What you should know before you become an art vendor.

I have currently spent my summer roaming festivals and putting my own art on display for the world to see. I'd like to share my own experience for those of you wanting to also run along this road of being an art vendor. There has been both good and bad experiences in the small while that I have been doing this. So I'll cut to the chase and give you my tips on what you should know before becoming an art vendor.

1. Aim for the right audience.
I happened to make this mistake. There were 2 little festivals going on the same day, and I chose the one that had longer hours and one extra day, because obviously you have more time for people to see your art. Big mistake. Did I mention this was a historical event? with tractors and farmers? Yah I didn't really develop the best audience. I mean yes it was an absolute blast going for the event itself, but sales wise it wasn't the best choice I could have made when my other option was a more crafty festival.

2. Keep positive thinking!
Yes there are going to be times when people wont even take a second look, or avoid your booth entirely. Not everyone is into art-which is terribly sad, I know- and not everyone is going to have the same  approach. But don't let that get you down, because there is always going to be people who really do like your art. Jut don't let it get you down. There were a couple times when I was battling this myself. I'd see the booth next to me making crazy sales and I hadn't sold anything all day. It happens, but don't let it get you down!

3. Keep Variety.
One this I noticed dramatically on my art fest journeys was I was one of the only ones selling strictly just paintings. Yah, I had variations between canvas and frames, but they were strictly decoration. People are more likely to buy something they use rather than something they have to make a place on the wall for. There were times I would go to different art fests just to enjoy rather than sell for a change, and talking to all the different vendors, people who put their art on mugs, pillows or wearable's had at least 50% more sales than strict painters-No Joke! So try different things! little things like post cards are great as well! just be sure to add variety!

4. Don't let friends distract you.
For quite a few of my art shows I brought along friends, because you know, it can get sort of lonely. This, at some points was not the best idea. I found it sort of restricted me from interacting with potential customers. People would see me talking to my friends and just keep walking by. The times I was alone more people seemed interested in coming up and asking about my art or myself. I could more easily interact.