Discuss the process of getting your t-shirt line into brick and mortar stores and selling offline. Topics include industry tradeshows, events, line sheets, sales reps and other retailing tips and advice.
I never thought I would be ready for a craft show or trade show only months after launching, but I've had a great response online so far and LOTS of fresh things are in the works for my independent clothing company, including a few new t-shirt designs and other cool gear. I have a feeling this summer is going to be HUGE for my brand, and festivals/shows seem like a natural progression of sorts.
Now that I am starting to even consider craft shows and festivals as a possibility, I really would like to vend at Renegade in Chicago this year. I've heard great things, but would like to know more about personal experiences and details.
Has anybody ever vended at Renegade Chicago before? If so, I would appreciate it if you could share details on estimated attendance, ballpark sales, fun-factor.. etc. Basically, just everything!
I love to learn =)
Also, is anybody planning on being a vendor this year?
If you have vended at any other Chicago summer festivals (I know there are a bunch!) I would love to hear details on those as well.
I know David from Seibei has done Renegade (and posted about it here and on his blog). I think he's done Chicago, but I'm not sure - he might have only done other locations. Still, I'd recommend taking a look at the Seibei blog and searching the forums for posts. It won't have all the information you're looking for, but you'll get a few insights from someone who's a few steps further along.
I know David from Seibei has done Renegade (and posted about it here and on his blog). I think he's done Chicago, but I'm not sure - he might have only done other locations. Still, I'd recommend taking a look at the Seibei blog and searching the forums for posts. It won't have all the information you're looking for, but you'll get a few insights from someone who's a few steps further along.
Yeah, I actually came across this already. Definitely one of the best resources I've found. David seems like a really cool dude and it sounds like he's had lots of success at the Renegade shows - very encouraging.
good luck loren! ill definitley stop by your booth this year!
Adam
thank youu adam! i just got the e-mail yesterday that the applications are open.. i haven't had a chance to apply yet, but i'm sure competition will be tough, so i'm kinda worried i won't get accepted... who knows!
i think you said you were looking into being a vendor. did you apply yet?
Renegade 2009 - Chicago 
