Let’s face it—not every market is a slam dunk.
Sometimes you do everything right: your booth looks great, your product is solid, you smile and engage—and still, the sales just aren’t there.
A fellow vendor recently wrote in and said something that really stuck with me. They said they call these kinds of events “Marketing Markets”—because even if sales are slow, it’s still an opportunity to get their name and product in front of potential customers. And you know what? They’re right.
1. “Marketing Market” > “Bad Market”
Thinking of it as a marketing opportunity instead of a failure changes the whole vibe. I’ve had customers find me online or at later events because they remembered seeing me at a slow show. That visibility does matter.
2. Stay Engaged, Even When It’s Quiet
When things get slow, it’s easy to retreat behind your table and scroll your phone. Don’t. Be the vendor who stays present, smiles, and makes eye contact. People are more likely to approach you if they don’t feel like they’re interrupting you.
Pro tip: Most people are introverts and don’t want to feel like they’re bothering you just to ask a question!
3. Small Adjustments, Big Impact
As an artist, I’ve been at shows where I didn’t sell a single piece. Meanwhile, someone across from me sold smaller, easily packable items. and they sold out. That experience taught me to create a few lower-price-point items that folks could grab on impulse. Not everyone comes ready to buy a statement piece, but a $10–$30 item? That’s doable.
4. Use Downtime Strategically
Talk to your booth neighbors (networking is priceless).
Hand out business cards with QR codes to your online shop or social media.
Build your email list for future promotions and events.
5. Reflect and Regroup
Not every market is a win, but every market can teach you something. Ask yourself:
What caught people’s eye?
Did your display feel welcoming?
Were you priced right for the crowd?
Did you talk to enough people?
6. Keep Showing Up
Everyone—every vendor—has a tough show now and then. It doesn’t mean your work isn’t amazing. It just means that day wasn’t your audience.
Show up. Smile anyway. Keep growing.
Have a “Marketing Market” story or tip to share? email me. Let’s lift each other up through the quiet moments, too. 
