Craft Show Applications

     It is that time of year again. Time to get all my craft show applications ready and sent out for this fall's shows. I have a system. Not saying it is a great system or the system for everyone, but it is the one I use that works for me.

1. I sync my calendars.  I get my husband's calendar, the calendar for my kids and the list of shows I want to participate in this year and gather them all together.  My kids always have too many sporting events to keep track of so my hubby and I split the duties.  Every year I cannot participate in at least one great show. It's ok, move on.  By February I have my calendar planned for just about the whole year.

2. Applications. Some applications are online and some are snail mailed to you.  Make sure you fill the application out completely and correctly.  Some shows will trash it for being filled out wrong.  

3. Photos. Photos are the most important part of the application, in my opinion. They will make decisions based on what they see.  If I mail the application back I always use actual printed photos. I also send more than they require. Most ask for 3-5 and I send 8.  I always send a photo of my booth at their show from the year before. Remind them I was there and they accepted me before.

If the application is online and I can only submit a few photos I make sure they are high quality and fit the size requirements.

     These are the photos I used a few years ago for a show in NC.  I was clearly showcasing the paper wreaths and photo albums.  Choose pics that show off what you will actually be selling.  Many shows have people checking booths to make sure your application items match what you are selling.

These pictures above are not my favorite. I would edit these to make them lighter or skip these all together.  They get dark in the background.

 

     These are better. I would use these. The show off a number of different items and they showoff my business name.

4. Once I think I have it all together I include a personal note.  Something thanking them for taking the time to review my application.  I also include my business card and ask that they contact me via email if I do not get accepted to the show (for some strange reason because I think I should get into ALL shows I apply for, don't you?).  I ask them to tell me what I can improve on to increase my chances of getting accepted in the future.  Most people are happy to help and explain why I did not get accepted. It happens about once a year, usually to shows I am applying to for the first time.  

     Keep an eye on your calendar.  Do not let the application deadlines get away from you.  Some say "must be postmarked by.." and other say "must be received by..."  Those are two totally different things.