Hosting a permanent jewellery pop-up is one of the best ways to build your client base, boost your income and showcase your work to new audiences. Whether you are attending a local market, salon event or festival, a well-planned setup can make all the difference between a quiet day and a fully booked success.
This guide covers everything you need to know to make your next pop-up smooth, profitable and full of sparkle.
1. Choose the Right Event
Not every event will be the right fit for your business, so take time to research before committing. Look for markets, salons or festivals where your target audience will already be spending time.
Ask yourself:
•Does the crowd match your ideal client?
•Is the location accessible and safe for welding?
•Are there power sources or will you need a battery pack?
•What is the expected footfall and booth fee?
Tip: Local salons or boutiques can make amazing pop-up partners. You both benefit from cross-promotion and it creates an intimate, exclusive feel that clients love.
2. Types of Pop-Ups and What to Expect
There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to pop-ups. Each type of event has its own energy, benefits and challenges. Here is a breakdown of the most popular styles:
| POP-UP STYLE | PROS | CONS | BEST FOR |
|
Salon-based Pop-ups (At your own salon or as a guest in someone else’s) |
•Comfortable, controlled environment •Existing client base to promote to •Easier to manage tools and power supply •Feels luxurious and personal for clients |
•Limited footfall compared to public events •Appointment based rather than walk-ins •Can feel quieter if not heavily promoted |
Building relationships, offering exclusive VIP days or introducing permanent jewellery to salon clients |
|
Fairs and Seasonal Markets (Such as Christmas markets, local craft fairs or shopping events) |
•Great for meeting new customers •Ideal for building local brand awareness •Usually lower stall fees than festivals •Perfect opportunity for festive promotions |
•Variable weather or limited space •May need extra equipment such as gazebos or heaters •Crowds can be unpredictable |
Selling during key retail seasons and introducing your business to new local audiences. |
| Festivals and Large-Scale Events |
•Huge exposure and large crowds •Perfect for creating eye-catching, high-energy content •Great sales potential over several days |
•More expensive pitch fees and travel costs •Requires advanced preparation and risk assessments •Long days and more physical setup |
Experienced artists with strong branding and stamina for busy environments. |
3. Plan and Pack Your Setup
A tidy, professional setup makes a huge impact. Keep your layout simple, clean and easy to navigate so clients can focus on the jewellery.
Essentials to pack:
Welding machine and PPE (including glasses and cloth)
Extension lead and safety-tested plug or battery pack
Display stands and bracelet sizers
Chains, charms, connectors and jump rings
Measuring tape and scissors
Card machine and a second backup payment method
Branding items such as business cards, mirror decals and signage
Pro tip: Keep a pop-up checklist saved in your phone or notebook so you can tick items off each time you pack. It makes setting up stress free and helps avoid forgotten tools.
4. Curate Your Chain Selection
Space is limited at pop-ups, so be selective with what you bring. Showcase your best sellers and a few statement pieces that catch the light and draw attention.
A mix of gold filled and sterling silver chains is perfect for variety. Include a few bold options such as curb or paperclip styles alongside daintier cables. This helps clients see different textures and price points at a glance.
Also bring a few eye-catching charms or connectors to upsell — for example, initials, birthstones or hearts. Having these on display creates conversation starters and helps clients personalise their piece.
5. Pricing and Payments
Pop-ups often have fast-moving queues, so keep your pricing clear and easy to understand. Display a simple price board showing your average bracelet and anklet costs, and whether you charge extra for charms or longer chain lengths.
Make sure you have multiple ways to take payments — card readers, cash float, and a QR code linking to your booking page or social media for follow-ups.
Tip: Offer a small incentive for clients who share their new bracelet on Instagram and tag your business. It is free advertising and builds your online presence after the event.
6. Create Content Throughout the Day
Pop-ups are goldmines for social media content. Film time-lapses, capture before and after photos, and record reaction clips as clients see their new welded pieces.
Even simple behind-the-scenes stories can make your followers feel part of the experience and encourage them to visit your next event.
If you are collaborating with another business, tag each other in every post and use local hashtags to maximise reach.
7. Stay Organised and Safe
Safety is key when welding in public spaces. Always bring your PPE, cover your work area with a fireproof cloth and ensure you have enough workspace to keep equipment stable.
Keep your table uncluttered and have a small storage box for used jump rings or offcuts. Clients notice the professionalism, and it keeps your space looking clean and secure.
8. After the Pop-Up
Once the event ends, make sure to follow up with new contacts. Post your highlights on Instagram, tag the venue or host, and thank everyone who visited your stand.
You can even send a short message to your pop-up clients reminding them to follow you on social media or leave a review. Little touches like this help turn one-time customers into long-term supporters.
Final Thoughts
Pop-ups are an amazing way to grow your brand and connect with new people. With a little preparation and the right setup, they can become one of the most rewarding parts of your business.
Do not be disheartened if an event is quiet or does not go as planned. Every pop-up is an opportunity to learn, create content and get your business name out there. Consistency and visibility are what truly build long-term success.
At Links Permanent Jewellery Supplies, we stock everything you need to create a smooth, professional and safe pop-up experience — from jump rings and tape measures to display tools and welding essentials.
Shop Pop-up essentials
Tag @linkspermanentjewellerysupplies in your event photos — we love seeing your pop-ups shine!
