Market Vendor Checklist

Hey friends!

It’s a really good feeling to get into the swing of things; to get into a groove or routine. And it feels equally bad to not have that system built and feel completely disorganized and out of sync.

For those of us who are regular vendors at markets, the routine becomes almost automatic. The “kit” is assembled and ready at a moment’s notice.

For those of us, like me, who only do a few markets a year, the process of preparing can be very stressful.

There are so many questions to ask when you sign up for a market to know what to prepare:

• Is it indoor or outdoor?
• Do I need to supply my own tent/tables/chairs?
• How many hours does it last? Are there bathrooms and/or food vendors accessible?
• What’s the expected attendance? What price point is expected to sell best?
• What’s being done to market the event?

…and so on and so on

I always try to plan from the outside in. Furniture: items to sell: personal comfort items. Here’s my list of what to pack when preparing for a market:

Furniture:

• 10×10 pop-up tent (with sandbags)
• 2 folding tables with risers
• 1-2 folding chairs
• Old yoga mats/squishee mats and/or rugs for dusty days

Items to sell: variety of selection, and different price points

Promo items:

• tablecloths and/or flags
• items to build display
• Venmo/Square QR signs
• swag/free stickers/glass drops
• gift bags and tissue paper
• mailing list sign-up sheet
• rack cards/brochures

Personal care items:

• snacks
• first aid kit
• paper towels
• painters and duct tape
• sharpie and pen
• post its
• hot hands for cooler outdoor markets
• ear plugs
• scissors

Hope this list helps you feel comfortable and confident at your next market!