My first table at a Christmas Market – Part I
This series of articles may be of interest to artists, makers, and anyone producing fine edibles or beverages. If you’ve ever considered selling at a craft fair, I’d like to share how I approached my first experience. I’ll be selling paper goods, but I believe the fundamentals apply broadly—unless you’re working with perishables.
I don’t recall exactly how I came across the call for vendors at a charity craft market, but it was through an online ad. Since the event was scheduled for the last Saturday in November, I thought of it as a Christmas market. I decided to book a table, especially since they were provided by the organizer—no need to haul bulky furniture. The fee was reasonable, and the event was indoors, making it an ideal, low-risk opportunity to test the waters with my greeting cards and Advent calendars.
I had about three months to prepare. As soon as I signed up, my mind started racing—there was so much to think about and organize. I created a dedicated notebook for the occasion and jotted down everything that came to mind. Lists quickly followed: what to buy, what to bring, what to prepare. I was genuinely excited about the whole experience
I was also very fortunate that Klaus volunteered to come along. Having someone with you makes everything easier—you can step away for a coffee, grab lunch, or take a quick washroom break without worrying about missing potential customers.
To spread the word, I also announced my participation in the craft fair on social media so people would know to look out for me.
Payment Options
Today, many people prefer to pay by credit card, so it’s important to be set up for card payments. That said, it’s also wise to have some cash on hand for those who still prefer to pay that way.
Packing Materials
Another important consideration is packaging. If it happens to rain on the day of the event, your merchandise should be protected in a waterproof bag—your customers will appreciate the extra care. I’ve organized paper bags and envelopes, but I’ll also brought plastic bags in case the weather is questionable.
If you’d like your packaging to feel more branded, consider having a stamp made with your business name or logo. Stamping paper bags is far more cost-effective than using custom labels, and it’s a look that’s widely embraced right now—even by high-end stores.
Merchandise
The card designs I plan to offer will be carefully curated. Rather than presenting my entire collection, I’ve chosen to focus on a more intentional selection—Christmas cards, thank-you cards, and motivational designs.
To make the experience as convenient as possible for customers, I will also provide postage stamps and pens, so cards can be written and sent on the spot.
In addition, I’ll be offering printed editions of my Mountain Range Advent Calendar, which is typically available only as a digital PDF on Etsy.
Finally, I brought along my hand-typed notepads. They make thoughtful and distinctive Christmas gifts, especially for those who appreciate craftsmanship and the beauty of analog details.
Table Accessories
The table will be covered with a table cloth to give it the right ambiance. I chose a flat bed sheet we never use anyhow. It still has to be washed and nicely ironed…
Most important I had to buy greeting card spinners for the table. My dream was to find vintage metal spinners but was not successful. It’s still on the list for the future. In the meantime, the rather generic looking ones have to do. I also found a couple of wooden boxes to break the display up a bit and to separate the products.
I already designed the category signs, so people will get a quick overview of what we sell. I still must design a price list and logo sign, print and frame both. I take the approach of having a mini shop rather than just a table.
Lastly, I need to think of creating a Christmas atmosphere. One wants to entice customers to buy and nothing works better than beautifully displayed goods. I decided on battery powered fairy lights, a couple of Christmas ornaments, fresh greenery and pine cones. And of course, Francis the typewriter could not be missed.
November 3rd, 2017
This was the day I received the orientation document from the organiser of the fair. That’s also when it kind of hit me that shit is about to get real in only three weeks.
Part of the document was practical information, rules and regulations regarding set up and break down of tables. Also mentioned was the table size: 2 feet by 6 feet. Oh oh… that’s an awkward size. The table is not very wide.
Next week I must produce my goods for the event. And on the weekend is the rehearsal of the table setup. I wonder if I can put my vision into reality.
Miscellaneous
A few other things you may have to think about in advance: business cards, receipt pad, flyers with product list, packaging materials. It obviously depends on your products.
2017
