Long Island sees an abundance of Craft Fairs almost weekly. For the casual seeker of hidden treasures to the avid collector of hand-crafted items, the choices are bountiful. However, discovering the dates and locations of these fairs and festivals can prove to be difficult. Often, they are simply noted by small signs placed roadside in the local vicinity. Only the larger shows gain placement in the newspaper. Information on the internet is usually sparse, consisting only of a sentence or two and a phone number, and then only if the proper keywords are entered into the search box.
It is helpful to check the publication Newsday each week for a listing of craft fairs and festivals, as their list can usually be comprehensive. Still, you will most likely have to call the number for directions and further information. You many also want to try the community section of Craigslist; sometimes craft fairs are listed here too. Craft fairs can range in size and products, and if you are a discriminating shopper, you may not want to trek 45 minutes across the Island for a small gathering of only 20 vendors or paltry displays of toys and wood worked items when you are seeking jewelry and clothing.
A large amount of unique products can often be found at any show, anything from homemade crafts to unique seasonal items, candles to cosmetics, clothing to jewelry, and toys to various curios and decorative items. Craft shows can be full of hidden treasures, and there is a special feeling of joy in purchasing a special find. Don’t expect garage sale prices however, as these shows usually consist of vendors who make a comfortable living selling their products at craft fairs. Still, a little bargaining is always possible.
I have recently entered the world of craft fairs myself, as both a shopper and a vendor. The weekly listings are helpful if you simply want to shop, but a vendor needs to be aware of upcoming shows sometimes as early as six months in advance. There are also many critical details involved in being a vendor that one must be aware of. You will of course want to examine the area in which the show will take place, in order to determine if your products will sell in such a market. The smaller shows are usually only frequented by those who live locally. It also helpful to book most of the craft fairs early because the vendor spaces tend to fill up fast.
Larger shows attract larger crowds from further away, but may also require a large fee, anywhere from $75.00 to $200 for two days. Still, if you have a product that sells, the steep fees may well be worth it. Try sharing a booth with someone else to save money on the fees. You will both have less space to work in, but you will save a few dollars. Sometimes vendor spots at craft fairs are big enough to hold up to 3 long tables, so it is not that difficult to share with someone else.
There are additional guidelines, depending on who sponsors the show. Sponsors may only allow a certain number of vendors with similar products, such as only three vendors selling jewelry. This is another reason to reserve a space early. Additionally, some sponsors have strict rules on products, allowing only hand-made items, and requiring proof. Most people that shop craft fairs enjoy buying handcrafted goods and expect to find them.
A good resource for upcoming shows that also provides much of the necessary information for becoming a vendor is The Craft Fair Crier, a monthly newsletter with a small subscription fee. The newsletter is highly useful for detailing what you can expect to find at each show, vendor fees, products allowed, etc. As a vendor, it is also a good idea to network with other vendors, as additional information is bountiful. You may also find some of your best customers are the other vendors!
originally written by Scott Kessman
