VENDOR BUSINESS TIPS

Here are 10 practical, high-impact tips vendors can take to increase sales at events, especially for newer startups:tips to help you get the most out of every event and grow your business. As any business, you’re putting time, money, and energy into showing up, and we want to help you see real results from that effort. These recommendations are based on what helps vendors attract more customers, increase sales, and turn one-time shoppers into repeat buyers. Here at FIT STREET MARKET, we value businesses at every level and truly want everyone to succeed. My goal is not just to fill space at the event, but to support you, help you succeed, and build a strong community of small businesses that can grow together over time.

  1. Make your booth visually stand out
    • Use clear signage with your business name and what you sell in big, easy-to-read words.
    • Add color, tablecloths, risers (to add height), and good lighting if possible.
    • Keep the table clean and uncluttered so products are the hero.
  2. Have a clear “hero offer” front and center
    • Pick 1–3 best-selling or easiest-to-explain products.
    • Put them at the front of your table with simple signs like “Best Seller” or “Event Special.”
    • Make it obvious what a new customer should try first.
  3. Use simple, visible pricing
    • Every item (or group of items) should have a price sign.
    • Avoid making people ask “How much is this?” because many will just walk away.
    • Try bundle deals like “Any 2 for $20” to increase order size.
  4. Engage people first, not your phone
    • Stand up if you can, smile, and greet people as they walk by:
      • “Hi! Have you heard of us before?”
      • “Want to try a sample?” (if possible)
    • Your energy and approachability are a big part of what makes people stop.
  5. Offer samples, demos, or a quick experience
    • Let people taste, smell, touch, or see your product in action.
    • For services, show before-and-after photos, quick demos, or a short explanation.
    • The more real it feels, the easier it is to buy.
  6. Run a simple event-only promo
    • Examples: “Today only: Buy 2, get 1 half off” or “Free gift with any purchase over $30.”
    • Put the promo on a sign so people know there’s a special reason to buy now.
    • Keep it simple so it’s easy to explain and remember.
  7. Make payment as easy as possible
    • Accept cards and tap payments if you can (Square, PayPal Zettle, etc.).
    • Have cash change available if the crowd is likely to use cash.
    • Put a small sign: “We accept: Cash, Card, Tap, Apple Pay” so no one has to ask.
  8. Collect emails or followers for future sales
    • Have a simple sign-up: “Enter to win a free [product] – drop your email or follow us.”
    • Use a clipboard, QR code, or a tablet for email signups.
    • This turns one event into long-term customers and repeat sales.
  9. Tell a short, clear story about your brand
    • Prepare a 1–2 sentence “pitch”:
      • Who you are.
      • What you sell.
      • Why it’s different or special.
    • Example: “We make small-batch, natural body butters using ingredients sourced from local farms.”
    • The clearer the story, the easier it is for buyers to remember and talk about you.
  10. Track what works and improve every event
    • Note which products sell best, what questions people ask, and what deals worked.
    • After the event, adjust your display, pricing, and hero products based on real feedback.
    • Over a few events, this turns into a system that consistently increases sales.