The 6th Annual Makers Festival will take place at Manahawkin Lake Park on Saturday, September 18! Please stay connected for Open Call details!

Why is there an application fee?

The application fee covers the cost of the time spent by the Hosts and Creative Team in assessing each and every application and is non-refundable. The purpose of having vendors apply is to ensure that those interested are serious inquiries, which allows the Hosts and Creative Team to weed out the “resale” vendors who don’t fit the guidelines. In addition to the vendor fees, the application fees are collected to subsidize the festival costs.

What does my vendor fee and/or sponsorship money cover?

Vendor fees & sponsorship monies cover the costs incurred by the Hosts of The Makers Festival include but are not limited to: stage set-up, and sound engineering, public works, tents, table and chair rentals, band commissions, insurance, Alcoholic & Beverage permit, decor, bathroom rental, event permit, beer expense, website, marketing/advertising, and merchandise.

Why don’t you accept all applicants?

One of the goals of MakeShift Event is to maintain a consistent, high quality aesthetic that continues to evolve and remain relevant as the event grows. Oftentimes, similar events can become stagnant. It’s important that the vendors chosen represent an array of creative talents, performed through a multitude of mediums. If there are too many vendors in each category (i.e. beaded jewelry, fiber arts, bath and body, etc) the field will become saturated, which results in less success for everyone. It’s also important that our events represent creatives of unique and considerable talent in order to maintain a high caliber aesthetic all around.

Can two different vendors share a space?

Absolutely! Each vendor needs to submit an application and be accepted in order to split the 10x10 space. Shared space is limited to two vendors.

Why are mobile shop and food truck vendor fees higher?

They take up much more space! The vendor fee for non-mobile vendors covers the cost of a 10x10 space, one table, and two chairs. The mobile-vendors need more room, and often electricity.

What is the definition of “handmade?"

The Hosts & Creative Team Members define “handmade” as a body of work consisting of items in which demonstrate a craft(s) requiring skill and creativity. The concept of “handmade” can elicit a multitude of definitions and is at times subjective.  A prospective vendor’s entire body of work is assessed based on the definition above.  
 

When evaluating an application, these are some general parameters that guide the decision making process:         

  • Use and quantity of raw materials versus use and quantity of pre-fabricated materials.

  • Quality and demonstration of skill in execution.

  • A uniqueness that differentiates your body of work from others of a similar medium.

  • A collection that may vary from one medium to the next, but retains a high level of quality and cohesiveness throughout.

I don’t have a website, how do I apply?

The Hosts and Creative Team will request photos representing your body of work once you submit an application to vend. Please submit 3-5 high quality images that highlight your work and skill. Keep in mind that a final decision is based on photographic representation.

Why can't i sell trademarked items?

Using licensed and trademarked characters, logos, images, phrases and designs and selling them without a previously arranged agreement is illegal. Some commonly used examples are professional sports teams and cartoon characters. Companies spend time and money to protect their brands so that others do not make a profit off of their work without permission. Because of this, they have a right to order anyone who is selling their trademarked work with a Cease and Desist order and can sue for damages including legally confiscating the works and demanding payment for any items sold.

But there's good news! You're super creative and you don't need to use any trademarked work to enhance your own. So keep doing your thing and create a brand that's unique to you!

Why Do I HAve to Bring my own water bottle & totes?

MakeShift Events are Plastic/Styrofoam Free which means that plastic water bottles & bags will not be available within festival grounds. All event attendees are encouraged to bring canvas totes for purchased goods & reusable water bottles to fill at the Alliance for a Living Ocean Water Filling Stations.

 

Have a question you don't see the answer to here? Use the contact form and ask away!

 

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