Vendors

Info For Exhibiting Vendors:

Welcome Aboard! We've got a killer show planned and we're thrilled that you are a part of it. Here's some helpful info to help you plan for exhibiting at Twist. If you have more questions, please check out the faq or get in touch. We're happy to answer any questions you have. We're committed to creating a unique and vendor-friendly experience that promises to be a blast.

Floorplan/Booth Spaces: We're working on a layout that will best showcase your wares. We'll let you know where you'll be on August 8th. If you have questions or concerns before then, please get in touch.

Booth Package: Here's what's you'll have when you get here...

6' table to show off your goods
2 chairs
Free booze, soft drinks, and dinner at the Market Party
Complimentary breakfast on Saturday morning
5 guest passes to give your friends and family (reg. admission is $3.00)
Access to the Vendor Lounge, where you can network, take a break, and recharge.

Collecting Sales Tax: The State of Massachusetts requires vendors to collect 5% sales tax on any items you sell at the show, unless you are selling exempt items such as clothing (View the full list of exempt goods). Before the show, you will need to register with the state online. It's free and takes only 15 minutes. After you complete the registration, you will receive a certificate which you should bring to the show.

It is the responsibility of each vendor to register, collect and pay sales tax to the state. If you have any questions about this process, just call 617-887-MDOR or visit the Mass DOR Guide to Sales and Use Tax.

Accommodations: If you are visiting from out of town, we have a block of rooms reserved at a special rate at the Clarion Hotel in Northampton. Just mention you are a Twist Exhibitor to receive the discount. 1.800.582.2929. Visit the Clarion Hotel for more info. There's even a pool - yay!

Promotions: We've got a great team here at Twist HQ and we're planning to get the word out all over Northampton, the entire Pioneer Valley, Southern VT, NH, Boston, Brooklyn, and Hartford. If you can help spread the word, let us know and we'll send over some flyers. We'll also have some buttons you can add to your website or blog.

Vendor Checklist:

Table cover (table must be covered from tabletop to the floor)
Your work and an inventory list (to help keep track of your wares and your sales)
Display items: risers, a mirror, racks (space permitting), etc...
Tools and supplies: tape, twine, stapler, scissors, paper clips, pens, highlighter, calculator, money bag or box
Marketing materials: biz cards, price tags, postcards, signage if you have it
Guest book/mailing list sign up (don't forget a pen!)
Refreshments: drinks, snacks, headache remedies and other toiletries (just in case!)
Cashbox and a "bank," which is a stash of cash and coin you can use to make change (just like Monopoly)
Credit card "knuckle buster" or zon, if you plan to accept credit cards
Receipt book
Notebook or pad of paper and pens/pencils
A friend, partner or assistant to help out, keep you company, and watch your table when you need to step away

Tips:

Check your email each Friday for a message from Twist.
Bring snacks and water to help get you through the day.
Check with your bank about accepting credit and debit cards.
Bring enough merchandise to restock your display as needed.
Bring an extra box or bag. You may not repack the exact same way, so you might want some options.
Plan your display at home. You'll have a 6' x 30" table. So lay out your wares to make sure you like your display.
Talk to other vendors/artists before, during, and after the show -- you can learn a lot from each other.
Don't chew gum at your table. Sounds silly, but you'd be surprised!

If you have tips or helpful suggestions for other vendors, please send them to us so we can share them with others. Remember that if your neighbor looks good, you look good, too!