(Above) Use PVC pipes to create a backdrop. Check out this How To Make a PVC Photo Booth blog post that explains the process. Keep in mind the MITS backdrop is painted on a 6' tall by 9' wide canvas drop cloth. In order to accommodate room to fold the canvas over the frame, build a frame that's 8' wide by 5' tall (slightly taller once you add the "feet")
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Pro Tips:
Use "spring clamps" (the people at the hardware store will know exactly what those are, and they should be $1 each) to clamp your backdrop to the PVC frame. Keep your table organized and easy to understand and shop. Taller items such as signs and stands should be near the back. Make sure products are arranged attractively and names & prices of items are clearly displayed. Not everyone will take the time to ask questions, so try to answer the obvious questions before they're asked. If you have space, consider labeling and placing a donations jar on your table. If there is a visible donations jar, someone may be prompted to donate. If there is no donations jar, chances are much lower that someone will feel compelled to hand you their spare change. Always have a bunch of $5 bills ready to make change. Be prepared for several of your first few customers to pay for one Rafiki bracelet with a $20. Light it up! If appropriate, an easy way to keep your merch table shoppable is to have good lighting. Bring along some clamping desk or utility lamps to clip to the sides of the table or the backdrop and attract attention. |
(Above) Use small chalkboards or framed black construction paper (all available at Michael's or any craft store) to create descriptions and communicate prices. Clear signage and price information is important so YOU can spend your time talking about things that matter, rather than constantly responding to questions about price.
By far, our favorite chalk writing utensils are Bistro Chalk Markers, available at Walmart, Michael's or Amazon. |
(Above) Arrange shirts in size piles (marked with tags) and fold them neatly so all colors are visible from the front.
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(Above) If you sell Rafiki bracelets, they will sell way faster if you arrange them very neatly in a rainbow so people will notice the variety and details and take a moment to select their favorite.
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