Inside the Creator’s Workshop: What Did You Forget?

Every convention is a big undertaking, and no matter how much you plan, there’s always that one thing that slips through the cracks. Whether it's something small, like forgetting your favorite pen, or an unexpected challenge that throws a wrench into your perfectly laid plans, it's part of the game. But here's the good news—most of these "oops" moments can be avoided with a little foresight and maybe a solid checklist to make sure you're ready for anything. With the right prep, you can focus on what really matters—connecting with fans, making sales, and getting the most out of your time on the convention floor.

One of the most common mistakes creators make is not having enough change on hand. It might sound simple, but not everyone uses cards, and you don't want to be caught without the proper change when you get a customer ready to buy. A good rule of thumb is to make sure you have a solid cash float with small bills—especially ones in the $1 and $5 range. You can even break a $20 at a nearby gas station or store to make sure you’re set. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure you won’t be scrambling for change in the middle of a transaction.

Another slip-up that can put a damper on your day is forgetting essential tech like your card reader or backup battery. Technology can fail you at the worst times, so make sure you’re fully charged and ready to go before the event starts. Portable chargers are a lifesaver here, especially since many conventions charge for electricity or don’t have easily accessible outlets. A dead card reader or a phone that runs out of battery halfway through the day can be a nightmare, so keep extra power on hand to make sure you don’t lose any sales.

Signage is another crucial element that often gets overlooked. While it’s easy to focus on your product, it’s equally important to make sure your booth looks professional and inviting. Without clear pricing signs, potential customers may be hesitant to ask, or worse, they might walk away without making a purchase. Having signs up that display your prices clearly can save you time and encourage more sales. And here’s a pro tip: make sure your signs include a quick, one-line pitch for each of your products, so customers can see the value of your work even when you’re busy talking to other people. This simple addition can really help catch the eye of passersby and encourage more interest in your work.

Speaking of preparation, don’t overlook snacks and hydration. Convention food can be overpriced, and sometimes it’s hard to find something convenient to eat while you're working the booth. So, take control of your day by packing your own water, protein bars, and other easy-to-eat snacks to keep your energy levels up. Having food and drink nearby will not only help you stay nourished but will also prevent you from having to leave your booth when you're in the middle of a conversation with a potential customer.

One of the most important, yet often forgotten, elements is finding a way to collect emails or contact information. Conventions are busy, and you’ll likely meet a ton of people, but once the event is over, you don’t want to forget them. Having a QR code on a flyer, business cards, or a sign-up sheet allows you to capture leads and keep the conversation going long after the event has ended. You never know when a simple email could turn into a future collaboration, sale, or opportunity. Being proactive in this way will help you maximize the value of the connections you make during the convention.

And of course, there's the emergency kit. It’s easy to forget the small but essential things that can save the day. Tape, extra pens, gold and silver sharpies (don’t be shy about signing your work!), and even a small toolkit can be real lifesavers. These items may seem trivial, but when something goes wrong—a book falls apart, a pen runs out of ink, or you need to make quick repairs—having the right tools at your disposal will keep things running smoothly. It’s also smart to carry some basic over-the-counter meds like pain relievers or allergy medicine, just in case.

We reached out to some fellow creators to see what they always forget to bring to conventions, and their answers were relatable. One creator shared that they never remember to pack a wifi hotspot, while another admitted to always forgetting cash for change. A few creators mentioned the importance of having a tool bag on hand, because you never know when you’ll need to fix something on the fly. A couple of people noted that they forgot things like their radio battery or even something as simple as tape. One creator even mentioned forgetting their brush pen, which led to borrowing someone else’s in the middle of a commission. It just goes to show how easy it is to forget something important—so make sure you double-check your checklist before you head to the con!

At the end of the day, conventions are all about learning and growing as a creator. The more events you attend, the better you’ll get at anticipating what you need and what you can do without. And even when you forget something, it’s an opportunity to adapt and find a solution on the spot. Every experience is valuable. So, the next time you're gearing up for a convention, keep this list handy and make sure you’re fully prepared. The more you plan, the less you’ll stress, and the more you’ll enjoy the experience of connecting with fans, growing your network, and boosting your sales. Happy con season!