How to Survive as a Vendor at an Anime Convention

If you're already into Japanese Anime, becoming a vendor at one of the many popular "cons" might be tempting. You know your audience and what they like. It can be a good opportunity to make money and meet a lot of new people who share your interest. It can also be a lot of sitting and smiling, and can be very tiring. Here's how to endure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Anime-oriented items to sell
• knowledge of Anime and your product(s)
• business sense
• organization
• patience

1. You can't wait until a week before the "con" and decide you want to be a vendor. These events fill up fast, with both vendors and attendees. Plan months ahead. Order your stock, and contact the convention organizer about getting a spot in the vendor room.

2. Try to have things organized before you load up to get to the convention. It will be much easier when you unpack and set things up. Be sure to bring pens, stickers, tape, enough small bills and coins to make change, a calculator, bags to put your sold items into, and a receipt book. If you're selling replica knives and swords, most states have regulations about selling to anyone under 18 years old. In addition to checking IDs, you may want to have a log book to record drivers license numbers, obtain signatures, and item sold. A hand truck comes in very handy for large, heavy, bulky boxes.

3. When you arrive at the con, you will receive a badge identifying you as a vendor. Don't lose it! This is your ticket in and out of the building. Not all the security people will know who you are without a badge, so be sure to wear it at all times.

4. There is almost always a place you can park and unload close to the vendor room. Get your stock in as quickly as you can, and begin your set-up. You will at least have a table (or more, depending on how many you paid for). You may also have access to electrical outlets or places to hang things. Set things up as attractively as possible, and keep small items near you to retard the temptation for stealing.

5. When the dealer room opens, enjoy the show! Anime participants are almost always dressed up as their favorite character, and many perform in "cosplays" (costume plays) during the event. You will hear a lot of conversations about their characters' "powers" and unique aspects. Even if you have no idea what they are talking about it, nod and smile. These are your potential customers.

6. Hopefully, you will not be manning your table(s) alone. You will need breaks for the restroom and food, and walks around just to keep your head clear. Dealer rooms can become very stuffy, so try to get out at least every couple of hours if you can. It also gives you a chance to wander around and see some of the activities going on.

7. Anime cons are unique due to the clientele you will have. Most of the convention-goers are creative, imaginative, or artistic. The more unusual items you have for sale, the more they will like them. Try to stick to the Japanese Anime theme, or related themes such as video games, horror movies, Goth subculture, or anything Japanese. Most of all, have fun!!!

Tips & Warnings

• Take plenty to drink and have a snack on hand in case you have a busy spurt and can't get out for food right away.
• Be willing to make a deal on your stock. Sometimes someone will be down to their last five bucks. Find something to sell them. If you come back next year, they will remember you and be more likely to buy something more expensive.
• Be friendly and don't ridicule their costumes, no matter how silly you think they look. Many of them are homemade.
• Keep an eye on your stock. Sticky fingers work fast.
• Keep your cash in a money box and keep it behind the table at all times.
• If someone offers to help you so you can take a break, be sure it is someone you trust. Most cons will only allow those whom you've specified as being on your vendor list to be behind your table.