Have you ever been looking around in one of the awesome booths at YesterNook (and let's face it--they're all awesome), and started thinking: "Hey! I bet I could do this, too. I wonder what it takes to get started?"
Well, to begin with, it takes more than just having some extra stuff in your house that you want to get rid of. That's really just the beginning. Getting a spot and moving your extra items will get you started, but if you're going to be successful, then you've got to be ready to do more than that. In general, the folks who move their first load in and then sit back and wait for it to sell are the least successful.
YesterNook owner Patti Cape and manager Sharron Smiley have over thirty years experience in this business between them. Patti has said that she has had a booth at "just about every place in town" at one time or another. They can both testify to the skills and knowledge that develop over time as one gets into the business.
You can start out with your own excess items--many do--but what are you going to do when those items start selling? One of the first things you have to realize is that your booth is almost a living creature. It will change and evolve. Things will sell and they need to be replaced. It needs to be tended to regularly.
Have you ever noticed how the booths at YesterNook always seem to be fresh and different? That's because the vendors are always working at them, keeping them clean and bringing in new items. They understand that customers want to see an evolving selection. This understanding is one of the first things it takes to run a booth.
The next would be planning. Eventually, you will run out of your own items at home. What will you do then? Where and how will you get fresh stock? Will you have the time and other resources to do this? Are you physically able? These are all important considerations. Many of our vendors have other jobs and responsibilities, but they've all made the commitment to making their booths the best they can be.
Are you willing to learn and ask questions about things? Patti and Sharron are great resources and have a lot of knowledge on many topics. They didn't start out that way, however. They learned from others and asked lots of questions along the way. Internet research skills can also help you gain new knowledge.
Do you have a support system? Many of our vendors have family members or friends that can help out when needed. Sometimes an extra pair of hands to carry is essential. Other vendors go in with a friend on their space and split the responsibilities. Do you know someone that might be interested in joining you?
Starting a new endeavor takes patience. It will take a little while for customers to learn about you and what you have to offer in your space. If you just keep working at it and keep your area neat and stocked, it will eventually take off.
A short piece like this can only scratch the surface of a topic as broad as preparing yourself to rent a booth, but these are some of the most important things to think about. If you do have an interest in pursuing a space at YesterNook, stop by the store and talk to Patti. The store stays largely rented out, but booths do become available. Talk with her about what you would like to do and then see about getting on a waiting list, if need be. She'll point you in the right direction.
Of course, you don't have to rent a booth to sell things at YesterNook. On Saturday, June 8, we'll be having our outdoor sale in the parking lot. Spaces are available for the day for just $5. This would be a great way to get rid of some items, without the long-term commitment of a booth rental! Call the store at (502) 690-4572 to sign up for a space. Rain date will be June 15.
As always, we love to see you in the store any time! You don't have to be thinking about a booth to stop by and check things out! The weather is getting nicer, so stop by and say "Hi!" We love to see our friends.
