Pop-up markets are one of the best ways for small handmade brands to connect directly with customers, showcase their products, and grow brand awareness. If you’re a maker of handmade soaps, soy candles, or other artisanal goods, selling at a pop-up is more than just a sales opportunity—it’s a chance to tell your story, build trust, and win loyal customers.
Whether you're just starting your small business or refining your market strategy, these practical tips will help you maximize every event and these are all based on my experience of taking part in various pop ups in last 2 years
1. Showcase Your Bestselling Products
It’s tempting to bring your entire product line, but more isn’t always better. Displaying too many handmade soaps or candles can overwhelm customers—especially those unfamiliar with your brand.
Pro Tip: Curate your top 10 products—your bestsellers, seasonal favorites, or items with high conversion rates. A focused display makes decision-making easier and keeps your booth clutter-free.
2. Design an Eye-Catching, On-Brand Display
First impressions matter. Your booth should:
-
Use height and layers to create depth
-
Feature clear, branded signage
-
Reflect your product vibe (e.g., clean, earthy, luxury, minimal)
Props like ceramic dishes, wooden trays, or natural fabrics enhance the handmade aesthetic. Don’t forget to include your logo, brand colors, and Instagram handle.
3. Offer Samples and Testers
Soaps and candles are sensory products. Customers want to touch, smell, and feel before buying.
-
Display unwrapped soap testers
-
Allow candle jars to be opened for sniffing
-
If possible, let them try lotions or scrubs (with hygienic applicators)
This “try-before-you-buy” strategy builds confidence and drives impulse purchases.
4. Be Payment-Ready
Don’t lose customers due to limited payment options.
✅ Accept UPI, mobile wallets, and QR code payments
✅ Bring a card swipe machine if possible
✅ Keep a cash float with adequate change
Providing digital receipts via WhatsApp or email also helps build trust and professionalism.
5. Bring Enough Carry Bags (Branded, If Possible)
Simple, branded packaging can elevate your customer experience. Always have:
-
Paper or cloth bags ready
-
Your brand details printed or stamped
-
Eco-friendly packaging that aligns with your values
Your carry bag becomes a walking ad for your business long after the event.
6. Engage Customers & Share Your Story
People don’t just buy products—they buy into stories. Share what inspired your journey into soap-making or candle crafting. Talk about your ingredients, process, or why you use soy wax and natural oils.
Even if they don’t purchase right away, hand them a business card or thank-you card with:
-
Website link
-
Instagram handle
-
WhatsApp number for custom orders
7. Highlight What Makes You Different
What’s your unique selling point?
-
Vegan, cruelty-free ingredients
-
Small batch, hand-poured candles
-
Skin-safe, paraben-free soaps
-
Gifts for sensitive skin or sustainable living
Make sure this message is visible across your booth, product tags, and conversations.
8. Create Gift Sets & Bundle Deals
Some customers are looking for gifting options. Others want value for money.
-
Offer curated gift boxes (e.g., “Self-Care Set” with a soap + candle + scrub)
-
Create festive or seasonal packaging
-
Add bundle discounts like “Buy 3, Get 1 Free”
These options make decision-making easier and boost your average order value.
9. Promote Your Presence Online
Build anticipation by promoting your pop-up on social media.
Before the event:
-
Share behind-the-scenes videos
-
Post a countdown or teaser
-
Use local hashtags (e.g., #GurgaonMakersMarket)
After the event:
-
Thank your visitors
-
Share customer photos or testimonials
-
Link to your online store for follow-ups
10. Accept That Not Every Pop-Up Will Be a Hit
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you’ll pick the wrong market. Footfall might be low, or the crowd may not match your product vibe. That’s okay.
💡 Failure is part of running a small business. Not every day will bring high sales—and that’s normal. What matters is learning from the experience, adjusting your strategy, and not letting one slow day shake your confidence.
Each event, even a quiet one, teaches you something about your market, pricing, customer behavior, or product presentation.
11. Learn and Adapt
Every event is a chance to improve. Track:
-
Which products sold the most
-
Which layout or signage drew the most attention
-
What questions or objections you received
Use this insight to tweak your inventory, display, and marketing strategy for your next pop-up.
Final Thoughts
Selling handmade soaps and candles at pop-up markets is a smart way to grow your small business organically. You get real-time customer feedback, direct sales, and priceless visibility for your brand.
Focus on:
-
Curating your best products
-
Creating an inviting, interactive setup
-
Offering convenient payment options
-
Sharing your authentic story
And most importantly—give yourself grace on the tough days. Pop-ups can be unpredictable, but each one adds to your learning curve and business growth.
✨ Ready to Elevate Your Gifting Game?
Explore our handcrafted range of natural soaps, soy candles, and artisan gift sets at www.mandyandco.in
Follow us on Instagram @mandyandco.in for product updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming market events!