Here are some to-dos for your first trade show checklist.
Jewelry trade and craft shows are fun events that allow you to showcase your jewelry, expand your network, meet new potential loyal customers, and be up-to-date with the current jewelry and fashion trends. These shows can also be the big break for your business that you are waiting for.
However, if this is your first-ever trade or craft show, you should be able to be prepared for it. One way to make sure that you haven't forgotten anything is to create a checklist. We already made a list of what to bring to a trade show a few months back. This time, however, we will share some tips on what to actually do in the event. Here are some to-dos that can help you make the most out of your trade or craft show experience.
1. Invest in good booth design.
Having a booth is not just about placing a necklace display and other jewelry holders on a table. If your booth does not have a good design, you won't be able to capture audiences. It has to look welcoming, clean, and clutter-free. You can achieve this by investing in good lighting and having a consistent design.
2. Do not expose your stools and chairs.
Chairs are a big no-no because the booth won't look welcoming to passers-by. This is especially the case if your space is small; chairs would make it look cluttered. However, if you need to take a break, have someone from your staff take over while you bring your stool somewhere away from the booth where you can rest your legs for a bit.
3. Smile!
A smile is infectious and can liven up people's moods. If you and your staff members smile at every passer-by, the chance of them checking out your booth increases. Make sure that you talk to them in a welcoming mood, and answer all their questions. Suggest jewelry pieces that would look good on them, but avoid hard-selling by pushing them too much.
4. Don't forget your business cards.
Whether they purchased jewelry or not from your booth, make sure to give people your business cards. Remember to present them either with both hands or your right hand and of course, with a smile. It's one effective way for them to remember you and purchase from you in the future. You can also opt to place a stack on your booth table so passers-by can easily get one.
5. Giveaway freebies.
Who doesn't like free items? It could be as simple as a bowl of free candy or jewelry-related items if your budget allows you. And it's best if you give away something that has information about your brand. You can customize a jewelry box or jewelry cloth cleaner with your logo that comes with a tag with your contact information and social media pages printed on it.
Here are products that can make any craft or trade show regular's life much easier.
Selling jewelry is fun, especially when you always get invited to craft shows. These events provide your brand more exposure, allow you to meet new people, network with other sellers, and of course, sell your items to new people. However, always being on-the-go can pose a problem, especially if you have too many products that you want to showcase. That said, you should invest in travel products that can make your life much easier.
Today, we are sharing you the list of must-have items for jewelry sellers who are always on the move to the next trade or craft show.
Jewelry Roll
Jewelry rolls are perfect for keeping your jewelry pieces safe from getting scratched, squished, damaged, or lost. You can get one for every type of jewelry piece, or one that is exclusively for earrings, rings, necklaces, or bracelets. They usually come with a soft velvet interior to cushion the items, and a Velcro enclosure to make sure the pieces stay inside. And because they are rolls, they easily fit it any bag.
Folding Travel Box
If you mostly have delicate, minimalist items, a folding travel box is the way to go. This is because it provides more protection to the jewelry with its wooden shell. A folding travel box usually comes with a snap closure and is wrapped in black leatherette. The interior keeps the pieces safe with the padded velvet or leatherette surface. You can get one exclusively for rings, earrings, chains, pendants, necklaces, and bracelets.
Display Case
Display cases are perfect if you plan not to bring any necklace display, earring display, or any jewelry holder. Because it has a glass top, people can easily view the items inside. Some cases come with a security side panel, and others have metal latches for safety. You might need slot foams or liners depending on the type of jewelry you want to store in the case.
Presentation Folder
In case you will be meeting with a potential partner before or after the craft show, make it a habit to bring along a presentation folder. With this, you can present and store a collection of your jewelry pieces beautifully. These folders usually come with elastic bands, velvet straps, and zipper closure,
Carrying Case
Last, but not least, is a carrying case. Of course, how can you bring all the items above without a handy, durable bag? There are many different types of these cases. You can get one with wheels, one made with aluminum, one made with soft PVC, and one that is made of a collapsible hard shell. It is recommended that you get the rolling one if you have a lot of items to bring.
