Getting the hang of vendor events ....

It's October and as always, the smell of the air;  semi-crisp, turning-leaf-deliciousness,  introduces yet another autumn to the lower Hudson Valley.  With it continues the assortment of craft fairs, flea markets and pop up shops hoping to take advantage of the cooler climes and potential shoppers getting a jump on holiday gift giving .  I've learned since joining the deluge of craft vendors back in 2011 with my Lollypups Petwear offerings, that my best customer is the devoted dog lover/pet parent and they can be found, en masse, at pet events with names like Puptoberfest, Petpalooza, Hounds on the Sound, Mystic Krew of Barkus, Bark in the Park. NY Pet Fashion Week, of which I was a participant over the years.  It did take a period of trial and error, kind of a sledgehammer to the head realization, to conclude that non-pet events were a waste of time and to exclude them going forward. The pet events are always for a good cause too, and those attending like the idea that part of my proceeds is going toward pet adoptions, or running a no kill shelter. However, that being said,

My summer 2016 vendor experience was a bust because: 
a) torrential rain is not conducive to foot traffic
b) potential shower forecast is not conducive to foot traffic
c) farmer's markets aren't craft fairs
d) some craft fairs don't allow dogs

....hence, my aforementioned conclusion.

So starting fresh in the fall has produced 3 events for dogs, about dogs, FILLED with dogs, and attended by like minded dog lovers who truly appreciate what I create for their fur babies. I look forward to seeing all the pets sashay and strut with their proud mamas and papas and am happy to hear their stories, especially when they say their pets are rescues.  Sales soar at these events.   A customer can try a harness vest or sweater on their pet rather than just guess if it will fit, and that, more times than not, generates a sale.  I do have photographs of various dogs hanging in funky frames around the booth,that can be referred to for breed,  weight, size etc. which works often too.

Although, in the past, my concentration was on smaller dogs up to 20 pounds, I decided this year to start supplementing my handmade offerings, , with a small assortment of items for bigger dogs as well. Through the NY Now gift show this summer, I was able to add a few leashes, collars, toys, pet themed totes and charms and spa products, purchased at low minimums, to try out. So far, its proven to be a good move.

So having a small business is a continuous, ongoing learning process and sometimes, it takes several tries to recognize what works and what doesn't.  I still love what I do, the process, the designing, the people and dogs I meet. I don't know how long I'll be able to do this vendor part of the business, but while I have the determination and energy to make it work, I'm still loving the ride. Happy Fall!!