Vendor Tips

"A little smile for your vendor journey."

Printable Vendor Resources

No physical address listed — only a vague "TBD" or a P.O. box.
Organizer asks you to send money via Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, or PayPal Friends & Family. Legitimate events use invoices or credit card processors.
Application fee seems unusually high (over $50 just to apply, not to book).
No social media presence or online footprint. Search the event name — if nothing comes up, be cautious.
Pressure to pay quickly or "spots are filling fast" urgency language in every message.
The organizer cannot tell you who else will be there, how many vendors, or expected attendance.
Grammar, formatting, and details feel copy-pasted or inconsistent.
They send you to a website that just launched (check domain age at whois.domaintools.com).
Google the organizer's name and event name plus the word 'scam' or 'reviews' before paying anything.

How many years has this event been running? First-year events are higher risk.
What is the expected attendance, and how is it promoted (social media, flyers, local press)?
How many total vendor spaces are there, and how many are filled?
Is the event juried? If so, what is the selection criteria?
What is included in the booth fee — tables, chairs, electricity, tent?
What is your refund policy if the event is cancelled or I need to withdraw?
Can you share contact info for vendors who have participated before?
Is there a contract or written agreement I will receive after paying?
Who is the primary contact if I have issues day-of?

The 3x rule: your total sales goal for the event should be at least 3x your booth fee. If the booth is $150, aim to make $450+.
Calculate your break-even: booth fee + travel + supplies + your time. Know the number before you go.
Research the area. A booth at a busy suburban festival can justify higher prices than a small community fair.
Price for the customer in front of you, not for your production cost. Know your value.
Have a range of price points. Something under $20, something mid-range, and your statement piece.
If you are new, start with lower-fee events to test your products and pricing before investing in larger shows.
Track every event: sales, foot traffic, expenses, and feedback. Use your dashboard to compare ROI scores.
Do not undercut yourself to compete. Cheap prices attract bargain hunters, not your ideal customer.