In the Lab...

whipping up skin and hair oil. I blend all natural oils together today it's olive oil, coconut oil, safflower oil, vitamin e oil, and shea oil. I also add a few essential oils. I use this stuff all over my skin and hair. I'm about to give myself a hot oil treatment now. 

The Fall Festival Season is about to begin!

Because of the poor economy, consumers are very careful about how they spend disposable income (if they have any at all). Since most of us festival vendors depend on disposable income to make our money we need to scramble to and be very resourceful this year, so that we can make money.

1) Ask organizers for booth fee redutions.

2) Scour craigslist.com for lower booth fee venues in places you might not normally consider. 

3) Adjust you expectations of what you'll make that way you won't be severely disappointed.

4) Use email blasts, myspace, etsy, local forums, craigslist, etc. to advertise for free.

5) Lower your prices, but also make highly intricate items that will costs more. Some buyer will not be able to resist and will buy a more expensive item.

6) Have fun and stay positive!

7) Keep your business going!

8) Change up your display, get creative so you can attract new buyers.

Cool Video!

Vendor Market in This Economy

Lately, vendors and handmade artists are not doing as well as years past. The reasons range from high gas prices, high food prices, and a generally weak economy.  As vendors, we are tasked with selling our goods despite the economy conditions. Here are a few things I've tried:

1) Making super spectacular pieces that I can charge more money for. They are so spectacular at least one or two buyers are compelled to buy. These pieces make up for having less buyers. Although I still haven't made as much as previous years, it helps. 

2) I have had to reduce prices on items that don't take me a bunch of time to make. Plus, I have items that costs as low as $2-$3. There are many times browsers really appreciate your products, but because things are so tight, they feel guilty spending $15 or $20, but $2-$3 is okay. It tends to add up for vendors.

3) Search Craigslist for events and community events that you wouldn't normally work at. When you respond to organizers inquiring about their events, ask for a reduction in fees or ask for them to charge based on percentage of what you make.