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Utah Art Market Guide

Tips for Booth Setup and Selling at Local Markets

Updated: 2 days ago



Boost Your Art Market Sales: Display, Marketing & Sales Tips


So you've created amazing art and you're ready to share it with the world at art markets and craft shows. That's fantastic! Now, let's make sure your art gets the attention it deserves and you have a successful event. This guide is packed with tips to help you display your work effectively, market yourself like a pro, and boost your sales.


Booth Design: Make a Great First Impression


Your booth is your storefront at the market. It's the first thing potential customers see, so make it count!


  • Visual Merchandising:

    • Layout:  Arrange your booth in a way that's inviting and easy to navigate. Consider a U-shape or an open layout to encourage people to enter.

    • Levels and Height: Use a variety of display surfaces at different heights (tables, shelves, easels) to create visual interest and showcase different product types.

    • Tablecloths: Choose tablecloths that complement your art, not compete with it. Neutral colors or subtle patterns often work best.

    • Lighting: Good lighting is crucial! If the market doesn't provide adequate lighting, bring your own. Spotlights can highlight key pieces.

  • Eye-Catching Display:

    • Focal Point: Create a focal point that draws people in. This could be a large piece of art, an eye-catching display, or a unique element.

    • Group Similar Items: Group similar items together to create a sense of cohesion and make it easier for customers to find what they're looking for.

    • Negative Space: Don't overcrowd your booth. Give your artwork room to breathe and allow customers to focus on individual pieces.

  • Showcasing Different Product Types:

    • Variety: Offer a variety of products at different price points (e.g., originals, prints, smaller items).

    • Demonstrations: If possible, do live demonstrations or have a work in progress to attract attention and engage with customers.



Marketing Materials: Spread the Word


Don't just rely on your art to speak for itself. Have professional-looking marketing materials ready to go.

  • Business Cards:  Essential for sharing your contact information. Include your name, website, social media handles, and a QR code linking to your online shop.

  • Brochures or Postcards: Showcase your art and provide more information about you and your work.

  • Price Lists: Clearly display prices to avoid constant questions and make it easier for customers to make a purchase.

  • Signage: Use attractive signage to identify your booth and highlight key information (e.g., your brand name, special offers).



Sales Techniques: Engage and Convert


  • Be Approachable: Smile, make eye contact, and greet customers warmly. Stand or sit on a high stool to appear more approachable and inviting. People are less likely to approach you if you're sitting down low, as they may feel like they're disturbing you.

  • Start Conversations: Don't be afraid to initiate conversations with people who show interest in your work.

  • Answer Questions: Be prepared to answer questions about your art, your process, and your inspiration.

  • Handle Objections:  Be prepared to address common objections (e.g., "It's a little out of my price range"). Your art may not be for everyone and not everyone attending a market is there with the intention of buying things, and that's okay.

  • Offer Promotions:  Consider offering special promotions or bundles to encourage sales (e.g., "Buy one get one 50% off").


Branding: Be Consistent


Your brand is your identity as an artist. Make sure it's consistent across all your touchpoints.

  • Logo and Colors: Use the same logo and color scheme on your website, social media, business cards, and signage.

  • Style and Voice: Maintain a consistent style and voice in your marketing materials and online presence. Be consistent with your art style. You might have a wide range of styles that you create, but honing it down to a few things or one specific style will help to show consistency as an artist or maker. Showing a consistent style helps you to stand out as a unique brand.

  • Professionalism:  Present yourself and your work in a professional manner. This includes having high-quality packaging that reflects the care you put into creating your art. Good packaging is also beneficial for buyers who are buying something as a gift.



Before the Market: Prepare for Success


  • Create a Mock Setup: Before you attend an event, create a mock setup of your booth at home. This will help you to best understand and make use of the space you have available. You can also move things around until you find the overall look you want.



By following these tips, you can create an inviting and engaging booth, market your art effectively, and increase your chances of success at your next art market. Good luck!

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