How to Prepare for Your Craft Show - Your Event Checklist

Once you've found that perfect show in our events calendar search, you're ready to go to your event.

Once you've been accepted into a crafts show, you'll need the information from our members exclusive event details to answer some of these questions:

What type of lighting is used?
How are the elctricity arrangements?
What are the specifics on loading and unloading my art and how far must I park my car?

Much of the information is already at our members fingertips in regards to the show information and preparation.

Crafters are the nicest people you'll ever meet! I've never run across a fellow crafter that didnt do everything they could to help me (this included making ice cubes for an odd job). Still, it's best to be prepared and you'll need an event planning checklist to help you out. You are already going to be overwhelmed with creating your fabulous product. So you don't need to be stressed about reminding yourself to bring the right stuff. Here is a great checklist to start from! Just add anything specific for your product or show to your event checklist. Now you don't need to stress about forgetting things! Is this your first show?

Indoor Event Checklist

• Tables & tablecloths - often included in booth cost- be sure the check
• Display items - and fabric for decor and display mantles to model your craft, hang necklaces, earrings, etc.
• Comfy shoes - you can stand in all day (in between sitting in your comfy chair)
• Aspirin
• Tissue Paper
• Camera (take pictures of your booth or other booths that inspire you)
• Chair and Chair cushion, something you are comfortable on all day.
• Tools - Pliers, Utility Knife, Screwdriver will be sufficient.
• Hand mirror - if you are selling wearable item
• Cooler with beverages and snacks - Either bring your own water of jugs that can be filled at the event. You could always support our fellow food vendors and purchase your meals at the fair, or bring snacks (remember those veggies) to complement the fair delectibles.
• Packaging - small boxes, tissue paper, bags, gift tags
• Cash box - to store money, checks and credit card receipts (bring plenty of change!) - also handy to bring discreet bag for cash box
• Financial Business Tools - All the stuff to record your take for the day: receipt book, calculator (tape an extra set of batteries to the back), pens, and credit card sale supplies
• Guestbook - perfect for marketing and recording address for newsletter and great for visitors to write down what they like
• Small stapler with staples
• Marketing Tools - business cards, business card holder, brochures or bulk price list
• Copy of business license
• Radio & batteries (if allowed)
• Portable hand cart (for carrying in supplies from car)
• And last- STUFF TO SELL!

Outdoor Event Checklist (everything above plus this list)

• Pop up 10x10 tent or canopy (if event is outside and not provided in cost of booth
• Umbrella
• Jacket, Gloves and a Hat
• Tarp or large garbage bags (to cover up your product if it's windy and rainy and the tent isn't working)
• Blanket