How To Pop Up
While checking out the new retail space in Palmerston Street in Melton
As you all know, I have finished my pop-up gig last Monday. Since the restrictions eased, and there is a chance to pop up, I just went for it. The only question in my mind is "what are the things I need to prepare?" So, if you are like me, a checklist won't hurt, Mama. I will share here what I prepared before and what you’ll need still during the setup.
Before Setting Up
1 | Public / Product Liability Insurance
I checked on a lot of providers. It boils down to two choices for me: AAMI and My Market Insurance. I chose the latter in the end because they have an extra cover for those selling over the internet. But you can get the best one you can afford. Just do a little bit of research and ask around your market colleagues for referrals.
2 | Payment Terminal
Since I am just starting and my pop-up frequency is not regular yet, I thought Square Reader is good for starters. The transaction fees are reasonably low. It is light-weight and can fit easily in your purse. You can bring it to meet ups and driveway deliveries. Why not?
3 | Signage / Business Cards
A standing banner (rather than a horizontal one) was a personal choice, because I am vertically challenged, and I have no one to help me hang it if ever. This orientation is perfect for my needs. The standing signage is flexible. Can be put outside the space, facing the street or inside the shop, when it becomes too windy and wet. You’ll need a sandbag though so not to be blown away, if it’s outside.
I designed my own signages and business cards, then have them printed from Vistaprint. You can watch out for discounts they always have every month.
4 | Display Racks and Props
As a customer, I like seeing the things I am buying and also how it is used. So, in that thought, I figured displaying my wares in a way that is clear and neat, is my utmost concern. I invested on a display rack for the gift wrappers, and a 3-tier riser with slats. They are flexible and can be used in different purposes. Like the display rack, it can also be a clothes hanger (if I sell clothes in the future). Then the slats on the risers are really set for jewellery, but I use them for cards and tags, or for mini pots and candles. You can check out Whisker Wood for market stall display stands.
Always go for the best thing within your budget. Before this, I would go to the pantry aisle of Daiso, Big W or even Kmart to check on dish racks, baskets, acrylic tubs, and organisers for spices. You can always spot for good aids to style your setup.
5 | Price Tags / Labels / Stickers
To make it look professional, I design my own swing tags, and had it printed in my studio. But labeling products with prices, I got this box of removable stickers from Officeworks. They also have white price tags if you prefer that.
6 | Table / Tablecloth / Chair
If you need to bring your own, make sure you have a tablecloth for your table. In my case, the space has provided shelving, cabinet and a stool. The cabinet served as a counter. Pretty neat, huh?
7 | Social Media Updates
Lastly, make content about the pop-up shop. I strongly recommend planning well and talk about it in your posts, stories and in your group chats. If you can afford to spend on ads, go for it. Just make sure you target the audience in that specific area.
During Your Setup
8 | Fully charged batteries
While you are in the pop-up shop, always keep an eye of your batteries. You don’t want your square reader and gadget to be running low, unless you are ready to accept cash that day.
9 | Cleaning Supplies
It is worthwhile to dust the stocks everyday. These spaces are lockable but dust you can’t see it. so have a duster handy, and fluff your products.
10 | Lunch / Water
Bring your lunch. But if you must go out, leave a sign that you will be back in a few minutes.
11 | Comfortable Shoes
I learned my lesson at the markets. Always wear comfortable shoes. Period.
12 | Positivity / Big smile
The most important thing of all is to welcome people with a smile. No more masks required. As they say, first impression lasts. If you are not feeling positive all day, it will show. Keep calm and hopeful for the entire endeavour.
Melton PopUp Shops
After 2 years selling online, it feels like a newbie all over again doing face-to-face. But I think the most important thing throughout this experience is to ENJOY what you are doing. Heaps of work, yes but the possibilities are worth it.
Keep going and stay vibrant.
❤❤❤
Tess xx
