Handbag pop-up and market stall

Market visitors, tourists and gift shoppers who like to browse and buy on the spot.

You sell at retail prices above your wholesale or handmade cost, after paying booth fees for each event. Good events and repeat customers matter most.

• Friendly selling face to face
• Display and merchandising
• Handling cash and card payments

• Check with your state for a sales tax permit, as many require one for in-person sales
• Some cities and markets ask for a vendor permit or business license, so check with your city or county
• Weather can cancel or ruin a market day
• Check insurance, as many events require general liability coverage from vendors

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on your stock, display setup, payment equipment and any stall fees. Starting with a smaller range of bags can help control spending.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $3,500, depending on which markets you attend, your stock and your pricing. The low end assumes roughly 10 hours a week. Weather can cancel or spoil a market day.

Check with your state for a sales tax permit, as many require one for in-person sales. Check with your city or county about a vendor permit or business license, and whether events require you to carry general liability insurance.