FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Welcome, Geeks! Below are the most common questions our vendors ask when considering to apply (or preparing for) a Geek and Grub Market event. Whether you’re new to our community or a seasoned Geek and Grub veteran, this guide will help you prepare for a smooth and successful market day.
APPLYING TO VEND
How do I apply to be a vendor?
All vendors must submit an application through our event platform, Eventeny, to be considered for vending at an event. Links to the applications are available on our website, GeekandGrubMarket.com. We will never contact you or post on social media or any other platform, asking you to send us money directly.
Do I have to submit an application for every event I wish to attend?
Yes, you must submit an application for each event you wish to attend – luckily Eventeny saves your profile and carries it over event to event!
Do I have to pay for an event even if I don’t get approved?
No, while you do have to provide payment information in order to submit an application, you will not be charged unless your application is approved. That being said, you do have to be prepared to have your card charged once your application is approved, so we do not suggest signing up for an event if you do not plan on paying for it right away.
Do I have to pay for my spot once my application is approved?
Yes, payment is required in order to reserve your booth space. We do not suggest signing up for an event if you are not ready to pay for it.
What if I want to sign up for multiple events – will I be charged for all of them at once?
If you wish to sign up for six or more events, please email us at Erin@GeekandGrubMarket.com to discuss your options for a payment plan.
Do I have to pay for my spot once my application is approved?
Yes, payment is required in order to reserve your booth space. We do not suggest signing up for an event if you are not ready to pay for it.
VENDOR SELECTION
How are vendors selected?
We curate each event based on product variety, quality, and fit. We work hard to avoid oversaturating categories so that all vendors have the best chance at strong sales. That being said, please list ALL items you intend on bringing to the event, that way we can better curate the market.
Do themes affect vendor selection?
Themes don’t affect acceptance, but vendors who offer theme-inspired items often perform better with attendees.
Do you accept MLMs or products featuring AI Art?
No. All vendors must offer handmade goods, original art, or fandom-appropriate merchandise they have the right to sell. AI art is highly discouraged and frowned upon in the geek community. We do not allow AI art and if seen, we will ask for it to be removed.
Is a Sales Tax ID Required to Vend?
Yes, all vendors selling merchandise in NC are required to provide their Sales Tax ID and file sales taxes through the NC Department of Revenue. Your sales tax id is not the same as your Federal Tax ID. Only vendors who comply with NC Tax Laws may attend the Geek and Grub Market. If your business is exempt, please email us at Erin@GeekandGrubMarket.com to get approval for the exemption.
Is Insurance Required to Vend?
It is recommended that vendors have vendor insurance, but at this time it is not required to vend at our market.
REFUND & WEATHER POLICY
Are Vendor Fees refundable?
Vendor fees are non-refundable unless the event is canceled by Geek and Grub Market.
Are Events rain-or-shine?
Yes. Events proceed in most weather conditions unless unsafe (lightning, severe storms, etc.). If we must cancel for safety, vendors will be notified immediately.
Do you offer refunds for inclement weather?
Vendor fees are non-refundable due to weather unless the entire event is canceled.
VENDOR SPACES
I want to vend at one of your outdoor events at the Optimist Farm in Apex. What do the different booth colors mean?
All outdoor booths are 10x10 in size. Golden Geek booths are all corner booths at the entrance of the venue. Silver Geek booths are in-line booths towards the back of the venue.
I want to vend at one of your indoor events at the Durham Armory in Durham. What are the differences in the booth sizes?
We have a variety of different booth sizes to fit multiple budgets. Indoor Spaces range from 6x6 to 10x8. Please note that all vendors are required to stay within their marked booth boundaries.
What should I bring to an outdoor event?
-
A straight leg tent (highly recommended, especially in the summer months)
-
Tent weights (at least 10lbs per leg required)
-
Tables, Chairs and displays
-
Signs or banners
-
Extra inventory
-
Cash/change + POS system
-
Batteries or Portal Power Systems
Do you provide electricity?
Electric access is not available at any of our outdoor venues. Electric access is available with certain booths at the Durham Armory.
POLICIES AND REQUIREMENTS
Do vendors have to stay the entire event?
Yes. Early breakdown is not permitted for safety and customer experience reasons.
Can I share a booth with another vendor?
Booth sharing is allowed only with prior approval and listed on the initial application.
Can I transfer my booth to another vendor if I am unable to attend?
Booth transfers are allowed only with prior approval and within the transfer deadline.
Are tents required?
For outdoor markets, tents are highly recommended especially during summer. Weighted tents are mandatory for safety.
Are vendors expected to dress or decorate for the theme?
Dressing or decorating to theme is not required, but highly encouraged as vendors who lean into the theme often attract more customers and get featured more on social media.
Are there rules about what I can sell?
All items must be safe, legal, and appropriate for a family-friendly event. Fandom items must comply with licensing laws. AI Art is also highly discouraged.
PROMOTION & MARKETING
How can I be featured on Geek and Grub’s social media?
We feature vendors leading up to each event! To be included:
-
Ensure your application includes a focused, close up photo of a product that you will be selling at the event
-
Provide active social media handles
You can also tag us in your own posts for additional visibility.