Things to Consider Before Your First Show
By Sam Wilson for USA Moving Reviews
Artists just beginning to dip their toes into the festival scene often make a crucial mistake - they forget to check what kind of art the festival accepts. For example, a fine art show may not be a good match if you're a chain-saw artist or create functional pieces from recycled materials. Or, a painter with a focus on fine art might not be well suited to a strictly crafts show. Every piece of art is valuable. You just have to find the right place for showing it, so that you'll find an audience which appreciates it. 
image: Pexels
Consider the Costs
Know how much you can spend and stay within your budget. Do you have $500 saved up? Then that needs to be enough for you to pay the registration fee and to cover any travel costs and food. In addition, if you are transporting delicate or large pieces, you may need to consider a professional mover to help you safely transport your pieces to the show and back.
Think about your pricing
Of course, the goal is both to get your name in front of a new audience as well as generate sales. While it isn't advisable for you to impose sky-high prices as a new and aspiring artist, you definitely shouldn't devalue your work. Instead, decide on realistic price points which will show you are both humble and someone who knows their worth.
Prepare for long hours of standing
Statistics show that people who stand their booth and smile seem more inviting and approachable than those sitting it out. So, you'll be spending a lot of time on your feet!
Make sure you are well rested, your body is relaxed and your mind at ease. Whether it is yoga which supports you or another practice, don't ignore it in the run-up to your first show.
Schedule enough time to set up your booth
Doing a run-through or two of your booth setup at home will help you stay organized and focused on show day. Remember, there are sometimes delays in booth assignments at the event. Plus, you'll have to factor in whatever time it takes to unload your vehicle and get it back off site. Adding half an hour to your commute time is also a good idea.
This is a chance to shine! So, do all your planning and prep work and then relax and enjoy the show!
Sam Wilson is an art-loving freelance blogger who has spent years traveling and writing useful articles for websites such as USA Moving Reviews. When he's not busy writing, he likes spending quality time traveling around the USA with his dog.
