Shop Small, Celebrate Big FAQs
Q1. What are the event dates and hours?
The event runs Friday, November 28 (6 AM–9 PM) and Saturday, November 29 (10 AM–8 PM). Vendors are expected to participate both days unless otherwise approved.
Q2. How much is the vendor fee?
The fee is $250 for both days, which includes one 8-foot table and two chairs. Payment must be received by November 3 to secure your space.
Q3. Can I do only one day?
Two-day participants are prioritized. Single-day vendors will be placed on a waitlist and contacted only if spaces remain available.
Q4. What is included with my vendor space?
Each vendor receives one 8-foot table and two chairs. Vendors must bring a black, floor-length, flame-retardant tablecloth, or purchase one from the Organizer.
Q5. How many vendors will be accepted?
Only 25 vendor spaces are available. A maximum of two vendors per category will be approved to maintain variety and ensure fair exposure.
Q6. Are food vendors allowed?
No. The Village of Gurnee requires food vendors to have a handwashing station, which is not possible in this setup. Therefore, no food, beverage, or edible items may be sold.
Q7. Are there any product restrictions?
Yes. To comply with Gurnee Mills’ guidelines and existing mall tenants, the following product types are not permitted:
-
Toys (including Labubu, Bbox, Popmart, plushies, etc.)
-
Crochet items, unless approved and not in direct competition with mall tenants
-
Dubai chocolates, strawberries, candy, or any edible items
-
Native arts or handmade crafts that closely resemble those sold by existing tenants
-
Anime or licensed merchandise (e.g., Gashapon, Bandai, or similar characters)
-
3D printing or 3D-printed photo items
-
Jewelry that is not truly handmade (no permanent jewelry)
If you’re unsure about your products, please email us.
Q8. What are the signage requirements?
All signage must be professionally printed and displayed only within your booth area. Handwritten or taped signs are not permitted, and nothing may be attached to mall walls, fixtures, or surfaces.
Q9. Do vendors need insurance?
Yes. All vendors must carry general liability insurance listing God’s Essence Aromatherapy, LLC (its owners, staff, and volunteers) as Additional Insured. A Certificate of Insurance (COI) must be provided before setup.
Q10. When can vendors set up?
Setup times will be confirmed after final mall approval, but vendors can expect early-morning setup before mall hours on Friday, November 28.
Q11. Can I leave my items overnight?
The mall is not responsible for merchandise left unattended. Vendors should remove valuable items at closing each night.
Q12. What materials or activities are prohibited?
For safety and compliance reasons, the following are not allowed:
-
Flashing lights, open flames, helium tanks, amplified sound systems, smoke, or heat-producing equipment
-
Loud solicitation (“barking”) or anything disruptive to shoppers
-
Food or drink consumption at your booth
-
Attaching anything to mall property or moving mall fixtures (benches, trash cans, etc.)
Q13. How should trash be handled?
Trash must be disposed of in designated bins only. Boxes, packing materials, and other waste may not be left in the common area. Violations may result in a service fee from mall management.
Vendor FAQs
Performer FAQs
Q1. When will performances take place?
Performances are scheduled every hour on the hour (and possibly half-hour) between 10 AM and 8 PM both Friday and Saturday.
Q2. Is there a fee to perform?
No. Performances are volunteer-based, but the event will receive promotional exposure through Gurnee Mills and God's Essence platforms. All approved acts will receive direct exposure on God's Essence platforms.
Q3. What types of performances are accepted?
We welcome music, dance, spoken word, theater, comedy, and youth performances — all acts must be family-friendly and pre-approved.
Q4. Will sound equipment be provided?
Yes, the mall’s sound system will be available. Please indicate your audio needs in the application form so we can confirm that your setup can be supported.
Q5. How long is each performance slot?
Standard sets are 20-30 minutes, depending on schedule and interest.
Q6. Can performers sell merchandise or CDs?
No merchandise sales are permitted. Only approved vendors may sell products or goods.
Q7. What are the setup requirements for performers?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled performance for sound checks and stage prep. Assistance will be available for basic setup.
Q8. Can I use props or special effects?
No open flames, smoke, confetti, or flashing lights. Props or decor must be approved in advance. Less is more.
Q9. Will performances be promoted?
Yes.
Q10. What if I need to cancel?
We hope you don't as we're building out a tight schedule. However, please notify us immediately so your slot can be filled from the waiting list.
Q11. Will performers have access to dressing or prep space?
There will be a designated area near the stage for setup and brief prep, but there are no private dressing rooms. Please come performance-ready when possible.
Q12. Can performers hand out flyers or business cards?
Yes, you may share materials that promote your performance or brand, but no selling of items or aggressive solicitation is allowed per mall policy.
Q13. Will I be contacted with my time slot?
Yes. Approved performers will receive a confirmation email with their assigned time, sound check details, and arrival instructions.