Running a successful booth is both an art and a strategy.
I was chatting with a group of vendors at a recent craft meetup, and one of them said, ‘I wish someone would just teach a class on how to grow my business and online presence.’
That resonated with me — I hear this often, and it’s exactly why I wanted to create this Vendor Success Guide. Whether you’re a maker, baker, crafter, farmer, boutique owner, or service-based vendor, this guide will help you grow your business, increase sales, and build a loyal online following.
1. Show Up Consistently Online
You don’t need to post daily—consistency is what matters. Choose a schedule you can stick to.
Post ideas:
- New or restocked products
- Behind-the-scenes moments
- Customer testimonials or photos
- Weekend market previews
- Seasonal items or promotions
Even 2 posts a week can build momentum.
2. Use Clean, Attractive Photos
For vendors who want deeper guidance, here is a helpful resource with tips from our Artists Sunday blog:
Photography Guide: https://artistssunday.com/2021/04/11/8-tricks-for-photographing-artwork/
Clear, high-quality images help customers understand and trust your products.
Tips for easy improvement:
- Use natural daylight near a window
- Keep backgrounds simple
- Capture close-ups and full product shots
- Include a size reference
- Show the product in use when possible
3. Share Your Story
People connect with the person behind the products.
Consider sharing:
- Why you started this business
- Your inspiration
- Your creative process
- What makes your products unique
Storytelling builds brand loyalty.
A Note of Encouragement
I know running a small business means wearing all the hats, and this guide might feel overwhelming. You don’t need to do everything at once—just pick one new thing to try when time allows. Small steps make a big difference!
4. Make It Easy for Shoppers to Follow You
Turn market visitors into long-term customers.
At your booth, include:
- A QR code linking to your social media
- Social handles printed on bags, labels, or tags
- A small sign asking shoppers to tag you in their photos
- A simple giveaway to encourage follows
5. Engage with Your Audience (Not Just Post)
Social media works best when it’s social.
Engagement ideas:
- Respond to comments and messages
- Comment on local business pages
- Share or repost customer content
- Thank customers publicly for stopping by
Engagement increases your visibility organically.
6. Build an Email List
Email is still one of the strongest marketing tools.
How to grow your list:
- Add a signup sheet or QR code at your booth
- Offer a small incentive (enter to win, exclusive deals)
- Send 1–2 emails per month with updates
An email list gives you direct access to your customers.
7. Collaborate with Other Vendors
Partnerships amplify your reach.
Collaborate on:
- Giveaways
- Themed bundles
- Shared social media posts
- Events and pop-ups
A rising tide lifts all booths.
8. Clarify Your Brand and Message
Customers should instantly understand who you are and what you sell.
Make sure your online profiles include:
- A clear description of what you offer
- Your location
- How to order or contact you
- Upcoming market dates
Clear branding builds trust quickly.
9. Show Your Face (Occasionally!)
You don’t need to become an influencer—but customers love seeing the maker.
A simple photo or video saying “Hi, I’m the person behind this!” creates connection.
10. Track What Works
Pay attention to patterns.
Ask yourself:
- Which posts get the most engagement?
- Which products get the most attention at markets?
- What questions do customers ask repeatedly?
Let the data guide your decisions.
11. Collect and Share Reviews
Social proof encourages sales.
Ask customers to:
- Leave a comment or review
- Tag your business in photos
- Send a picture of your item in use
Then, share those testimonials online.
12. Choose Your Platforms Wisely
You don’t need to be everywhere.
Pick 1–2 platforms where your ideal customers already spend time (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) and focus on those.
13. Your Booth is Your Storefront—Make It Inviting
A strong display leads to more sales.
Tips for booth success:
- Use clear, visible pricing
- Incorporate height and layers
- Use tablecloths that fit your brand
- Keep your space clean and welcoming
- Add signage explaining popular products
Your booth should instantly communicate quality.
14. Use Video—The Fastest Way to Grow Right Now
Short video clips have huge reach.
Simple video ideas:
- Product making in progress
- Booth setup time-lapse
- New inventory preview
- A quick “What I’m bringing to the next market” video
You don’t have to talk if you don’t want to—music and captions work great.
15. Offer Good Customer Service**
A friendly, welcoming experience keeps customers coming back.
Great customer service includes:
- Greeting shoppers warmly
- Offering help without hovering
- Answering questions clearly
- Thanking each person for stopping by
Little things create big impressions.
16. Extra Resource: Free Artists Sunday Tool Kit
We also offer a free Tool Kit on the Artists Sunday website. It is packed full of resources to help you promote your business. While it was originally created to support our national Shop Art holiday, the tools and templates can be used all year long, no matter what you sell!
Access it here: https://artistssunday.com/
Final Thoughts
Success doesn’t happen overnight—it’s built through consistency, clarity, and connection. When you show up, share your work, and engage with your audience, your booth becomes more than a table at a market. It becomes a brand.
Use these tips as your roadmap to a thriving small business and a growing online community.
Cynthia Freese / The Booth Boss
