lighting and electricity needs

  • Outdoor setup considerations: Do you need protection from the elements?

  • Transportation limitations: What can fit in your vehicle?

  • Setup assistance: Will you have help during setup and breakdown?

When assembling your booth, consider these key elements:

  • Integrate your brand identity along with personal touches to stand out among the other vendor and to make your space inviting. The visual components of your brand and display should extend the beautiful product you have created.

  • To ensure a positive customer experience and protect your products, prioritize safe product handling. Clearly mark prices to facilitate transactions, maintain a clutter-free display to aid browsing, and ensure stability by securing fixtures. Additionally, offer safe packaging options for customers to transport their purchases home securely. These measures not only enhance customer satisfaction but also safeguard your products throughout their journey from display to purchase.

  • Find ways to collect visitors information. While the primary goal of the market is revenue an important component is also market research.

As a multidisciplinary artist with a diverse product range, including oil paintings, notecards, and handwoven textiles, here's what worked for me:

Booth Setup

  • Utilized two small foldable tables that I had for versatility (39”x20”)

  • Covered tables with neutral drop cloths for a cohesive look

  • Invested in grid displays for hanging artwork.

    • Here are some options http://tinyurl.com/45db8s57 Make sure you select something that can fit in your car and that you can setup. In retrospect I wish I had spent a bit more and selected one that comes apart.

    • S Hooks are the best to hang things

  • Incorporated an arch for added visual interest.

  • Set up a 10x10 tent for outdoor shows.

  • Added string lights and plants for ambiance.

  • Backdrop or sheet to hide what might be in the booth behind

  • Branded items

    • Poster with my business name - 18x24 printed by Fedex <20$, a table runner with your business name is also an option.

    • Business cards - self printed using Avery template, Moo.com, Zazzle, Vista Prints are also good alternative depending on your budget

    • QR code to get people to join your instagram or your website.

    • Labels - Self printed using avery square labels or purchased.

Show Essentials

  • Utility Wagon - These are life savers load and unload - Here are some options on amazon http://tinyurl.com/y3t3bh2n

  • Box with some essentials like scissors, tape, and safety pins.

Packaging

  • Created branded packaging with labels and product care instructions.

  • Used kraft bags and silk paper for a professional touch.

Point of Sale

  • Opted for Square as my point of sale for its convenience and reporting features.

  • Limits payment methods through Square.

  • Appreciated the ability to add taxes automatically, create discounts and track inventory seamlessly.

While there are drawbacks, such as transaction fees, the benefits outweigh the costs for me.

Remember, each setup is a learning experience, and what matters most is creating a welcoming space that reflects your brand and showcases your creativity.

Good luck on your market journey!

Sophie Coon
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