What When…

The Holiday Fair will take place in a variety of rooms at First Church in Jamaica Plain, offering a range of display options. The date is Saturday, December 7, 2024, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Vendors will be welcome to set up beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Q: How does the space work?
A: Spaces are rented by linear feet on the aisle at $12 per foot. The minimum rental is 4 feet on the aisle (a small square table will fit in this space, with space for vendor behind it). In addition to the per-foot cost, there is a $10 flat charge per spot. So 4 feet is $58, 5 feet is $70, and so on. The maximum size is 10 feet, for $130. The church will provide chairs for the vendors.

The depth is approximately 6 feet going back from the aisle, but this depth does vary a little bit depending where in the room you are, so please let us know specific needs. Some spaces are shallow (only 3’ deep), some are angles (the table goes in a corner with the vendor behind it), but the feet on the aisle is always what you paid for. There is no extra space between the vendors – the left edge of your spot is the right edge of someone else's spot. If you need extra space around your table, you must rent it – some people pay for 6' and bring a 4' table. All displays must be contained within the area marked as your spot.

We ask that all vendors approach the space assignments with a spirit of cooperation, and we will strive to achieve efficient space use beneficial to all. We recommend that you come look at the space if you are concerned – e-mail us to set up a time.

We also have "Sanctuary Boxes" which are special spots in our sanctuary: the box pews are about 6' on a side. People have been very successful there, but they require creativity, and they are inexpensive - $40 (plus the flat $10, so $50 overall) - great if you are wondering "can I make a go of this craft thing?"

Q: Do you supply tables?
A: We can, there is an additional charge - $5 per foot (so a 6' table adds $30 to your cost). For 4' spots the table is about 30" square.

Q: How about power?
A: Some spots will have it; if it is essential for your display let us know, and bring extension cords.

Q: What about the weather?
A: The event goes on no matter what! It is entirely inside.

Q. What about COVID?
A. We will keep our eyes on recommendations from the city, state and the CDC. If we must cancel we will and issue full refunds. We may expect masks inside, from both vendors and customers – this is being written in August, so policy might change.

Q: Cancellation policy?
A: Vendors are responsible for space charges whether or not they are able to attend; full payment must be received in advance in order to secure a space. If a vendor cancels with two weeks notice, the Church will attempt to fill the space with another vendor. If this occurs, the vendor's payment will be refunded; however, if the church is not able to fill the space, the vendor will be responsible for payment.

Q: Publicity?
A: We will provide you with electronic copies of the flyer, and will have hard copies available for pickup. The church will advertise the event in advance in local newspapers, web sites, by hanging flyers and in the weekly church bulletin.

Q: When is deadline for applications?
A: Labor Day weekend we will evaluate applications received to date. We will set the jewelers in one basket, and let everyone else know that weekend. If we are not full, we will keep admissions open. Jewelers will hear by September 15th (because we have a jury process there).

Q: What can I do to increase my chances of being accepted?
A: Being flexible about your required space helps. Having beautiful crafts which you made helps. Getting your application in early helps. Saying you will do lots of publicity helps. Be unique, and be yourself! We will also give preference to people who are part of the Fall 2024 fair.

We look forward to a fun and successful day for everyone!