I’ve got to say… after a couple mostly disappointing craft shows, my open house was insanely refreshing!
As much as I prepped and set up for this, it was much less stressful than a show… I didn’t have to pack my things into boxes and shove them in the car at 6 in the morning to get somewhere on time. I didn’t have to display everything or have it in boxes… the extras were in my inventory closet in case I needed them. I didn’t have to remember to bring a first-aid kit in case of accidents, or pack tape in case something broke… being at home for an event like this is marvelous.
I had a few refreshments for my guests to thank them for coming and warm them from the cold (it was 4-9pm and very chilly!)… applesauce spice cake to eat and hot water/cocoa mix/marshmallows/dark chocolate shavings to drink. I was tempted to do more, but had to remind myself that it’s not about the food… hard for someone who LOVES any excuse to cook.
I had all of the stationery items on this table, along with some of my napkins.
Here’s an overview of the dining room setup… I tried to space things out so it wouldn’t get too crowded.
Ornaments, magnets (not on the site yet!), more napkins, and zip pouches.
Another view of the dining table. I almost sold out of T-45 holiday cards! I’ll definitely need to get some more printed.
Writing kits and boxed sets of stationery.
Hand-painted napkins.
Winter Warmth blankets and vintage aprons.
Lots of my friends came and hung out. There was much talking and laughing and shopping… very casual atmosphere, and definitely something I need to do again! Thanks to everyone who came. I really appreciate your support and encouragement!
Note to self: Most people came between 4 and 6. It was pretty dark after 6, so maybe sundown = people don’t come anymore. That’ll give me more time for summer open houses!
I’ll definitely be doing more open houses… another one tentatively scheduled for March, and then again in July. I figure spacing them about 4 months apart is good… enough time for me to come up with new designs and items, but not too long to wait.
We left everything set up and cleaned in the morning. It was pretty painless and definitely fun!
If you have a home business, what questions do you have about hosting an open house? What can I share that will help you take the leap to host your first one?
Hi! I'm Emily. I'm a Navy wife and stay at home mom of two beautiful children. I cook simple, delicious, grain-free recipes, do crafts, decorate my home on a budget, and keep a happy household. I tandem breastfeed, babywear, cloth diaper, practice elimination communication, homebirth, and co-sleep, but I'm not a hippie.
Just wanted to say that I am also a military wife-Air Force-, stay at home with my son, and do craft shows:). I wish you the very best! May God bless you and give you wisdom as you face the inevitable stresses that come with trying to do everything on an unpredictable military schedule!
[...] this season, I’ve done 4 events in Meridian- 3 shows and my open house, and the best one was the open house. I sold more at that event than at any other one, it was the least stressful, and also the [...]
What a wonderful idea! The photos look so warm and inviting, much more attractive than your average craft stall. Good luck!
I’ll be there March 14 to March 23!!
Everything looks so beautiful! I am glad it was a positive experience for you and your business.