Fast Craft Booth Setup

One of the things a lot of shows are really fussy about is setting up your booth. You need to make sure that you have read the rules of whatever shows you plan to attend so you know what to expect. I was reading a few of these sheets again an thought it would be good to share some of what they say just so you have an idea of what you might run it to.

• Arrive on time - One thing you can't be is late. The shows expect you to be there at a specified set up time. This is very important for them as they only have a given window of opportunity to get things up and running too. They know that it generally takes you a certain amount of time to get your booth up and running so they want you there in time to be able to get it done. Trying to get there at the last minute and set things up is a recipe for disaster. This particular show was giving 9am - 8pm as your window to get there and get things done.
  
  Of course they do realize that there are situations where people break down so they are realistic. These folks ask that you call so you can make special arrangements to get your booth set up.
• Drop Your Booth Off - When in the process of setting up your booth this show asks that you drop your crafts off and move your car. This is so others can get their cars in and out of what is probably a limited space. The faster people get their vehicles in and out, the easier it will be on everyone trying to get set up.
  
  This is actually such a serious thing that if you leave your vehicle unattended for too long it can be towed.
• Take The Right Equipment - Make sure that you know what to expect with regard to having a dolly or hand cart. This particular show does not provide any such thing for you. They encourage you to bring what you need. If you have some items that are going to be difficult to move from your car to your spot, make sure you have an easy way to move it.
  
  One thing I have found really useful in moving heavy items is a piano dolly. I can't tell you how many times I've moved things with them. They are really just a little platform on wheels. If you have some decent size casters around you can easily make one out of 4 short pieces of 2 x 6. If you find yourself going over grass a lot, you may need some casters with air in the tires to make travel easier.

Of course, just as important as the set up of your booth is the tear down. They want you to be able to reverse all you did in the set up time in short order. Tear it all down into a pile, get your car, load it and leave. It's just the way you have to do it so everyone can get it done.