Trading at craft fairs

Snugglebunnies

Im a new trader and have only done a few weekly markets which I actually made a loss at because they were absolutely dead.
I'm finding it really difficult to find out about events before they're booked up or already have a trader in with the same craft as me. There doesn't seem to be any actual database that is regularly updated or anything.
I'm finding the whole craft business very cliquely with news being spread through word of mouth between regulars and not much advertising.

Does anyone have any tips for me or know of any fairs that actually get a decent amount of business?

I'm in tipp but would be willing to travel a reasonable distance so long as the event is likely to be worthwhile!

Thanks!

callee

Hi, there are a few facebook groups: https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftsuppliesireland/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishCraftClub/?ref=nf_target&fref=nf
https://www.facebook.com/CraftersUnitedIreland/?hc_ref=NEWSFEED&fref=nf and I came across this one the other day spectacularvintageevents.com.
What are you selling, and yes they are hard to find, much easier if you're up near Dublin. I get the impression that the fairs and craft markets are just taking off in the more westerly counties and are very established now in the more eastern counties, the Christmas ones can be good. We did one in the Killarney Outlet which wasn't great, but some of the smaller villages can be better. Too close to Christmas and everyone has there shopping done but will still be buying small items. Visit the fairs and look to see who is buying and what they are buying. Insurance can be a big/expensive item, take alook at some of the uK insurance companies as you don't have to insure in Ireland