Merchandising furniture and accessories, or even fine craft is easy if you think of creating a booth that feels like a room - welcoming, warm and well lit. This will help visitors see how they can use your work in their own homes.

Don’t scrimp on electricity and lights. Plan ahead to create ample lighting, both flood and spot, that best complements your work.

Use beautiful fabric or portable hard walls to create a homey feeling. Scatter area rugs to frame out separate spaces within your booth.

Place your pieces at interesting angles and put your “showstopper” front and center. Leave enough room for people to walk around, sit down, open drawers, etc. People are attracted to the handmade, it appeals to their senses. Invite them to feel the finish. No “Don’t Touch” signs, please!

• Bring a portfolio of other works and make it accessible. Include pictures of your work in situ so prospects can see how your piece might work in their own home.
• Use a laptop to show images of additional work, place it at eyelevel.
• Borrow complementary accessories and accent pieces from other exhibitors and lend them samples of your work.
• Have a writing surface available for your mailing list and make sure to ask for emails!
• Consider a larger space. Larger spaces result in larger sales.
• Don't overcrowd your space. Eyes need a resting place, especially at a show.
• Mix sizes, scale and textures. Vary the heights of objects to be used together to create a staggered altitude; try to work with odd numbers of items whenever possible.
• Add living plants and fresh flowers to heighten an organic feeling.
• Create a large professional sign that harmonizes with your work. Make sure it states who you are, where you are located, and what you do. It should be prominently displayed and easy to read from the aisle.
• Hang photos of additional work in situ so customers can see the many ways your work can be incorporated into their homes.
• Include explanatory signage on each piece with a price. Bring and display SOLD signs, which get visitors in the buying mood. Consider using “Available by Special Order” and “Custom Commissions Welcome” signs too.
• Display lots of your own marketing materials. Make sure all brochures and cards look professional and represent your work well. Consider digitally printing some small cards with photos and information on individual pieces and your contact information that an interested customer can take home.

Both Fine Furnishings Shows are officially Endorsed by: