How do I find the best fairs for my small business?

[pchefjaime]

Ok ladies where to you fairs? I guess what I mean is how do you find them?

 

[Luv2bake]

I'm sure it is just me, but I avoid them now. Booth costs are high and it is a pain setting up, taking down and making sure I have enough catalogs. But I do this as a hobby really and am not out to get tons of bookings. I've done 4 by now and they have all been less than pleasant. I'm sure there are some cheffers on here that are experts on making them really work for them and can provide really great tips.

I can tell you though that the ones I've done have been school fairs. So maybe you can check the websites for your local schools to see if they are doing a Fall Fest or something like that? PTA's are a good resource for that as well.

 

[Cassie1037]

I would check out local chamber of commerce, local publications, I found two that were FREE on craigslist in my area... so you may be surprised at where you will find fairs, festivals, etc.

 

[JaimeQ]

Check the local papers, try going to the community center...

 

[bethsbiz]

I agree that the local chamber of commerce offices are good choices; in my area our local phone book publishes a full year calander of special events for several counties in our area and I know I could find them there if I wanted...so check that out as a possibility.

That said, I try to do 1-2 day shows only, and I prefer craft/church/school shows as opposed to the larger 3-4 day events. These smaller events net me a workable number of leads and orders for a much lower cost, often just $10.00 - $30.00 for the event.

For me, the main issue is whether I have the time and energy to do the needed lead follow-up for a big event. Now that I'm building a team though, I'll probably do more larger events in order to assist my gang with building THEIR leads.