Selling at a Farmers MarketTake Your Business On The RoadSelling at a Farmers Market and Other Fairs Some people aren’t meant for the typical 9-5 work day. Instead, they enjoy seeing the world while they earn their living. One great way to do this is to sell products at farmers market, craft fair or other similar events. Many farmers market vendors these days are small business owners. Often, they have base stores, and bring a small inventory to markets for extra income, and to advertise their businesses. If you have a small business, and a product to sell, why shouldn’t you get in on some of this action? This is also a great option for those who don’t have their own stores.
Let’s say you make beautiful jewelry, and you want to start up a business selling it. You can take your work to stores, but you will either be charged a high consignment rate or will have to sell your work wholesale, at greatly reduced prices. But, if you go on the road and sell your products at markets, all of your profits are yours!Once you have decided to be a market vendor, you need to decide which markets you want to take your business to. There are thousands of markets all over North America, so you can easily combine work and a fun vacation. Many people who make their living at markets invest in a camper to travel in, and sleep right on the market grounds. This saves all kinds of money on hotels. Set Up a Great Display! Once you have booked the markets you want to sell at, you need to design your booth or table. You want to make sure it is eye-catching, without being overly busy. If you sell jewelry, have some nice display pieces, such as busts and earring and ring stands. If selling used books is your thing, don’t just stack them on a table. Bring along some shelving to display them. Advertise Right On Site! Markets are a great way to promote your small business. Whether you are offering a product or a service, you will be able to self-promote inexpensively. Make sure you have a great sign, either above or beside your booth. Have business cards available in a few places at your booth, and if you have any literature, make sure it is easily accessible for your customers. Hand out fliers to passersby and to your customers. This all costs very little, but can bring you many new customers or clients. Offer Samples! If you are selling food items, have some trays with free goodies. Everyone loves free samples, and they are more inclined to buy your product if they can try it first. If you are selling sauces, set up a little kitchen, cook up some meat with the sauces, and put small pieces on a toothpick to hand out.Working the market circuit can be tiring work, but also very rewarding. You get to travel, meet all kinds of new people (and customers), and make a living doing what you want to. Why not give it a try this summer?
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