From Online to In-Person: Tips for Selling at an Outdoor Market
For any artisan or small business owner, the opportunity to showcase your products at an outdoor market can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. It's a chance to connect with customers in person and expand your brand beyond your online presence. However, preparing for your first outdoor market can also bring up feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.
As a candle maker who has mainly sold online, it's essential to research the event beforehand. Find out where your booth will be located and what other vendors will be around you. This information can help you determine how to set up your booth and what kind of marketing strategies will work best for your target audience. Knowing your competition is always a good idea so that you can make your products stand out in comparison.
Once you know where your booth will be located and who your competitors are, it's time to focus on your booth layout. Try to create a cohesive display that showcases your products in an appealing and eye-catching way. You can use signage, lighting, and other decorative elements to make your booth stand out from the rest. Make sure your display is well-organized and easy for customers to navigate. It's essential to leave enough space for customers to browse your products without feeling crowded or overwhelmed.
Getting the customers' attention is the biggest challenge when it comes to outdoor markets. Consider offering samples of your candles or creating a unique scent experience to draw customers to your booth. You can also create special promotions or discounts for customers who make a purchase. Make sure to have your business cards and flyers on hand to give out to interested customers. If you have a mailing list, make sure to bring a sign-up sheet to collect email addresses and connect with potential customers later on.
Despite all the preparation and hard work that goes into getting ready for your first outdoor market, it's normal to feel anxious about whether or not you'll sell anything. You may be worried that you didn't bring enough products or that your products won't be well-received. But remember that this is a learning experience, and the most important thing is to stay positive and engaged with your customers. Make a good impression, connect with potential customers, and be open to feedback.
In conclusion, preparing for your first outdoor market as a candle maker can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. By researching the event beforehand, focusing on your booth layout and marketing strategies, and staying positive and engaged with customers, you can make the most of this opportunity. Remember that even if you don't sell as much as you had hoped, this experience can help you grow as a business owner and expand your brand beyond the online world.