I have seen many art shows craft fairs, tables where the seller, just lays it's merchandise flat on the folding table. One of the appeals of a 'real' jewelry store or an art gallery is that your eyes are basically 'forced' to look straight ahead, then you look down, but your first impression will be at eye level. Most likely something, bright, shinny, unusual or colorful.
I had previously mentioned that there were so many items that you could use, or buy inexpensively that would double as displays. Not only are they visually appealing, but they create height. It is important to set aside some funds for this. After all, if you do not display your items properly, they will not sell, and your efforts will be in vain. I will blog later how to make the $ to invest on these 'props'. (Easy things that worked for me and funded most of my business operation).
In the picture above I found that wire sort of pyramid thing that I still have no clue what it is, but it serves a double purpose. I display earrings on it, and create height for one my neck displays. And I am able to secure the display to the 'pyramid' in case of high winds. Every exhibitors nightmare. ;(
About everything that is here, other than the velvet bust and the hand, (Michael's with 40% coupon about $12 for both) have been purchased at local thrift shops. I scout these at least 3 times a week, & go to flea markets and yard sales. The little box is a perfect primitive background and also serves as a source of height! Remember build your display UP! (But make sure is secure). Then you can place some of your merchandise on a table, (not too many pieces) in pretty silver trays, bowls, natural rocks, bamboo place mats, small rugs, picture frames, paintings, mirrors (here I found a SW mirror that matched perfectly my decor, plus a great Day Of The Dead cross. All of it for about $20! It is also extremely important to keep a cohesive theme and stick to a few colors for your display, this way is easy to pick up matching display items. It makes a BIG impression, it looks polished and it looks like the seller cared. I just didn't show up, unfolded a table, covered it with a sheet and threw my lovingly hand made items there.
If I treat my 'store' like a flea market, I can only get flea market prices. If I treat, design, and display like a gallery, I can charge and will get gallery prices.
Of course, I have been getting ready to do shows and collecting 'decor' for about a year. But this might be the principal difference between you and the tent or table next to you that seems to be generating some sort of 'buzz'.
So if you are getting ready to start selling in craft/art shows, scout for interesting items, preparation is key to create a lasting impression. More on how YOU can become part of that impression on another blog.
Get cracking to get selling and keep on creating!
