As we all know, some shows are better than others.
The issue becomes determining the point at which a show becomes
profitable. Some shows are no brainers. If you don't make
your table, you've definitely lost money. On the other hand, if
you make 10 times your table, you've found a winner. But what
about those shows that fall into the middle ground?
You can make your table and still lose money on a show.
After all, you have money tied up in your product. You probably
have to double the price of your table to break even just on
costs. That doesn't include any money for labor - not in making
the jewelry or staffing the show. Obviously, you want some pay for
all your hard work so doubling your table costs is probably still not
acceptable.
You should keep track of your time. Figure out how
long it takes you to make the jewelry, price it, drive to the show,
staff your booth, drive home and unpack the car. All of this labor
should be added to the cost of the show. It can raise your break
even point to four times the table costs or more. If it's a 3 day
show with low table costs, you'll need a higher ratio of sales/show
costs. Likewise, a high priced booth at a show that only
runs 6 hours may give you a great profit if you triple your costs.
Once you figure out if you've made a profit on your
table, you can determine if the show is worthwhile. There are
cases where you won't make money on the show but will still find it
worthwhile. For example, if you have low show sales but book some
home shows, that show may be a keeper.
The point at which you determine a show is cost effective
is somewhat subjective. However, I think it's important to sit
down and figure out your true earnings at every show you do. That
way you are making an informed decision for the future.