I sell at local farmer & artisan markets most weekends between April & November. So, before the season begins, I need to make sure I’m all ready for customers…most important on my to do list before the first market of the year:
- Make sure my tent is clean & in good shape. I live in Oregon and it’s often wet...especially in the spring. A canopy cover is huge, and the best way to clean it is to remove it from the frame and wipe it down with hot soapy water. I have put my tent walls in the washing machine (on gentle cycle) before, but not the top as it would harm the protective coating and possibly cause leaks.
- Get all my jewelry cleaned, polished and displayed…January-March is when I rework my displays, order anything new I may need, and make sure all of my jewelry shines. It's a lot of work, but everything gets dull & dirty!
- Make sure everything has a price tag. I also put the ring size & necklace chain length on price takes. You can't ever have too much information out for customers and it saves time and questions.
- Update branding, logos, signage & biz cards if needed.
- Inventory! The most important part of my off season is making my basics and making sure we have plenty of inventory for selling.
- Cash. I prefer to only go to the bank once fore getting smaller bills for change. We actually don't take in much cash, but I always have cash on hand at markets. Don't show up at a market without change!
- Payment methods. How are you going to accept payments? Square? Venmo? Paypal? Whatever you choose, make sure it's up and running and you know how to use it BEFORE the first market. You should also have a back-up plan. I use Square and have a small reader and a swiper for my phone to use if the Square isn't working. Here is a link to Square if you want to sign up.
- Promote! This should be a no-brainer, but promote your business on social media, publish events on your website...and stay consistent with it! People will follow to know where you will be selling from week to week!
What is on your to do list to get ready to sell at markets? I’d love to hear how you prepare! Here is a video with some of the things I do before market season begins.
My name is Barb Macy and I’ve been making jewelry for 20+ years and specialize in sterling silver and sea glass jewelry. Thanks for visiting my page! - Barb M