Market stall setup checklist

Before you book

• Read the market's stallholder rules: site size (often 3 × 3 m), weights, public liability insurance and food permits.
• Check bump-in and bump-out times.

The shelter

• A 3 × 3 m gazebo. A printed one ($1,032) doubles as your sign.
• Weights for every leg: sandbags ($109 for four) or water bags.
• A back wall for wind and branding, or side walls for sun.
• Or, for small stalls and coffee carts, a printed market umbrella.

Display

• Trestle table(s) and a table throw that hides boxes.
• Risers, crates or shelves to add height.
• A flag so people can find you from the end of the aisle.
• Price signs and a menu board.

Selling

• Card reader (charged) and a phone hotspot.
• A float in coins and small notes.
• Bags, receipts, business cards and a QR code to your Instagram or shop.

Comfort and safety

• Water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat and a chair.
• First-aid kit, gaffer tape, cable ties, scissors and a torch.

Your first market: what to expect

Arrive at the start of bump-in, even if it feels early: the best parking goes first and it is far easier to set up before the crowds. Introduce yourself to the stallholders either side, because neighbours help each other with gazebos in a gust and mind stalls during toilet breaks. Track what sells and what people ask about, and note the weather and foot traffic. After three or four markets you will know which ones are worth your weekends.

Setup routine

1. Park, unload and put up the gazebo first, with weights on immediately.
2. Walls, then tables and throw.
3. Stock and display, from the back forward.
4. Signs and flag last, then take a photo for social media.

Want a matched set? The market stall branding kit puts it all in your colours.