by Karen Wilmot

Created on: January 23, 2009   Last Updated: February 10, 2009

Globally we are have an increased level of anxiety about our finances, as we have never seen before. Society is doing an about face on the old and changing to adopt new lifestyles and with this new trends. With all these changes crafters and craft show promoters have a unique ability to market their shows for the consumers who are moving to a cash only lifestyle, looking for an authentic company and want to engage and support their community.

The joy of going to a show is the shopping for one of a kind items. Customers can stroll along booths shopping for everything from afghans to herbs at craft fairs. Most crafters can take credit cards but prefer cash to save credit card processing fees. Marketing that paying in cash will save customers 2% (credit card processing fees) on the purchase will garner the same sales figures for the crafters while giving customers the idea of a sale. As we are moving to a debt free or cash based society, I believe crafters and show promoters should take the credit card fee discount into real consideration.

Another unique aspect of shopping a fair is talking to the craftsmen and craftswomen. They tell the story about the inspiration for a product or product line and create a bond between the customer and crafter. The customers find this authenticity refreshing in a world of big box retailers. When a customer compares the crafter with the sales people at the retailer, they undoubtedly will find the crafter more authentic thus they will be more apt to purchase. There is a caveat to this, the crafter must come out and talk with the customers. I have experienced many crafters who are exceptional in their trade but aren't salespeople. In this instance I would recommend bringing a knowledgeable friend to help out in the booth and provide the authenticity needed in today's marketplace.

Finally, the idea of a craft fair is to bring communities together to support local crafters. While we beieve eco-friendly is on its way out, one of the components of this lifestyle is a sense of community. Craft fairs provide a locale where both eco-friendly and community can meet and enhance each other. In this time of economic turbulence, our governments are banking on the fact that we will help our fellow citzens and create communities that support and enhance lives. Craft fairs are the root of a community, bringing people together in support.

If the crafters are authentic, giving a discount for cash sales and from the community; your fair will do well. I believe promoters, vendors and crafters can all benefit from the trends of moving towards a cash only society, telling their story for authenticity and bringing communities together. This is the true genius of the craft fair and it's success.

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