Why Vend?

Discover the world of festival vending and traveling on "Festival Vendor", where we explore the joys and challenges of running a vending business on the road. Learn about the allure of vibrant festival atmospheres, the financial benefits of capturing a diverse and enthusiastic audience, and the essential preparations and logistical hurdles vendors face. Tune in for insider tips and stories that will inspire your journey into the dynamic world of festival vending and travel.

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Transcript

Welcome to "Festival Vender," the podcast where we share the inside story on the world of festival vending and traveling. Join us as we talk to fellow vendors, festival-goers, and insiders to learn about the challenges and rewards of vending around the country. From local craft markets to large renaissance fairs, we'll explore the ins and outs of running a successful vending business on the road, and loving every minute. So sit back, relax, and be inspired by the stories of those who have made the leap into the exciting world of festival vending and travel.

I’m your host, Raven Williams. Today we are going to talk about the big question - why vend? Let's start with the most obvious reason: it's fun! Vending at a festival allows you to immerse yourself in a lively and vibrant atmosphere. You get to showcase your products to a diverse group of people who are in a good mood and ready to have a great time. It's not like going to the grocery store; these festival-goers are choosing to be there because they want to discover something new and exciting.

In fact, according to a survey by Eventbrite, festival attendees are more likely to make impulse purchases and spend more money on unique or interesting products. That's music to a vendor's ears! And speaking of music, we've had some incredible experiences vending alongside talented musicians. I'll never forget this group of performers at our first year in Las Cruces. They were so good, and they created such an amazing soundtrack for the entire event.

But it's not just the music that makes the vending experience amazing. It's the mouth-watering food vendors too! We all have our favorite festival foods, like any of the tacos in Texas or biscochitos in Las Cruces...actually, any of the food in New Mexico! And let's not forget the unexpected delights, like that crazy music-making marble contraption that we stumbled upon one year. Festivals offer a sensory feast for both vendors and attendees alike.

Now, one of the most incredible aspects of vending at festivals is the opportunity to travel. Imagine driving through the majestic San Juan mountains for the first time, or the breathtaking Moab desert – it's a spiritual experience that stays with you. And even if you're not venturing far, driving to Oklahoma or through the rolling fields of Nebraska can be quite an adventure.

But let's not overlook about what might be the most vital aspect - the profit. Vending at festivals can be highly profitable. Festival-goers are more willing to splurge on unique and interesting products, which means you have a captive audience ready to invest in what you have to offer. And it's not just the large festivals that can create sustainability; smaller weekly or monthly markets and local recurring events can provide a reliable income and a loyal customer base.

Of course, it's important to acknowledge that vending at festivals comes with its fair share of challenges. Wild weather conditions, limited space for setup, and difficult event promoters can test your resilience. And let's not forget about the eternal struggle of finding clean and accessible bathrooms!

In addition to the challenges, careful planning and preparation are crucial for a successful vending experience. You'll need to bring all the necessary supplies and equipment, obtain permits and licenses, and abide by festival rules and regulations. There's a lot to consider, from tent setup and decoration to marketing strategies and even gas prices and vehicle maintenance.

Despite the challenges, vending at festivals can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The fun, the profits, the sense of community – it's an adventure that allows you to connect with people, showcase your creativity, and make a lasting impact.

So, if you're ready to embark on this thrilling journey, be prepared, stay flexible, and get ready to join us on the circuit.

That's all for this episode of "Festival Vendor." We hope you enjoyed our exploration of the vending experience and are inspired to take your business to the next level. Stay tuned for in depth insights into all elements of the vending-on-the-road experience. Until then, stay safe, and we’ll see you at the fair.