While this advice is relevant to established arts and crafts business owners, it's particularly useful for brand new startups. Part of the whole gig for many arts and crafts business owners is exhibiting at craft shows. Before you decide to whether to participate in a particular arts and crafts show, try to attend it as a shopper. Then you can eyeball the crowd and perhaps find a participating vendors who will share with you their impression of how worthwhile the show is to attend.
Of course, take all of this with a grain of salt. Some artists and crafters may not want to encourage any additional competition or they may just have a booth layout that doesn't encourage sales. While their experience may not be all that great, the show itself may be a winner for you.
One of my latest articles hi-lights taking the opportunity to add some holiday crafts to your product line for craft shows in 4th quarter. And here's some just posted info about the Holiday Arts and Crafts show at the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, OH.
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