We’re excited to announce that this year’s Christmas Craft Market is happening again on December 7th! If you’re a creative maker with unique hand-crafted items to sell, we’d love to have you join us. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your creations to a festive and enthusiastic crowd!
Elevation Craft Market FAQ
Why does Elevation host a Craft Market?
This event evolved as a way to encourage and celebrate the creative endeavours of those within or connected to our community, and build relationships between people who share a love of making things, or purchasing ultra local/handmade! We believe that “making”, in all its forms, is something that brings people joy, encourages wellness, and can be a way of connecting us with each other and with Creator God.
What is the date this year?
This year the Elevation Craft Market will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 1-3 pm. This means the set-up window for vendors will begin at 12 pm until the market opens at 1 pm, and tear down from 3-3:30 pm.
What is the cost to participate as a vendor?
Our fee for a table is $20 flat rate, OR 10% of your total sales, whichever number is LOWER. That means, if you don’t sell anything, your fee would be zero, making it fairly low risk for many vendors who don’t do this often or are just testing the waters for their products. It also means that if you sell a lot, your maximum fee is capped at $20, so you won’t end up having to pay more than that, even if your products sell very well. Also, ALL of the money collected from vendor fees goes directly to a charitable initiative that Elevation is connected to. For example, last year the funds went to purchasing supplies for kits to distribute to those experiencing homelessness in our region.
Do I have to attend Elevation to be a vendor?
Our goal is for vendors to either be attendees of Elevation, or relationally connected to someone who is (e.g., friend, family member, coworker, neighbour).
Do I have to be a “professional” maker in order to be a vendor?
Definitely not! Most of the people who sell at our event only do this as an occasional hobby, some only make items for this specific event. We do of course also have some very talented people who do this as their job, or for extra income on top of other careers, but do not let that deter you! This is also a perfect event for those who are interested in the idea of selling at local craft markets in general and just want to “test the waters” of their products with a fun, low-risk type event.
What kinds of things do people sell?
All kinds of things! Our only rule is that it must be handmade, so that means we don’t accept tables for direct marketing companies (e.g., Tupperware, Norwex, DoTerra, etc.). Otherwise, it’s a really wide variety; some examples from past markets are: bath bombs, quilts, painted wooden signs, woodworking items, seasonal decor, weaving, pottery, baked goods, jams/preserves, greeting cards, jewellery, candles, honey, knitting/crocheting, handsewn items.
What kind of shopping traffic should I expect?
We don’t advertise this sale really, except for creating a Public Event page on Facebook . Members of the Elevation community can share the link to this event electronically (viewable even to those not on Facebook). We also llink to the event on our church website and post about it on our social media channels. So, most of the people who come to shop are either attendees of the community itself, or their friends and family. We’ve always had a pretty good turnout, and vendors have found it worth their time. In general though, people are often looking for small personal gifts or stocking stuffers, and it would be a good idea to have at least some of your items priced between $5-$20, to ensure that you will make some sales.
How much space do you get to display your products?
We don’t have a large enough set of tables that are all exactly the same size, so there may be some variability. Tables that are the most plentiful are 6 foot long, plastic rectangular tables. We also have some round and square tables that are a bit smaller, and usually those with a smaller display will not mind using these. If you have a specific need (larger items, or proximity to a power outlet) please reach out in advance and we will do our best to ensure this. We have not had any issues with meeting all vendor display needs in the past. Otherwise, tables will be selected by vendors themselves at set-up time, in a first-come, first-served manner, so come early to ensure maximum choice. You are also welcome to use the wall behind, or put up (safe/stable) freestanding structures beside or in front of your table as well. The tables are provided bare so if you want a tablecloth or other things to cover the table, please bring that along from home.
Can kids also make things and sell?
Yes, kids are welcome! In the past we’ve had young people selling bath products, sewn items, and seasonal greeting cards. Our youth group also usually has a table selling items that the youth (Grade 6-12) have made.
How do I apply?
Please fill out the form below, expressing your interest to be a vendor at our event.
