Tips for Artists & Crafters

The Mount Dora Craft fair receives more than 600 applications to fill 425 spaces each year. Here are some ways to get an edge on the competition.

Photos

All applications require photos.

Good photos representing your product are important but so is a good shot of your booth set up. If it comes down to choosing one of 2 similar type exhibitors, the better booth set up will have a better shot of being Approved.

Having a photo of YOU making your product is huge. 95% of all exhibitors who show photos of themselves working in their shop or even better,  demonstrate live will be accepted.  

Product

Everyone likes to think  ” There is nothing like what I have”… Prove it! Unusual and Unique exhibitors get high marks at our events.

Make sure  you tell us in your description so that we don’t gloss over your photos and move on to the next application.  

 

If you are applying to a themed event such as the Blueberry Festival or Plant and Garden Fair, explain how your product ties into the theme of the event. Closely related items will give exhibitors an edge over other applicants.    

Attitude

Requesting a certain street or area at an event is fine. We are well aware of needs to be in the sun, shade etc but applicants who DEMAND to be on a certain street or area just because they think their product deserves to be showcased above everyone may not even make it to Approved. Of course we will try to accommodate everyone’s wishes but if we don’t have any open spaces and it’s a “Donnelly St or Die” remark, you’ll probably be moved to the Wait List.  

Obey the Rules

If you are audited and have items that were not noted in your application, you risk being rejected in the future.

NEVER BREAK DOWN EARLY before the published end time of any festival . You WILL be blacklisted from future events.

Selection Process

Festivals with Janet utilizes a range of standard considerations when evaluating vendor applications. These criteria are intended to support the overall quality, balance, and success of each festival while maintaining a positive experience for attendees, vendors, and the surrounding community.

Vendor applications are generally reviewed based on the following factors:

  • Product Type and Event Fit: Alignment of the vendor’s products with the theme, character, and audience of the specific event.
  • Category Balance: Consideration of the overall mix of vendors to avoid unnecessary duplication and to promote variety across similar product categories.
  • Space and Logistical Constraints: Availability of space, site layout limitations, and operational considerations specific to each event.
  • Application Completeness and Timeliness: Submission of complete and accurate application materials within applicable timeframes.
  • Licensing and Compliance: Confirmation that vendors meet applicable regulatory, licensing, and permitting requirements.
  • Prior Participation and Performance: Past participation in events, including adherence to event guidelines and overall professionalism.
  • Operational Readiness: Ability to meet setup, safety, and operational requirements for the event.
  • Community and Event Considerations: Consideration of the broader event environment, including the goal of supporting a diverse and engaging marketplace.

Please note that vendor selection is a holistic process, and no single factor is determinative. Criteria may vary depending on the specific needs and circumstances of each individual event.