Craft Show Tips: Paperwork Organization
Today I have another audio craft show tip for you.I have been finding my need for audio for myself is pretty big: I listen to audio while I'm doing dishes, cleaning, walking/exercising and when I'm making jewelry and doing other crafts.So download to your favorite MP3 listening device and work away! :)[audio mp3="http://kimberliekohler.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Craft-Show-Packet-Organization.mp3"][/audio]Length: 10:41
Craft Show Paperwork Organization (<<<<Right click, save as to download)
Craft Show Paperwork Organization (Click to open in a new window and play)
Craft Show Paperwork Organization Notes on the Audio:
In my eBook, Craft Show Tips, the big message is (spoiler alert!) to be prepared and that's how you will succeed at craft shows.
This is another way to be prepared.
As you may know if you have the eBook or have been reading or listening, you've heard me talk about one year that I did a craft show every single weekend (sometimes 2 shows!) I had to be super organized with paperwork.
Here's what I did:
- For each show as I applied I created a file folder and put them in chronological order.
- I made sure each show was on my calendar. When I would apply I'd put it on my calendar and then when I was accepted I would mark it that I was accepted so I knew the status.
- I kept everything I received that was pertinent for the show, such as a copy of the application (you may need to remember important information on the application), a copy of my payment, any correspondence and the vendor packet. (Sometimes it comes via email, sometimes via mail. I would print it. You don't necessarily have to if you don't think you'll need it.)
When the next show was coming up, I created a folder with the three prongs and put sheet protectors in it. (I actually just used the same one over and over and just put that week's information in it.)To be honest, in this day and age having smart phones and tablets with us all the time, this may not be quite as important in the past. Most shows will email your vendor packet (but not all of them do!)Customize this list to what you most want in printed form. Also consider where you're going - your service might cut out in the most inopportune time!Here's what I included in my packet of information:
- Sheet protectors to keep the information in.
- Copy of application and copy of payment or receipt for payment for fee.
- Vendor packet (either printed from email or what they mailed to you)
- Show coordinator or director's phone number somewhere handy in case of emergencies.
- Directions to the show.
- Any special directions about parking, set up, etc. (which is probably in the vendor packet or on the application)
- Photos of set up (especially if you're new and nervous about setting up. Practice your set up and take photos).
- Whatever tax ID or business license you have or need to have with you depending on where you are in the world.
Good luck at your next craft show!Let me know in the comments below if you have any shows coming up or have done any recently! I'd love to hear how you did.Want to get weekly craft show tips right in your inbox? Sign up for my weekly email newsletter! (Plus get a free packing list when you sign up!)Subscribe to our mailing list