Naturally Lefty

Spring is almost here and craft fair shows are too!

Craft shows are fantastic opportunities for artisans and entrepreneurs—both adults and kids—to showcase their creativity, connect with customers, and make sales. However, just like any business event, there are unspoken rules of etiquette that help ensure a positive experience for vendors and shoppers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned craft fair vendor or a young entrepreneur setting up your first booth, following these etiquette tips will set you up for success.

Before the Event: Preparation is Key

1. Read the Rules & Regulations

Every craft show has its own guidelines regarding booth setup, product types, and selling policies. Be sure to read them carefully and follow all requirements.

2. Plan an Eye-Catching Display

Your booth is your storefront, so make it visually appealing. Use proper signage, attractive table coverings, and organized displays to draw in customers. Keep kid vendors’ displays simple and engaging—sometimes a handmade sign adds a personal touch!

3. Bring Enough Inventory & Supplies

Have enough products on hand to meet customer demand, but avoid overloading your table. Also, pack essentials like a cash box with change, credit card reader, shopping bags, business cards, and extra supplies like tape, pens, and receipts.

You can create QR codes that connect to your payment method (Zelle, Venmo, PayPal for example) so it’s easy for customers to scan and pay electronically.

4. Price Clearly & Fairly

Every item should have a visible price tag. Customers don’t always want to ask, and unclear pricing may drive them away. Teach young vendors about pricing their products to reflect material costs, time, and effort.

The normal rule of thumb for pricing a product is 3x the cost of each product. For example, for a candle – it’s the cost of 1 wick, the amount of wax, the number of drops used for the scent, and the cost of the container and label/packaging. If the cost of all of that is $3 then the selling price should be a minimum of $9 per candle.

During the Event: Professionalism Matters

5. Arrive Early & Set Up Efficiently

Give yourself plenty of time to unload, set up, and be ready before the event officially starts. Don’t block other vendors’ spaces while setting up.

6. Be Friendly & Engaging

Smile, greet customers, and be available to answer questions. Engage in friendly conversation but avoid being overly pushy. Encourage young vendors to introduce themselves and talk about their products with confidence.

7. Stay Off Your Phone

Constantly looking at your phone can make you seem uninterested or unapproachable. If you need to check messages or take a break, step away briefly.

8. Respect Your Neighbors

Be mindful of noise levels—don’t play loud music or talk over other vendors. Avoid blocking neighboring booths or distracting their customers.

9. Keep Your Booth Clean & Organized

A cluttered space can deter shoppers. Regularly tidy up and restock items as needed.

10. Allow Customers to Browse Freely

Give shoppers space to look at your items without hovering. Some people like to browse quietly before making a decision.

11. Be Transparent About Handmade vs. Resale Items

If your products are handmade, highlight that! If you’re selling wholesale or pre-made items, be honest about it. Some craft fairs have strict rules about reselling, so be sure to follow them.

12. Handle Sales with Confidence

Know how to process payments efficiently. If using a card reader, ensure it’s working before the event starts. Teach young vendors how to make transactions smoothly and thank customers for their purchases.

For Young Entrepreneurs: Special Considerations

Kids selling their handmade goods at craft fairs is an exciting experience, but they may need guidance on interacting with customers and managing their booth. Here are some extra tips:

• Practice Greetings & Product Explanations – Help them rehearse a short introduction and how to describe their products.

• Teach Patience & Professionalism – They may not make a sale right away, but remind them to stay positive.

• Encourage Independence – While adult supervision is necessary, let them take the lead in customer interactions.

• Have a Simple Pricing System – Rounded prices (e.g., $5 or $10) make it easier for young vendors to handle transactions.

• Keep Them Engaged – If there’s downtime, encourage them to sketch new designs or brainstorm product ideas instead of getting distracted.

After the Event: Wrap-Up & Reflection

13. Clean Up & Pack Efficiently

Don’t leave a mess behind! Pack up your booth neatly and dispose of trash properly. Help young vendors take responsibility for their space.

14. Thank Customers & Collect Contacts

If someone showed interest but didn’t buy, offer a business card or direct them to your website or social media. Follow up with any custom orders or requests.

15. Reflect & Improve

Think about what went well and what could be improved for next time. If you’re helping a young entrepreneur, discuss their experience and brainstorm ways to enhance their next show.

Final Thoughts

Craft fairs can be rewarding and fun, but success comes with preparation, professionalism, and good etiquette. Whether you’re an experienced vendor or a young entrepreneur just starting out, following these tips will help you create a great experience for both yourself and your customers.

Have you participated in a craft show before? What are your top etiquette tips? Share your thoughts in the comments!