Here we are in beautiful Styrrup, Nottinghamshire, for a pottery fair, along with thirty other potters. Each of us brought our own gazebo and tables but that’s unusual. Most often tables and chairs are provided and you are either in a marquee or a hall. The gardens here are beautiful and the sun is shining so we are having a lovely time. I remember looking for a list when I got started doing fairs so thought I’d put one out there. Here goes!
- Think about what you would be selling. Maybe not everything you make. It’s good to curate a collection or a few collections together
- Find the right fair. It might not be a local event with a raffle and tombola as people don’t always expect to spend more than a few pounds here and there.
- Apply! You won’t get in unless you do. First take good pictures and put an artist bio together – it helps you clarify what you are doing.
- To get ready for the big day, make sure you have packaging for your work for travelling and also for your buyers. Consider a logo on your packaging but it’s not crucial if you’re just getting started.
- in the run up to the day, make sure to do your promotion, whether it’s telling friends and neighbours, handing out leaflets, doing social media posts or sending out a newsletter.
- Consider promoting other people who will have work there too. It’s a good way to make connections before you go and visitors like to see that support too.
- Make a plan for your stall before you go – set it out at home or draw out. You might need to make adjustments but at least it’s not a blank canvas.
- Think about how to take payments – setting up card payments or having a card machine is very useful as not everyone carries cash.
- Have ready – petty cash, business cards, table cloths, display items that suit your work, wrapping and tape or bags (blank news sheet is good and easy), a table for wrapping if you have space.
- On the day, wear comfy shoes, have layers, drinks and snacks and lunches with you and a seat if you need to provide your own.