If you’re just starting your product business, arts & craft shows, gift fairs, etc… are a great way to test the viability of your product. You will get instant valuable feedback, even if that feedback is zero sales. Also, selling at these types of events is a relatively inexpensive way to gain visibility, build a customer base, and promote your online store.
Start at local farmers markets and annual shows in your city, and if you get favorable results, expand your reach. You can get a comprehensive list of these types of events from Craftmaster News. The annual subscription is $48.95 and includes 6 bi-monthly printed issues of the publication, e-mail updates of the latest event information, and online access to their entire database of events (updated daily). And maybe you can split the cost with one or two other business owners, to make it even more affordable.
The list includes arts & crafts shows, street fairs and festivals, county fairs, state fairs, home and garden shows, farmers’ markets, antique & collectible shows, music festivals, car shows, holiday gift fairs, and more. There are two separate lists, one covering the Western U.S. and another for the Eastern U.S.
Once you’re up and running, you need to get the word out about your product. I think this is a good way to go for some businesses. Try a local event first, and if you see some marketing benefits, check out the Craftmaster News list. You have 30 days to cancel, so it’s as low-risk as you’re going to find.
