5 Tips and Tricks for Small Businesses I Wish I Knew
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Making the desicion to start my own home-bakery business was one of the scariest and most exciting decisions that I have ever made. Along with the thrills of selling my homemade products to my community came the risk of wasting time and effort if I had a lot of product that didn’t sell. And little did I know, the hardest part would be getting accepted into a farmer’s market with no prior experience vending.
I spent hours scouring online trying to find any farmer’s markets within 20 miles of Dallas that would accept my day-old business. Turns out, pop-up vendor markets are a great place to start! Although they usually cost more to vend at, (mine were in the $80-85 range) they are easier to get accepted into. So I signed up for three markets in the month of May and set out to make a game plan.
Setting up shop at my first farmer’s market was a mix of excitement and anxiety. I had my table, products, and a big smile, but I quickly learned that enthusiasm alone doesn’t guarantee sales. There’s a lot more strategy behind a successful market day than simply showing up. If you’re preparing for your first farmer’s market, here are five tips and tricks for small businesses to help you get started.
1. Use Well-Known Tactics to Draw People Into Your Booth
Foot traffic is one thing—getting people to actually stop at your booth is another. My first vendor event was on May 4th, so it was Star Wars-themed. Luckily, I make the names of all my cookies Star Wars-themed as well, and it ended up getting me a lot of sales.
However, one of my biggest early mistakes was assuming my products would speak for themselves. It’s important to remember that people like to browse and get distracted by different things. That’s why it’s important to ensure the way your booth is displayed is eye-catching. Elevate your products off the table and make it so that people can pick them up and touch them. People are way more likely to buy something that they hold in their hand first!
Another tactic I used at my second market was a sign offering some sort of free giveaway. A simple raffle with a small prize, eye-catching signage, or a fun “spin the wheel” game can do wonders. It gives people a reason to approach your booth, which opens the door to conversation and potential sales.
2. Make Sure Your Prices are Visible EVERYWHERE
At my first market, I lost out on more sales than I realized simply because people couldn’t easily see my prices or understand what I was selling. It’s crucial to have prices displayed clearly on each item or in a large, easy-to-read sign. I ended up purchasing cheap re-usable signs that can now display the price for each product.
Product descriptions help too—especially if your items are handmade, unique, or not immediately recognizable. Clear communication makes it easier for customers to say “yes” without having to ask a bunch of questions (which many won’t bother doing). These acrylic signs are perfect for displaying a large list of prices or descriptions of your products.
3. Cater to Dietary Restrictions When You Can
I didn’t initially consider how many people shop with dietary restrictions in mind. Whether it’s gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, or nut-free, offering inclusive options broadens your appeal and shows that you’re thoughtful.
I had so many people ask for gluten-free cookies, that I ended up bringing them to my second event and selling out of them! It was heart-warming to see the appreciation from people who are gluten-free in seeing that I catered to their dietary restrictions. Even if you can’t cater to every diet, having a couple of well-labeled choices and being knowledgeable about your ingredients will earn you trust and repeat customers.
Use this gluten-free flour, which is very well-known, for making healthy and allergen-friendly treats!
4. Don’t Forget a Large Part of Your Audience: The Kids!
Families often make up a large part of the crowd at farmer’s markets, and if you can offer something fun for kids—small treats, kid-friendly packaging, or even a coloring station—you’ll not only make little ones happy but also win over the parents. Something as simple as a cookie with a fun name or a bright label can turn a passing glance into a purchase.
I realized that many kids don’t want specialized cookies that are flavors that they don’t recognize. My best sellers to kids have been basic chocolate chip cookies and rice krispy treats!
5. Don’t Forget to Market Both Online and Offline!
I went to my first market with zero online presence and no business cards, which was a huge oversight. Before your market, post on social media and tag the market’s account to let people know you’ll be there. Bring business cards or flyers so people can find you later, even if they don’t buy anything on the spot. Many customers want to follow up, learn more, or make a purchase later, but they won’t remember your name if you don’t give them something to take with them.
This past weekend, at my third event, I reconnected with so many friends who wanted to come and support! It was so suprising to see how many people were excited that I was starting my own business. I also had my first repeat customer!
Your first farmer’s market can be an incredible experience—and a great learning opportunity. By being intentional about how you present your booth, communicate your products, and connect with your audience, you’ll be far more likely to turn browsers into buyers. Take these tips and tricks for small businesses and show up a little more prepared than I did. You’ll thank yourself later.
