🌿 New to Markets? Here's What I Wish I Knew When I Started
Starting out at markets can feel like stepping into a whole new world. You’ve got a million questions running through your head:
Where do I park? What do I bring? How do I even set up a stall?!
If that sounds like you — don’t worry. I’ve been there too. I’m not a market expert, but after 3 years of trial, error, and a few soggy gazebo disasters, I’ve picked up some gems of advice that I hope will help you feel more confident and ready to dive in.
1. 🛍️ What kind of market is right for you?
This is where it all starts. Ask yourself:
What do I want from the market?
• Are you trying to get sales on the day?
• Looking to get your name out there?
• Hoping to secure future bookings or collaborations?
Understanding your goal will help you find the right market for you. For me, it’s a mix of things — I go to sell products, meet customers, and grow awareness of my brand. And honestly? Some of the best connections I’ve made were from random conversations with other traders.
2. 📱 How do I find good markets?
Start on Instagram — it’s a goldmine.
Look at where similar small businesses are trading, follow local market pages, and check out tagged posts. You'll often find out about new markets by word-of-mouth from other traders too!
3. ✉️ How do I book a stall?
Some markets have online application forms or waitlists. Others are more casual and just need an email.
What to include in your message:
• What you sell
• A few pictures or your Instagram link
• Any market experience (even if it’s “I’m new but excited to get started!”)
Markets ask for this info for two reasons:
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Insurance/legal records
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To try and avoid stall duplicates (in theory at least...)
4. 📋 Do I need insurance?
Yes! Public liability insurance is usually a must-have.
It’s around £50/year and should cover you for £5 million. It protects you (and the market) if there are any accidents involving your stall or products.
It’s a boring admin job, but so important.
5. 💸 How much does a stall cost?
It varies — a lot.
• Small community or school markets: £10–30
• Standard craft markets: around £50
• Big events or National Trust venues: £100+
Yes, it can feel like a risk when you don’t make your stall fee back (and I’ve definitely been there), but it’s all part of the learning curve. One “off” market doesn’t mean your business is failing — it might just mean it wasn’t the right crowd.
6. 🏕️ Do I need to bring a gazebo or table?
It depends on the market:
• Some provide everything (table, gazebo, chairs)
• Some provide nothing
Check what’s included when you book. If you’re just starting out, look for markets that provide setup so you can test the waters.
7. ✨ How should I design my stall?
You don’t need to spend loads! Search Pinterest or Instagram for “stall display ideas” — especially for your product category.
A tablecloth helps tidy things up and adds a bit of colour. Try to:
• Keep it welcoming
• Elevate products (e.g. crates, boxes)
• Use signage to help tell your story
And don’t worry — your display will grow and evolve with each market. (Look at how we've grown in the bottom pictures below)
8. 💳 Do I need a card machine?
Yes — most people don’t carry cash anymore.
I started with a small float but quickly realised how useful a card reader is. I use SumUp (£30-ish) and it links to your phone. It takes a small cut per sale but is worth it for convenience.
💭 A Few Extra Things I’ve Learned…
• Weather matters – hot, sunny days can mean fewer visitors (they’re off to the beach), and freezing ones aren’t ideal either.
• Time of year matters – Christmas markets are great; January ones… not so much.
• Bank holidays can be hit or miss – people may opt for pub lunches over shopping.
• Your stall’s location matters – sometimes being tucked away at the back affects footfall. It’s okay to ask for a better spot next time.
• Other similar traders? Don’t stress. You are your USP.
Even if there are other candle/soap/ceramic stalls, no one makes your products the way you do. That mindset helps massively.
💬 In Summary…
Markets have their ups and downs — that’s the honest truth. But they can also be such a rewarding part of running a small business.
You get to:
• Interact with real customers
• Get genuine feedback
• Meet amazing fellow traders
• Grow your brand visibility
Some markets will feel like flops. Others will remind you why you started. You’ll figure out your ideal locations, pricing, and displays with time. Be open, be friendly, and most of all — be proud of showing up!
Got more questions?
Pop me a message on Instagram or drop me an email. I’m always happy to chat 💛
