Before the Market
Know Your Inventory
Track what sells and what doesn't. After a few markets, you'll know exactly how much to bring. Bringing too much means waste. Too little means missed sales.
Prep for Speed
Pre-package everything. Have bags, boxes, and labels ready. The faster you can complete a transaction, the more customers you can serve during the rush.
Booth Setup
Height Creates Interest
Use risers, crates, and tiered displays to create visual interest. A flat table is boring. Height draws the eye and makes your booth look more abundant.
Signage That Sells
Every product needs a clear sign with name and price. People won't ask; they'll just walk by. Chalkboard signs or printed cards both work well.
Samples Convert
If your state allows samples, offer them. Cut cookies into quarters, slice bread into pieces. A customer who tastes your product is 5x more likely to buy.
During the Market
- Stand up and greet people. "Hi, would you like to try our sourdough?" beats sitting behind your table on your phone.
- Tell your story. People buy from people. "I've been baking sourdough for 10 years with my grandmother's starter" is compelling.
- Accept cards. Many people don't carry cash. A simple Square reader pays for itself in one market.
- Collect emails. A simple signup sheet or QR code to your order page turns one-time market customers into repeat online customers.
After the Market
Track everything: what sold, what didn't, total revenue, and any customer feedback. This data drives better decisions for next week.
Follow up with email subscribers. Let them know they can order online for pickup or delivery. Don't make them wait until next week's market.
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Start Your Free Trial →This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Cottage food laws vary by state. You are responsible for understanding and complying with your state's regulations.