How Lighting Affects Your Sales (And How to Light a Display Table at a Vendor Show)
Picture taken at the Mother of all Craft Shows in Belleville, Ontario. Ela’s Jewellery Box.
Ever walked by a vendor table that just glowed — not just with charm, but literally with beautiful lighting that made everything on display look irresistible?
If so, you’ve experienced the power of great lighting in action. It’s not just for mood-setting — it’s a proven way to boost sales.
Let’s dive into why lighting matters and how you can use it to your advantage at your next vendor event.
Why Lighting Matters in Sales
1. It Grabs Attention
Most markets and craft shows are busy, noisy, and filled with visual clutter. Lighting helps your table stand out from the crowd. A well-lit booth naturally draws the eye — especially in dim or indoor settings.
💡 Pro Tip: Bright, focused lighting acts like a spotlight on your best sellers. People follow the light — make sure it leads to your most profitable or eye-catching pieces.
2. It Elevates Perceived Value
Products displayed under soft, flattering light appear higher quality — it’s the same reason why retail stores spend so much on lighting design. Jewelry sparkles more, colors pop, and textures come to life.
Shoppers feel like they’re getting something more special, just because it looks that way under the right light.
3. It Influences Mood
Warm lighting makes people feel cozy and comfortable — and comfort leads to slower browsing and more purchases. Cool lighting can make certain displays feel crisp and modern. Understanding lighting temperature can shape how your brand is perceived.
How to Light Your Display Table at a Vendor Show
Ready to make your booth shine? Here’s how to do it — even if you’re working with a limited budget or don’t have access to electricity.
🔌 1. Ask About Power Access
Before the event, ask the organizer:
- Is power available at the venue?
- Can you bring your own lighting?
- Are battery-powered lights allowed?
Knowing this in advance lets you plan smart.
💡 2. Choose the Right Kind of Lights
Here are a few great options for vendor tables:
• Clip-on LED Lights
- Perfect for focused lighting
- Clip them to the edges of your table or display racks
- Choose ones with adjustable necks so you can direct the light
• Battery-Powered Fairy Lights
- Add warmth and charm, especially for handmade or rustic goods
- Great for creating ambiance (but don’t rely on them alone for product visibility)
• Rechargeable Ring or Panel Lights
- Portable and powerful
- Use a soft, diffused ring light to spotlight central products
- Many have adjustable brightness and color warmth
• Under-Shelf or Strip Lighting
- Attach LED strips under shelves or on the edges of your table to softly illuminate products from below
🧠 3. Think Like a Photographer
A few photography principles can make a big difference:
- Light from above and the front: This minimizes harsh shadows and shows your product in the best light.
- Avoid backlighting your customers: Lights pointing at their eyes can make them squint and walk away.
- Use lighting to create “zones”: Highlight your best products in pools of light and keep less important displays in the background.
🛑 4. Don’t Overdo It
Too much light — especially bright white or blue-toned LEDs — can feel sterile or overwhelming. Keep it warm and balanced. If your display feels like an interrogation room, dial it back.
🧹 5. Keep It Tidy and Safe
Use cord organizers, power strips with surge protectors, and gaffer tape to keep wires out of the way. A clean setup keeps customers safe and makes your booth look professional.
Final Thoughts: Let There Be (Smart) Light
Your lighting setup can be the difference between being just another booth — or being the booth people remember, talk about, and buy from.
With just a few affordable, portable lights and a bit of planning, you can dramatically upgrade the feel and performance of your vendor table.
Remember: the goal is to make your products look their best, your brand shine brighter, and your customers feel welcome.
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