Lessons I learnt from my first Tarot pop-up (+ a guide for beginners)
I had my first in-person Tarot booth at a local Diwali market on November 4th and 5th! I had an amazing time and learnt SO MUCH. I wanted to share my lessons and tips with any fellow readers/astrologers who want to do in-person pop-ups in the future! It may feel odd to step out of your comfort zone but I promise it is WORTH IT. You will feel yourself grow and expand 🎆
Here are 10 lessons I learnt:
Have an open-minded and curious attitude. Do not have too many expectations.
Approach people in a warm and inviting manner. Interact with people, especially other people who have a booth at the market. Hand people your business cards. Make a little small talk! Start a conversation.
Be mentally prepared to be firm and set boundaries if necessary. Know what type of reading you're not comfortable doing. Know your limits and ethics. Do not allow others to cross boundaries and speak up if you're uncomfortable. Change something if it's not working.
At the same time, know that it's okay to make mistakes and learn lessons. Some things need to be trial and error. You're trying a new thing. Do not expect perfection because there is nothing to excel in! Simply an experience to be had.
Keep track of your expenses (beforehand) and of the readings you're doing to know how much money you earned. Also note down HOW someone paid: cash or online. Have a safe pouch/bag to keep your cash in.
Listen to your intuition at all times. The little voice in your head. The inner sense of knowing.
Have people there who can support you like friends and family. Different people can come at different times in “shifts” too. If there is no one else, support yourself: Do self check-ins to ensure you're not overwhelmed. Take breaks. Put a “brb in 15 mins” sign and go pee!
Pricing the reading is an important aspect of the trade. The price may be lower than your usual charges but ensure you’re being compensated for your energy. I have dived deeper into the topic of “how to price yourself” in my YouTube video (linked below)
Unless you're selling something, you do not need a big booth. Save on some rent money baby!
If you’re an introvert who gets drained easily from social interactions, know that it is okay to take breaks simply because you’re emotionally overwhelmed. People will understand. No shame in choosing yourself if it gets too much.
Items you need:
Banner/Standee (can be DIY)
Business Cards
Payment QR code
Social Media QR code (optional)
Price Sheet
Sheet of Rules* (IMPORTANT)
Freebie to attract people (optional)
Decor (candles, crystals, trinkets)
Tablecloth (if needed)
Tarot decks (DON'T FORGET)
Extra divination items in case you need them like astro dice, pendulums, etc.
12. A notebook, pen, tape, stapler + extra staples, glue dots/blue tack, safety pins, scissor, etc. (For booth maintenance)
13. Cash to give back change.
14. Some snacks and water.
15. Personal items like tissues, lipstick, sanitizer, chargers etc. because you'll stay there a long time.
16. A balance between a warm attitude, and firmness to set boundaries.
*Here are the rules I wrote for my Tarot booth. If you’d like to use my list of rules too, you can download the document below:
And finally, my YouTube video about my experience. It explains the above-mentioned tips and list of items in a more elaborate way. Enjoy 🤗
