Alright, let’s talk about it — the age-old, often-whispered, sometimes-heated debate in the handmade world:
Should you offer discounts at a craft market?

You’ve seen both sides, right?

The vendor down the aisle doing a “3 for $20” soap special with a line of eager buyers.
And the one with a bold sign: “Handmade means no discounts — this isn’t Walmart.”

So who’s right?

Here’s the truth, friend: it depends. And I know that’s not the satisfying answer you were hoping for — but hang with me. Grab your matcha or cold brew, and let’s unpack it like we’re talking shop after a market.

🚫 The Case Against Discounting

Let’s start with the obvious (and important) argument:
You’re not a flea market. You’re a handmade brand.

Your work is not mass-produced. You source materials, test batches, pour candles, stitch seams, wrap packages, answer emails, set up booths, and go home with sore feet. That labor? It’s real. It’s valuable.

So when someone asks, “Can I get a deal if I buy two?” and you already have razor-thin margins, it’s understandable if it makes you bristle.

Discounting too freely can:

• Undercut the perceived value of your work

• Train buyers to expect sales

• Eat into already small profits

• Devalue the handmade space as a whole

And if we’re being blunt? Some markets just aren’t your customer base.
If you’re set up next to people selling $5 sunglasses and knock-off handbags, you can’t expect everyone to understand why your handwoven tea towels are $40.

That doesn’t mean you’re overpriced — it just means you’re in the wrong setting.

💸 The Case For Discounting — Strategically

Now here’s the other side: sometimes, a smartly structured discount isn’t devaluing — it’s encouraging.

Humans love incentives. And at in-person events, we’re often working with impulse shoppers who are looking for a “treat” but don’t always know how to engage.

Discounts — when done with intention — can:

• Increase average order value

• Help move older or seasonal stock

• Incentivize bundling

• Give browsers a reason to become buyers

Examples that work well:

• “Buy 2, get 10% off” — great for items with lower price points like stickers, earrings, or soap

• “Market Special: Any 3 for $25” — clear, simple, and encourages more volume

• “End-of-Day Deals” — a few select items on markdown in the last hour to lighten your load

You’re not giving away your work — you’re crafting a reason for someone to say “yes” a little faster.

Just don’t do it from a place of desperation.
Discount with clarity, not panic.

🤝 But What If You’re Vending at a Real Flea Market?

Let’s be real — some events are bargain-focused. If you’re vending at a flea market or an unjuried local fair that pulls more garage sale traffic than artisan buyers…

You have two choices:

1. Hold your ground and educate shoppers on the value of handmade (but don’t expect big numbers).

2. Bring a discount bin or “market-only” section with entry-level pricing that meets the crowd where they’re at — without slashing your whole line.

It’s okay to adapt without compromising your brand. You can protect your pricing integrity and find creative ways to connect with customers.

✨ The Hybrid Approach: Value-Add Over Discount

Want to encourage buying without discounting your core product? Try offering value instead of cutting price.

Ideas:

• Free mini sample with purchase

• Small gift for orders over $50

• Buy 2, get a free sticker

• Exclusive market-only product (limited quantity)

This preserves your pricing while giving shoppers that “bonus” feeling we all secretly crave.

Final Thoughts (From Your Coffee Date Mentor Vibes)

Here’s the thing:
Discounting isn’t evil. It’s a tool. But like any tool, it works best when you know why you’re using it.

If you’re discounting because you feel guilty about your pricing, pause.
If you’re discounting because you want to push volume strategically — great.
If you’re vending at a market full of budget buyers, don’t beat yourself up for adjusting.

There’s no one-size-fits-all here. You’re allowed to protect your margins and test what works. You’re allowed to be a high-end brand with zero discounts. You’re allowed to run a booth full of bundles and seasonal offers.

Just be intentional. Be confident. And never forget — you set the tone for how your work is valued.

Want help building a booth strategy that supports both your pricing and your customer flow?
Check out our resources for merchandising, bundling, and display solutions that make you look like the pro you are.

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