So, where does one start with a craft show debrief ? A good place for me to start is probably with the fact that I only took 1 photo! 1 single photo and it's of my own stall! How lame of me.
There were so many great things to take photos of as well! I lament...
Maybe I'll just post some pictures of the crafty creations I brought from others, that might help to redeem me.
So here it is, my one picture:
It was a really great day and if you are in Christchurch and you missed it then you can count yourself unlucky. 37 (I think) tables of talent all in one place at the same time. But never fear, if you missed out we'll be back doing it all over again in April 09.
Since this is a debrief lacking in photos I thought I'd share what I learned instead. It may be of interest to those planning to participate in the future.
1. Take bottled water. You WILL NOT get a proper chance to duck away for refreshments. Trust me.
2. Take snacks. You WILL NOT get a chance to eat properly. Cupcakes do not a sufficient breakfast make.
3. Product sells product. Even if you think you've made enough just keep on making more stock. You can never have too much stock. And keep filling the gaps when stuff sells. Don't be under the illusion that a full looking stall will make people think you're unpopular. We all love choice and who wants to buy one of the last pieces of straggling product.
4. People want and need your business card. I had to resort to cutting up the paper proof sheet about 1 hour into the show which means that 100 cards was not anywhere near enough. Have lots of cards on hand.
5. Get prepared to repeat yourself. A lot. Or challenge yourself to see how many different ways you can answer the same question. People take an active interest in your product and part of that is asking questions - some thoughtful, some you'll be hearing many times throughout the day. Creative answers are good for everyone!
6. Show your love to the organisers. You'll see the organisers floating around during the day and they are likely to be looking frazzeled and warn worn (thanks editor!). Remind them how much you love and need them and remind them what an awesome job they are doing. Even if you ended up with a small stall or a hot corner of the venue remember that the organisers did the best they could with the space they had. All venues have their limitations.
I'd love to hear any advice that other stall holders picked up.
Millie x
Hey Millie, your stall looked gorgeous - the flowers were a really nice touch. Perhaps that's a tip you could add to your list - use props as well as product to make up your display.
Posted by: Lucy | August 26, 2008 at 02:08 PM