Finally, we are back to in-person vendor events, and I could not be happier. Vendor events are something that I look forward to, and I have really missed them. Recently, I did my first event post-Covid, and it was so much fun. One of the best parts of a vendor event is getting to know other vendors and making connections. The venue I was at is one of my all-time favorites. It is a beautifully restored barn in the country and I have participated in many events there.
How do you make a vendor event successful? I used to be so nervous attending events even though I really enjoyed them. I also used to make them way too hard on myself and that just added to my stress level. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and nobody will know if you forgot something or something is just not right. These are my tried and true tips for a successful vendor event.
- Less is more. I wish somebody would have taken the time to tell me this a long time ago. I used to haul all of my products to every event because I figure the one time I didn’t bring something would be the one time that someone wants to see that particular product. It took me forever to set up and tear down, not fun. Now that I am bringing less to events, my display looks so much cleaner and it is easier to navigate.
- Create a theme. I love a good theme and have so much fun creating displays. This does not have to be expensive. I search my house for items that would be appropriate for displays and setups. For the barn event I did, it was in the summer so I brought a surfboard that I display jewelry on, pineapples, little beach chairs, and trays. These were all pieces from my home. For the next event there I will do a more rustic theme as this event is in the fall. For the holidays, I use trees, garlands, and lights. Nothing too hard, keep it simple here too.
- Engage with your potential customers. Don’t you hate when you stop at a booth at an event and you are ignored? Especially if you are interested in something. I understand if someone is tied up talking with someone else. To combat this I actually made a video of myself and my products and demos that plays on my computer on a loop. Most people usually stop to watch. I created it on clideo. Just chit-chatting with a potential customer can make all of the difference. It does not even have to be about your products. Compliment them on their outfit, bag, etc.
- Provide a little goodie. There are so many inexpensive ways to make a little take-home goodie to pass out. I will buy flavored tea bags at DollarTree and put a couple in a small jewelry bag with a sugar cube, a little spoon from DollarTree, and a business card. I have also done hot chocolate and apple cider packets. Another favorite is a hair tie with my company name wrapped around s business card, a little wine charm. Amazon or Oriental Trading is a great resource for those. Candy is always good too. I try to tailor my goodie to my event if I can.
- Have fun. The most important thing at a vendor event is just to have fun. Enjoy meeting and chatting with new people. Visit with other vendors. That is how I find out about other events. You never know who will meet at your next vendor event.
I hope these tips help you with your next vendor event. Don’t overthink it or go too crazy. Trust me, I speak from experience. I am much happier now that I have pared things down and I am able to relax and enjoy it that much more. Most importantly, have a great time!
Until next week,
Carrie
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Carrie Kelly is an Independent Consultant with Initial Outfitters. She is available to assist you in creating a beautiful, personalized, and welcoming home, bridal planning, personalized jewelry, and accessories for yourself, and to help you select the perfect gift for every occasion. She is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle Blog.
