Makers Market Moments
Nook & Fern’s start into the world was by joining artist and makers markets. Heading off to markets is always exciting and you never quite know what to expect, but having been doing this for a few years now I have learned a thing or two. With anything though I am always learning and adapting but I thought I share some photos of my setup as well as a few tips and tricks.
Traveling to markets, everything that I bring with must fit in my SUV, so I have become pretty efficient at packing and playing Jenga with my cars cargo space. Having pieces that fold up and save space are a must. I have shelf that folds and I also turned an old ladder into a shelving piece with wood boards that fit across the rungs. If a market you are attending gives the option to rent a table and the price is nominal, I highly recommend it. That bit of space that you save from your car allows you to bring other items that you can sell. Crates are another space saver, I use them to pack up my small pieces and then at times use them for display. Sometimes antique crates and boxes I bring to sell will also hold delicate items and be multipurpose when packing.
Once at the market the best piece and purchase I have made is a folding cargo cart. I load it up and wheel to my spot, because not all markets allow you close access with your car. This cart goes to markets as well as flea/antique markets and has been the handiest purchase to date. When loading up my car I also try to pack it in sections and group items together. One side will have product, the other display and setup items. The pieces that I need first such as my tent, table, shelves are all together on one side and easy to pull out. Once the base of my “shop” is set up then I begin to unload product.
Prior to the market I usually do a mock setup at the shop or home so I know exactly where I want to put everything. The day of, many things can arise so having a solid plan helps. Also, if you have someone joining you to help setup you can show them pictures of where things belong so they can help tackle setup with you. Since I tend to have an idea on where pieces are going I usually group them together when packing. While doing mock setups may take some time it saves a lot on the day of the market.
Heading off to markets is one of my favorite parts of having my cozy shop. I get to meet new shoppers as well as be part of an amazing community of makers and creators. I learn so much at each market whether it be from pivoting with setup, stories from others, or gaining inspiration. If you do markets I hope that these tips may be helpful for you and if you have any other tips share them below!
