Social media for event traders

Choose one or two platforms

Facebook and Instagram suit many market traders, because local groups and photo posts reach nearby shoppers. Use the platform where your customers already are. A well-kept profile on one platform serves you better than five neglected ones. Set up a business profile or page instead of using a personal account, so that your posts, contact details and opening information stay together in one place.

Before the event

• Announce the event name, date, location and your pitch number.
• Show a new product or a preview of your display.
• Tag the organiser and the venue so their followers see your post.
• Say what time you open and whether you take cards.
• Give a reason to visit, such as a launch, a taster or a limited batch.

During the event

• Post a photo of the finished stall as soon as you set up.
• Share short videos of products being made or used.
• Use stories or short posts to say what is selling well.
• Ask customers if they are happy to be in a photo, and tag them with their agreement.

After the event

Thank the organiser and your customers, share your best photo and name the next date you will be trading. A post that lists your upcoming events gives followers a reason to look for you again. Pin or feature the post so that new visitors to your profile see it first. If a customer posts about your stall, thank them and share it with their permission, because recommendations from real shoppers carry weight with their friends.

Build a simple routine

1. Choose two posting days each week and one extra post on event days.
2. Keep a folder of photos taken at each event.
3. Write captions that include the product, the place and the date.
4. Reply to comments and messages promptly, as customers often ask about stock and opening times.
5. Look at which posts drew the most response and repeat them.

Set aside an hour each week to plan posts. Write a few captions in advance, choose photos from your folder and note the events coming up. Batching makes it easier to keep posting on busy trading weeks, and it keeps the tone of your posts consistent. Leave room for a spontaneous post if something good happens at the stall.

Grow your following

Put your social media handle on your banner, price cards and bags. Invite customers to follow you at the stall, and use a short QR code if that is easier. Our guide to photographing your stall for social media helps with the pictures, and the guide to collecting customer details covers building a mailing list.

Check the rules

If you run a prize draw or promotion, read the platform's own rules for promotions first. Keep a record of the dates and details of any offer you advertise. Keep prices and stock claims accurate so that customers who arrive at the stall find what the post described.