The September 4h craft fair was first on Labor Day, second at a new location, not just for me but the whole show, and third, the first time I worked with this organizer, Jackie.
This wasn't the first fair of the year for me. I went to Ft. Lowell Arts and Craft fair in April, which was okay but not great. That is the first fair I changed up from papercraft to sewn items. I have been working to build an inventory of worthy items to show since the end of last year. This show actually had a really good inventory.
It seems that some of what I made was a hit. I earned my table fee back, which is always a bonus and then some. I would not rely on craft fairs to sustain myself, but I did better at this one than ever at any shows.
Now, I have to account that I think there wasn't anyone else who had what I made or anything quite like it. Most of my items are gothic, witchy-type bags and such. Looking around the room, I saw jewelry, jams, candles, acrylic items, beaded hanging window decorations, customizable water bottles, painted rocks, and oils. All of which have a uniqueness in and of themselves.
The foot traffic came in from the hotel lobby and was more significant than I expected. I really didn't know what kind of advertising was done. Since we were right in the middle of the labor day holiday, I didn't expect much foot traffic to come into visit us.
I believe many people who did come in who weren't registered as hotel guests were actually friends and family of the crafters. Which is really a great way to get the party started. Unfortunately, some of the crafters didn't do well at all. It does take a significant amount of guests to generate a nice profit from craft fairs.
I didn't take a good video of everyone, but now I wish I had since I think it is a learning opportunity. I have been doing craft fairs since my early 20s, and I started doing Holiday fairs where everyone expects to see the same things. But in general, you have to have a very interesting setup that draws people to your table or a unique variety of items that no one else has.
They plan to have the fair every first Sunday of the month, so they will be set up for October, which I think is suited for my crafts, being the witchy woman I am. So I am considering doing that one. Hope to see you there.
