What’s in Your Market Kit?
Whether you’re a seasoned market vendor or just entering the market scene, you will run into times when you really wish you had something for your setup or yourself that you didn’t bring. After years of market experience, the Valley Made Community is here to share what we keep in our market kit to be prepared for all the things we might need.
First Aid Kit
You never know when you’ll need a bandaid or some ibuprofen. Keep a small first aid kit in your market kit just in case!
Tape
Have you ever wished you could hang a sign at the market but not had anything to put it up with? Looking to use an outdoor rug but don’t want it to become a tripping hazard? It’s always a good idea to have a variety of good-quality tapes for any need. Our go-to’s are duct tape (heavy duty, black), painters tape, & clear packing tape. Fun tac poster gum and/or command strips can be great options for indoor markets (hanging signage, putting up twinkle lights).
“Tylenol, Fanny pack, and hand sanitizer!”
— Gricelda of Gricelduh Goods
Scissors
Need to cut a tag off for someone? Cut a string off an apparel item? Cut zip ties? You need scissors! Take our advice–always add scissors to the market kit.
Hang Tags, Tagging Device, & Price Stickers
It’s always a good idea to have a way to price things on the fly. Maybe you ran out of time before the market and haven’t priced all of your merchandise–a slow moment at the market is the perfect opportunity to finish up those simple tasks!
“Fanny pack plus rocks & rolled up socks to stuff and hold down our bags in case it's windy!”
— Kate of Wildernest
Hooks, Clothes Pins, Safety Pins, Zip Ties
Depending on your setup, you may need some equipment to help you get the look you want. To maximize space, try hanging things from the tent corners with hooks or stringing lines with merchandise and clothes pins. Safety pins are great for adjusting table cloths on the table or hanging signs. Zip ties are wonderful for securing signs, holding something together when it breaks (like a clothing rack), or “locking” the walls of your market tent overnight for multi-day events.
Business Cards & Newsletter Sign Up
Make it easy for market attendees to find you again! Carry business cards with your business name, email, website, etc. Encourage newsletter sign up for email or texts- this way you can follow up with leads and remind people that they love your work!
“Tape, zip ties, and c-clamps: the display malfunction emergency response crew.”
— Leeann of Arrows Aim Greenhouse & Supply Co.
Lint Roller
You never know when you or your fabric items might need it–best to have one just in case.
Sunscreen, Deodorant, Toothpicks
Standing outside for hours each day can mean ample sun exposure, carrying market equipment could call for extra deodorant, and market meals may call for toothpicks. Stay prepared for it all by adding these things to your market kit.
“Definitely snacks, newsletter sign-up clipboard with pens, and clothes pins.”
— Andrea of MW Soapworks
Non-perishable Snacks
Ideally you’re so busy that it’s hard to get away from your booth - plan ahead and pack something to snack on! Protein shakes, and iced coffee make for a quick nothing-stuck-in-your-teeth option, granola bars, nuts, string cheese, or yogurt and granola can keep you going through the afternoon slump.
“Pen, scissors, WATER, and snacks. ALWAYS.”
—Laksmi of Feel Flow
We hope this list prevents the “I wish I had this with me” feeling at your future market events. Each setup will require a different set of needs, but we think these few items are great for all makers to consider bringing in their kits.