Homeware market stall and pop-ups

Market shoppers, gift buyers and locals looking for unique pieces for their homes.

Retail markup on goods sold, plus vendor-day sales at busy events. Repeat customers can be moved to an online shop or email list.

• Buying and merchandising
• Friendly selling face to face
• Packing and setting up a display
• Handling cash and card payments

• Sales tax permit or seller's permit from your state, and any city or county vendor license, check locally
• General liability insurance, which many markets require
• Weather, slow event days and vendor fees can eat into profit
• Storage space and a vehicle large enough to carry stock and display

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how much stock you buy, the display and setup you need, and the vehicle and storage you already have.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many markets and pop-ups you attend, your product range and the weather. Plan for at least about 10 hours a week, and remember vendor fees reduce profit.

Check whether your state requires a sales tax permit or seller's permit, and whether your city or county requires a vendor license. Also check general liability insurance, which many markets require, and each market's vendor rules and fees.