Last Craft Show for 2011

This has been a very exciting year for my Bizee Bee Creations business! I've quadrupled my sales and feel like I'm heading in the right direction with my creative style. I opened my Etsy business and started Bizee Bee Creations almost 3 years ago. February will mark my third anniversary there. Since that time I've really branched out by working in a bead store, teaching jewelry classes, and finally by taking on the Craft Show circuit! The last one was the hardest and I'd advise anyone that's thinking about it to do their homework.

First of all, look at what you design and create. Do you get a lot of compliments and positive feedback from your creations? Ask yourself, "Who would buy this item?" and "How can I make this so that many people would enjoy it and want to buy it?"

Next, find a friend or make a new friend who is already doing Craft Shows. Offer to help them at their next show so that you can get a feel for what this business involves. It's like trying on a pair of shoes... see if this show business "Fits" with where you'd like to take your creative energy.

Finally, DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Go to craft shows and take notes about which booths appeal to you and try to find out why... the layout, the product, the original ideas...? Search the internet for helpful suggestions on craft show start-up. There's a lot of information and helpful tips!

One last note, if you do decide to go the craft show route, Start Small! Do small shows with table/booth fees under $50: Church shows, PTA shows, local Craft shows, or even a Street Fair. Design a simple booth to showcase your creations. Don't worry if it's not as fancy as your neighbors. With every show you do you'll gain more knowledge as to what really works for you and which layout appeals to many shoppers.

Let's face facts, Craft Shows are FUN if you're selling and kind of a drag if you're not. but you have to keep smiling and projecting a positive personality! That bright happy smile can do wonders for sales and for your inner spirit, too.

Shows, shows, shows!

Indoor show this Fall!

Outdoor show this Fall!

It's been a busy year for shows and I have 2 more to go. I've learned so much this year and hope that next year my booth and business will really sparkle & shine. Last year I started out with a partner and she helped me get my feet wet. This year I've been on my own, more or less, and it's been a true learning experience. Being a very small business owner has its' advantages and disadvantages. Thank goodness that it is my only job! I couldn't handle a real career on top of crafting and showing! Lucky for me, my husband helps me with the heavy lifting and setting up. He stays throughout the entire show and handles the credit card transactions, too. I think he enjoys the whole process. Someday he'd like to retire from his full time career and we could travel across the country in an RV and do one show after another...