Craft Fair Realities: The Customers, the Comments, and the Chaos

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So, you’ve prepped, packed, and set up your booth like the craft fair boss that you are. You’ve got your tumblers, totes, and all your handmade goodness beautifully displayed. Your “Follow Me” QR code is prominently placed (because we learned from last time), and you’re ready to make some sales.

And then… the people come.

Ah, the craft fair crowd. A delightful mix of art lovers, bargain hunters, supportive shoppers, and—let’s be real—some people who have no filter whatsoever.

If you’ve ever done a craft fair, you know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t, let me prepare you for what’s coming. Because it’s a ride. Buckle up.

1. The “That’s Too Expensive” Customer

Ah yes, the person who picks up your item, admires it for a moment, then loudly declares, “Wow. That’s expensive.”

First of all, ma’am, this is not Walmart.

Handmade = time, skill, materials, creativity, and love. You’re not just paying for the product—you’re paying for the craftsmanship, the unique design, and the fact that I didn’t mass-produce this in a factory.

💡 How to handle it:

  1. Smile and say, “I price my work based on the time and quality that goes into each piece.”
  2. If they keep going, just nod and let them move on. You don’t need to justify your prices.
  3. And remember—your ideal customer won’t question your worth.

2. The “My Tia Makes These” Shopper

This one is a classic. They pick up your item, examine it like a detective, and say, “Oh, my tia makes these.” Sometimes it’s “I could totally make this myself” (to which I want to say, Great! But will you?).

💡 How to handle it:

  1. Politely respond with, “That’s awesome! It’s always fun to make things yourself.”
  2. Or, if you’re feeling sassy: “Well, I hope she charges what she’s worth!” 😉

Trust me, they weren’t going to buy anyway. Just let them be impressed by their tia and move on.

3. The Silent Critic

This one stings a little. They pick up an item. They inspect it. They purse their lips. They put it down. They walk away.

And they say… nothing.

💡 How to handle it:

  1. Let. It. Go. Not everyone is your target customer, and that’s okay!
  2. Your real customers are out there—they just need to find you.

4. The “Will You Take $5?” Negotiator

I sell handmade, not flea market leftovers. But sure enough, here comes someone trying to haggle on a $20 tumbler like they’re on an episode of Pawn Stars.

💡 How to handle it:

  1. Hold your ground. Just say, “I don’t negotiate my prices, but I really appreciate your interest!”
  2. If you offer bundles or deals, you can redirect them: “I do have a special on two for $35!”

Some people just love the thrill of bargaining, but your work isn’t up for debate.

5. The Best Kind of Customers ❤️

Let’s not forget the amazing people who make craft fairs worth it! The ones who:

  1. Genuinely appreciate your work.
  2. Compliment your creativity.
  3. Buy something without hesitation.
  4. Follow you online for future purchases.

These are your people. Cherish them. Serve them well. They are the reason you keep showing up.

Final Thoughts: Stand Tall, Craft Queen (or King!)

If you take anything away from this, let it be this:

➡️ Your pricing is valid.

➡️ Your work is valuable.

➡️ Not everyone is your customer—and that’s okay.

Craft fairs are a wild ride, but the right customers will find you. Keep creating, keep selling, and keep showing up. Your people are out there!

Have you ever encountered a craft fair character like these? Drop a comment and tell me your best (or worst) customer story!

Check out my shop on Etsy

Until next time,

Jecca

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