VICTORVILLE — Local artisans, unique gifts, live music and good food are in store at the Santa Fe Trading Company’s Fall Craft Shows. Owner Steve Blech gives three tips on best practices for selling crafts.
“I started my store about 20 years ago. I was remodelling a house in Apple Valley and I turned it into a pueblo house,” said Blech. “I went back to New Mexico — Santa Fe area and bought some logs, some vigas and latillas — I put some kiva fireplaces in the house. I just fell in love with Santa Fe — the whole enchanted feeling.”
Blech said he wanted to recreate that atmosphere and bring culture to the High Desert with his store. He holds street fairs — or craft shows in the Fall months in efforts to invite the community to Old Town Victorville and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Santa Fe.
Blech has three tips for local artisans to have success with selling their crafts.
Tip #1: Unique welded items, crosses and wall decor are popular items
The products that sell the best are handcrafted items that come from the imagination. Products that are welded, crosses and any type of wall decor have the most success in this type of environment.
Tip #2: Display should look appealing
Blech says that one of his emphasis in having a small business is appealing to all the senses — sight, touch, smell and just having a good display. Having a special item on an easel is important to be able to see it.
Tip #3: Tell the story behind your special craft
Being friendly and approaching people — telling them what you were imaging when you were making your craft is important. Blech says people want to hear stories and get involved with the craftsman.
“People come here shopping for Christmas, birthdays and weddings — looking for unique items to give their loved ones,” said Blech.
So we wanted to have a place that had some beauty and uniqueness and that’s what we’re here for.
Steve Blech
The Santa Fe Trading company is located at 15464 7th Street, Victorville. For more information on the next Craft Show call 760-962-1290.
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