How to Survive the Heat During Summer Markets & Vendor Events

Now that summer is here, many small business owners like us are gearing up for bustling markets and vendor events. These occasions are fantastic for connecting with customers and showcasing products, but the heat can be a significant challenge. Here are some practical tips to help your small business thrive in the summer heat while keeping you, your team, and your products in top shape.

Build Pre-Event Hype

Use your social media platforms to build excitement before the event. Share posts about your preparations, any special offers, and behind-the-scenes looks at what you’ll be bringing. The more people who are interested, the more worth it it will be to stand out in the sun for so long.

Pack The Night Before

It’s best to pack your products and materials the night before an event. This allows for easier set up without having to pack, unload, set up, tear down, and unpack all in the same day. It is also great in case you forget to pack something because you’ll have the chance to grab it before you leave.

Get Plenty of Sleep

It is very important to get a full nights sleep before your big market, especially one that is outside in the heat. You’re not going to be able to do math well and efficiently while running on fumes. By caring for your body, you are setting yourself up for a successful market.

Pack Efficiently

Pack smart and light. Bring only what you need and arrange your products and supplies for easy access. This will allow set up and tear down to get done more quickly.

Pack a First Aid Kit

Always have a basic first aid kit on hand. Include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications you or your team may need. You never know when it will come in handy.

Arrive Early

By arriving early to set up your booth, you can be finished before the heat peaks. This also gives you time to make any necessary adjustments and you won’t have to run around scrambling to finish setting up.

Dress Appropriately

Wear light colored, breathable fabrics that wick away moisture. Comfortable shoes are also a must for long hours on your feet.

Drink Plenty of Water

Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider bringing a cooler filled with bottled water or electrolyte drinks. Offering free water or refreshing beverages can also be a great way to attract customers to your booth.

Eat Well and Bring Snacks

Before any big event, you should eat a well-balanced breakfast and lunch. Eat meals that will provide proper nutrition and bring snacks in case you get hungry throughout the day.

Shade and Shelter Yourself

Invest in a sturdy canopy or tent to provide shade. We like to add sidewalls for extra protection from the sun and wind during the market.

Please note that with the sidewalls up, it does block a good bit of air flow into your booth so investing in multiple fans may really help you and your visitors to stay cool.

Cooling Accessories Can Help Stay Cool

By investing in a portable fan or misting fan, you can help keep the temperature down in your booth. We use a Ryobi brand portable, rechargeable fan and it is great for helping us stay cool. Honestly, having more than one fan would be even better and we will eventually be grabbing another fan.

Cooling towels or neck wraps can be lifesavers and are pretty inexpensive. Keep a few in your cooler to use throughout the day whenever you’re feeling too warm.

Use Sun Protection

Keep sunscreen and lip balm with SPF at your booth and don’t forget to reapply frequently, even if you’re in the shade. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Plan Accordingly For Heat-Sensitive Items

If you sell items like handmade candles, soaps, or certain types of art that can be damaged by heat, plan accordingly. Use insulated containers or coolers to store these products and display only a few at a time.

Protect Your Products from Direct Sunlight

By protecting your products from direct sunlight, you are minimizing the risk of sun fading or damage. You can use UV-protective covers or materials to shield your items if necessary.

Offer Freebies and Giveaways

If possible, hand out small, summer-related freebies like branded fans, sunglasses, or sunscreen samples. These can enhance your brand’s visibility and provide practical use for attendees. It can get expensive to purchase these branded materials so if that’s not possible, try handing out free water in your booth.

Live Updates

During the event, post live updates, photos, and stories. Highlighting your booth’s location and any live activities can draw more visitors. Share these posts in local groups for maximum visibility.

With the right preparation, your small business can not only survive but thrive at summer markets and vendor events. Staying cool and hydrated, protecting your products, and engaging with customers in creative ways will ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in making your summer events both productive and enjoyable.

For a list of market tips we have put together, check out our blog “Vendor Event Tips You Should Know Before Your Next Pop-Up.”

Need help finding local markets to sell at? Our blog “Tips On Finding Local Events To Sell Your Products At This Summer” can help!

Stay cool and happy selling!

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