You will inevitably have to deal with the other sellers as often as setting up shop if you are in the habit of attending weekly craft shows. If you want to establish a relationship with everyone, then a little helpfulness, courteousness, and general amiability will go a long way. Personally, I try to lend a hand when other vendors are putting up their tents. It assures me that they will do the same, in turn.
The most important rule of seller relations is that one must never try to steal another vendor's customers or potential customers. Your friends are trying to make ends meet, too. Before you try to catch someone's attention, look and see if he or she is busy at someone else's booth. Don't even try to steer someone away when they are clearly walking to another's stall. Even if that person buys from you, you will have caused a neighbor a potential sale. This is simply bad karma. So call out to people passing by, but don't do it a friend's expense.
It's a good thing to think about giving away vendor discounts early on. It's a usual courtesy to give a reduced price to fellow sellers; and they will of course offer you a reduced price as well. But don't drop it down to the cost either. A small percentage will already do nicely. And do remember to be consistent by offering all vendors the same discount.
A number of vendors will not go for a discount, however, and instead opt for a trade. Don't be surprised if someone asked you this question, but do give it some thought. The main benefit of a trade is that you get items you want without the inclusion of money matters. So as long as you find another item to your liking, and there are no dollars involved at all, then go for it.
Bottom line, it is important that one supports sellers whenever possible. As a rule of thumb, try to buy something from your peers at least once a week. Set aside a small amount of your profits so you can buy from the other sellers. Not all sellers will be amiable, though. There may be people who would thing your effort at friendliness may be a sort of conspiracy. But, these things just happen.
The most important rule of seller relations is that one must never try to steal another vendor's customers or potential customers. Your friends are trying to make ends meet, too. Before you try to catch someone's attention, look and see if he or she is busy at someone else's booth. Don't even try to steer someone away when they are clearly walking to another's stall. Even if that person buys from you, you will have caused a neighbor a potential sale. This is simply bad karma. So call out to people passing by, but don't do it a friend's expense.
It's a good thing to think about giving away vendor discounts early on. It's a usual courtesy to give a reduced price to fellow sellers; and they will of course offer you a reduced price as well. But don't drop it down to the cost either. A small percentage will already do nicely. And do remember to be consistent by offering all vendors the same discount.
A number of vendors will not go for a discount, however, and instead opt for a trade. Don't be surprised if someone asked you this question, but do give it some thought. The main benefit of a trade is that you get items you want without the inclusion of money matters. So as long as you find another item to your liking, and there are no dollars involved at all, then go for it.
Bottom line, it is important that one supports sellers whenever possible. As a rule of thumb, try to buy something from your peers at least once a week. Set aside a small amount of your profits so you can buy from the other sellers. Not all sellers will be amiable, though. There may be people who would thing your effort at friendliness may be a sort of conspiracy. But, these things just happen.
About the Author:
As a craftsperson, you should always be aware of the schedule of Craft Shows located close to your area. Visit Craft Fairs regularly, and have a successful small business using your own talents!
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