If you’re selling your handmade products via markets in your local area or even travelling interstate for a market, I bet you’re constantly looking for new tips and tricks to improve your market stall, especially if you’re new to the game!
Today I have a post from the gorgeous Rochelle, previously of Summerblossom. Rochelle is always so generous sharing her knowledge and advice with others on their handmade business journey, she really epitomises the type of supportive and encouraging business woman I hope we are all aspiring to be here at The Makers’ Collective!
Rochelle originally posted this helpful guide on the Mums with Hustle facebook group (another incredibly encouraging and supportive forum for women in business!). Read on to glean some valuable insight!
I’ve seen a few posts in here lately asking about market stall set ups. I did markets for around 5 years (many from a tiny hatchback!) and learnt a few tips I’d like to share.
Maybe an obvious one, but height and layering on your tables is key.
Not only does it make your stall look amazing, if you have small products it saves people from bending over to see the details. For layering think; boxes, shelves, small side tables, plank of wood or shelf with items propped underneath. For height either use your marquee, or if indoors use two tall props (coat racks, umbrella bases with poles) to place behind your table and string up signage or your products.
Great use of vertical space in this market stall
Handmade planters displayed effectively in this stall with layers & height
Statement props/furniture can really set the scene.
One big gorgeous beachy chair, a cool plant, a hanging chandelier, a side table etc helps communicate your brand message.
Furniture really sets the vibe in this market stall
Invest in one simple yet effective sign with your logo.
Don’t overthink it and crowd it with URLs, social details etc. Save those for your business or postcards. Bonus points if the market sign is made from an interesting material (wood, metal, plastic) although a large uncluttered vinyl banner from Vista Print will suffice if hung neatly.
Use the floor space and statement furniture in your market stall to set the scene. Great signage too.
When shopping for furniture, look for legs that screw off and shelving that folds flat.
If you’re using trestle tables fitted and ironed table clothes are essential. (Search for Casper Australia on eBay for great fitted covers).
You might also like: How to make your market stall setup run like clockwork: easy, fast, on-time and stress-free – Every time!
Customers love clear pricing and market specials.
Think about your mini signage to clearly communicate pricing before market day.
Great layering and clear pricing in this stall
Capture customer emails
Boy I wish I did this from the very start! All you need is a clipboard and a little incentive such as an online voucher, a lollipop, a small product sample – anything! Customer emails are gold.
Love the layering on the market table, and the way the vine frames the scene
Keep it light and airy
I pretty much always found white gazebos worked best (blue and green were often too dark). Pack white gazebo walls just in case your neighbour likes their stall a little on the cluttered side 
Light & airy = inviting. Love the rug and the layering happening on the tables
Pay attention to your items
Organise your stall and make it more appealing by keeping it tidy and grouping colours together.
Colour coding your wares is an easy way to create a visually appealing stall
Offer gift wrap
If you’re chatting to a customer who is looking for a gift, I often found that offering to wrap it beautifully sealed the deal.
Height and clear pricing
If you can, stand up or take a tall stool. And smile!
If you’re hiding behind your stall in a comfy chair you’re less likely to engage with potential customers. It’s more draining, but I found my sales always reflected my enthusiasm.
That’s all I can think of for now, hope that helps some market newbies! 
See? What a beautiful woman! So helpful and encouraging. Thank you Rochelle for letting me share your post on The Makers’ Co website
CAN YOU CONFIDENTLY SAY YOU ARE WORKING ON THE RIGHT THING, RIGHT NOW IN YOUR BUSINESS?
Sometimes, even when we are doing all the right things, it can feel like we’re spinning our wheels and not moving forward at all. This could be because you’re focusing on the wrong area of your business – or doing all the right things, but at the wrong time.