Looking for a way to make some extra money, meet lots of interesting people or maybe looking for a way to launch your new business? Perhaps your goal is just to work on a part-time basis two or three days out of a week. Consider a swap meet, flea market, or craft show. These opportunities are loads of fun attracting lots of bargain shoppers who are willing to support you. Every city has them. It's only a matter of locating them. I guarantee you that you will not have to look long or hard before you are able to find several within a short distance from your home. Chances are you probably have been to a flea market or swap meet. Have you never considered that this would be something you could do and enjoy? There are several opportunities to pursue. Types of Vendor Opportunities: Outdoor Swap Meets/Flea Markets-These usually have large variety of merchandise. Here you can find high end items like TV's and appliances to small items like fashion jewelry. You may also find used merchandise. People who attend these are usually are looking for big discounts. Indoor Malls-These attract the more professional class and savvy shopper. The displays are more organized in appearance. You will see booths and each vendor will more than likely specialize in a line of product. Craft Fairs-These maybe held inside or outside. You'll find them in parking lots, schools, churches, parks, etc. Sometimes they are fundraisers. Merchandise will range from homemade to high ticket items.Benefits Fun way to make extra money on weekends. Meet lots of interesting people. Can be a great launching pad for your business.Simple Steps to Getting Started Check out local newspapers, magazines, word of mouth. Make contact with the group or organization. Reserve a table or booth-a fee may be involved. Get a list of rules and regulations and become familiar with them. Select your merchandise.Supplies One folding table A cash box, with small bills and change A clean tablecloth A calculator Your price list An order book to write receipts Plenty of business cardsThe Big Day Arrives You want to be prepared when the day arrives. If you have done your homework ahead of time the day will go rather smoothly without encountering too many problems. Here are some things you will want to accomplish. Find your space and set up. Decide on your bottom line price. This would be your lowest price you would be willing to take. Be prepared to take checks. Record the name, address, and phone number of customers It is always a good idea to take someone with you to handle the cashbox while you deal with the sales. Rehearse your set up at home. Set up your display and plan the most attractive arrangement before the show.While you are counting your money reorder merchandise especially those items that have sold well, build your mailing list and send out follow-ups and thank yous. The main thing that I want to get across is while this is work, also have a good time. Enjoy the interesting people you meet. Once you establish your customer base, they will become your repeat customers. |
