There is something exciting about a Market Fair, the smell of the fried foods and the sweetness of whatever treats. It sounds charming, and bustling, and it should be. But right now the words Craft Fair, Market Fair and Booth, brings me a ton of feels.
When I first signed up for the craft fair in Saint-Mère-Èglise, I never imagined how much work would be necessary for my booth.
I romanticized rows of smiling faces, the scents of my homemade candles drifting through the air, and maybe just maybe curious shoppers coming to my little pop-up, The Rustic Boutique Co., and falling in love with my products.
But as I said, that was the romanticized version.
Reality set in slowly and reluctantly.
Market Fair Prep
While everyone who has a booth at a craft fair makes it look so simple and easy, I didn’t realize how much goes into preparing for the big day. There is more than just showing up with a smile and a can-do attitude.
There are signs to be designed, and a fight with the sillohette cutter that seems to have it out for you, but loves the crap out of your husband. Business cards to print, flyers to hand out, and then there is the setup.
Do I need a table? Should I have a tent? Electricity? Did I estimate the size of the space well enough?
Thankfully, one of my Google searches led me to a handy checklist online that helped me organize myself. (I’ll create and share my own version soon, once I’ve worked out the kinks.) One of the first things I did was contact a number of people and ask them how to sign up. Because in France, while I love paperwork, I had no idea where I get it and where I send it afterward.
Market Fair Paperwork
The town hall, which is who I needed to contact, was incredibly supportive. They even encouraged me to take a leap of faith, because my booth was something different, and they wanted something a bit more diverse in their stalls.
So, when she sent me the application, I was excited. But of course, as I said, I love paperwork(I’m French), and so of course there was other paperwork I had to complete before I could even send my application back. I had to get a business ID number. Thankfully, that was free (because that was a cost I hadn’t anticipated), and the price of my space was a delightful surprise.
See, the small town or any town in France that holds a market fair wants an incentive not only for the shoppers but also for the people who have booths. So when I factored the price of the space, I instantly figured it would be three digits.
And then I was happily surprised. It felt so good to know that I am not going to break the bank for one day, because I’m not sure if I should do more than that. I felt as though the universe was opening the door and saying, “Keep going!”
If I’m going to be incredibly honest, I have never ventured this far out of my comfort zone.
By the very definition, I am the perfect example of an introvert. I don’t like to put myself out there or strike up a conversation with strangers. I mean, if I have to, I do it, but that usually requires company or a support person.
Personally, I prefer the quietness of my little life, making candles in my workshop, tinkering with labels, writing blog posts with a steaming cup of coffee nearby. But this journey that I’m traveling, living with intention, creating from the heart and soul, and building The Rustic Boutique Co., requires a bit of courage. And some vulnerability, too.
Truth be told, this whole venture is well outside of my comfort zone.
Being realistic and starting small, I’m preparing at least six to eight candle collections, including box sets. I’ve done the math and adjusted the price to reflect the lack of shipping costs and, of course, taxes(all included). It’s important to make it affordable for customers and also to make sure that I can make a sale. I want to not only provide an incentive for my shoppers but also make a profit.
Market Fair Display!
I’m so behind on that guy. I have packaging ideas, and I have an idea on how I can create a warm, welcoming space that reflects my brand. Think: Soft linens, handwritten signs, and that nostalgic, rustic charm that I hope people feel when they hold and smell one of my candles. Or my soaps. (Yes, soaps!)
With a never-ending list, there is just so much to do!
Soap batches to test, display materials to create, and nerves to manage. But I wanted to share these first steps with you because I believe in transparency and, of course, storytelling. It’s how I want to connect to my audience, customers, and pretty much anyone who stumbles upon me.
And if you found yourself here, reading this, maybe you’re on your own path too, nervous but determined.
If so, I see you and I’m right there with you!
Here’s to stepping into the unknown, shaking, sweating hands and all! (Just kidding)
Until next time,
Christina
