My First Vendor Event

What are some of your goals for 2018? Two of my goals for 2018 was to start my own bag pattern line and to do a vendor event.  Currently I have released 2 patterns and I attended my first vendor event this past weekend. The event was Hats and Pearls, A Celebration of Women and the theme was I Am My Sister. This event was done by Church of Atlanta Lighthouse. You can check out their Facebook page here. There were many powerful women of God at this event and several other vendors. There was prayer, fellowship, and worship! I have to say, every lady that attended was dressed to the nines and represented by wearing their best hats and pearls!

Since this was my first event, I was very nervous and I did not know what to expect. I had plenty of inventory on hand and I added a few more pieces to the collection. I was afraid that I would not have enough but at the same time I was afraid that no one would like my products. You can imagine all of the things that were going on in my head. I was recommended to the event by one of my good friends Kimberly and everyone was very welcoming and encouraging. The other vendors were friendly as well. I brought my sister along for moral support and to help me with organizing and selling.

Here are a few lessons I learned from my first vendor event:

1. Be prepared

Once your attendance has been confirmed for the event, start planning your inventory. For me, I had some inventory on hand but I wanted to add some new items to my collection. Make a comprehensive to do list and a schedule to ensure that you have everything in place at least 3 to 5 days before the event. You can take those final days to review and double check your inventory.

2. Know your audience

Research the type of event, for example if you are a vendor at a comic convention then your inventory should be geared towards that audience. This may be difficult at times but if the event is done every year, then there should be some information on their website.

3. Accept multiple forms of payment and bring cash for change (Everyone has $20 bills)

I had several customers to say that “I wish I had known vendors would be here, I would have brought cash”. I did inform them that I take credit and debit cards as well. I use the small square reader to accept all forms of payment.

4. Update your website inventory

I realized days before the event that I did not have a clear representation of the items that I sell on my website. As a matter of fact, my website and social media is all over the place! Now there is a store on the first page of my website and I have a new Instagram account @lejanarobcollection.

5. Plan your set up

The event that I attended provided a long folding table and two chairs. I saw an event recently that stated vendors needed to bring their own table. Find out in advance, what accommodations and space you will have at the event. I wasn’t sure what else to bring so I grabbed a plastic table cloth from Dollar Tree. Next time, I will have a cloth colored table cloth, some shelves or stackable boxes, and possible a stand for crossbody purses. A nice set up will attract customers to your table.

6. Don’t over think it

Because this was my first event, I was very self-conscious, and I constantly second guested myself. When I arrived, I realized that I had more than enough inventory and the ladies were impressed that all of my items were handmade.

7. Be on time

Vendors may have a set time to arrive to set up their space, make sure that you are on time and have everything you need. We had an hour and a half to set up, which was plenty of time, but you will be surprised how fast that time does pass.

8. Bring business cards

Your business cards should be visible on your table so that customers can reach you once the event is over. I had several ladies ask for my business card because they wanted custom designs.

9. Have a system in place.

Lunch was served at the event and ladies only had about 30 minutes to eat and visit the vendor tables. If this happens to you make sure you are ready with your credit card reader and cash change for quick transactions.

10. Bring a friend

I brought my sister with me to help with the set up because she has a much better eye for design. She was also there to help move things along by writing receipts and placing the items in bags for customers. The most important reason was moral support!

I hope this information helps you, just in case you are thinking of being a vendor at events in the future.

The Annie Pack pattern is now available on Craftsy. Don’t forget to tag me on social media @lejanarob and use the #lejanarobpatterns