Dear makers — we understand that applying for markets (especially if it’s your first time) can be a daunting process. However, we’re here to support you in your application to bring out the best of yourself and your products so you can share them with the world!

Whether you’re looking to apply for the Perth Makers Market or any other market, these top tips for applying to markets should help you rise above the pack!
 

Research and preparation

Visit the market in person to get a feel for it. This is an opportunity to see if there are other stallholders who sell in the same category as you; you can then consider how you can highlight your own point of difference in your application. Get an idea of how the stallholders present themselves: check out their physical stall space, look for their promotional materials, visit their websites and/or social media.

Check out the market’s website to identify key information such as market application closing dates and registration process. Popular markets tend to receive more applications than spots available and may not consider late applications, so it would be wise to prepare for your application well in advance. You might find that you need to organise photography or plan the merchandising of your store — being prepared by looking into the process early on helps you put together a stronger application.
 

Understand fit and highlight point of difference

Consider whether your products and your brand/label are a right fit for the market you’re applying for. Most markets have specific criteria — for example, Perth Makers Market is an exclusively handmade-only market, where all items have been handcrafted locally in Western Australia.

Understanding fit is a great advantage as you can specifically address this in your application. Highlight how your products or your brand/label suit the market’s vision and what they’re after: going back to the Perth Makers Market example, you could potentially outline your unique handmade process, or even how you source WA-only supplies. You should be clear about where your business stands in its competitive landscape and be certain of what your point of difference is, because only then will you be able to confidently communicate this in your application.
 

Online presence

Having an online presence — in the form of a website or social media — prior to putting in an application for a market would greatly help your chances, as it’ll allow market organisers to learn more about your business. Additionally, it instils confidence in your business as it means you’re actively promoting yourself.

Even if you don’t have an online presence yet, you can easily start creating an Instagram or Facebook page for your business immediately and begin sharing content about your process or your products. Every little bit counts, and you can eventually refine your brand message as you develop your communications further.
 

Visual merchandising

Visual merchandising refers to what customers see inside and outside your stall. This includes displays, decorations, signs, and stall layout — how your products are presented, as well as the total atmosphere of your stall.

Think about how you will set up your stall space. For example, how will you merchandise your products? Does your set-up complement and/or feature your products well? What signage will you have that will set you apart and draw customers to your stall? Do you have a professional-looking logo? What promotional material will you have to provide customers with more information? Market organisers love creative displays. Create something that fits with your offering; think about what you can offer that will set you apart from your competitors.
 

Photography

The most important part of a market application is your photos. It’s the first impression a market organiser gets of your products, so you should really be putting your best foot forward.

Make sure you take the time to include your best images and that they are of high quality. If you must, organise a photo shoot. Professional photos are best but if you don’t have access to this, take the time to take well-styled shots: a good tip would be to photograph your products in daylight, by a window.

Be sure to avoid some of these common issues:

  • Blurry, out-of-focus photos
  • Low resolution photos
  • Poor lighting, or photos taken at night

The market may want to promote your presence at the event and the quality of your photos must be reflective of their brand image. If your photos are great, you may be featured on promotional materials, which is extra exposure for your brand.
 


We hope these tips will help you in your upcoming market applications!

Check out the list below for this year’s Perth Makers Market dates, including our special Twilight Markets at the Perth Cultural Centre!
 

Perth Makers Market at Goolugatup Heathcote, Applecross

  • 20th February
  • 3rd April
  • 15th May
  • 25th September
  • 6th November
  • 18th December

Twilight Market series at the Perth Cultural Centre

  • 14th April
  • 1st July
  • 28th October
  • 18th November

Don’t forget that application closing dates for markets tend to be a few months before the actual event, so be sure to prepare well in advance! For more information about applying to a Perth Makers Market, check out this link: Information for Stallholders