Vendors: Hints and Tips for a Successful Day

Love what you do. Your customers will know when something is created with passion.

Be prepared to get everything in order. Paperwork can seem overwhelming. Create a check off list and enjoy putting a check mark by tasks accomplished.

Those tasks may include:

• Applying for a permit from the California State Board of Equalization.
• Applying for a business license from each city you work in.
• Getting an Environmental Health Permit from a county if you sell food.
• Getting the correct type of fire extinguisher as required by local and state regulations.
• Gather up everything you will need to have an inviting booth and setup. Most vendors need a canopy and tables and some form of weight system to hold the canopy down.
• You may have to transport your items some distance. If so, invest in a sturdy wagon, cart, or dolly to move your goods.
• Create a business name. Use signage in your booth to advertise who you are and what you do.
• Decide if you want to be cash only or will accept credit cards. There are many companies that can help you with online sales.
• Find the right event or venue for your product. Visit a variety of different events to get a feel for where your items would do best.
• Create your own social media pages to let people know where you will be. Share on bigger sites like community calendars and visitor bureau pages.
• Be willing to put in some time.
• Expect some “best days”, some “worst days” and many “average” days. Try to think about your average over many events.
• Don’t get discouraged your first time out. It may take a year to feel comfortable with this new business you are trying out.
• Enjoy meeting other artists and vendors. Everyone has stories and great tips. Ask questions.
• Have fun with all the people who stop by your booth. They are there to see what you have made and talk to you about it. You are the expert!