How to Host a Jewelry Trunk Show

So you have created a line of jewelry that your friends have gushed over. Maybe you've had some luck selling on eBay or Etsy, or you have already had a successful show or two at local art fairs. Now it's time to try a trunk show, a fun marketing event that you can put together yourself. Read on to learn how to host a jewelry trunk show.

Things You'll Need

• Your jewelry line
• A folding table or a real, old-fashioned trunk
• Some linens (for draping)
• Wine and cheese or yummy desserts
• Pretty plates and silverware
• A great looking black dress and simple shoes

Instructions

1. Decide on the venue for your show. Some ideas to consider include a small boutique in a tourist location, a trendy coffee shop, an independently owned bistro, cafe or restaurant; a local art museum or a high end womens' consignment shop. Think "local" and "independently owned." You want to approach a business that is looking to market themselves as well, not someone who will charge you a fee to set up your table.

2. Approach the owner and ask if you can set up a table of your wares on, say, a Sunday evening, if they are located in a theater district, or a Tuesday at noontime if the venue is near office buildings. Bring samples of your items with you, so the owner can see what you're selling. You'll provide the snacks and drinks. The shop owner will provide the space. Arrange for a commission split (20 percent to them, or a portion of sales).

3. Now, make a simple flier with some good quality artwork of your jewelry and drop it off at nearby office buildings, homes, apartments, shops, malls and other locations. Prepare an email blast, too, and send to your client list as well as friends and family. Ask the shop owner to also advertise via email to their client list.

4. Offer special pricing, and mention the wine and chocolate or whatever else you'll have to eat and drink. You could even partner with a local bakery or wine shop to offer their wares as well.

5. Arrive at least an hour early for the show. Keep your attire very simple, such as a basic black dress and classic sandals or heels. Of course, you'll be wearing a striking piece of your jewelry. Have plenty of gift bags for purchases. Bring a receipt book to write up sales. Put a fishbowl on one end of the table for business cards and offer a free piece of jewelry to the winning card. This is an easy way to get a mailing list going. Relax, have fun, enjoy your customers and listen carefully to their suggestions, if they have ideas for future pieces.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to post a sign "Custom Orders on Request."

• Arrive early to set up, and don't forget to take down your table, clean up after yourself and thank your host/hostess after the event.

• Follow up with a written thank you note to the shop owner in the mail a day or two after the event.