9 Hard-Earned Truths Every Market Vendor Needs to know

Lessons Learned (The Hard Way) from a Decade of Pop-Ups, Hustling, and Hauling Tents in the Rain

Markets can be magical - or a total money pit. After 10 years of setting up shop at every kind of event imaginable, I've learned what works, what definitely doesn't, and what new vendors absolutely need to know before they even order that Square reader. Here's a peek behind the curtain....

Not pictured: the checklist, the hustle, and the strategic plan that goes into every market day.

If you’ve ever thought about signing up for a local market or pop-up event with stars in your eyes and dreams of selling out—slow your roll. I’ve been doing markets for the past ten years, and while they can be amazing for exposure, sales, and community-building, they are not something you can just “wing.”

You’re hauling tables, prepping product, braving the elements, and trying to look approachable while sweating through your shirt and managing credit card payments on a spotty Wi-Fi connection. Fun? Yes. But also? Work.

So, if you’re a first-time vendor or still feeling like you’re guessing every time market day rolls around, here’s a high-level look at what I’ve learned. This is the tip of the iceberg—just enough to make you dangerous (in a good way).

10 Years, Many Markets, and More Lessons Than I Can Count: What I Wish Every New Vendor Knew

(Before You Pack the Car and Pray for Sales)

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1. Not All Markets Are Created Equal

Just because a market has a cute name and a pretty Instagram feed doesn’t mean it’ll be worth your time. Research. Talk to past vendors. Find out the attendance numbers and the type of traffic they draw. Ten thousand lookie-loos is not the same as one thousand ready-to-buy customers.

2. Know Your Audience (and Theirs)

Your demographic should overlap with the market’s attendees. Selling luxury home goods at a farmer’s market with mostly college students? You’ll be giving side-eye to your spreadsheet by the end of the day.

3. The Work Starts Before Market Day

Prepping isn’t just about packing your products. It’s about building anticipation, promoting on your own channels, and figuring out your display. Success doesn’t just show up at 10 a.m. with your first customer—it’s baked into your pre-game.

4. Your Display Is Your Storefront

You need more than just a folding table and good intentions. Your setup should tell a story, attract attention from afar, and make it painfully obvious what you’re selling and why they need it. Bonus points if it’s photogenic.

5. Sales Psychology is Real

People tend to turn right. They like bundles. They get overwhelmed with too many choices. If they don’t see a price, they may not ask. These small details make a big difference. Behavioral economics isn’t just for corporate retailers—it’s for you, too.

6. Have a Plan (and a Backup)

What’s your sales goal? What’s your minimum to break even? What will you do with unsold product? (Hint: hoping it disappears overnight is not a strategy.) Be intentional and strategic with your menu and pricing.

7. Bring the Survival Kit

From extra batteries and backup payment methods to snacks, sunscreen, scissors, and string—be prepared. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are not optional. You’re running a marathon, not a sprint.

8. You Are the Brand

Be approachable. Smile. Talk to people. Learn how to make eye contact without being awkward (or creepy). If you’re shy, practice. People buy from people. Don’t hide behind your booth.

9. Think Beyond the Market

What are you doing to turn that one-time buyer into a repeat customer? Have a plan for collecting emails or social follows. Think of ways you can stay on their radar once the market’s over.

Success Leaves Clues- and I'm Handing You the Map

I could go on (and in my upcoming mini course—I do), but if you’ve made it this far, you already know markets aren’t just about setting up shop and hoping for the best. They’re part hustle, part strategy, and a whole lot of trial and error.

If you’re nodding your head, scribbling notes, or already thinking about what to change for your next event, you’re my kind of people. Stick around—I’ll be sharing more in-depth tips soon. Better yet? Be the first to hear when my vendor success mini-course drops. It’s everything I wish someone told me when I started—minus the sugar-coating.

Want in? [Join the waitlist here.]