By Landon Shelpman- WOTS Event Director
Alright folks, let’s talk about how to crush it at your next vendor event. We’ve spent years vending on the road, selling on weekends, and now running some vendor events ourselves. We’ve seen out there what works and what doesn’t. Here are five steps to make sure you’re not just showing up but showing out.
1. Read the Room
Before you even start setting up, take a moment to figure out who’s going to be at this event. Are these high spenders or budget-conscious folks? Are they looking for unique handmade items, collectibles, or just browsing for bargains? Put yourself in the shoes of the buyer and adjust your approach.
If you’re at a high-end craft event, make sure your presentation screams quality. If it’s a bargain-hunter’s paradise, have some attention-grabbing deals ready. Knowing your crowd is half the battle.
2. Plan an Inviting and Innovative Booth Setup
Let’s be real: in a room full of vendors, you’ve got to stand out. A good booth setup isn’t just about cramming all your stuff onto a table. Use vertical displays, keep your space organized, and have a layout that draws people in.
Here’s a pro tip: Have a “ohh or ahh” item—something that makes people stop in their tracks. It could be a cool demo, a unique product, or even a well-done display piece. And don’t skimp on marketing—a table banner, some flyers, or even business cards can go a long way in making you look professional (even if you’re just winging it).
3. Be Alert and Active
If you’re hoping to just sit back and let the sales roll in, vending might not be your game. We’ve noticed a direct connection between being active at your booth and making sales. Stand up, smile, and make some conversation. Small talk can break the ice and lead to a sale.
Ask questions like, “What are you looking for today?” or “Have you seen anything you’re thinking about here?” Even if they don’t buy, you’re building a connection, and sometimes that’s all it takes to turn a browser into a buyer.
4. Be a Good Steward of Your Space
Vending is like being part of a huge family. Don’t be that vendor blasting heavy metal or jazz at full volume while everyone else is trying to make sales. Keep it chill and respectful. The event staff would also enjoy if you could put your trash and other debris in the nearest recepticle.
Also, watch out for your fellow vendors. Keep an eye on their tables if they’re stepping away for a break, and be open to trading off for restroom or food runs. Good vibes go a long way, and people remember who’s helpful and who’s not.
5. Offer Multiple Payment Methods
Here’s the deal: if you’re only taking cash, you’re leaving money on the table. We’ve seen it too many times—buyers walk away because they can’t pay the way they want.
At our booths, we accept cash, card, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, PayPal, and even trades if it makes sense. Yes, there’s usually a fee for card payments, but take the hit if it means closing a sale. If that 3% fee is going to wreck your margins, we need to have a different conversation about pricing.
Final Thoughts
Put simply- vending isn’t for everyone, but it’s incredibly rewarding if you do it right. With these five steps, you’re setting yourself up to not just survive but thrive. So go out there, read the room, make your booth pop, stay active, be a team player, and make it easy for people to give you their money. Now go get that bag!
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