Market Reflections: What I’ve Learned
I started vending at markets in 2022 and quickly fell in love with them! Coming from a catering and events background, there was a certain familiarity in setting up and tearing down each event, finding ways to streamline the process, and making sure everything runs smoothly. Markets were definitely nerve-wracking when I first started, especially after feeling out of practice with talking to people post-pandemic. Though I may feel a bit awkward at times, I’ve really loved getting to know people over my art, hearing their stories about the places I draw, and sharing memories of my mom. At the end of the day, that’s what matters—connecting with people. So here are some of my biggest takeaways from vending at markets:
1. Your Setup Will Evolve
When I first started, I kept my setup pretty simple. Over time, I refined it to make it more inviting, efficient, and weatherproof. Investing in a sturdy tent, better signage, and a reliable wagon made a world of difference. I also like to check out thrift shops or the dollar store for ideas to refresh my displays. A while ago, I helped a friend at an anime convention and was blown away by how vendors utilized every inch of their suitcase space—flying in and out of the venue made them really creative with their setups! Click here to read what I do before and after markets, and what I make sure to bring with me.
2. A Well-Stocked Market Kit is a Lifesaver
I always bring a "market toolbox" with zip ties, rope, safety pins, extra price tags, scissors, and a Sharpie—things I never thought I’d need until I did! Trust me, packing your own toilet paper for a Pride Festival portapotty just makes sense (they always run out). A backup battery pack for my phone and Square reader has saved me more times than I can count.
3. Be Friendly and Approachable (But Not Nosy)
It’s all about balance. I like to keep things light with a “hi there!”—it lets people know I’m here and available without being pushy. It’s important to be friendly and open, but I don’t want to make anyone feel like they have to engage if they don’t want to. A simple greeting goes a long way!
4. Market Friends Make Everything Better
One of the best parts of vending is meeting other vendors! We help each other out, share advice, and swap snacks on long days. The sense of community has been so special, and it’s the best way to learn about other good events in the area and hear about other vendors’ experiences at the same markets or with the organizers.
5. Enjoy the Experience
At the end of the day, markets are about more than just sales—they’re a chance to connect with people, share my art, and be part of a community. Some of my favorite moments come from unexpected conversations and seeing returning customers who really love my work.
Can you believe Papa Lam has come with me to every single market I've been to since 2022?! Here's a list of everywhere we've gone over the years!
2022
- July 1 – Art on Gorge
- July 9 – Multicultural Festival @ Uptown
- July 13 – Oak Bay Night Market
- July 30-31 – Bastion Square Market
- August 6-7 – Vancouver Island International Dragon Boat Festival
- August 10 – Oak Bay Night Market
- August 13-14 – Market Collective & Hillside Mall's Summer Market Series
- August 21 – Bastion Square Market
- August 28 – Bastion Square Market
- September 4 – Moon Under Water 10 Year Anniversary Party 2022
- September 14 – Oak Bay Night Market
- September 25 – Fall Fairfield
- November 6 – Bay Centre Market Collective
- November 19 – Oaklands Winter Market
- November 24 – Brentwood Bay Resort Spa Market
- December 1 – The Victorian Market
2023
- February 4 – Makers Market
- March 4 – Makers Market
- April 1 – Makers Market
- May 13 – Made for Mom at Mayfair
- May 20-21 – Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival
- May 27-28 – Spot Prawn Festival
- June 3 – Maker’s Market Bay Centre
- June 4 – Go by Bike Week
- June 11 – Cook Street Village Party
- June 14 – Oak Bay Night Market
- June 17 – FernFest
- July 1 – Gorge on Art
- July 8 – Hillside Summer Series
- July 9 – Pride Fest
- July 12 – Oak Bay Night Market
- July 15 – Moss St Paint In
- July 20 – Sidney Night Market
- July 22 – Market Square DVBA
- July 27 – Sidney Night Market
- July 29 – House of Savoy
- August 9 – Oak Bay Night Market
- August 12-13 – HCP Arts in the Garden
- August 24 – Sidney Night Market
- August 31 – Sidney Night Market
- September 7 – Sidney Night Market
- September 10 – In Sight Festival
- September 13 – Oak Bay Night Market
- November 5 – Meet the Makers Bay Centre
- November 11-12 – Calico Market
- November 19 – Cedar Hill Holiday Market
- November 24 – Moka House Holiday Market
- November 25 – Oaklands Winter Market
- November 30 – UVic Craft Fair
- December 2 – James Bay Dickens Fair
- December 9 – Rockslide Gallery
- December 17 – Phillips Market
2024
- February 16-19 – Make Good Party Winter Arts Fest
- June 9 – Cook St Village Block Party
- June 15 – FernFest
- June 23 – Makers Pop Up
- July 1 – Gorge on Art
- July 7 – Victoria Pride Festival
- July 9 – Majestic Park Music in the Park
- July 20 – Moss St Paint In
- July 27-28 – Artistree
- November 2 – Fall Fling
- November 9-10 – Calico Christmas Market
- November 23 – Oaklands Winter Market
- November 30-December 1 – Winter Fest at Royal BC Museum
- December 7 – Dickens Fair
