Outdoor Show - any tips?

[Julie Deane]

Hi -

This was an opportunity I got by doing a query email to the local children's museum. I offered to donate a portion of my earnings to them if I could be part of the "Sock Hop" event they are sponsoring. They were very happy to do so. But I just found that instead of being there a few hours, I can set up to be there all day! Smack in the middle of our newly refurbished downtown square, and with cars blocked off for the big event (folks have to pay $25 to attend, which will limit the clientele to the folks who can better afford art). And the bigger event, the "Tour of Georgia" bike race, is going right by us in the afternoon. So it looks like a great time to get some advertising started, and maybe some sales.

This will not be a fancy show with beautiful paintings on display. This is a matter of bringing my own umbrella and chairs and doing quick portraits. I will display not only the quick portrait samples, but several higher priced pencil drawings as well, and will have brochures with pictures and prices that people can take home.

The closer it gets, though, the more I am afraid I will forget something I need. Please help me out - see if I should add to this list:

Paper, charcoal and gray pastels
Paper stumps, kneaded erasers
Booster seat for the little people
Two captain's chairs
Market umbrella, nine feet diameter, sturdy base
Sturdy art holder for display art
Plastic brochure holders/brochures
Baby wipes for messy fingers
Water
Change
Receipt tablet
Pad of paper and pen to take down any potential customer's info
Large manila envelopes that can be used as bags for customers
Paper to cover the art, and paper clips to hold the covers in place.
Precut mats for sale (if my order comes in on time)
Large box to hold some of these goodies
Water/lunch
Bathroom access

Anthing else I should bring? Any input appreciated.