This article will discuss tips for setting up outdoor art shows.

Even with great branding, marketing, and an amazing product, the reality is that outside art shows can be difficult and stressful for both buyers and artists alike. You will need to plan ahead, research all of the necessary permit requirements, and make sure your show runs smoothly.

Not sure what an outdoor art show is? If you're in the market for one, go to the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge website for a list of participating organizations, pricing, dates, location, hours, and other info.

These tips will help you set up your art show the right way:

Purchase permits.

This will ensure that your art show has access to bathrooms, city-owned street parking and that visitors and artists aren't competing for the same space.

Contact the City of Baton Rouge and the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge to purchase your permits. It's important to note that Louisiana law requires that you do all of the purchasing at least 30 days in advance of the event.

The sale of many types of paraphernalia and food is also banned within 25 feet of the entrances of the site.

Figure out storage.

Depending on how big your show is, it will need somewhere to sit and hang the pieces until buyers come by. Figure out where you'll put it, and then make sure you're sure the area is protected from being damaged by rain and wind.

Set up your setup.

If you plan to sell items like candles, food, and other merchandise, you'll want to set up a table or tent where you'll sell them.

Once you've secured a location, you'll need to hang displays, tape the space with bright orange tape to make it clear where you want the displays and merchandise to go, and stake out space with stakes so the pieces won't fall over.

Have each display securely attached, too, so it doesn't shift around during heavy winds or rain.

Pick a date.

This is typically the most difficult part of preparing for an outdoor art show. Most communities have either Saturday, Sunday, or a day and a half where art shows can take place.

You can also request a day off of work if needed. The city-owned parking lot is your primary location; however, some art shows have been hosted in the evenings, during spring or summer break, at city parks, at farmer's markets, etc.

Network with other artists.

You'll need help building your audience if you're participating in an outdoor art show, so be sure to hit up other artists for tips.

While you're thinking about how to put together your art show, you should also make sure your booth is up to code. Make sure that it complies with all local ordinances, and do some research on the venue before you set up shop.

Your booth can make or break your art show.

One of the most important parts of setting up for your art show is making sure your booth is sturdy. Make sure to measure it out before you begin to assemble it, and make sure that the poles are secured to the ground, so space won't collapse.

One of the most important things to consider when constructing the booth is ventilation. You'll want to secure a thin layer of water to your display to make sure the pieces don't dry out and to prevent moisture from creating a mold problem.

Before you put your booth together, you'll need to figure out how much space you'll need for the setup. You'll need enough space to store the displays and merchandise, too.

Remember, if your art is limited to products made by you, it's important to ensure you have enough space to showcase and sell your pieces.

When it comes to set up, the main concern you should have is the amount of weight the merchandise is going to be able to bear. You want to make sure everything is secure, and you don't want anything to fall over.

You can get more details on the space you need and the direction you should take in order to set up your booth here.

Most communities have a zoning department that sets up a map that details the type of businesses you can rent retail spaces from, which could include art stores. This will also include the type of area that's allowed in which to sell.

Also, consider the amount of time you're willing to spend at the venue.

If you have a long list of other projects you need to do on the side, it may be a good idea to go when there aren't any school field trips, or to go in the morning, when there's less traffic on the roads.

Making a profit at your art show

In order to make money from your outdoor art show, you'll need to be aware of the cost of entry. You'll need to purchase your merchandise beforehand.

Once you have your display ready, you can begin to bring in people, but be aware that prices may vary from city to city. The price you pay is dependent on how many vendors are at the event.

Sometimes, you can come away with a good deal, depending on how much inventory you're carrying. But don't let the entrance fee put a damper on your selling experience.