Preparing for Outdoor Craft Shows

Getting ready for an outdoor handmade show is much different than preparing for an indoor event.  Selling crafts al fresco comes with a unique set of things to consider- from inclement weather to very bright sunlight.  Here are some tips to help!

Pack a Kit Accordingly

Most outdoor shows are uneventful, but those you’ll really remember are the ones where something went drastically wrong.  Prevent this kind of stress by preparing a kit ahead of time.  Good supplies to pack for shows include: a towel (for rain/spills), a few plastic bags (for garbage or wet items), weights (for outdoor tents), plastic sheeting, hand sanitizer (you’ll be touching money all day), and even table/furniture risers to keep your display off the ground.  If you’ll be in the sun all day, sunglasses and sunscreen are also a must.

 

Practice Before the Show

If you’re setting up your own pop-up tent, practice before the day of the event.  When you have a limited time frame to set up for a show, this will make a big difference and keep you from getting frustrated.  It also won’t hurt to try setting up your booth display if you’re newer to craft shows, and this way you can pre-arrange any items if possible.  For example: I can put necklaces on my display and then wrap it with kitchen cling film to secure them during transport to the show.  Then I just simply unwrap them!

 

Check the Weather

Looking at the weather forecast the morning of an outdoor show will help you know what to expect.  Most days will be perfectly fine in the warmer months, but I’ve heard some scary stories about thunderstorms during craft shows so it’s better to be safe than sorry.  You should contact the organizer with weather-related questions if a big storm is headed your way.

 

If the venue is outdoors but has some kind of permanent covering you might still be exposed to the elements (but have a little more protection).  In this case, and especially if your booth is near the outside edge of the structure, consider that rain may get into your booth if it storms.  Play it safe and bring towels and rain-proof gear if precipitation is in the forecast.

 

Don’t Bring Precious Products

Sometimes outdoor shows are dusty, windy, or rainy.  Don’t risk damage to precious, expensive, irreplaceable, or easily stained items by bringing them.  If your item shouldn’t be in direct sunlight the same considerations apply.

 

These outdoor craft show tips will help you have an amazing experience without the stress!

How have you prepared for a handmade event that was not indoors?

By Rebecca George (Purple and Lime)

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