Off and running on shows!

[will8989]

Did my first show of the season on Sat. Since I do alot of shows throughout the year at this particular place, I told everyone that for the "Christmas in July" (Shannon and BobD note - Christmas in July!! LOL) show I was going to be taking orders for delivery on 11/17. Well, so far I received 5 orders to be picked up in July!!! I did this mainly to get the people who come to a show in November and want 30 angels or 8 baskets, or whatever. I will be sending out emails to my regular customers and will see what happens. The lady who ordered 30 angles from me last year wants at least 30, or possibly more, birdhouses. She will be there in July to pick out what she wants. Hopefully, this is going to be a good year. At least I'm off to a good start!!!

[wood-n-things]

Good for you I hope you knock em out of the park.

[forthelove]

Thats sweet , good luck Betty.

[Forester21]

Best of luck for the season Betty! Keep us advised of any trends you see.
T

[Steve_S]

"taking orders for delivery on 11/17" is a great idea I had never thought about before. That could really be the profit linkage between being able to make X amount during a week and only being able to sell x at an off season show on a given weekend.

Do you charge the full amount or just a deposit when they order?

Steve.

[will8989]

If it's something I always carry, I usually don't charge a deposit. Most of the people ordering are my regular customers and always call at the last minute for a "basket or 5." If it's something like the dragon or clock for $180, I require a 50% deposit. If they cancel before I start cutting, deposit returned. If they cancel after I start cutting, they lose their deposit. Don't have time for people changing their minds. This will be made very clear and they will sign on the receipt for deposit acknowledging this. Anything personalized will be paid for in full before cutting. Must be paid for and/or picked up by 11/17, otherwise it goes on my table. I still have 6 large shows after that date so I know I won't be stuck with anything. I thought it was "brilliant." But that's just me!! LOL