5 Lessons I Learned From Being a Vendor at the Riverside Arts Market

It was chaotic, but I have fond memories of the time I spent as a vendor at the Riverside Arts Market two years ago. Colorful art, homegrown vegetables, affordable eats, and good music surrounded us. It was an enriching and inspiring atmosphere. This post will reveal the 5 most important lessons I learned from being a vendor at a local arts market, and why you should take the leap and do the same!

1. I Had No Art Ready. But You Should!

Don't be like me, have your art and supplies ready before renting a booth! I already worked more than 50 hours per week at a day job; I rarely slept when you added making merchandise for the art market. I was always rushed and didn't produce a line I was proud of.

2.    You Just Have to Take the Leap. 

It's scary to put yourself out there, but if you can financially take the risk, do it! You can always split your table or booth with others to save money. (I sold art with Nicole Middleton and Fenna Blue, it was fun! )

3.    Make Connections with Your Fellow Creators.

Make friends with your fellow creators, vintage lovers, and artists; they are your kindred spirits. I made so many friends though my time at the Riverside Arts Market. It was my unofficial introduction to the Jacksonville artist community, and I wouldn't know about some of my favorite events (like Dr. Sketchy's!) if I didn't go through with it.

4.    Be The Batman of Organization; Brutal, Efficient.

Before you even consider getting started though, get organized. Hyper organized! Be pedantic. Take inventory of every single supply you'll need to be successful. Have all of your inventory neatly packed and ready to go!

5.    Now I'm Ready to Craft a New Line: Slowly!

My time at the Riverside Arts Market was exhausting, but rewarding and well worth it. Now my art mojo is back and I'm ready to create as much merchandise as possible for the future. I'm going to take my time and produce a line I can be proud to display and sell.

You should take your time and do the same, slowly make a real line. Think about the theme, the color pallate, and what you wan to communicate. Be prolific and make a large selection for buyers to choose from.

On Selling Your Art: I love the connection you make when you sell your art to someone face to face, it's an exchange of ideas and experiences that can't be beat. I love how strangers can relate to something you've created, they take a piece of your soul with them to cherish. It's amazing to meet people that relate to your style and vision. I'll be back to sell art again one day, but only after I patiently produce something good!

Nothing's Stopping You: Make it, then Get Out There and Sell it!

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