AboutShasta McLaughlin Expertise I can answer many questions about the art and craft show industry. I can help with booth setup, advertising and marketing, increasing sales at shows, where to find shows, how to promote an art or craft show, and much more.
Experience I have always been an artist/craft person since I was a child selling crafts at shows with my mom. I have also promoted several craft shows, and publish a newsletter for artists and crafters.
Publications EzineArticles.com
Education/Credentials Salutatorian of my graduating class. Associates degree of Graphic Design.
Question First thank for offering to help.Gemstone I'm thinking of trying to sell rough/ cut stones in US, especially alexandrite gemstones.
Wood carving / soapstone, do you think we can get market for wood /soapstone carvings?.
Thanks,
Okeno
Answer Finding a market for an item depends on many things. For instance location is a factor, also the kinds of people who are around you, their incomes, lifestyles, and so much more affect what they will buy. Almost everything has a market for it someplace. The thing is are you willing and can you afford to go where the people who would buy your product are, or can you afford to reach them where they are.
To find out if a product might be successful I would suggest attending a Gem, Jewelry and Bead show as a customer. Take a look around being sure to notice what kinds of things are being sold by the vendors especially items similar to what you would like to sell. These people will be your competition. How many of them are direct competition to your product and how many are indirect competition. Take notes. Also listen closely to what buyers are saying they are looking for that isn't being provided (if it's okay with show management even take a survey). Consider being a supplier for the people that you see vending at the show.
Then get enough samples to make a small booth at a show and see how it goes for you. Listen carefully to the people who enter your booth and write down what they say. Go over your notes when you have more time and consider if it would be worth it to implement their suggestions. If many customers say the same thing consider those suggestions more strongly.
