As a creator and entrepreneur in the haunt industry, there’s something thrilling about stepping away from the day-to-day hustle and setting up at a pop-up shop. It’s not just about selling products — it’s about building connections, sparking ideas, and staying tuned in to the heartbeat of the community I love. Here’s why I make it a priority to attend conventions whenever I can:
1. Meet and Greet with My Customers
Nothing beats a real conversation. Pop-up shops give me the chance to meet my customers face-to-face, hear their stories, and, most importantly, listen to what they want. I get to ask questions, see their reactions firsthand, and gather insights that help me create even better products. It’s one thing to read a review online; it’s another to hear the excitement (or hesitation) in someone’s voice right across the table.
2. Be Available for New People to Find Me
Pop-up events are perfect for discovery. Not everyone follows social media algorithms or stumbles across my website by chance — but at a local event, new fans and future collaborators can find me easily. There’s a special energy that happens when someone discovers your work for the first time in person. It’s an opportunity I never want to miss.
3. Collaborate with Fellow Vendors
Some of my best ideas and partnerships have been sparked by casual conversations with fellow vendors. Being surrounded by other passionate, creative people is inspiring. We share tips, trade stories, and sometimes even dream up ways to collaborate. The haunt industry thrives on community and imagination, and pop-ups are where that magic happens in real time.
4. Try Out New Ideas
Pop-ups are also the perfect testing ground. Thinking of launching a new product? Wondering if a new style will resonate? At a pop-up, I can try new ideas on a small scale and get immediate feedback. It’s like having a built-in focus group, but way more fun (and a lot less formal).
5. Listen to the Pulse of the Haunt Industry
The haunt community is always evolving — new trends, new styles, new ways of thinking. Attending pop-up shops keeps me connected to the pulse of the industry. I get to hear what people are excited about, what they’re worried about, and what they wish existed. It’s invaluable knowledge that helps me grow and adapt.
At the end of the day, attending pop-up shops isn’t just about making sales. It’s about showing up, being part of the conversation, and staying inspired. Every handshake, every question, every collaboration adds fuel to the creative fire — and that’s why you’ll keep finding me at pop-ups, listening, learning, and dreaming right alongside this amazing community.