30 Must-Attend Tradeshows for Handmade Sellers
- Admin
- Sep 4, 2024
- 8 min read
30 Must-Attend Tradeshows for Handmade Sellers: Get Your Wholesale Game On!
If you’re a handmade seller looking to expand your wholesale business and connect with retailers, attending the right tradeshows is a game-changer. These events offer an incredible opportunity to showcase your unique creations, network with buyers, and learn from other industry professionals. Here’s a list of the top 30 tradeshows, complete with where and when they happen, a little background, what I love about each, and links to apply. Time to get your booth ready and your charm game strong.
Ready to make your mark in the wholesale world? Check out these top tradeshows and find the ones that fit your vibe! Don’t forget to pack your best-selling products, business cards, and a big smile—because it’s showtime!
1. NY NOW
Where and When: New York, NY; Held twice a year (February & August)
Background: NY NOW is one of the largest wholesale tradeshows in the United States, featuring a wide range of handmade, artisanal, and unique products.
What I Like: The diversity of attendees, from boutique owners to major department store buyers. Great for exposure to a broad range of potential retailers.
Website to Apply: NY NOW
2. Atlanta Market
Where and When: Atlanta, GA; January and July
Background: Atlanta Market is a comprehensive marketplace for home decor, gifts, and handmade products, attracting thousands of buyers from around the world.
What I Like: The variety of products and the high volume of buyers, from independent boutiques to large retailers, makes it ideal for handmade sellers looking to expand their reach.
Website to Apply: Atlanta Market
3. MAGIC Las Vegas
Where and When: Las Vegas, NV; February and August
Background: MAGIC is one of the most prominent fashion and apparel trade shows, but it also features a large section for gifts, handmade items, and artisanal products.
What I Like: The sheer size of the show and the global reach of its attendees provide massive exposure opportunities for handmade sellers.
Website to Apply: MAGIC Las Vegas
4. American Handcrafted
Where and When: Philadelphia, PA; February
Background: This show focuses on handmade American-made products, attracting retailers who prioritize high-quality, locally crafted items.
What I Like: The intimate setting allows for meaningful connections with buyers who are specifically looking for handmade goods.
Website to Apply: American Handcrafted
5. Craft + Design
Where and When: Richmond, VA; November
Background: A curated show that highlights high-quality contemporary craft, fine handmade goods, and art from across the country.
What I Like: It’s juried, meaning it attracts serious buyers who are genuinely interested in quality craftsmanship.
Website to Apply: Craft + Design
6. One of a Kind Show
Where and When: Chicago, IL; December
Background: This show is known for its exceptional handcrafted goods, featuring artists and makers from across North America.
What I Like: The festive atmosphere and the blend of retail and wholesale buyers provide a dynamic environment for sales and networking.
Website to Apply: One of a Kind Show
7. Las Vegas Market
Where and When: Las Vegas, NV; January and July
Background: A comprehensive market for home décor, gifts, and handmade products, attracting thousands of buyers from around the world.
What I Like: The variety of buyers, from small boutiques to large retailers, makes it a versatile show for different types of sellers.
Website to Apply: Las Vegas Market
8. Renegade Craft Fair
Where and When: Various locations (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and more); Multiple times a year
Background: Renegade Craft Fair is known for its modern approach to craft fairs, focusing on independent makers and artists.
What I Like: The vibe is very relaxed and fun, with a younger, more modern crowd that appreciates unique, handcrafted goods.
Website to Apply: Renegade Craft
9. American Craft Council (ACC) Show
Where and When: Various locations (Baltimore, Atlanta, St. Paul); Multiple times a year
Background: The ACC Show is a well-respected event that has been promoting craft artists for decades.
What I Like: This show has a strong reputation for its high standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Website to Apply: American Craft Council
10. Unique Markets
Where and When: Los Angeles, CA; May & December
Background: Focused on supporting small businesses and independent makers, Unique Markets offers a platform for sellers to connect directly with buyers.
What I Like: The vibe is creative and supportive, and it’s great for networking with both buyers and other makers.
Website to Apply: Unique Markets
11. The Indie Craft Experience (ICE)
Where and When: Atlanta, GA; Multiple times a year
Background: ICE is a smaller, boutique-style craft market that supports handmade artists from across the Southeast.
What I Like: It has a cozy, community-driven atmosphere where sellers and buyers build genuine connections.
Website to Apply: Indie Craft Experience
12. Shoppe Object
Where and When: New York, NY; February and August
Background: A semi-annual trade show that curates a boutique-like experience, focusing on unique and handmade products.
What I Like: It’s highly curated, which means buyers are serious and aligned with high-quality, well-designed products.
Website to Apply: Shoppe Object
13. Handmade in America Market
Where and When: Asheville, NC; June
Background: This show focuses on handmade, high-quality goods, particularly those made in the USA.
What I Like: It’s small but targeted, and buyers are specifically looking for locally crafted products.
Website to Apply: Handmade in America Market
14. Philly Art and Craft Show
Where and When: Philadelphia, PA; November
Background: A juried show that attracts both local and national talent, focusing on fine art and handmade crafts.
What I Like: The show’s focus on quality craftsmanship attracts discerning buyers who appreciate artisan products.
Website to Apply: Philly Art and Craft Show
15. CraftBoston
Where and When: Boston, MA; December
Background: A curated exhibition showcasing contemporary craft in a variety of media.
What I Like: The juried nature ensures high-quality exhibitors, making it a great place to connect with serious buyers.
Website to Apply: CraftBoston
16. The Maker’s Fair
Where and When: Various Locations; Dates vary
Background: A community-driven event that supports local makers, featuring DIY, handmade, and one-of-a-kind goods.
What I Like: The relaxed atmosphere and strong community support create a unique environment for sellers.
Website to Apply: The Maker’s Fair
17. American Craft Exposition (ACE)
Where and When: Evanston, IL; August
Background: ACE features artists from all over the U.S. who create high-end, handmade crafts.
What I Like: The event is highly curated, with a focus on quality and originality, attracting buyers who appreciate artisan craftsmanship.
Website to Apply: American Craft Exposition
18. Handmade in the Heartland
Where and When: Kansas City, MO; May
Background: A regional show that focuses on supporting local artisans and makers in the Midwest.
What I Like: It’s a fantastic place to connect with local buyers and grow your presence in the Midwest market.
Website to Apply: Handmade in the Heartland
19. Contemporary Craft Fair
Where and When: Santa Fe, NM; March
Background: Focuses on contemporary, innovative craft, providing a platform for modern artisans.
What I Like: The emphasis on contemporary work draws a niche crowd of buyers interested in modern and innovative handmade goods.
Website to Apply: Contemporary Craft Fair
20. Artisan Resource @ NY NOW
Where and When: New York, NY; February and August
Background: A part of the NY NOW show, this section is dedicated to showcasing handmade, artisanal, and ethically produced goods from around the world.
What I Like: The focus on ethical and sustainable sourcing attracts conscientious buyers, making it a great space for handmade sellers who emphasize these values.
Website to Apply: Artisan Resource @ NY NOW
21. California Gift Show
Where and When: Los Angeles, CA; January and July
Background: A popular regional show focusing on gifts, handmade goods, and unique products. It’s a great place for West Coast makers to showcase their products to local and regional buyers.
What I Like: The casual atmosphere and California vibe attract a variety of buyers, from boutiques to larger retailers, making it ideal for connecting with the right audience.
Website to Apply: California Gift Show
22. Stylemax
Where and When: Chicago, IL; January, March, June, and October
Background: While known primarily for fashion, Stylemax also has sections dedicated to handmade accessories, gifts, and home goods.
What I Like: The consistent, multiple shows throughout the year allow for frequent engagement with buyers and plenty of opportunities to showcase new seasonal collections.
Website to Apply: Stylemax
23. ACRE Las Vegas
Where and When: Las Vegas, NV; March
Background: ACRE Las Vegas focuses on showcasing American and Canadian handmade products, from jewelry to home décor.
What I Like: Its location in Las Vegas attracts a diverse range of buyers, from small boutique owners to larger retailers, all looking for unique handmade items.
Website to Apply: ACRE Las Vegas
24. New England Made Giftware & Specialty Food Show
Where and When: Portland, ME; March
Background: A regional show that exclusively showcases New England-based artisans, focusing on gifts, handmade goods, and specialty foods.
What I Like: The strong local support for New England artisans creates a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded makers and buyers.
Website to Apply: New England Made Show
25. Pacific Northwest Art & Fine Craft Show
Where and When: Seattle, WA; August
Background: A juried show focusing on fine art and high-quality craft, showcasing work from the Pacific Northwest region.
What I Like: The emphasis on art and craft attracts a discerning audience who appreciates high-quality, handmade goods.
Website to Apply: Pacific Northwest Art & Fine Craft Show
26. Artists & Fleas
Where and When: New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Washington, D.C.; Multiple times a year
Background: Known for its hip, eclectic vibe, Artists & Fleas brings together independent makers and curious buyers looking for unique, handmade, and vintage goods.
What I Like: It’s a fantastic event for networking with younger, trend-conscious buyers and getting immediate feedback on products.
Website to Apply: Artists & Fleas
27. Brooklyn Designs
Where and When: Brooklyn, NY; May
Background: A curated event celebrating Brooklyn’s vibrant design scene, featuring a wide range of handmade goods from local artists and designers.
What I Like: The show’s focus on Brooklyn-based talent creates a strong sense of community and attracts local retailers looking to stock unique, locally made goods.
Website to Apply: Brooklyn Designs
28. Fine Furnishings Show
Where and When: Providence, RI; October
Background: A juried show that features a range of handmade furnishings, accessories, and fine crafts.
What I Like: The focus on high-quality, handcrafted furnishings and décor attracts a discerning buyer looking for unique pieces.
Website to Apply: Fine Furnishings Show
29. Contemporary Craft Market
Where and When: Pasadena, CA; October
Background: A long-standing craft show focusing on contemporary, innovative handmade goods from artists around the country.
What I Like: The high-caliber exhibitors and the show’s reputation for quality make it an excellent place to connect with serious buyers.
Website to Apply: Contemporary Craft Market
30. Sunapee Craft Festival
Where and When: Newbury, NH; August
Background: A juried show located in scenic New Hampshire, featuring high-quality handmade crafts and fine art.
What I Like: The beautiful setting and supportive community make it a pleasant and rewarding experience for exhibitors and attendees alike.
Website to Apply: Sunapee Craft Festival
These tradeshows provide fantastic opportunities for handmade sellers to showcase their products, connect with retailers, expand their wholesale business, and check out the competition. Each show has its unique flavor and audience, so your adventure will be filled with great connections and booming sales.
Remember, each tradeshow offers unique opportunities to network, build relationships, and present your handmade products to the right audience. Preparing well, from setting up an eye-catching booth to crafting compelling pitches, can make all the difference in turning these opportunities into lasting partnerships and sales growth. So, pack your bags, polish your displays, and get ready to shine.
Question for You:
Which tradeshow are you most excited to attend this year? Or is there one you think we should add to the list? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
By choosing the right tradeshows and showcasing your handmade goods effectively, you can elevate your business to new heights. Good luck, and happy tradeshows! 🌟
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