I still remember the mad panic I had setting up my first market stall last month. Just two days before the craft market, I was informed there was a spot, and I grabbed onto the opportunity, deciding to make a few last minute items with a full time job, and preparations for the outdoor stall. As for preparations, last minute purchases included all things from plastic table cloths, chairs, to stall display items that I could find. I managed to rent tables at the venue, so that worked out great! My business cards were ordered, but hadn't reached me yet, so I was a little upset. But dear hubby managed to get some printed for me, which did just the trick! I was completely unsure about how I would set up the stall, about my handmade products, or my setup.
At 10:00 pm the day before, I realized I didn't have a banner for my stall name. I had always wanted my own little shop, and had the most excitement painting a cute bunting to hang, while my hubby dear helped me pack everything up. I was so anxious I could hardly sleep. I might have fallen asleep by 2:00 am, only to wake up at 7:00 am. The weather was meant to be gloomy, with rains. I must have made a few 100 silent prayers in my head - which went answered! Couldn't have asked for a better day!
We arrived early at the North Essendon Craft Market to set up the stall. I was quite nervous setting up, because everyone else around me looked so professional and had so much stuff! When I started setting up the stall, I did not even know which side to have my display. LOL. I had gone with the expectations that it would be a whole new learning experience, and that sales didn't matter as much. But in the end, my little stall did better than I expected and I was able to sell my big ticket items, so I was really happy :)
A big thank you to every one who came by, gave me words of encouragement, said hello, appreciated me, and purchased things from my stall! My husband was amazing and stayed with me helping me set up, and getting some snacks. My very first sale was while he was gone getting us both some coffee! It was a travel journal and a greeting card I had made with so much love. I just could not believe it - my hands were shaking, and I think I may be talking gibberish. One of my customers loved her purchase so much, she went by showing it off to a few tables alongside. The happiness on her face was just priceless, and made my day even more special than it was!
Items that I sold included my unique travel journal, coffee book, explosion box, and some greeting cards. I had made some Valentine greetings and gifts, and I think they were the least popular probably because the demographic was older, and obviously they could not relate to those gifts. I also found out a few things about my set up. It was pretty good for the first time, I had laid everything out on the table, but my greeting cards on display kept flying off in the winds. So, this time I’ll do something to fix that.
I wasn’t sure how I would feel going through the whole market adventure - if it would be successful or not, but it turns out I did good, and people appreciated me, so I feel motivated to do another one!
I wasn’t sure how I would feel going through the whole market adventure - if it would be successful or not, but it turns out I did good, and people appreciated me, so I feel motivated to do another one!
Looking forward to it this month! :)
Love,
Divya
Divya