Artist Craft Fair: My Pop-Up Essentials
- lilsboobthangs
- Jul 7
- 4 min read
I had my first pop-up event back in December of 2022. I had no idea what I was doing.
I had issues with my first credit card payment (so thankful for the kind and patient supporters). I even had a poorly cut, handmade cardboard sign of my art business name. I didn't have price signs prepared. I was lucky (and am grateful) that I had my sister helping me the entire day and two dear friends come by to visit and provide moral support. I have improved much since then in my craft booth display and artist market game! I have also done many vending markets since then as well!
Here are my pop-up essentials for outdoor and indoor events!
Disclaimer: This are just my essentials. I recommend you follow the required guidelines of the market that you will be vending at for their rules, vendor policy, and recommendations for a specific venue.
Outdoor Event (During Day)
Sunscreen
A must-have always for me! Wear your SPF!
Sunglasses +/- Hat
Another must-have more me, especially if it will be sunny and bright!
Umbrella
Some vending events require specific colors so follow the vendor policy of the market you will be attending!
Outdoor Event (During Night) & Indoor Event
Battery-Powered Lights
Outdoor Event: If event occurs at night!
Indoor Event: Only if lighting is not provided or event is in dark lit part of room!
Both Outdoor & Indoor Events
Wagon
A huge essential for me - a non-negotiable!
It will be a huge life-saver for carrying your booth display and products!
I didn't have a large wagon for my first event ever. But after getting a wagon for my second event, I will never go back to not using it!
Table
A requirement for most craft fairs and events, unless they specifically state that they will be providing tables - see the vendor policy of the event that you will be attending.
Brand Signage
I went from having a horribly cut cardboard sign to a sign I made myself (a tad bit better)!
Having a good brand signage on display helps you stand out from the crowd!
Table/Booth Displays for Merch
After several pop-ups/craft booths at markets, I upgraded my display stands. Having a good display stand helps your products get seen rather than having them lying flat on the table.
Price Labels
I personally like to see the prices as a customer and not have to ask the vendors prices. If I don't see prices, I sometimes just walk away depending on how much I am interested in an item.
Hand-Sanitizer
You may be touching lots of cash and they are full of germs!
I always use this after handling cash.
Scissors, Tape, & Pen +/- Pencil
Sometimes things fall apart or you need to add new prices - bringing these items will help you with this!
Notebook
For jotting down notes, emails, names, and inventory!
Clipboard
I use this to hold my notebook, lol.
Table Cloth
Some vending events require specific colors so follow the vendor policy of the market you will be attending!
Battery-pack
For your phone, card readers (certain ones), iPad, laptop, tablets, or whatever else you bring!
Payment Methods
Card Reader
Important read: If you're not familiar with how your payment method works, I recommend practicing and getting familiar with it before your event.
I didn't do this and had issues with my first credit card payment at my first event, lol. So thankful for such kind and patient supporters! 💖
QR Code for Payment
Cash
Bring a variety of bills (especially fives and ones) and quarters!
Water & Snacks
Especially important at long events and hot days! You get so busy, you might not have had time to eat enough!
This is especially important for those with certain health conditions.
Important Take Away!
Disclaimer: This are just my essentials and what I have found to work for me. I recommend you follow the required guidelines of the market that you will be vending at for their rules, vendor policy, and recommendations for a specific venue.
Important read: Everyone is different and what is essential for one person may not be for another! If something is working for you, don't change it based on this - keep doing what you've been doing and keep up the good work! :)
If you found this helpful and think it would help out a fellow vendor friend, don't forget to share this with them! 💖
Want More Pop-Up Tips?
Check out my past pop-up table displays! 🌿
My craft booth displays from day 1 to present day!
Sign display, sticker display, print displays, & more!
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