What makes a show successful? Whenever I get back from a show, I’m always asked “Was it a good show”? A lot of times my favourite venues to do end up being the ones I don’t make the most money at. Looking at all of the components, here’s how I decide if something is worthwhile or if it was indeed a “good” show.

Putting together the booth.

• Did the organizer allow enough time for set up? There is nothing worse than feeling “rushed”
• Was there a good mix of craft and distance between same/like style craft? I have often seen a full row of jewelery and then a show with only two potters and they are right beside each other.
• Was there a standard for professional presentations in the booth. Junky looking booths turn customers off and the best shows also jury for booth presentation as well as your artisan skill.

Sales

• If it is a first time show there is no previous one to compare with so my expectation would be that my booth fee would be 10% of my total sales(minimum)
• If I have done the show before, how does it compare to previous years?
• One thing I don’t do is compare my sales to any other vendor at the show. Food is recession proof and people always have money for jewelery.

Customers

• Were my customers at the show? Did they have an interest in textile(weaving, knitting, spinning) This is crucial as I love filling down time at the show with yarn conversations.
• What was their demographic? (young – old – women – single – families)

Vendors

• Are they professional in their presentation and demeanor? Show etiquette has certain expectations. If you are in the same/similar category you do not go into a booth of similar craft. (I have seen people removed from shows for this breach).
• Are you at your booth? If my neighbour is always away from their booth, I feel an obligation to keep an eye on their inventory which takes me away from my customers.
• If you are a vendor that smokes, please don’t leave your booth and smoke in front of my booth. My lungs and my finished goods do not appreciate your smoke.
• Most vendors are congenial, helpful and truly good neighbours and I return the favour.
• If you are a vendor visiting my booth and customers are looking/trying to purchase, please let me deal with my customers and then I will get back to you. I am not being rude, but I am here for them first and you should know that without me having to tell you.

The Venue

• Are the bathrooms close?
• Is there access to water/food?
• Is the music appropriate to the venue?
• Is it appropriate for a craft show?
• Signage, decor?
• Is there an entrance fee, is it reasonable?

My own Interactions

• Did I meet interesting people?
• Did I have fun?

Based on this criteria, I would have to say that indeed Calgary was a good show. I attribute much of this to Pearl who kept me fed, watered, sane and made me laugh more than I could have hoped for (and this)….

Yes, it was a good show.