I'm pretty pumped about this show though at Plymouth High School. They have great publicity. It's very organized and its juried.
Because I'm pretty organized and time management comes naturally to me, I have been sewing and planning this show for about 2 months. I don't work in a panic. I don't pull all nighters. In fact, it's Thursday night and I'm ready to roll right now!
How do I do that?
I have a white board in my studio. I make a list of all my items I want to make and take. Then I choose one item and make it start to finish. Once totally completed I move on to the next.
I work in mass production (mass for one person). About 20 of the same of one item.
This is the best method that works for me.
Well, not all shows are equal. I found this out by experiencing it for myself.
I participate in shows that are going to give me sales that will exceed the price of what I paid for my table. Do I know that for sure? Of course not. But I can ask lots of questions to make a informed choice as to whether its a good fit and worth my time.
What was your total for people that walked thru the show last year? They should know this number if there is an admission fee.
Do you advertise? With all our resources to FB, twitter, good old signs on the corner, postcards, newspapers, fliers etc, there's no reason not to get the word out. A good organizer will work for you!
Is the show juried? Submitting pictures of your work in the process of being made and as a finished project is a good indication they are looking for quality and unique items.
I enjoy participating in shows. I enjoy connecting with people. I find great joy in connecting with others that make their goods. Everyone has a story on how their biz/hobby began.
I also value my time too. I have a family that I have left at home so I can be at the show so I want to make it worth my time.