When you’re part of a vibrant vendor community, your booth is more than just a business—it’s part of a shared experience. Most vendors work hard to be courteous and collaborative, but occasionally, issues arise. If you’re new to vending (or just need a refresher), here are some common etiquette concerns and tips on how to be a respectful and professional neighbor.
Common Vendor Complaints (and How to Avoid Them)
1. Interrupting During Setup
Setting up is a focused and often stressful time. Vendors are arranging displays, troubleshooting, and getting ready to welcome customers. It’s not the best moment to socialize or chat.
Tip: Save conversations for after setup unless it’s urgent.
2. Hijacking Customers
It’s not okay to interrupt a conversation between another vendor and their customer to promote your booth. Shouting across aisles or aggressively steering foot traffic your way can be disruptive and unprofessional. Tip: Let your booth and signage draw people in. If you want more traffic, ask the organizer for promotional tips—not someone else’s customers.
3. Spreading Out Too Far
Whether it’s racks in the walkway, displays encroaching into another vendor’s space, or chairs pushed outside your designated area, overflowing your booth can create tension and safety issues. Tip: Stay within your marked space. If you’re unsure about your boundaries, ask the event organizer.
4. Playing Music Without Permission
We all love good vibes, but not every vendor (or customer) shares the same taste in music—and multiple booths playing audio can be overwhelming. Tip: Always check with organizers before playing music, and keep the volume low.
5. Speaking Ill of Other Vendors
Word travels fast in vendor circles. Complaints, gossip, or passive-aggressive comments can quickly turn into bad energy for everyone involved. Tip: If there’s a legitimate issue, bring it to the organizer—don’t try to solve it in the aisle.
Be a Market MVP
In sports, the MVP (Most Valuable Player) is someone who stands out not just for their performance, but for their attitude and teamwork. The same applies to markets!
Want to make a positive impression and contribute to a successful event for everyone? Here’s how to be the kind of vendor everyone loves to work alongside:
- Respect set-up and tear-down timelines.
- Keep your booth neat and within your designated space.
- Greet your neighbors but be mindful of their time and focus.
- Promote the entire event, not just your own booth.
- Offer kindness, patience, and professionalism.
When vendors support each other, everyone wins—through better sales, stronger community, and more enjoyable events for both sellers and shoppers.
– The Booth Boss
Cynthia Freese (She, Her, Hers)
The Friendly Godmother of Made in Iowa
