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Since we live in Washington DC, we have many times visited the  many Art Fairs in the area, including the well known Alexandria Fine Art Fair- however, always with our eyes on the art.

Yesterday however, we focused on the tents, panels, walls etc... more than on the art (we are going back today so we can enjoy the art!).

We were especially looking at tents, since we need to purchase one this week for the Fairfax Art Fair next month.

What we observed was that the majority of the tents were Trimline or Light Dome. A few Finale (aslo by Flourish) and we could count in one hand the others (heavy duty Ez ups mostly). 

So as we decide which to purchase-here are some things we observed:

• We like the shape of the Trimline and Finale.  It looks more attractive.
• The Light Dome certainly lives up to it's name and LOTS of light comes through.
• Both seemed quite sturdy and people had everything from pro panels and mesh panels to homemade wood panels in various configurations-and hanging from the frames.
• The awnings add quite a bit to the presentation of the booth.  The larger awning on the Light Dome makes it look as attractive as the Finale (but it is much more costly).
• We want to continue using 8 foot walls, as it clearly presents better for larger paintings as those we have.
• We have seen the Light Dome set up in person-and single handed by a woman fellow artist...and we have read on the forum here that the Light Dome is an easy set up...

What is your experience with any of these tents? What would you recommend?

• Set up: what about the Trimline or Finale? How do they measure up to the Light Dome as far as set up?
• Which do you recommend and why?

We want a tent tall enough to fit our 8 foot panels into., it is a huge investment $ wise....and one we do not want to be at a place 5 years down the line that we want to "switch up" from....

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!!

Claudia & Sergio

General critiques & observations re: booths:

• It does not look good for the paintings to be so large that they are "sticking up" or "out" of the booth. 
• A floor covering makes a HUGE difference in the presentation.
• Smiling vendors are KEY. 
• I will remember to take baby wipes. Sweaty artists are well... let's just say I rather be sans make up than a sweaty mess while talking to prospective buyers.
• Why take your child or dog when you are selling?
• Adding partitions, bins in the booth seems to attract more people.  Plain booths with only sculptures or paintings on the three walls and no tables/bins/partitions looked uninviting (this surprised us because we usually like to keep our booth "clean" with only the 3 walls.
• Include items that sell for less than $50.-
• Price your work. People do not like to ask for prices.
• Have business cards available for people. You never know...
• Do not over "decorate" your booth- your art should be the focal point.
• Smile. This is suppoused to be a fun day for visitors!

PS: we also visited the "Arts on Foot" event in downtown Washington DC. Perfect location, at the foot of the American Art museum, next to the Verizon center.... however: don't bother. Unless changes are made, this is a "flea market" feel type of event- although it is well advertised year after year.  Few people, few artist/artisan vendors intermixed with mostly food vendors, t-shirts etc.