handMADE Montana MADE fair
The MADE fair is a modern artist & handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists. Our juried events feature a curated collection of over 200 skilled artisans as well as a handful of non-profits.
The MADE fairs are presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events (MADE fairs & workshops), provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.
Visit our website or Facebook for additional information about events and other offerings. Please email questions to info@handmademontana.com
The MADE fair is a modern artist & handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists. Our juried events feature over 200 skilled artisans and a handful of non-profits. We will once again have the VIP Friday Night to give those wanting a more intimate shopping experience, with more details coming. Last year, we raised over $4000 for a local non-profit via the $10 VIP pass, and we will continue to partner with a local organization to offer early access shopping on Friday, 5 pm-8 pm, and Saturday morning, 9 am-10 am.
Bozeman // October 18-19 // Brick Breeden Fieldhouse
We have 50,000 sq—feet of continuous space to feature talented artisans, local non-profits, and activities. The Bozeman MADE fair will include free entry*, free parking, and plenty of room to shop. This one+ day event will feature local and regional artists, and the community will have an option to shop the show in a more intimate way with the $10 VIP Pass for Friday Night, 5 pm-8 pm, and a $5 Early Bird Pass for Saturday Morning 9 am-10 am. Tickets will be available online and at the door, and proceeds will go directly to a local non-profit.
The MADE fairs are presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events (MADE fairs & workshops), provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.
APPLYING
We have defined our criteria for acceptance and have decided to stay focused on products that are handcrafted by individuals or small groups of artisans to help them grow. We love it when businesses grow and experience success, and we feel it is essential, at that point, to give way to other artists who are up and coming. It is vital for the MADE fairs' continued growth to keep things fresh for the shoppers as well. Items MUST be handmade/designed by the artist and not mass-produced. We feature BOTH local and regional artists; all applications are considered during the jurying process.
This is a competitive juried show, so keep this in mind when filling out your application. The MADE fair jury will be looking for unique products that fit the feel of the MADE fair (modern, fun, functional), variety, and quality of work. The MADE fair aims to increase awareness of handmade goods as an alternative to mass-produced items and support local and regional small craft businesses by providing a place to sell their goods. There are four members of the jurying pool: Team HandMADE Montana (Carol Lynn and Courtney), as well as two rotating members, an artist and a member of the community.
HOW TO APPLY
1. Fill out the online application
2. Upload images (5 product shots, 1-3 process, and 1 booth (a set-up of what your goods look like))
3. Pay the application fee
There is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the MADE fair. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. We have a separate application available for non-profits looking to have a booth.
IMPORTANT DATES
May 1: Accepting applications
August 1: Deadline for submissions
August 10: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email
August 20: Artists booth fees due
BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS
10’ x 6’ $120 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
10’x10’ $200 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
20’x10’ $365 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
30’x10’ $550 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs are provided, electricity access is available for an additional $15, and tables can be rented for $12 each.
SET-UP FRIDAY // October 18 // 11 AM-5PM
SHOW HOURS// FRIDAY, October 18 $10 VIP 5 PM-8 PM // Saturday, October 19,$5 Early Bird 9 am-10 am, FREE 10 am-4 pm;
TAKE DOWN// 4 pm-8 pm
ARTIST BENEFITS
For many, our shows are the best of the season, and we do a great deal to promote all of our artists on our website and social media. We have found our customers enjoy pre-shopping the artists and planning out their day of shopping. This is definitely an added benefit compared to other handmade markets; it is one of the many things that set us apart.
Included
- A well-organized event that attracts over 5,000+ customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
- Product image, business name, and links on our website
- A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to a website, Facebook, and Instagram
- Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website • A listing on a printed & digital floor plan
- Name tag and other great swag
Additional promotional opportunities
- Featured artist—Instagram & Facebook mentions, upgraded landing page, premium booth placement
- Raffle—provide an item and a small fee to be included and receive Instagram & Facebook mentions and links to your website, FB, or Instagram account.
PROMOTION
All of our events are very well attended, and we work hard to bring in various customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:
- Printed media —2,500 postcards, 500 posters, 2,500 mini cards
- Advertisements in local papers and magazines
- Radio spots
- Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
- Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines
- Digital & printed floor plan maps
MADE FAIR SPONSORSHIP
The MADE fair is an artist & handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists. Our juried events feature over 200 skilled artisans as well as a handful of non-profits. Our curated collection of artisans represents the best of the best Montana has to offer and both the artist and customer experience is top notch. Our show was recently listed as one of the best holiday shows in the country!
We estimate over $250,000 is spent during the 7 hour show and over 8,000 customers walk through the doors. Our average customer is female, age 22-45. They are interested in keeping their dollars local and appreciate quality workmanship. They may be a mother, a professor, or a creative spirit who brings a handful of her friends to shop with her. They will post a selfie on Facebook or Instagram at the show of her most recent find and add the hash tag #madeinmontana or #supportyourlocalartist. After the big day is over they will go out to dinner at their favorite downtown restaurant and grab a local brew to celebrate the day. By knowing this customer, our marketing dollars are well spent by strategically utilizing social-media, as this is how our main demographic receives their information. We have over 4700 active Facebook followers and an emailing list of 1500 customers. We reach our target market via radio, Facebook, email campaigns, print media, and disperse over 500 posters and 5,000 postcards in Missoula, Helena, and surrounding communities.
This is one of the largest artisan markets in Montana and a great way to reach potential customers. The benefits of being a sponsor go beyond the physical printed promotional items and are long lasting. By supporting the MADE fair and all it offers (to both customers & artists), you can secure your position in the local community. We are seeking money and in-kind sponsorship to help offset the cost of the event and our marketing efforts. Please consider becoming a sponsor, we appreciate the communities support in helping to make the summer and holiday MADE fairs a success.
Benefits of each sponsorship level are listed in addition to what events are covered. Prior marketing materials and additional information available upon request.
The MADE fairs are presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events (MADE fairs & workshops), provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts. The event is organized by Carol Lynn Lapotka (REcreate designs), and Courtney Blazon with assistance from MADE fair ambassadors and local artists.
SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES
FRIEND $125
SHOW BENEFITS // SINGLE SHOW
Get your feet wet ,and throw your hat in the ring with this introductory level of sponsorship. Your business logo and link will appear on the Sponsored by page on the handMADE Montana website as well as one social mention of your choice (Facebook, Instagram, or blog post). We will throw in a big-ole high five the next time we see you as well.
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY $250
SHOW BENEFITS // SINGLE SHOW
Spread your social wings and fly at this level of sponsorship. Your business will receive 1 dedicated Facebook, Instagram, and blog posts with images, descriptions, and links to your online presence. You will also be given a solid shout out on a web blast prior to the event. Your business logo and link on the Sponsored by page on the handMADE Montana website.
SIDEKICK $500
SHOW BENEFITS // HOLIDAY & SUMMER // ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP
We are always looking for some extra help from our trusty sidekicks. Benefits to this level include all that is offered as a SOCIAL BUTTERFLY as well as a small logo on promotional materials including 5000+ postcards (for each event/location), 500 posters, and 1500 rack cards distributed throughout Missoula, Helena, and surrounding areas.
SUPERHERO $1000
SHOW BENEFITS // HOLIDAY & SUMMER // ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP
You are a rockstar, and all that is super and heroic. We appreciate all that you do to help save the day. Benefits at this level include all that is offered as a SIDEKICK, but you will also get your logo on all email blasts, MADE fair pages on the handMADE Montana website, radio advertisement mentions, and a vinyl banner hung the weekend of the event.
MASTER of the UNIVERSE $2500
SHOW BENEFITS // HOLIDAY & SUMMER // ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP
You have it all figured out, and know that helping us, helps you. Your business is dedicated to supporting local and community efforts, and sees the MADE fair as an event that is in line with what you stand for. Benefits at this level include all that is offered as a SUPER HERO, but also include being our key sponsor. What does that mean? Your business will stand out with a largest logo, and up-front-and -center of it all. You will also be sponsoring 1 artist booth per event via a scholarship program and you have the option to have 1 6x10 booth to promote your business.
The handMADE Montana retail shop is filled with over 80 local & regional artists' modern handcrafted goods. We are interested in discovering a few new artists and giving them the opportunity to sell their items in the store as well as possible online sales. Typically we handpick MADE fair artists, and since we were not able to see everyone in person this year, we are casting a virtual net to find some new ones to add to the shop for the holiday season and beyond.
If you are interested in being considered, please fill out this submission and upload some images of your best-selling works. Think of this as an audition of sorts and tell us why you would be a great addition to the store and how your products are unique. Currently, it is a brick & mortar shop, but we are adding new products to our website daily and looking forward to expanding the selection of goods we offer.
Benefits of being a handMADE Montana Retail Shop Artist
• The shop operates on a 60% (artist) 40% (commission), and checks are sent out monthly.
• Meet the Artist Series blog, FB, IG posts
• Online product selling options
• Exposure to local and tourist traffic visiting Polson, MT (It is a lot during the summer)
• Options to teach small workshops
holiday MADE fair // Helena & Missoula
The MADE fair is a modern artist & handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists. Our juried events feature up to 200 skilled artisans and a handful of non-profits. Our curated collection of artisans represents Montana’s best of the best. Our shows are very well attended and supported by the community.
Helena // December 6-7 // Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds The Helena Holiday MADE fair is growing in popularity and has been attended well. We are excited to bring back all our events offered for artisans, non-profits, and the local community to the Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds for the Helena Holiday MADE fair. We worked with incredible folks in Helena last year to bring the MADE fair experience to life and will continue to partner with local businesses. We have 30,000 sq. feet of continuous space to feature over 175+ talented artisans, local non-profits, activities, and delicious food & beverage options. This year we will have a $10 VIP Pass on Friday night 5 pm-8 pm, $5 Early Bird Saturday, 9 am-10 am, and FREE entry 10 am-4 pm. All ticket proceeds benefit a local non-profit.
Missoula // December 15 // Adams Center
Once again, we will fill the Adams Center with over 200+ booths on the balcony, arena floor, and upper gyms. The Missoula Holiday MADE fair will include free entry, free parking, and plenty of room to shop. $10 VIP Pass 9 am-11 am; FREE entry 11 am-5 pm
The MADE fairs are presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events (MADE fairs & workshops), provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.
APPLYING
We have defined our criteria for acceptance and have decided to stay focused on products that are handcrafted by individuals or small groups of artisans to help them grow. We love it when businesses grow and experience success, and we feel it is essential, at that point, to give way to other artists who are up and coming. It is vital for the MADE fairs' continued growth to keep things fresh for the shoppers as well. Items MUST be handmade/designed by the artist and not mass-produced. We feature BOTH local and regional artists; all applications are considered during the jurying process.
This is a competitive juried show, so keep this in mind when filling out your application. The MADE fair jury will be looking for unique products that fit the feel of the MADE fair (modern, fun, functional), variety, and quality of work. The MADE fair’s mission is to increase awareness of handmade goods as an alternative to mass-produced items and support local and regional small craft businesses by providing a place to sell their goods. There are four members of the jurying pool: Team HandMADE Montana (Carol Lynn and Courtney), as well as two rotating members, an artist and a member of the community.
APPLICATION FEE
There is a non-refundable application fee to have your work juried for the MADE fair—$10 for one show and $18 for both. This fee and all pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking for a booth, we have a separate application available.
HOW TO APPLY
1. Fill out the online application.
2. Upload images (5 product shots, 1-3 process, and 1 booth image)
3. Pay the application fee
ARTIST BENEFITS
For many, our shows are their best of the season, and we do a great deal to promote all of our artists on our website and social media. We have found our customers enjoy pre-shopping the artists and planning out their day of shopping. This is definitely an added benefit compared to other handmade markets; it is one of the many things that set us apart.
Included
• A well-organized event that attracts over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
• Product image, business name, and links on our website
• A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to the website, Facebook, and Instagram
• Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website
• A listing on printed & digital floor plan
• Name tag and other great swag
Additional promotional opportunities
• Featured artist—Instagram & Facebook mentions, upgraded landing page, premium booth placement
• Raffle—provide an item and a small fee to be included and receive Instagram & Facebook mentions and links to your website, FB, or Instagram account
PROMOTION
Our events are well attended, and we work hard to attract various customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:
• Printed media —5000 rack cards, 750 posters, 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local papers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
• Web Ads— Helenaevents.com and Missoulaevents.net
• Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines
• Digital & printed floor plan maps
IMPORTANT DATES
May 1 Application Available
October 1 Deadline for submissions
October 10 Accepted and declined artisans notified by email
October 20 Booth contracts & fees due
BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS
Helena MADE fair // December 6-7, 2024 // Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds
10’ x 6’ $120 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
10’x10’ $200 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
20’x10’ $365 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
30’x10’ $550 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs are provided, electricity access is available for an additional $15, and tables can be rented for $12 each.
Set-up: Friday 12 pm-5 pm
Show hours: Friday 5 pm- 8 pm; Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Takedown: Saturday, 4 pm-9 pm
Missoula MADE fair // December 15, 2024 // Adams Center
10’ x 6’ $120 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
10’x10’ $200 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
20’x10’ $365 + Electric ($15) + Table ($12)
Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs are provided; electricity access is available for 10’x10’ & 20’ x10’ booths ONLY for an additional $15, and tables can be rented for $12 each.
Set-up: Sunday 6 am-9 am*
Show hours: Sunday 9 am-5 pm VIP $15 pass 9 am-11 am
Takedown: Sunday 5 pm-9 pm
* We are again planning on offering a Saturday afternoon/evening set-up option and will provide more details as soon as we have them.