If you’ve been following along with Port of Joy Co, you already know I love a good pop-up market moment. There’s just something about setting up a booth, lining up the candles, and getting to talk face-to-face with customers that never gets old.

In 2025 alone, we did 6 markets total. Most of them were great profit-wise (thank you, loyal candle lovers), and 2 of them… well… let’s just say they were character-building. Lesson learned. Every market teaches you something about your setup, your pricing, your audience, and your stamina.

Today I want to share why I genuinely believe pop-ups are one of the best ways to grow a handmade business and the exact tools I never leave home without.

Why Pop-Up Markets Are So Powerful

1. Real-life connection is everything

Online sales are amazing, but nothing compares to watching someone smell your candle for the first time and light up. That connection builds loyalty in a way social media just can’t replicate.

In my opinion, markets give people:

• A chance to experience your brand in person
• A face to put to the business
• Confidence in your product quality

And for us makers? It gives immediate feedback, believe me. That's what you want.  You quickly learn:

• Which scents people gravitate toward
• What price points feel right
• How your display impacts buying decisions

 

2. Brand Visibility Multiplies Fast

One good outdoor market can introduce your brand to hundreds (sometimes thousands) of new people in a single day. Even if they don’t buy on the spot, they follow, they remember, and they come back later.

Some of our best repeat customers first discovered Port of Joy Co at a local event. So, you never know.

 

3. The Hard Truth: Not Every Market Is Profitable, Yikes!

Out of the 6 markets we did in 2025: 4 were solid wins and 2 were not profitable.

And that’s okay. As hard it is to admit....Those two taught me:

• Research the event’s audience ahead of time
• Ask about expected foot traffic
• Don’t ignore booth fees vs. realistic sales ($250 booth fee hurts)
• Weather matters more than we think (hello, Texas heat)

Besides that, remember you live, you learn and you adjust. Thats how we can grow.

Pop up event before the holidays in Arlington TX.

 

 

My Go-To Pop-Up Setup Essentials

After doing multiple events, I’ve learned that preparation makes all the difference. Here’s what I always pack:

• Tables: Sturdy folding tables are non-negotiable. They need to handle weight (candles aren’t light!) and stay steady outdoors.
• Table Covers: Clean, fitted table covers instantly elevate your booth. Wrinkled plastic? No ma’am. A cohesive color makes your display feel intentional and branded.
• Shelves for Candles: Vertical space is everything. Always create height variation, make your display eye-catching, display price list. It also prevents that “everything is flat and crowded” look.
• Tent: In Texas? A tent is survival. No discussion here. I dont like the white ones so I got one in a dark blue shade that resonates with the brand but I noticed in many pop events they require you to have a 10x10 white tent, so maybe a white one is not a bad idea after all.
• Battery-Powered Lights: Markets don’t always provide electricity. I bring battery-operated lights to keep the booth warm and inviting especially for evening events. Get creative with the way you display them.
• Extension cords: Please, please bring at least one extension cord because this one was a lifesaver on my very first market of 2025 and can't thank enough my husband who brought it while we needed to run some appliances at the booth. Bring a 10ft or longer one if you can, it will all depend on the location of the market. 
•  My phone runs payments, inventory tracking and social media posts while we are at the market. A fully charged power bank saves the day every single time.

The Unexpected Essentials (That I Now Swear By)

Markets are beautiful but they’re also physically demanding.

• Medical Grade Hydrocolloid Roll (For Burns & Emergencies): Accidents happen. I always carry a Medical Grade Hydrocolloid Roll in my bag. If there’s a minor burn or skin irritation while setting up, it protects the area and helps it heal properly. It’s one of those “you hope you don’t need it” items… but you’re grateful when you have it.
• Hair Protection Is Real in Texas: Outdoor markets in Texas heat are no joke. Between direct sun exposure and heat bouncing off pavement, it’s intense. I started using hair Heat Protector before markets to protect my hair from heat damage and dryness. It sounds small, but when you’re doing back-to-back summer markets, protecting your hair (and skin!) makes a difference. Because we’re building businesses, but we’re also taking care of ourselves.

What Pop-Ups Have Taught Me

1. Presentation matters more than you think.
2. Energy matters, your vibe sets the tone for your booth.
3. Preparation reduces stress.
4. Not every market will be profitable and that’s okay. you will still get exposure and feedback form people.

Each event makes you better. Highly recommend you to research a local market near you and give it a try. Markets aren’t just about sales, they’re about visibility, connection, and momentum. Hope this helps you on your next event!

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I only recommend tools that I personally use and that have genuinely helped my business grow.