A Vendor’s Guide For Maximizing Your First Thursday Market Booth
Setting up your booth for the First Thursday outdoor summer markets is more than just unpacking your products—it’s about creating an inviting, shoppable space that attracts customers and drives sales. Whether you're a seasoned vendor or new to the market scene, these essential tips will help you make the most of your booth setup.
Written by Stephanie Pedro-Graves and Becci Ravera
Setting up your booth for the Madras First Thursday summer markets is more than just unpacking your products—it’s about creating an inviting, shoppable space that attracts customers and in return helps you drive more sales. Whether you're a seasoned vendor or new to the market scene, these essential tips will help you make the most of your booth setup so you can have a successful event!
Create a Visually Appealing Booth
First impressions matter, and your booth is no exception. A well-organized, aesthetically pleasing space will draw people in and encourage them to browse. Keep your setup open and inviting—avoid blocking entryways or cramming products into a small space.
Use height and layers: Instead of laying everything flat on a table, create levels with shelves, risers, or crates. This adds dimension and makes your display more dynamic.
Declutter: A messy or overcrowded booth can feel overwhelming. Keep your space neat and organized so customers can easily see what you offer.
Lighting: Since this event goes into the evening, consider adding battery-operated lights to highlight key products and create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Keep Your Display Fresh & Engaging
Your booth shouldn’t look the same all day—keeping it fresh will entice new and returning customers.
Rotate products throughout the event to make the booth feel new, even to passersby who have already walked through.
Fill empty spaces: If you’re selling out (yay!), shift items around to make the booth look full and vibrant.
Feature a bestseller or new arrival front and center to catch attention.
Make Pricing Clear & Accessible
One of the biggest customer turn-offs is unclear pricing. Many shoppers will walk away rather than ask how much something costs.
Use clearly marked price tags or signs for all products.
If you have a variety of similar items, consider grouping them with a single sign listing the price range.
Digital options like QR codes linking to pricing or product details can also be helpful!
Ensure Accessibility for All Shoppers
A welcoming booth is accessible to all potential customers, including those with mobility challenges.
Keep pathways clear for easy navigation, so your customers can easily get close enough to see everything you are offering.
Place popular items within reach, avoid putting everything too high, too low, or just out of reach.
Offer digital payment options for those who prefer to go cashless. By having digital payment options you make it even easier for customers to take home one of your amazing products!
Be Prepared: Vendor Must-Have Checklist
Nothing ruins a smooth setup faster than realizing you forgot an essential item. Here’s a quick checklist of booth essentials to keep on hand:
✅ Business Essentials: Business cards, product tags, price signs, promotional materials
✅ Sales & Payment: Till or cash box with change, POS system (like Square), receipt book (if needed) ✅ Display & Branding: Table, chair, canopy with weights, banner/signage, shelving or display stands
✅ Handy Tools: Scissors, tape, zip ties, safety pins, extra product packaging (bags, tissue paper)
✅ Comfort & Convenience: Water, snacks, sunscreen, portable phone charger.
Your booth is a reflection of your brand—make it welcoming, professional, and easy to shop. By focusing on visual appeal, organization, accessibility, and preparedness, you’ll set yourself up for a successful First Thursday market experience.
See you at the market, and happy selling!