Getting your handmade products into a gift shop or vendor market is a big opportunity, but also a competitive one. Whether you’re a jewelry maker, skincare formulator, or artisan of any kind, preparation is key. Before you apply to sell in a store or market, take the time to make sure your brand is polished and your business is ready to grow.

Here’s what you need to know and do before applying to be a vendor.

Step 1: Ask Yourself the Right Questions

Before diving into applications, take a step back and evaluate your brand. Ask yourself:

• What is my niche?
  

• What makes my brand different?
  

• Is my branding professional and cohesive?
  

• Am I ready to invest time and energy into growing my business?
  

Once you can confidently answer these, you’ll be in a better position to find shops and markets that align with your goals and your aesthetic. For example, if your brand focuses on minimalist jewelry, you’ll want to target shops that value curated, modern pieces. If you offer self-care products, look for boutiques that cater to wellness-oriented customers.

 Need help finding a space to get started? Check out:
Top 5 Places to Sell Handmade Items Locally in Toronto

Step 2: Understand Your Pricing

One of the most important things to get right before applying is your pricing. Retailers need to see that you understand margins—and that you’ve priced your products with profit and sustainability in mind.

Here’s a basic formula to follow:

• Total Cost = Materials + Production Wages + Overhead Expenses
  

• Base Price = Total Cost + Profit
  

• Retail Price = Base Price + (Base Price × Markup Percentage)
  
  

Most shops will add a 50–60% markup, so your prices need to work for both you and the retailer.

 For a deeper dive, check out:
How to Price a Handmade Product

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials

Once you’ve dialed in your branding and pricing, it’s time to prepare your vendor application. Here’s a checklist of what to do before you hit “submit.”

Things to Do Before Applying

1. Research the Shop or Market

• Visit in person or check them out online.
  

• Learn about their customer base, price point, and product style.
  

• Make sure your product fits their aesthetic and vibe.
  
  

2. Refine Your Product Line

• Ensure your products are cohesive and well-branded.
  

• Think about seasonality, giftability, and packaging.
  

• Focus on bestsellers and items with strong visual appeal.
  
  

3. Prepare Your Marketing Materials

• Create a line sheet or vendor pitch that includes:
  

• Product photos
  

• Descriptions
  

• Pricing
  

• Your brand story and logo
  

• Social media handles and contact info
  
  

4. Use Professional Product Photography

• Clear, styled photos help your products stand out.
  

• Good visuals can make or break your application.

Here is a blog explaining why having good photos are important: Reasons Why Good Product Photos Matter

5. Gather Business Essentials

• Have a registered business name and tax number (if applicable).
  

• Set up invoicing and inventory tracking tools.
  
  

6. Understand Vendor Agreements

• Read the fine print around:
  

• Commissions
  

• Payment terms
  

• Setup and takedown policies
  

• Restocking expectations
  
  

Step 4: Know What You’re Signing Up For

Even once you're accepted, there are a few key things to be aware of. Vendor relationships work best when expectations are clear on both sides.

Things to Know Before You Apply 

Vendor Types:

• Consignment: You’re paid after the item sells.
  

• Wholesale: The shop buys your inventory upfront.
  

• Rental/Booth Fee: You pay for space and keep 100% of your sales.
  
  

Understand the Shop’s Audience:

• Are their customers tourists, locals, or niche shoppers?
  

• Tailor your product offering accordingly.
  
  

Be Aware of Sales Expectations:

• Some stores require minimum monthly sales or rotate stock seasonally.
  
  

Manage Inventory Responsibly:

• Stay organized and be ready to restock promptly when needed.
  
  

Be Prepared to Promote:

• Markets and shops may expect you to help promote events via social media or email.
  
  

Meet Presentation Standards:

• Your product display may need to match the store’s aesthetic or branding guidelines.
  
  

Consider Insurance:

• Some markets or retail spaces require vendors to have liability insurance, especially for in-person selling.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Becoming a vendor in a gift shop or maker’s market can open new doors for your small business, but only if you treat it like the professional opportunity it is. Do your homework, fine-tune your branding, and apply with confidence. The more prepared you are, the more likely you are to get that “yes.”

 

Checkout the Downloadable Checklist: Readiness Checklist

Become a vendor at ELM-Ethical Local Market

 

References

Made Urban. The Right Way to Price a Handmade Product (Step-by-Step Formula). Made Urban, 2021, https://www.madeurban.com/blog/how-to-price-a-handmade-product/

Piccio, Art. "3 Focused Reasons Good Product Photos Matter." UCreative, 30 Mar. 2023, https://www.ucreative.com/features/reasons-good-product-photos-matter/.