What should I bring to my first art market or fair?

Prepare inventory across three price ranges: under $100 (where most of your inventory should be for accessible shows), $100-$1,000, and $1,000+. Even if the crowd typically buys lower-priced items, bring some higher-end work and originals to show the full range of what you do. Have QR codes next to your displayed pieces that link to your website so people can browse your complete catalog. Most importantly, run a giveaway to collect email addresses—have a fishbowl for physical entries and a QR code linking to a landing page where people can enter digitally. Consider offering two giveaway prizes instead of one to increase participation. The giveaway is critical because even if you don’t make sales, you’re building an email list for future marketing.

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Asked by a Native American artist preparing for their first art market · Answered by Juan · Office Hours · 2026-03-31