If you’ve ever packed your booth, set up at a local market, and left at the end of the day wondering “Why didn’t I sell more?”—you’re not alone.

Market days can be unpredictable, but there are small, tangible changes you can make to your setup and selling strategy that can result in higher sales, more connections, and a better overall experience. Whether you’re prepping for a Saturday pop-up or a Sunday street fair, here are 10 easy ways to boost sales this weekend—based on real strategies that actually work.

 

1. Create Clear, Visible Pricing

Unclear or hidden pricing is one of the top reasons customers walk away without buying. People often won’t ask—they’ll just move on.

Use legible, consistent signage with prices and product names. Grouping signs (like "Earrings – $28" above a tray) can be faster than tagging each item.

Real Life Example: According to Square’s seller insights, booths with clear signage had a 35% higher conversion rate than those without. (Source: Square Retail Blog)

 

2. Offer a “Market Special” or Bundle

Even small incentives can nudge buyers. Try a simple deal like “Buy 2, Get 1 25% Off” or “Free mini with $40 purchase.”

Keep it visible with signage and be ready to explain it in 1 sentence. Customers love the feeling of getting a good deal, especially in-person.

Example: A soap maker in Austin shared on TikTok that her weekend bundle deal (“3 for $20”) helped her sell through 90% of her stock at a market that was previously “meh.”

 

3. Add Height to Your Display

If your table is flat, you’re losing valuable attention. Add risers, crates, or display stands to lift your products and create visual flow.

Height = visual hierarchy = increased customer dwell time.

Example: @northwoodssupply, a woodworker and market vendor, uses simple $5 crates from Michaels to create vertical product groupings and reported a 2x increase in customer engagement after redoing his setup.

 

4. Make Eye Contact and Say Hello

We get it—selling can feel awkward. But a warm smile and a simple, “Hi, feel free to look around!” breaks the ice without pressure.

People buy from people. And you don’t have to “sell”—you just have to be present.

 

5. Use Tiered Pricing

Offer multiple price points so shoppers can still support your business, even if they’re on a tight budget. Think:

• Under $10 impulse items

• $25–$40 core products

• $60+ premium or giftable items

This increases your chance of landing some kind of sale from almost every type of shopper.

 

6. Accept All Major Payment Types

Do you accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Venmo, and cash? If not, you’re likely leaving money on the table.

Today’s shoppers expect convenience. Apps like Square, Zettle, and Stripe Terminal make this easy and low-cost.

 

7. Tell Your Story in 15 Seconds or Less

Not everyone will stop to read long signs. Create a quick, clear tagline:

• “Small batch skincare inspired by the PNW”

• “Handwoven goods made from natural fibers”

Use a sign and repeat it in person. When people get it fast, they’re more likely to buy.

 

8. Display Bestsellers Front and Center

Don’t hide your hero products in the back. Put your top-selling or most giftable items front and eye-level where they can work for you.

Not sure what those are? Take 5 minutes to track what sells best at every market moving forward.

 

9. Prep a “Fast Table” for Quick Shoppers

Create a section with grab-and-go items under $25. Display them clearly with signage like “Perfect Gifts Under $25” or “Fast Favorites.”

This helps hesitant buyers make quick decisions without too much thought.

 

10. Follow Up After the Market

Collect emails with a simple QR code or signup sheet. Offer something in return—like a small discount, a free shipping code, or a digital download.

Your next sale might come from someone who didn’t buy today—but loved your work.

 

Final Thoughts

Markets are a blend of art and psychology. The more you understand what drives buying behavior (clear pricing, tiered options, visible bestsellers), the more you can guide shoppers to a “yes.”

Test one or two of these tips this weekend—and take notes. Then refine, repeat, and keep growing.

You’ve got this.