My First Jewelry Table Setup at the Flea Market

by Leslie.
(near Santa Cruz, California USA)

This was my very first setup for selling my jewelry. I chose to go to the local flea market with my son as we wanted to sell some other household items.

I had been to this flea market once, saw a lot of people selling cheap jewelry, some hand made, some from other countries, but I felt my products are better and different, and was hoping to find a few buyers.

Got up at 4:30 to be there by 6:00, set up in the dark and cold (I did not wear warm enough clothes for being out in the open). Then we waited. And waited.

A few people stopped by and admired my pieces (earrings, necklaces, wired pendants of beach glass and other beads, hand knit scarves, hand crocheted hats, bracelets, etc.). I started with my prices a bit higher than flea market prices, lower than I usually sell them.

Much to my surprise ~ I sold NOTHING!!! It was almost comical. Most people were looking for bargains, which I knew, but I was NOT willing to sell my goods below cost, knew if I did it would be expected all the time, so I went in the hole that day for the entrance fee of $40.

Am I discouraged? NO WAY!!! I know the value of my work and my pieces and was not willing to “give” them away for nothing. All people were buying that day was produce and unique items or things for a quarter or a dollar.

I lowered my scarves to $5 and my earrings to $10 and still no sales. Thanks to reading and talking to others who have sold in other venues, I knew what to think and do (not get upset or discouraged), and will just look for other venues for my work.

I did talk to a lot of people about my teaching jewelry classes at a local craft store, so hopefully will get some business in this direction.

Leslie
Artistic Creations by Leslie