Craft Fair Tips : Set Yourself Up for Success at Markets

Craft Fair Tips : Set Yourself Up for Success at Markets

Sarah Sarah
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Selling at craft fairs and markets can be a rewarding way to build your brand, grow your customer base, and connect directly with buyers who value handmade and artisan products. 

But standing out in a sea of talented makers and creators takes more than just showing up with great products - it takes preparation, strategy, and style. If you're getting ready for your next (or first) event, these craft fair tips will help set you up for success and boost your chances of having a profitable and enjoyable day at markets.


1. Know Your Brand – and Flaunt It

One of our first craft fairs is one for before you even think about setting up your table. It’s important to have a strong sense of your brand. What makes you different? Is it your ingredients, your values, your aesthetic, or your story?

Your brand should be immediately clear to customers walking by. This includes:

  • A cohesive color palette and logo.

  • Consistent fonts and product labels.

  • A short and sweet tagline or brand story visible on signage.

  • Business cards or flyers with your website and social handles.

Make sure your branding speaks to your ideal customer. Whether your vibe is rustic and natural, sleek and luxury or fun and cute - let it show!


2. Eye-Catching Table Setup

The next of our craft fair tips is for your setup. Your table is your storefront, so it needs to look professional, inviting, and organised. Use these craft fair tips to turn heads and encourage people to stop and browse your products:

  • Use levels and height: Display products at varying heights to create visual interest. Use plastic crates, stands, or tiered displays.

  • Keep it tidy: Avoid clutter. Group similar items together and keep your layout clean and intuitive. Keep home fragrance products together. If you sell candles and wax melts, they should be next to each other. Putting your body products together may encourage potential customers to purchase multiple products.

  • Table covering: Use a branded or neutral cloth that reaches the floor (to hide stock under the table).

  • Signage: Make sure prices are clearly visible. Chalkboards or acrylic signs are popular and stylish.

  • Lighting: If the venue allows, bring battery-powered fairy lights or spotlights to make your table glow—literally.


3. Offer Samples – Let Them Smell the Magic

If you’re selling wax melts, candles, or anything scented, samples are a must. People buy with their senses - especially their nose - so let them experience your products first-hand! 

Display sample pots and tester snap bars. A small sign inviting people to "Smell Me!" or "Find Your Favourite Scent" adds a fun, interactive element to your table.


4. Make Payments Easy – Cash & Card

It’s 2025, and customers expect card payments - especially at markets. Cash is still handy (especially for older customers or smaller purchases), but a card reader like SumUp, Zettle, or Square is essential.

Here’s how to make payment seamless:

  • Display a clear “Card Payments Accepted” sign.

  • Bring a backup power bank to keep your reader charged.

  • Offer digital receipts and email signup options at checkout.

  • Have change ready for cash buyers, and store it securely.

Pro Tip: Offer special deals for multi-buys to increase basket size, such as “3 for £10” or “Buy 2, Get 1 Free.”


5. Give Shoppers Choice – But Don’t Overwhelm

The next one on our list of craft fair tips is that you want to appeal to different tastes and budgets without turning your table into a chaotic jumble. Focus on variety within reason:

  • A selection of best-selling scents or products in different sizes.

  • Seasonal or themed items to create urgency.

  • Bundles or gift sets to boost spend per customer.

Stick to a range you know well, and rotate new options in now and then to test what works. Having “just enough” variety helps customers choose without getting choice paralysis.


6. Price to Sell – Stay Competitive and Profitable

Craft fair pricing can make or break your day. This is really important on our list of craft fair tips for you to consider. You need to cover costs, reflect your value, and still appeal to market-goers.

Here are some craft fair tips for pricing:

  • Do your research: Visit other markets or browse similar brands online.

  • Don’t underprice yourself - cheap doesn’t always sell more.

  • Offer clear price points like £5, £10, and £15. Simpler prices convert better.

  • Include multi-buy deals and ‘event exclusive’ discounts to create FOMO.

You could even create a mini “Sale” section to shift older stock or discontinued scents, giving bargain hunters something to get excited about.


7. Bring the Essentials – Be Prepared

Here’s a checklist of market day must-haves that go beyond your stock:

  • Tablecloth and signage

  • Display risers and product stands

  • Business cards or flyers

  • Cash float and card reader

  • Power bank and phone charger

  • Bags or packaging (branded if possible)

  • Samples and testers

  • Cleaning wipes, tissues, hand sanitiser

  • Pen, notebook, and sellotape (you’ll be surprised how handy it is!)

Also, pack water, snacks, and dress in layers - markets can be unpredictable weather-wise, especially if outdoors.


8. Be Approachable – You’re the Face of Your Brand

One of the biggest benefits of in-person events is connecting with your customers. Smile, stand (not sit behind your phone), and be open to chatting.

Prepare a few friendly ice-breakers like:

  • “Let me know if you want a sniff!”

  • “These ones are our bestsellers today.”

  • “This scent is brand new - what do you think?”

People buy from people. If they feel a connection with you, they’re more likely to support your brand and buy your profucts.


9. Encourage Follow-Ups & Repeat Orders

Don’t let the relationship end at the fair. Offer an incentive to follow your brand online or visit your website:

  • Include a QR code for quick Instagram follows or newsletter signups.

  • Give a small discount code for online purchases.

  • Use “Thank You” cards or freebies in each bag.

  • Ask happy customers for reviews and photos and ask them to hashtag them on social media.

Every interaction at a market can turn into a lifelong customer if you give them a reason to come back to you time and time again.


10. Reflect and Improve

After each event, take some time to review:

  • What sold well?

  • What didn’t get any attention?

  • What feedback did you hear repeatedly?

  • How did your display and setup work?

Keep notes so you can make small improvements each time. The more events you do, the more confident and polished you’ll become.


Final Thoughts

Craft fairs are a fantastic way to showcase your products and personality. With the right preparation, a strong brand, an attractive display, and a welcoming attitude, you’ll be well on your way to success.

Whether you’re a seasoned seller or just starting out, we hope these craft fair tips help you shine at your next event. 


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Whether you're a small business, a passionate crafter, or a fragrance enthusiast, House of Scent has the perfect oil for you. 


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