Craft shows and trade shows are entirely different. Trade shows are typically the larger scale (and more expensive) shows for wholesale buyers (California Gift Show, Atlanta, New York Gift Show) and the purpose and function are on a much higher, more professional level. You are not selling product at trade shows, but taking orders and getting exposure.
Craft shows are typically weekend shows with a tent and are more casual, where you are selling product directly to consumers.
I know you probably know this, but if anyone who is curious reads this, I want them to know there is a difference!
All that said, I`ve done both. Craft shows are definitely a main source of income for me and I do very well at them. One thing to make clear, however, is that not all craft shows are the same and some are totally tacky and terribly organized. It helps to walk the show first, but even that really doesn`t help because attendance and the economy vary from year to year. I tend to do the same shows every year, and because I stay in touch with my customers via email newsletters and my blog, I get a lot of repeat business/customers at these events.
I usually bring a variety of products from low cost key fobs to my handbag line, and really don`t find that people are only buying the low cost items. For me, the shows are usually good enough to justify my time, and I`m always happy with the increase in exposure no matter what.
Trade shows are down this year and retailers aren`t travelling to many of them. They are also putting off placing orders until much later, and only ordering the bare bones to get them through the season. I`ve decided to ride it out and am not seeking new retailers, but if they seek me, that`s fine. In this economy, I prefer the retail sales over the wholesale - and people are still buying. [thankfully]
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