Craft Fair Prep: My Checklist for a Successful Event

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This Saturday, I’m heading into another craft fair adventure, and let me tell you—preparation is EVERYTHING.

My first craft fair? Let’s just say it was a learning experience. I showed up with my products, my display, and a whole lot of excitement… but I completely forgot a “Follow Me” QR code and business cards. Yep. Rookie mistake. Turns out, a lot of people browse at fairs but prefer to buy later—so if they don’t know how to find you online, you’re missing out on future sales! Lesson learned.

Now, I have a tried-and-true Craft Fair Prep Checklist to keep me on track, and I’m sharing it with you!

1. Products & Display Setup

  • Inventory Ready to Go: Pack every product you plan to sell—plus a few extras!
  • Price Tags & Clear Signage: Nobody wants to awkwardly ask how much something costs.
  • Display Setup: Whether it’s a table or full booth, make sure your layout is organized, inviting, and easy to shop.
  • Tablecloth: Because nothing says “I’m a professional” like a clean, polished setup.
  • Business Cards & QR Code Sign: Do. Not. Forget. These! Many shoppers don’t buy on the spot but want to check out your online store later. Make it easy for them to find you!

2. Payment & Sales Tracking

  • Square Card Reader: I run a cashless booth, which is totally normal now. Square makes it seamless!
  • Etsy + Square Integration: If you sell on Etsy, link your Square account! It keeps your inventory synced so you don’t accidentally oversell. (Just double-check your stock levels before the event.)
  • Inventory Tracker: Whether it’s digital (like Etsy + Square) or a simple checklist, keeping track of what sells is key.

3. The “I Will Not Starve” Survival Kit

  • Water & Snacks: Craft fairs are long, and hanger is real. Pack easy-to-eat snacks!
  • Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: You’ll be handling money, products, and shaking hands. Stay clean!
  • Comfortable Shoes: Cute is great. Comfy is necessary.
  • Weather Protection: If you’re outdoors, be prepared for sun, wind, rain…or all three.
  • Chair or Stool: Standing all day is rough—bring a seat when you need a quick break.

4. Engaging with Customers & Marketing Your Business

  • “Follow Me” QR Code: This is a MUST. Make it easy for people to find you on Etsy, Instagram, or wherever you sell online.
  • Email Signup Sheet or Link: Capture leads for future promotions, sales, and new product launches.
  • Social Media Shoutout: Post before/during the event to let people know you’re there!
  • Special Deals or Bundles: A little incentive (like a fair-exclusive discount) can boost sales.

5. After the Event: The Follow-Up Plan

  • Track What Sold: Which products were popular? What didn’t move? This helps with future inventory decisions.
  • Post on Social Media: Thank everyone who stopped by, share photos, and remind people where they can shop online!
  • Restock & Plan for the Next Event: Because once you do one craft fair, you’ll probably be hooked.

Coming Up Next: Craft Fair Realities—The Customers, the Comments, and the Chaos

Getting prepped is one thing—but what actually happens during a craft fair?

In my next post, I’ll be sharing the real experience of being a vendor, including: 

  • The “That’s too expensive!” customer
  • The “My aunt makes these for half the price” person
  • The silent, picks-up-your-item-then-puts-it-down-with-a-weird-face moment
  • How to stay confident in your pricing and product

Stay tuned, because this one is going to be real, honest, and maybe just a little too relatable. 😆

Check out my shop!

Until next time,

Jecca

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