1. Branding and Signage

The best market tents attract guests, even from a distance. Think in 360 degrees and consider all the angles visitors might view your tent. Remember, all sides of your Mastertent are printable. 

When it comes to signage, opt for clean and simple fonts and colors. Clear signs allow customers to identify your brand and products quickly. Your brand will gain instant credibility, while educating customers, with professional, eye-catching designs.

Some markets require white tents for uniformity among vendors. Even with that limitation, you can differentiate your booth with printed flags or banners. Accessories like sidewalls and flags also make it easy for visitors to understand your product selection at a glance. For example, try featuring your menu or product selection on a skimmable banner attached to your tent.

Customers might be approaching from one or more directions depending on the market. Be thoughtful about how you set up your tent to accommodate the flow of visitors. For example, consider: Will customers enter your tent? Or, will you serve them from a counter?

Various layouts have advantages for different types of merchandise. A counter-style setup puts products front and center for customers to see and purchase quickly, while also allowing space for backstock or storage. Alternatively, a U-shaped or I-shaped layout offers a more immersive experience, with expanded product display areas. 

The right tent layout for your business also depends on the surrounding vendors. For example, side-by-side booths will restrict customers from approaching from the side of your tent. Conversely, a multi-tent setup featuring aisles between tents may be appropriate for large-scale applications. Mastertent sidewalls, secured with heavy-duty velcro, offer the flexibility to adapt your setup from market to market.

Like an effective storefront window, your tent should beacon people inside from afar. Adding dimmable LED lights or string lights goes a long way toward making your tent feel welcoming. When it comes to your displays, think beyond your products. Decor accessories, like plants or on-brand decorations, add a personal touch. 

Outdoor markets are subject to unpredictable weather conditions. Simple steps can make your tent feel like an oasis among the other booths in less-than-ideal temperatures. In the warmer months, fans or extra shade create a more comfortable atmosphere. Consider mounting a mobile heater or two for added warmth in cold weather.

Landing on the right balance of products is key. Too many items for sale, and you’ll overwhelm your visitors. Too few products, and you’ll make it easy for guests to pass by your booth. A variety of items at a range of price points allows you to appeal to more customers. 

It’s a good idea to position your best-selling products in a place of prominence, so they’re easy to spot. Also, try to use displays and systems that make it easy for prospective customers to browse their options. Goods that are hard to see or access can be a turnoff. Instead, a pleasant and straightforward shopping experience is more likely to result in a sale.

In a market setting, clear, visible pricing is paramount to success. When customers can clearly understand the cost of your products upfront, they’ll feel more comfortable buying. Promotions are another helpful way to encourage sales. Offering “buy one, get one free” or bundle discounts make purchasing more appealing.

Like other aspects of a successful tent, payment should be centered on your customers’ convenience. Offering a variety of payment options, like cash, card, and mobile methods, makes transactions smoother and hassle-free.

As any salesperson will tell you, selling is all about relationships. If a visitor to your tent isn’t ready to buy, you can still plant a seed. With that in mind, make sure your contact information is easily accessible. Even prospects should leave your tent with a clear idea of where to find you. 

Branded business cards, bags, or other packaging can also help cement a relationship with new customers and provide the foundation for repeat purchases. Consider including a scannable link to your business Instagram account or a QR code directly into your tent design. Alternatively, feature your website address or social media handles on tent accessories, like banners and flags.

One of the most important parts of creating an approachable environment isn’t your tent or your design, it’s you! Friendly greetings and casual conversations can help put your customers at ease and make them feel welcome in your space. 

Try adding an interactive element to your booth. Product samples, giveaways, or behind-the-scenes maker demonstrations make your tent more experiential and memorable. Instagram-ready backdrops and impressive product displays can also encourage visitors to share your business on social media and attract attention from an even broader audience.