I would never claim to be an expert when it comes to markets, far from it, but I’m going to let you know what I have learned along the way.
When starting out with Common Wood we were looking for a good way to sell loads of chopping boards and get our name out there. Markets were the first dip into trying to make a profit. It took a while to work out what sort of markets suited our pieces along with what pieces were the best sellers. After a lot of trial and error I feel we had markets nailed. These days we are too busy with everything else at Common Wood that we don’t do markets. You never know though.
Finding the right market
Not all markets are the same, so finding the one that fits your vibe is step one. There are loads of different markets out there. Local markets, big design markets, night markets etc. We had the most success at the big arts and crafts/giftware markets like Handmade Canberra & Finders Keepers in Sydney and Melbourne.
Things to check:
Who shops there? Make sure your target customers are likely to be wandering those stalls.
Reputation and buzz: A well-known market will bring in more foot traffic (and potential buyers).
Costs: Stall fees can vary, so make sure it fits your budget.
Once you’ve picked your market, apply early! Good markets fill up fast, and they often ask for photos of your work, so have your best shots ready to go.
Making Your Stall Look Pimpin’
Your stall is basically your shop for the day, so make it look as awesome as your products. You don’t need to spend a ton, but a little thought goes a long way. I built our main stand out of a few pallets and some plywood. The goal was to load as many chopping boards into a small space as possible. It was somewhat inspired by an old lemonade stand.
Tips for a killer setup:
Signage: A sign with your name or logo is a must—make it clear and eye-catching.
Pricing: make sure you price you items clearly. Keep everything priced the same or similarly. I would just do two pieces. Small board and Big Board. Keep it simple. You only have a split second to grab a customers attention. Make it count.
Displays: Use boxes, crates, or risers to show off your products at different heights. It makes things look way more interesting.
BUSINESS CARDS!! You can never have too many. We used to get plywood business cards laser etched with the business details and logo. I figured it is harder for someone to scrunch up and throw away if it is a piece of ply. They looked pretty cool as well. Throw a busniess card at any and everyone. You never know who might be your next ‘best customer ever’
Be prepared
Make sure you are prepared for everything.
Make sure you have all of your stock. Take everything you can possible fit and more. One year at Finders Keepers at Barangaroo we sold everything we had brought with us on the Saturday by mid afternoon. We definitely missed out on some sales.
Have you payment system up and running. Bring extra power bricks for phones and payment dongles.
Bring a tool kit. Ours had zip ties, scissors, pens, pencils, a drill, screws, tape, chalk etc.
Bring a jacket. The outdoors get cold. Beth is still thawing out for a winter markets down in The Rocks in Sydney. That was 5 years ago.
Connecting with Customers
One of the best things about markets is chatting with people face-to-face. It’s your chance to tell your story and make a lasting impression. Ask them a question first up so they have to engage. Can be anything. Give them a compliment. Don’t be a creep.
We found once you are engaging with people other customers will stop to see what is going on. Soon you’ll find half a dozen people having a squiz at your stall. Next you’re making people wait to pay. We used to do a trick where Beth or a family member who was coming past would go out the front, pick up a board and look around the stall with a lot of interest. Rent a crowd. 9 times out of ten it would work.
Once the market is done and you’ve slept for three days straight you’ll want to do a bit of an audit on everything. What sold best? What didn’t? What sale surprised me? What can I improve on? If you’ve taken peoples details send out an email to remind them they get 5% off with a discount code through your website. Do it while you are fresh in their mind.
Running a stall is hard work, sure, but it’s also such a rewarding experience.
So whether you’re a seasoned maker or just dipping your toes into the market scene, dive in, have fun, and enjoy the ride. Who knows? Your next big success story might just start at a market stall!
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