By Cynthia Freese the Booth  Boss We’ve all done it—carried the weight of our past mistakes like a heavy backpack, letting them define our worth, our confidence, and even our next steps. But

I love writing!   Title: Planting Seeds for Success: Goal Setting for Made in Iowa Vendors At Made in Iowa, we believe that every booth holds a dream. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or

A booth boss blog by Cynthia Freese I hear it all the time—at markets, art walks, and pop-ups:“Wow, your work is amazing… but I just don’t have any more wall space!” If you’re

One of the most challenging parts of running a small business—whether you’re a maker, artist, baker, or crafter—is responding to the frequent requests for free products or discounted services. From school auctions to

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

If you’ve ever wondered, “What should I say to customers when they walk up to my booth?”—you’re not alone! This question comes up often in vendor communities, and it’s a good one. Connecting

Want to dip your toes into AI for your business? We’re not tech wizards, but we’re happy to share a few easy tips and point you in the right direction — no geek-speak

Summer in Iowa means bustling farmers markets, lively art fairs, and hometown festivals—prime opportunities for outdoor vendors to connect with new customers and boost sales. But with the sunshine comes challenges like heat,

Do you love baking at home and dream of turning your passion into a small business? Iowa’s cottage food laws make it possible for home bakers to sell their delicious creations without needing

Guest Contributor: The Bean Boss, Wesley Bryantwww.bluestrawberrycoffee.com At every market, vendors show up with dreams, displays, and a goal to sell. But let’s be honest—sales can be a rollercoaster. This week, we’re featuring