FAQ’s
Welcome to the Oakland Cottage Industry Holiday Show! OCI Show artists receive social media and print advertising and a table at the live event.
What is the process for applying to the Oakland Cottage Industry Show?
There are four steps to applying for the Oakland Cottage Industry Show: Read the OCI Show Contract, OCIS Social Media Requirements, fill out the Application (available August 15st), submit two photos that best represent your work, and pay the application fee. Deadline: UNTIL FILLED.
Do I have to be a professional to do the OCIS?
No you don't. You need your excellent talent and a willingness to present yourself in a professional manner.
What if I'm just starting out?
Many of our vendors got a jumpstart at the Oakland Cottage Industry Show. Please join us!
Do my products need to be made by me and/or at home?
Yes, the products you sell must be handmade by you; you cannot resell or represent another business. The OCI will immediately disqualify any vendor who is reselling, representing a manufacturer, or offering machine-made items. In these cases there will be NO refunds.
What kind of crafts are you looking for?
The OCI welcomes pretty much anything that’s made by hand: body products, ceramics, clothing, quilts, accessories, handbags, fabric, felt, embroidery, needlework, pet items, pillows, kitchen items (pot holders, aprons), packaged food, fabric plushies, oil painting, watercolor, photography, wood boxes, wood furniture and home goods, terrariums, plants, textiles, home décor, knits, stone work, men's items and accessories, unique gifts.
Can I sell food?
Yes you can. The Oakland Cottage Industry Show expects all food vendors to comply with the California Cottage Food Industry guidelines, California Food Handlers License, and certificate restrictions by your County’s Department of Environmental Health. Click here for the link to the California Department of Public Health.
Do I need a business license?
No, you do not. That's up to you.
Do I have to be an Oakland resident?
No you do not. We do encourage Glenview and Oakland residents to participate.
What does OCI participation fee cover?
Your fee covers the cost of marketing and coordination of a live event. A live event includes location, insurance, staff, signs, and lots of marketing. In fact, the OCIS is one of the most reasonably-priced craft fairs in the Bay Area. The OCI is run by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about showcasing local talent.
Is there a minimum age requirement or limit?
No, anyone of any age can participate. We ask that the individual be mature enough to run their business, accept payment responsibly and behave in a professional manner.
How do I know if I am confirmed for the Show?
The OCI committee will email you a confirmation by October 16, 2023. If you have any questions, please email us.
Do I need to have a website?
No you do not. It is helpful to have an online presence where customers can view your products and get in touch with you. It could be a website, a single (free) web page, Instagram, Facebook, or a photo gallery on Google or Shutterfly, for example.
How many photos should I send in?
Submit two high quality photos (200 kb minimum) with your application. Choose carefully, these photos should best represent your work and will be used for selection. Photos allow the OCI board to determine if your work is appropriate for the Show. Please note: there are no jewelry spaces available.
What is the date of the live OCI Holiday Show?
The in-person Holiday Show is December 2, 2023 depending on California safety guidelines. There is a limit of 38 people and currently 10 places available including 3 outdoor spots.
If the live show is canceled or I don’t feel comfortable participating in a live show, do I get a refund?
There are no refunds after acceptance to the show. If you are not accepted into the show, you will receive a refund less processing fees ($10)..
Do I need to take credit cards? How does payment work?
You can accept payment however you wish.; cash, check, credit card, Venmo and Paypal are commonly used.
What size is my space and what if I need more?
The entire space is approximately 8’ wide x 4’ deep. If you are using one of the church tables, they are 8’ x 2.5’. If you need more space, please consider an outdoor display area.
What does the OCI provide at the show?
We have access to a limited number of 8 foot tables on a first come, first served basis. You will also receive up to 2 chairs and free WIFI. Restrooms are next to the exhibit hall.
May I bring my own table?
Yes! Please let us know via the online application form if you plan to bring your own table.
What do I bring?
Please bring a tablecloth, display pieces, your products and enough cash to make change for customers. It is also a good idea to bring the following: pens, tape, business cards, any other items you may need for your display.
What is the set up like outside? Can I move inside if it’s windy or raining?
Several vendors like to be outside or use the patio area to display larger works. If you request an outdoor space, please be advised:
- You provide your own table and/or tent
- Use of flammables/flames is NOT permitted
- There is NO guaranteed indoor space in inclement weather and there are no refunds. The only way you would be able to move indoors is if there’s a last-minute cancellation. Your display would then need to fit in an 8’ x 4’ space, first come, first served basis.
How are table locations assigned? Can I choose my location?
Table assignments are made at the discretion of the OCI committee and are based on registration submission, product type, and need for electricity. Table locations cannot be reserved.
When will I know my table location?
The OCI committee will email your table location and a map a week prior to the event.
What time is set-up and break-down?
You may set-up your table between 8 am and 9:30 am on the day of the show. All vendors must complete bringing in/unloading their items by 9:30 and tables must be “customer ready” by 9:45. Break-down begins at 4 pm and you have until 5 pm to clear all your items from the hall.
What is the process for unloading my items?
Please drive into the church parking lot by entering on the one-way entrance on Hampel Street (off of Park Blvd.). Please park, unload your car, find your table (a map and your table location will be emailed to you prior to the show), leave your items at the table and then move your car out of the parking lot. We want to save those spaces for customers and also contribute to a smooth unloading process! You may park your car on nearby streets. You are responsible for any parking limitations/violations. After the show, you may retrieve your car and park in the church parking lot to load your items.
Will there be WIFI available for me to run credit cards (with Square, etc.)?
Yes, we will provide the free WIFI network and password on the morning of the show. We recommend reserving some time during your set-up to run a test transaction/use. The OCI is not responsible for the church’s WIFI reliability. Please make sure you have enough data in your plan to accommodate sales should the WIFI go down/be inaccessible for any reason.
May I have access to an electrical outlet?
There is a limited number of table locations with access to electricity and they will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Please request access on the Application and we will do our best to put your booth by an outlet.
If you have any further questions, please email us. The OCI is run by volunteers; please allow a few days to get back to you. Thank you!