How bazaar?

Here’s how, with our handy tips for holiday bazaars on the coast

By Linda Turner Griepentrog

For the TODAY

‘Tis the time of the year for shopping at bazaars, craft sales and holiday markets,where artisans proudly showcase their wares for gift-giving. While wandering aimlessly through sales can be fun, it’s much more productive to have a plan and follow some simple shopping tips.

• Take cash. Many vendors don’t accept credit cards, or there might be an add-on fee for such transactions. Like any informal shopping adventure, small bills are best. If you run short, inquire about the closest ATM — depending on the venue, there might even be one on-site.

• For multi-day sales, go on day one for the best selection of merchandise, although it’s fine to inquire if new items will be displayed on day two.

• If you’re shopping for gifts for family and friends, bring a list of the recipients so you don’t just go crazy with impulse purchases. It’s always best to shop with a plan.

• Bring your own bag, just for the convenience of stowing small or fragile purchases like holiday ornaments, glass items or small toys.

• Shop with a friend, as some vendors offer a reduced price for purchasing multiple items. For example, a tote might be $20 for one, but two for $35.

• Always ask permission before taking photos of any artist’s work.

• As a courtesy, don’t stand in front of someone’s booth chitchatting with friends and blocking access for other shoppers.

• Pick up business cards if you like an artisan’s work and want to contact them after the show.

• Don’t try to barter — an artisan market isn’t a garage sale. Value the artist’s work and pay the asking price with a smile.

• See something you love, but it’s not quite right? As about custom orders or personalization.

• If you’re shopping for wearables, take a tape measure with you to check sizing or try on the item before purchasing. For gifts, know the recipient’s size, and ask about exchanging the item if the initial purchase doesn’t work out.

• Be patient — many artist vendors are alone in their booths and they might be gone for a few minutes for a restroom break or lunch and not have booth coverage. Circle back and catch them a bit later.

• There are differing shopping strategies. Some people like to comparison shop the entire show before purchasing anything, while others take a “buy-it-when-I-see-it” approach. Pick your comfort level.

• Be careful when handling handmade items, especially those that are fragile. If you break something, you probably own it. That same mantra applies if you are shopping with children — keep an eye on them to avoid any mishaps.

• If you have food allergies, check ingredients on any edibles before purchasing.

• It’s best to leave your own food and beverages in the car, rather than risking damage to sale items by spills.

• If you purchase food at the sale, eat it only in the designated areas rather than carrying it around through the aisles.

• Perhaps you’re a last-minute shopper — some vendors might offer discounts near the end of a show, just to move more merchandise and not have to pack it up. But of course, the selection might be more limited.

In addition to selling their wares at holiday shows, many artists also like to chat with prospective customers and talk about their work. They might also like to tell you about their creative processes. If you want to know more about a particular artist or their work, some venues have an artist reception or meet and greet for that type of exchange. So, unless it’s very busy, engage the artist in conversation if they seem so inclined. You can also follow-up later if you have their business card for contact information.

Some shows, especially those organized by non-profits or by a charitable group, offer raffles. Purchasing raffle tickets gives you an opportunity to not only win something, often donated by vending artists or local businesses, but at the same time help the sponsoring group. Tickets can usually be purchased individually, or at a discounted rate for multiples. Be sure to fill out the ticket as directed so you can be contacted if you win.

Photos courtesy of Flinthandmade.org

The Gleneden Beach Holiday Market is returning this year after a COVID hiatus. The market features a variety of handmade items (including food) from 20 local artisans. Visit the show on Saturday, Nov. 19, from 10 am to 4 pm at Gleneden Beach Community Hall, 110 Azalea Street.