How to Throw Your Own Crafts Fair in Georgia
Georgia's rich, Southern heritage makes the state an amazing location to host craft shows. Georgia's diverse culture boasts creative talent and crafting enthusiasts. The state hosts many festivals and craft shows featuring local music, artisans' work, Southern cuisine and handiwork, such as quilt-making, that has been passed down from generation to generation.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine a location and a date to hold the event. Many facilities can make an extraordinary location. Contact churches, legion halls, empty retail stores or convention centers. Choose a high traffic location that is easily accessible and provides accommodations for those with special needs, the elderly and those who have children.
-
2
Contact local government offices to obtain a special event license. When holding a 50/50 drawing or selling tickets for raffle items, an individual permit is required.
-
-
3
Purchase event liability insurance or place an umbrella policy on your existing homeowner's insurance. Review the location rental contract; some locations require a minimum amount of liability insurance.
-
4
Calculate the costs and set the budget associated with hosting the craft show. These expenses should included location rent, permit fees, tents, table and chair rentals, electricity, insurance and marketing.
-
5
Estimate the booth sizes and number of vendors who can comfortably fit in the location. Typical booth sizes are 10 square feet but adjustments can be made as necessary.
-
6
Calculate booth fees by dividing the costs plus any desired profits by the number of vendor spaces.
-
7
Create a vendor contract. Craft show vendor contracts are typically simple, signed forms listing the vendors' requirements and responsibilities.
-
8
Solicit vendors by placing ads in newspapers or visiting other craft shows. Vendors should be required to rent the booth with a nonrefundable booth fee and to sign a contract. Depending on the size of the craft show, booth fees generally start at $10 and increase well beyond $1,000. Vendors will pay fair booth prices for good shows.
-
9
Market the craft show via fliers, radio, newspaper, social networking sites and word of mouth. During the marketing campaign, mention what vendors are scheduled to attend the show and what type of products will be for sale.
-
10
Keep the craft show organized. Maintain a schedule and keep accurate records.
-
11
Set up the location a few days prior to the show. This allows adequate time to plan for and correct unexpected occurrences. Be sure to have booth spaced laid out and clearly labeled with the vendor's name.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If vendors require electricity, place them closest to electrical outlets. It is customary for vendors to pay additional fees for access to electricity.
Avoid competing with special events, such as other craft shows or sporting events. Allow adequate space to accommodate vendors and visitors. Consult a contract attorney knowledgeable in Georgia for legal contract advice.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jack Hollingsworth/Photodisc/Getty Images
