A couple of weeks removed from my first art show, with some time to reflect, I’ve learned a few things:
1. It can be painfully obvious that it is your first show.
Apparently, using Easels and Tables in a 10×10 tent display is a rookie red flag. Both take up a large amount of space, reducing the number of people who can be in the booth at one time. Makes sense. I also found out the hard way that easels can blow over in the wind.
2. For inventory, Less is more.
I had no idea how much to bring. “Will I sell everything?” , ” Will I sell nothing?” . I guess the only way to answer these questions is to take a guess and hope to come close. My guess was high. At least now I have a benchmark.
3. In regards to customer options, Less is also more.
I made a High-end, Low-end, and ‘middle-of-the-road’ option for my centerpiece work. No one liked the ‘middle-of-the-road’. There were too many options. I think I understand the logic now. Those willing to spend want the best quality, not the second best quality. People looking for something small take the low-end without even looking at anything else. The result: No one likes the ‘middle-of-the-road’.
4. Be prepared for things to go wrong
For the most part, things went pretty well. I’m grateful for that. But it helps to not freak out when: The weather sucks, you have some display issues (see point #1), Sales are reaaaaallly slow, Sales pickup really fast, your competitors seem to be doing better than you, most people love to look, but not to buy. Things are going to go wrong that you may not be able to predict. Just be ready to field problems as they arise, and think on your feet.
5. Don’t forget to celebrate the good things
Don’t get so caught up the in the (many) things that may have not gone according to plan. Engage the people that wonder into your booth. Tell them stories. Answer their questions. Observe from afar. Enjoy the feeling that you get when total strangers admire your work and ogle over it. It’s one of the best things in the world, so don’t miss it.