My First Big Fair

It’s getting closer! It’s nearly time for The Handmade Fair at Hampton Court Palace which takes place from 14-16th September. This will be my first big fair and I’ve no idea what to expect. I’m uncertain about how much stock to take (will people buy Christmas decorations in September?!) and I’m nervous about ‘putting myself out there’. Usually I’m quite content working from my cosy little studio where the only contact I have with the public is via email. But in less than 3 weeks’ time I will be hearing and seeing people’s reactions face-to-face! Eek! 

When I booked the fair back in January it seemed like a lifetime away. In my mind I thought I would make lots of stock and be really prepared. But now I feel like it’s crept up on me and I don’t feel as ready as I'd hoped I would be. It doesn’t help that it’s the school holidays so I’ve been trying to get ready for the fair whilst having two kids nipping at my ankles! I’ve been quite stressed lately but now I’ve finally discovered a zen-like state and embraced the attitude of ‘what will be, will be’. At the end of the day I do have stock, just not as much as I’d like. If something sells out I have alternatives to offer and if I don't sell anything then I’ll be laughing this Christmas with more stock than ever before! 

As this is my first big fair I’m after lots of tips and advice. If you exhibit at events like this what are the Do's and Don’ts? What couldn’t you survive without at a fair like this? Or if you’re a customer planning on visiting what would you like to see? 

If you would like to come along and see me at The Handmade Fair I am giving away two free tickets. All you need to do to enter is leave a comment on my blog saying which is your favourite decoration (see image below) from the Miss Shelly Christmas range 2018.