As you know, I started making videos and later incorporated this Locals Community to do whatever I can to showcase every type of small business I can find to break out of the Matrix. I have found so many but have yet to even scratch the surface because there are many, many more out there to find. People are amazingly creative and ingenuitive.
I've touched on things from encouraging and inspiring each other to hosting workshops teaching others your skills and craft that can be passed on through generations. From being supportive and collaborating to building communities. Honestly, I think at this point, I would have to research my own self to remember all of the topics I've written or spoken about. And I'm just getting started! There is so much more!
One thing I haven't really touched base on yet is WHERE to sell. Yes, we have festivals and craft fairs, vendors who set up in parking lots, and even farmer's markets. Don't get me wrong, these are great places and people can do very well. But one thing to consider with those, especially if you're just starting and low on funds, is the cost involved upfront. Most require registration fees and booth rentals and a Vendor I.D. FULL STOP! While I can understand fees for the event, I tend to have a problem with a Vendor I.D. Why do you ask? Because THAT is a huge part of the Matrix we are trying to get away from. You're telling me I have to check state regulations and policies and pay them money to get a piece of paper stating I have, not only their permission to sell, but also just volunteered myself for them to take from me? Shut the front door! Let me get this straight...I paid the store taxes on the materials I purchased and spent hours creating products and I have to pay the state for thier permission to sell and give them a portion of my revenue too? I don't think so! But we'll get into all that another time. Moving on...
I have a place for you to consider. Several people have done this over the years, but it isn't much talked about. It's kind of a cross between a brick and mortar and a pop-up shop.
So, where is this mystical place do you ask?
What about your garage? Or, if you don't have one, a friend's garage? Now, I realize not everyone can do this depending on where you live, but many can. Think about it. People have garage sales all the time. Often times, people get together and have craft sales set up like a garage sale. Well, what if you set up shop in a garage and did this on a consistent basis? Perhaps start by setting up every other Saturday. Keep the same hours everytime you're open and let people know. Then maybe move on to every Saturday. If you know of other crafters, have them join you. Having a few will give shoppers a variety. Once you get enough traffic and a lillte esablished, you can easily add in an extra day or two a week at some point. I wouldn't recommend too many just yet because you still need time to build your inventory.
If you do this, you could also consider having point of sale items such as small handmade magnets, maybe have a cooler or possibly a refrigerator with cold drinks, even some types of candy. Don't forget, many shop with their little ones in tow. Your main purpose is to sell your own products of course, however even if you don't, point of sale items will give you the opportunity to strike up conversations. No matter where you're selling, customer service is a huge factor in any business. That's what ultimately will bring people back. It will take a while to build a customer base, no doubt about it. It will take as much hard work and patience as it would with any start-up. The difference is overhead. No fees. No rentals. No paying the state for their bloated sense of entitlement. You'll be set up either at home or at a good friend's house doing what you love, on your own time, in your own way. Wouldn't the pay off at the end be worth it?
Think about it...
Much Love!
-BeRandom