Guide to Organizing Craft Festival

Transcription

Small Business Development, June 2007
GUIDE TO
ORGANIZING CRAFT FESTIVALS
Nam LaMore, Peace Corps Volunteer in Khemisset
Morocco 2005-2007
This guide was written with contributions from Small Business Development
PCVs Veronika Soul, Rachel Beach, Jessica DeVreeze,
Deanedra McMillan, Jehan Khaleeli, Lisa Smith, Andrea Luecke, Lindsay Kurlak, others;
Program Staff Bouchra El Achkar and Tariq Doukkali; and
Programming & Training Officer Gordon Mengel
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preparing and attending a craft festival serves all three goals of the Peace Corps,
and is a direct manifestation of the First Goal of the Peace Corps:
“Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained
men and women.”
I. PREPARATIONS FOR THE CRAFT FESTIVAL
A. Assemble a Team
B. Inviting PCVs & Artisans
C. Funding & Partnerships
D. Transportations, Part I
E. Lodging & Meals
F. Invitation Letter
G. Events Schedule & Cheat Sheet
H. Publicity & Promotional Tools
I. Packing List
J. Resources
K. Professionalism & Work Ethics, Part I
II. DURING THE CRAFT FESTIVAL
A. Photography & Documentation
B. Set-up/Tear-down
C. Finance/Money Matters
D. Table/Booth Assignments
E. Table/Booth Displays
F. Workshop & Training Sessions
G. Attendance/Participation Certificate
H. Transportation, Part II
I. Professionalism & Work Ethics, Part II
III. POST CRAFT FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
A. Thank You
B. Reports
C. Feedback
D. Follow-ups & Visits
E. Host Discussions In-Site
IV. APPENDIX
A. Craft Festival Schedule for 2006
B. Logistics (AIWA Christmas Bazaar, Zagora Craft Festival)
C. Invitation Letter
D. Marketing/Promotional Tools
E. Craft Fair Report for Participating PCVs – Template
F. Craft Festivals Comparative: Zagora, Rabat, Saidia and Marrakech
Guide to Organizing Craft Festivals – June 2007 – Page 2
Peace Corps Volunteer Nam LaMore, Morocco 2005-2007
PREPARATION FOR THE CRAFT FESTIVAL
ASSEMBLE A TEAM
Recruit Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) and Host
Country Nationals (HCNs) to help. Others have
experience & skills the organizer may not have,
including:
 Language proficiency
 Graphics design/layout
 An eye for detail
 Technical skills
 Marketing experience
 Organizational/management skills
Pay attention to group dynamics, but a good team
will have members who are:
 Flexible
 Reasonable
 Responsible
 Motivated to learn and transfer skills
Get a history of craft festivals in the region or town. Talk with previous festival attendees
about what they liked about previous festivals, and how the planning can be improved. Try to
understand the “timing” of previous festivals: why was it held at that time of the year? Are
there constraints on the date? For example, peaks in tourism, religious event [moussem],
climate, etc may influence dates of the festival.
FUNDING SOURCES
Partner with appropriate groups for possible funding:
 Peace Corps. Know who the “sponsoring” program staff is – this is the arbiter should
conflicts arise with other groups or between PCVs. In addition to the sector‟s program
staff (who will communicate to other administrative and sectors‟ program staff),
contact PCV Committees (GAD, SIDA, etc) as appropriate for possible workshop &
training sessions.
Funding may be available through SPA grants, Ambassadors‟ Fund, etc. Check with
program staff.

Ministry of Tourism. This is usually the delegate, but may be someone in that office.
The Delegation and Chamber of Artisana are under the umbrella Ministry of Tourism,
but they have different responsibilities, with possible funding and helpful contacts.
Funding is often available through various ministries. Within the Ministry of Tourism
are the Delegation and Chambre d‟artisanat. Entraide Nationale‟s mission is to provide
assistance with women welfare development projects and may assist with donation of
services and/or lending of equipments. Work with the counterpart or delegate to
explore funding options within the community and government agencies.

NGOs. PCVs may need to work with other NGOs, but usually someone in the
delegation is the liaison between the NGO and the PCV. Some NGOs include
UNESCO, Aid-to-Artisans, etc.
INVITING PCVs & ARTISANS
Determining which PCVs and artisans are to attend a craft festival will take a few, complicated
steps. These steps may include:

Polling for interest. Once the general dates & town (or region) of the craft festival are
determined, poll PCVs for possible attendance interest. Poll for interest based on
availability of complete, partial or no funding. Provide brief history of craft festival in
the initial communication to help PCVs/artisans determine interest in attending.
Develop a matrix to help determine budget (estimated cost of transport, lodging,
meals), craft diversity, etc. Collect data and present to vested parties, including Peace
Corps program staff, delegate, etc.
During this initial communication, it is important for PCVs to note in their polled
responses if there are special needs of or considerations for the artisans they are
nominating to attend the craft festival. For example, PCVs may request an additional
artisan or two to attend if artisans are physically challenged, women from remote sites
who would never travel on their own, or those with a speech impediment and need
another as translator/interpreter.
If possible, then organizing PCV should note the possible market to help PCVs and
artisans decide if the craft festival is appropriate for them to attend. For example, a
craft festival where many overseas-families vacation will likely expect higher quality
products; PCVs must determine if products from their artisans are appropriate for such
a craft festival.
NB: This exercise in no way guarantees specific sites/artisans are invited, or funding
is available. Program staff will notify other sectors as appropriate. PCVs from other
sectors may be interested in attending; however, priority needs to be given within the
sector, and program staff from other sectors may not approve as involvement may
delude other sectors’ program objectives & goals.
AIWA BAZAAR 2006, PCV Nam LaMore polling PCV community for interest:

Regular Updates and Call to Action. Some PCVs do not have daily Internet access
(living allowance does not cover daily cyber visits) or Internet in-site; factor this into
the planning phase when communicating with PCVs, and expecting them to respond
to requests for info. In each communication, inform PCVs when the next update is
expected so they can plan ahead on when they need to check/respond to emails. This
avoids email backlog and unnecessary stress for both organizing and participating
PCVs.

Reality Check. Work closely with program staff and delegation to review the list of
PCVs/artisans interested in attending. This is likely to go through several revisions and
many factors determine the final list of artisans and PCVs who will be attending,
including:
 Experience. Artisans and PCVs may be invited to attend a craft festival to
gain experience or share their skills with less experienced artisans and PCVs.
 Craft diversity. It is important to have craft diversity for a successful craft
festival, unless it is a craft-specific festival.
 Budget.
NB: not all PCVs are able to accompany artisans from their sites to the craft festival.

Confirmation. Get confirmation from every PCV and artisan who have been invited
and plan to attend; and manage a “waiting list” for possible cancellations. Confirm
with each PCV/artisan the week before the festival, and the day before PCVs and
artisans are expected to travel/leave site.
NB: PCVs attending the craft festival must get the Work-Related Leave Request
Form signed by the delegate and send to program staff prior to leaving site.

Logistics. Provide PCVs and artisans with all the logistics necessary to attend the craft
festival: transportation/directions, lodging, events & meetings schedule, etc

COS-ing & Just Sworn-in PCVs. Some craft festivals may be planned as PCVs are
COS-ing (Close-of Service). Pay special attention to these sites. If the site is
“renewed” (a new PCV is replacing the COS-ing PCV), then ask the COS-ing PCV to
forward all relevant information to the new PCV. If the communication between COSing and just sworn-in PCVs is not transparent, then assess and involve the just swornin PCV but do not overwhelm him/her. If necessary, get program staff to facilitate so
that artisans still have the opportunity to attend the craft festival.
This is the first in a series of communications to PCVs for AIWA BAZAAR 2006:
EVENT: AIWA BAZAAR
WHAT:

American International Women's Association (AIWA) Bazaar 2006

(aka Second Annual Rabat American School Winter Craft Fair/Festival)
WHEN:

11:00 – 16:00, Saturday, December 9, 2006

This is a one-day event.
WHERE:

Gymnasium of the Rabat American School

Address: 1 Bis Rue Emir Ibn Abdelkader / Agdal, 10000 / Rabat
WHO/CONTACTS:

Nam LaMore (coordinating for Volunteers/Peace Corps), 077 11 34 07 / [email protected]

Bouchra el Achkar, Program Manager/Small Business Development Program, Peace Corps

Connie McDaniel, Liaison to AIWA Bazaar
FUNDING:

NO FUNDING IS AVAILABLE.

AIWA has generously waved fees for tables and workers (Peace Corps and artisans) at the
bazaar for Peace Corps.

There is absolutely NO funding available for transportation, lodging, or food from the
Ministry, Peace Corps, or AIWA.

Funding sources to explore by each Volunteer/artisan: cooperative/association members,
Chamber of Artisana, community fund-raising, etc.
LOGISTICS:
SET-UP/TEAR-DOWN

Free entrance for 2 people/table before 10:00 for set-up; others can

come later but need to pay the entrance fee (I don‟t have this answer yet).
OVERNIGHT/LODGING OPTIONS

I am currently researching lodging options; last year‟s group (after failed attempts at securing
free lodging within YD‟s Ministry contracts) stayed at the Hotel Velleda.

Hotel Velleda, 037 76 95 31, 106 Avenue Allal Ben Abdallah / Rabat (room rates: 89120dh/night).
OTHER DATES TO CONSIDER:

Nov 27: Close-Of-Service for 2nd Year Volunteers

Dec 4-6: Mid-Service Medical for Volunteers in Rabat
BACKGROUND:
(2nd Year PCVs Andy Allen & Victoria Wilson provided most of this section)

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
In total, 2005/last year‟s sales was about 35,000 dirhams.
The items that sold best were high quality products between 50 to 200 dirhams.
Most of the buyers are Americans looking for interesting Christmas presents that are
reasonably priced and not too difficult to transport.
As a whole, our products were much better than anyone else's and that is why we are being
invited back.
Basically, high quality products at reasonable prices or cheap interesting but still quality

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products as stocking stuffers will sell. The big, bulky, high priced items have little chance.
Traditional items that often appear unattractive to Westerners such as bulky carpets with odd
colors and traditional items like tahruets did not sell well.
On advertising: Brian Perusse produced a brochure that was good. He basically listed the date,
times, and location of the fair as well as that we were supporting rural artisans, so buyers
would be getting products directly from the makers. Peace Corps printed out the brochures and
then distributed them for us in Rabat.
We did a day long training the day before at the volunteer lounge with the assistance of ATA.
The textiles that Lindsay [Tameslohte] works with sold very well and so did Yousseff's
[Azrou] rock lamps.
Yousseff sold about 14 lamps to someone he met that day who decided to visit his store in
Azrou and check out all of his products a week after the fair. I also think that Lee (or his
replacement), Lisa [Boujad] and Lindsay's [Tameslohte] artisans could sell well.
I think your wood guy [Khemisset] will do well if he brings some of the smaller items and
tables. He could bring an item list of other stuff, as most of the clients have cars and would
have no trouble driving to Khemisset to pick up some bigger items.
OPEN QUESTIONS/NEED RESOLUTIONS:

Should we have a day-long training session(s) the day before the bazaar? Who will conduct the
session(s)? Who will participate? Objectives/goals of session(s)? (All to provide input to Nam)

Research lodging options? Costs? (Nam)

Since 2nd Year Volunteers are COSing, who will bridge/communicate with artisans from these
sites? (COSing PCVs)

Each Volunteer is responsible for submitting signed Request Form for Work-Related
(Appendix K) to Bouchra for the out-of-site log. (All)

Request copy of last year‟s brochure. (Nam)

Solicit PCV co-coordinator. (Anyone have time to help me sort this?)
CALL TO ACTION (Current Volunteers):

ASAP: Please read the entire document; now, share the information with your artisans,
counterpart, delegate/delegation, etc.

By Sunday night/Nov 5: As space is limited, please let me know if you intent to participate or
send an artisan to the AIWA Bazaar; don‟t need specific names as yet – just need to determine
who/which site is interested in attending AND what craft products (carpets, wood products,
fossils, handbags, etc) you plan to be selling. What other information do you need to determine
if you plan to participate, plan your budget, etc? If you‟ve already determined not to attend or
send artisans, then I also need this information so I can put a ticker next to you name/site that
you are not participating (optional: cite reason for the comment box).

By Sunday night/Nov 26: Need to confirm if you are participating or not. Send
questions/comments to me ([email protected]) as you have them, I would like to consolidate all
questions/comments and bring to Connie‟s (AIWA) and Bouchra‟s (Peace Corps) attention on
Monday/October 30th.

By Sunday night/Dec 3: Need names of Volunteers and artisans to submit to Connie (AIWA)
to prepare name tags (Hello, My Name is …) for free entry into Bazaar for set-up.

Saturday/Dec 9: AIWA Bazaar

POST-EVENT: In addition to, or separate from the Monthly Report, each Volunteer to provide
Bouchra with Volunteer/artisan feedback, amount/what sold, photos, etc; I will also need this
info for a wrap-up report.
DAYS TO EVENT (as of Oct 22): 48 days
###
PCV Rachel Beach spearheaded the Zagora Craft Festival, May 2007. Planning and
updated communications for the AIWA BAZAAR and Zagora Craft Festival can be
found in the APPENDIX section. Review these communications for examples of
organizing craft festivals.
TRANSPORTATION, PART I
If transportation is budgeted for the craft festival, then logistics may need to be arranged for
PCVs and artisans. This may include negotiating number of buses, rendezvous points &
approximate pick-up times, fuel/distance covered, etc. For multiple pick-up points, it is
necessary to assign a coordinator traveling on the bus to contact a point-person at each pick-up
point in order to communicate delays, expected arrivals, color/type of bus to look for, etc. This
coordinator can also communicate or arrange for bags unclaimed/left on bus to be delivered to
their owners.
If transportation is budgeted and no transportation is pre-arranged, then reimbursements for
estimated costs can be done prior or during the craft festival. Ask for (when possible) and
retain receipts for reimbursement purposes.
If transportation is not budgeted, then PCVs and artisans are expected to arrive at the craft
festival on their own, in time for the meeting and/or set-up.
NB: In general, there is no craft festival funding (reimbursement) for transportations,
lodging and meals for PCVs.
LODGING & MEALS
Lodging and meals should be determined and communicated to everyone before their arrival at
the craft festival. For reasons of cultural norms, it is recommended that PCVs and artisans have
different lodging arrangements. Should PCVs and artisans stay in the same place, then cultural
norms need to be observed at all times.
If lodging is arranged for artisans, then make sure it is clean and has basic facilities. Generally,
separate lodgings are required for men and women artisans. If staying in the same place, then
separate “wings” or floors should be made available for artisans coming from more
conservative backgrounds.
If meals are provided for (either per diem or arranged), then communicate this with all PCVs
and artisans prior to their arrival. Assign/rotate booth duties to PCVs are artisans so everyone
has a chance to eat or take a break. Hungry/tired PCVs and artisans can create unpleasant
interactions with festival attendees.
Some artisans may insist on bringing their own buta-gaz tanks to prepare meals or tea – this is
generally unacceptable and should be discouraged.
NB: Lodging receipts are necessary for reimbursement purposes.
NB: Lodging and craft festival areas are considered training sites; thus, all Peace Corps
policies must be observed including use of alcohol, drugs, etc.
INVITATION LETTER
It may be necessary to create an invitation for artisans to carry with them during travel to/from
the craft festival. If so, then ask program staff and/or delegation to help with translation and
textcopy. PCVs (or artisans) can print the invitation letter and have the local delegation stamp
it to make it “official”.
The reason for the invitation letter is that artisans traveling by themselves may get stopped by
police/gendarme and asked why they have many products with them. An invitation letter
stating the craft festival is sufficient for this purpose.
PCVs (2005-2007) Jessica DeVreeze and Justin Brown created an invitation letter for the
Saidia Craft Festival, August 2006, which is included in the APPENDIX section of this guide.
PUBLICITY & PROMOTIONAL TOOLS
Bring promotional/marketing tools if available, these may include:
 Brochures, catalogs, order forms. French and English are ideal; but depends on
expected tourist traffic. For example, more Spanish tourists are expected in the North
(re: Tangier/Nador regions), while German tourists are likely in South (re: Agadir
region).
 Map of Morocco. This helps to show PCV/artisan sites, giving perspective & distance
artisans had to travel to attend craft festival, and encouraging a site visit.


Business cards. If using a generic business card, then write the name of the artisan and
the date & town of the craft festival.
Posters, photo albums, postcards. Photos and images of the site, artisans at work,
etc. are useful to attract buyers. Some products may be difficult to display at the craft
festival, so have photos of how they may be used/displayed. For example, displaying a
hammock may not be possible and it will not be obvious that it is a hammock (and not
just a carpet!). Also, photo albums are useful to show the range of crafts the artisan has
to offer but not able to bring. This may generate site visits, placement of command
orders, media interest, etc.
Advise artisans to give them to festival attendees accordingly, not just to everyone who come
into the booth. Have a few “display” copies available in protected sleeves to show to casual
strollers, and a stack tucked out of sight to give to potential buyers. Bring “master copies” to
make during the festival.
NB: Make every effort to acknowledge all organizations or government agencies as funding
sources in publicity or promotional tools; they can be represented as textcopies or graphical
elements (photos, logos, etc).
Examples of promotional tools can be found in the APPENDIX section of this guide.
Publicity
Create simple and appealing, yet informative, promotional tools (posters, postcards, flyers, etc)
and post them in advance (strategize on timing and frequency) where potential attendees are
likely to see:
 Bus & taxi stations
 Police & gendarme stations, and other government buildings
 Universities & Learning Language Centers
 Hotels & Auberges (hostels)
 Cafes & Restaurants
 Embassies & Consulates
 Media outlets (this needs to be approved by Peace Corps, Ministry of Tourism, etc)
Create text-only and/or small file-sized Web emails to post to specific websites (i.e.
couchsurfing.com), personal networks/lists, etc.
In addition to costs of printing, consider the following factors when creating promotional tools:
 Lead time to gather content (i.e. logos, photos, textcopy, etc), translate textcopy,
approve/review (concept, design/layout, photos/images of artisans, color scheme,
theme, etc), and print/distribute.
 Define early on who needs to approve/review, and those who are just providing
feedback/input.
 File format publisher/printer can handle (JPG, PDF, MS-Word, PNG, PPT, etc).
 Size of paper (letter, A4, Legal, etc)
 Grade/weight of paper/cardstock
 Black & White, 2-Colors or 4-Colors
Textcopy & Translations
Translate to other languages as necessary, depending on target audience and region of craft
festival: French, Arabic, English, Spanish, German and Japanese
Information technology and translation challenges in Morocco include:
 Translate French correctly. French is a language that is commonly translated
incorrectly; ask someone who is a native French speakers and/or university-educated.
Even so, the translation may differ from one person to another. Program staff has final
approval.

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

Arabic scripts. Arabic scripts may be installed on many PCV-computers; however,
they are generally not configured to handle right-to-left Arabic scripting.
Software applications. Create files using “common” software such as Microsoft
Word or PowerPoint. These can be powerful tools to create professional-looking
posters, postcards, flyers, etc. Though special desktop publishing applications such as
PhotoShop, Quark, etc are more powerful, many PCVs and cyber café computer
systems are likely not to have these special applications installed.
Page set-up. Set page/print size appropriately; for example, A4 for European-ready
printers. Page set-up should be set to twice or more of print to allow for possibility of
printing larger than A4 size, but will scale to A4 without loss or image distortion.
TrueType fonts. Computers able to handle target fonts; it‟s best to use “common”
fonts so source files can be viewed on other computers without substituting fonts; this
can have disastrous effects for text fields that are “anchored” or specifically sized.
Sustainability. Provide both source & image files. Source file allows for direct editing
of the document, and the image (PDF, JPG, TIFF are best) file allows for viewing,
printing and distributing.
Suggested textcopy (these have been previously approved and used):
FRENCH
ENGLISH
Soutenez les artisans locaux & ruraux qui
Support local & rural artisans offering
vous présentent leurs produits entièrement high-quality, handmade crafts.
faits main.
Chaque achat contribue significativement
au Développement Durable et aux
pratiques du commerce équitable.
Each purchase significantly contributes to
Sustainable Development and Festival
Trade practices.
Les artisans ont bénéficié de l’assistance
technique des Volontaires du Corps de la
Paix des États-Unis d’Amérique.
All artisans received technical support
from Peace Corps Volunteers.
Textcopy from the Ministry of Tourism for the artisan‟s sector of Morocco‟s Tourism 2015
campaign:
FRENCH
ENGLISH
C'est la nouvelle dimension de l'artisanat
It's a new dimension of the artisanat of
du Maroc.
Morocco.
Logos
Make use of appropriate/approved logos and photos; approval is necessary for use of any
logos. The Ministry of Tourism recently introduced the “Artisanat du Maroc” logo as part of its
Tourism 2015 campaign. Ask program staff or Ministry of Tourism for high-resolution logo.
NB: The use of the Peace Corps logo is restricted to official Peace Corps programs
authorized under the Peace Corps Act. Accordingly, you must receive permission from the
Peace Corps before using the logo. Program staff can assist with getting approval for use of
logo.
Ministry of Tourism 2007-2015 campaign logo, modified versions for region-specific
activities (I believe the Ministry of Tourism logo is using the font Book Antiqua, with a
condense factor of about 15-25%, for the text), and other logos can be found in the
APPENDIX section of this guide.
Posters/Flyers/Postcards
Create posters/flyers as part of the publicity campaign. As noted elsewhere in this guide, create
posters using “widely available” software such as Microsoft Word or PowerPoint so sharing
and editing can be done by others, including current/future PCVs, Peace Corps staff, Ministry
of Tourism staff/delegation/agencies, etc.
Choose images that are inviting, appealing, and appropriate to the craft festival. For example,
an ocean sunset photo (though inspiring) is not appropriate for inclusion on a poster promoting
a craft festival in the Middle Atlas region. Include images showing artisans at work, they
emphasize the “human factor” and encourage tourists to attend and meet artisans.
If budget allows, then produce posters in color for distribution; however, this is often not the
case and that black & white flyers are often made. Keep this in mind when creating
promotional material – busy images or complicated fonts do not render well in black & white.
Key information to include:
 What. Give name of the festival, and what may be available for sale.
 When. Give dates and time of festival
 Where. Provide location, town, area of town, etc; and how to get there if appropriate.
Posters created for previous/recent craft festivals are included in the APPENDIX section.
Business Cards
It is important for artisans to come to craft festivals with business cards. This is important for
networking and finding new customers (especially shop-owners of the craft festival‟s town).
Engage artisans in the design process of their business cards.
Business card size can vary; recommended size is 5.5cm x 9cm. Print on cardstock paper (150
weight or better is good). Microsoft Word has business card templates, or you can create one
by inserting a table into a blank document and constraint size of cells (instead of auto-sizing).
Use a readable, common font; exotic fonts are not installed on all computers.
If working with a cooperative, then it is more desirable to have “generic” business card with
name of the cooperative, address (or town) and a brief description or photo of the craft made.
Reserve space for individual artisans to write specific info even if it is single-sided printing;
double-sided printing is typically cost prohibitive.
Information may include:
 Name of cooperative or person (family name is capitalized), include profession/title if
appropriate
 Phone, fax and/or email
 Mailing address (or just name of town & region for remote villages)
 Description of crafts/products/services
 A photo of craft, person or cooperative sign
Examples of business cards can be found in the APPENDIX section of this guide.
Product Tags
Create product tags to help market the artisan, cooperative, or region. When potential tourists
know a bit more about who made the craft or where it comes from, they are more likely to buy
a “souvenir” or gift because a connection has been established with the artisans.
Basic descriptors (these have been previously approved and used):
FRENCH
ENGLISH
Ce produit a été conçu par un
This product is handcrafted by a
maître-artisan coopérant. Le
cooperative master craftsman. The
revenue de ventes va directement
revenues received from sales go
aux artisans et contribute à
subventionner les activités
cooperatives.
directly to the artisans and also to
support continued operations.
Other information that may be included:
 Contact information
 Type of business (cooperative, family, individual, etc)
 Artisan‟s family and training background
 How the product is produced, may focus on hand-made, natural dyes, etc.
Examples of product tags can be found in the APPENDIX section of this guide.
Cheat Sheet
Create an index card-sized “cheat sheet” to give to all festival participants; ideally this is given
to participants when they arrive. Cheat sheet content can include:
 Events & meetings schedule
 Hours that the festival is “open” for festival attendees to shop -- it looks bad when a
tent/table is not open or unattended.
 Key contacts and their phone numbers; a photo may be useful.
 Lodging name, address and reception phone number.
Cheat sheet prepared for AIWA Bazaar 2006:
PACKING LIST
Artisans (with reminder from PCVs) need to bring whatever supplies they need for the craft
festival. This is a recommended list of supplies they are likely to need for displaying products,
taking notes/bookkeeping, packing up, etc.
 Notepad
 Masking tape
 Measuring tape
 Pens/pencils
 Hangers (if selling
 Plastic bags or
 Table drape
clothing)
appropriate containers
 Calculator
 Cords/ropes
for products sold
 Labels/stickers (for
 Electrical outlet
 Push-pins
prices)
extensions
 Glue/glue stick
 Scissors
Participating PCVs and artisans do not need to bring everything, just what they anticipate they
will need. The organizing PCV may have budget set aside for purchase of some items during
the craft festival, but it is ultimately the responsibility of the artisan to buy/bring what they
need.
RESOURCES
These are some Websites that may have useful information when organizing a craft festival:
 http://www.tourisme.gov.ma/
 http://www.tanmia.ma/
 http://mepi.state.gov/
 http://www.aidtoartisans.org/
 http://www.worldeventsguide.com/
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Festivals_in_Morocco/
 http://www.visitmorocco.org/
 http://www.oncf.ma/
Also, discuss with program staff for possible funding through SPA grants, Ambassador‟s
Funds, etc.
PROFESSIONALISM & WORK EITHICS, PART I
It is important that PCVs project professionalism and adhere to good work ethics when
preparing and attending craft festivals. It is far too easy for PCVs to consider a trip out-of-site
as a vacation trip. On the contrary, leaving site to attend a craft festival generates more work
than staying in-site.
Consider:
 Be Reasonable. Assign tasks and set reasonable deadlines. Communicate to others if
you are given a task and there is a delay; your task may impact another‟s ability to
deliver/complete their tasks. Ask for help or hand-off your task if you are
overwhelmed.
 Communication/Transportation Access. Do not expect every PCV to have the same
access to communications at (i.e. mobile service or cyber café) or transport in/out of
their sites. PCVs in rural sites often have infrequent or unreliable communication
and/or transportation access. Know who these PCVs are, and allow them additional
time to internalize content, check with artisans and respond to requests. Though it is
better to over-communicate with PCVs during planning, be mindful that flooding PCV
with emails, phone calls and SMS messages is often counter-productive and may result
in unnecessary confusion and conflicts.
 Can do attitude! PCV (2004-2006)
Victoria Wilson was in a remote site
without cell-phone signal or Internet
in-site. As part of her weekly routine
while in a nearby town, she went to a
cyber café to check/respond to
messages, shopped for items not
available in-site, etc. Other PCVs were
aware of her “cyber days” and took this
into consideration when
communicating with her.
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
Be Responsible. Unless pre-arranged with other PCVs or the organizing PCV, the
participating PCV is solely responsible for communicating with his/her artisan(s). This
includes in-site trainings to prepare the artisan(s) to attend the craft festival.
Remain Positive. A peer asked to organize a craft festival is a big responsibility.
Provide constructive criticism and suggestions rather than just pointing out what is
wrong. Hindsight is always fool-proof. If the organizing (or participating) PCV is
overwhelmed, then ask him/her how you can help.
PCV Site. The craft festival may take place in a PCV site. If this is the case, then be
sensitive to that PCV‟s time, relationships to the community, norms of the community,
etc. Keep that PCV informed and invite him/her to events, meetings, meals, etc. as
appropriate. The resident PCV may choose to orient, host or invite PCVs and artisans
to his/her home; however, do not expect these duties of the resident PCV.
END OF SECTION
DURING THE CRAFT FESTIVAL
Things can change quickly and often during the course of a craft festival. Decisions and actions
may be made seemingly without reasons, so respect boundaries and communicate them to
other PCVs and artisans as requested by the organizing team. In addition to the PCV
organizing the festival, designate an on-site PCV who will respond to requests and can make
decisions if the organizing PCV is unavailable.
As not all PCVs can attend a craft festival with their artisans, designate a PCV who will act as
an “advocate” for these artisans. Artisans without PCVs are often familiar with craft festivals,
but will welcome attention from an on-site PCV. The assigned on-site PCV can communicate
changes in lodging, transportation, etc.
Assure artisans that night-guards (if appropriate) have been hired to watch over the festival
area. However, artisans need to do what they can to deter thieves such cover or lock-up small,
portable crafts if possible.
PHOTOGRAPHY/DOCUMENTATION
Encourage PCVs to photograph the entire craft festival from setting-up to tearing-down.
Designate a PCV to be the “official” craft festival photographer who will document the
festival, including:
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Activities in booths
Personnel visits from the Ministry of
Tourism, Peace Corps, local
government, business leaders, etc.
Training sessions
Artisans interacting with tourists,
PCVs, other artisans, etc.
Opening/closing ceremonies
Table/booth displays (useful for
discussions and training sessions)
Products (useful for future product
development and cataloging)
These photos are useful for future training sessions, creating marketing/promotional tools,
sharing the experience with PCVs/artisans who could not attend, writing reports and general
archiving.
SET-UP/TEAR-DOWN
Everyone needs to help with set-up and
tear-down/storage of the festival area,
unless informed not to do so.
Contributing to set-up/tear-down reflects
to festival organizers that PCVs and
artisans are worth inviting to future
festivals.
Account for and return all equipments
and borrowed supplies to their owners.
Empty garbage cans, pick up trash, take
down posted signage, remove tapes/nails,
etc. Confirm with the organizer that the
area is in the condition it needs to be
before leaving.
FINANCE/MONEY ISSUES
It is not uncommon for craft festivals taking place in cities deemed “tourist destinations” to
want to pay for their purchases in other currencies than in dirhams. Tourists may not have
exchanged their money for local currency. Try to have a list of exchange rates on hand in case
this happens. Currencies that come in handy are U.S. Dollar, E.U. Euro, and Japanese Yen.
In general, it is advantageous to accept foreign currencies for high-priced purchases as more
money is “made” when exchanged for local currency, and compensates for any commission set
by the bank. ARTISANS ARE ADVISED NEVER TO ACCEPT PERSONAL CHECKS.
It is good practice to note where and the working hours of banks near the festival area, and
note if there are cash machines.
NB: As a matter of policy, PCVs may not handle money.
Sales Tally
It is best to tally sales from each artisan on a daily basis. This makes it easier to tally the total
at the end of the festival, and to keep track of sales traffic. To make it easier on the organizing
PCV, each PCV should ask their artisans sales made at the end of each day, or the next
morning. Asking artisans to share their sales figures is an exercise in trust, sales vs. profit and
accounting/bookkeeping practice; the PCV-artisan team can lead discussions on accounting
post-festival back in site with the cooperative and other artisans.
Small Change
Many artisans attending craft festival generally do not carry small change. A PCV assigned to
get small change (20dh notes, 10dh/5dh/1dh coins) from the bank on a daily basis is advisable;
this way, customers do not need to wait for their change when making purchases. If possible,
arrange for a different artisan to go with the PCV to get small change each day so the artisan
can experience and understand this basic, business function.
TABLE/BOOTH ASSIGNMENTS
Work with the artisan/PCV community to assign table/booth prior to everyone‟s arrival at the
craft area. Some considerations in assigning table/booth:
 Space requirements for products/crafts. For example, artisans bringing textile
products or paintings can use walls for additional display space; artisans bringing
jewelry are mobile and need just table-top space; and artisans bringing sculptures or
cloth racks may need (more) floor space.
 Special constraints. Communicate special constraints earl y in the planning process;
perhaps as early as when the organizing PCV is polling PCVs for interest in attending
the craft festival. For example, some artisans need access to electrical outlets for to
best display their products.
 Complimenting products/crafts. Every effort will be made to separate artisans with
similar crafts, but this may not be possible if space is limited.
 Pairing of seasoned & non-seasoned artisans.
 Attitudes of artisans. Some artisans are more “difficult” to work with than others, and
may resent sharing table/booth.
However, be prepared that pre-assigning table/booth space may not turn out as planned. Many
factors may impact this, including PCVs/artisans canceling the same day, attending later in the
craft festival cycle than expected, leaving the craft festival early or deciding to invite extra
artisans to attend.
TABLE/PRODUCT DISPLAYS
Artisans often need to share tents and display tables; this can be stressful and can quickly spiral
out of control if not properly managed. Manage expectations and inform artisans PRIOR to
their arrival at the craft festival that they may need to share space.
 Help artisans to display their products
effectively. Many artisans tend to bring more
products and want them all displayed than
available space. Frequent tidying-up is needed
for this display strategy to work. Create
inviting walkways/paths into the booth;
however, this may not be desired in all cases.
For example, artisans with jewelries for sale
may want to restrict booth traffic.
 Less is more. This busy, cluttered booth/table
display is not inviting to potential buyers who
nervously must watch their every steps. Give
advice to artisans about displaying their products,
but never actually force them to accept your
advice.
 Encourage artisans to “work” during craft
festivals. For multi-day craft festivals, artisans
are encouraged to bring raw material to work
during the slower part of the day. Not
surprisingly, tourists soon gather to watch the
creation of hand-made crafts.
 A stylishly organized table display is inviting
to potential buyers. PCV (2005-2006) Eileen
Hancox partnered with her artisans to suggest
alternate ways to display their carpets. Ask other
PCVs, especially those with experience in retail,
for help in setting up table displays. Take artisans
around to other booths/tables and critique
displays.
 Ifixed price. Products with stickers are
less intimidating for shoppers not accustomed
to haggling as part of the shopping
experience; most tourists are not comfortable
with bargaining, especially if there is a
language barrier, or perception of separate
prices for tourists and locals.
 Everything is set. 2nd Year PCV (2005-2007)
Anne Richardson (L), 1st Year PCV (2006-2008)
Rachel Morgan (R) and artisans from their town
discussing and negotiating how to effectively
complement their table/booth displays.
TRAINING SESSIONS
Each PCV should prepare their artisans to the fact that attending a craft festival offers many
opportunities to improve their business practices and skills. This is most evident in training
sessions lead by PCVs, independent consultants and experienced artisans. Training sessions
may be organized individually or in groups, depending on content and needs of the artisans.
For example, illiterate artisans will benefit more individually (rather than in group session) on
the topic of information technology management. Prepare appropriate handouts, and ask
artisans to contribute money for photocopying if they want handouts.
 PCV (2005-2007)Katherine Wright
showing program assistance Tariq how to
select quality carpets from the Middle Atlas
region. Take time to discuss with potential
buyers about Peace Corps, SBD program,
work in-site and Volunteer Life. During
down-time is an excellent opportunity to
discuss with PC staff attending craft
festivals details of work, knowledge gained
of crafts or community, request site visits,
etc.
 PCV Leslie Andrus discussing potential
product development with program manager
Bouchra. Tourists, PC staff and PCVs are
always interested in knowing more about how
to select high-quality crafts, what unique
pattern, color, or method is unique to a
site/region, and the general price of a given
product.
Training Sessions conducted at various craft festivals have included:
 Tent Setup/Product Presentation
 Standardizing Products (Sizes,
Colors, etc)
 Costing and Pricing

Basic Accounting
 Product Development
 How/Why to Start a Cooperative
 Seeking New Markets
 Organization (scheduling,
 Needs Assessment
appointments, etc.)
 Building Relationships between
 Inventory Management
Buyers and Producers
 Shipping Options
 Product, Marketing, and Sales
 Using Technology
Integration
Organizing training sessions can be a big task; assign a fellow PCV to help with this process.
Once PCVs are approved to attend a craft festival, ask them what skills or knowledge they
have that can be transferred to artisans (or other PCVs) during the craft festival. For one-day
craft festivals, training sessions may be schedule the day before or during the festival if time
allows; for multi-day festivals, schedule training sessions as appropriate.
In addition to technical trainings, PCV Committees (GAD, SIDA, etc) may request training
sessions. Scheduling training sessions during off-peak hours is ideal, or repeating training
sessions to accommodate artisans who may not be able to attend sessions due to other
activities.
 PCV (2005-2007) Rachel Beach
facilitating a discussion on microfinancing. Classroom space is often
available to conduct training sessions;
however, other options include holding
sessions in restaurants or cafés, or in the
craft tents. Encourage seasoned artisans
to share their experience.
 PCV (2005-2007) Nam LaMore teaching computerliterate artisans how to create business cards. Booth
duties include taking time to teach artisans new skills
when traffic is slow. Improvise one-on-one or small
group training sessions.
ATTENDANCE/PARTICIPATION CERTIFICATE
If possible, then ask the delegate to provide a certificate of attendance to each
artisan/cooperative. The certificate should have the delegate‟s signature and an official
stamp/seal of the delegation.
It is best that the delegate gives the certificate to artisans on the last day of the craft festival
(rather than at the beginning or post-event). PCVs and/or artisans may arrange for a
photographer for the photo opportunity of the delegate giving the certificate to the artisan,
other ceremonies or special guests (dignitaries, local authorities, etc) to the booths.
TRANSPORTATION, PART II
If transportation is not budgeted, then artisans can leave as soon as the craft festival is finished.
However, if transportation is budgeted then the organizing PCV needs to re-confirm and
communicate with all PCVs and artisans on transportation logistics.
As noted before, it is important to assign an on-board coordinator who will communicate
destinations, arrange for unclaimed baggage, etc.
Resolve all reimbursements (transportation, lodging, meals, etc) PRIOR to everyone leaving
the craft festival for their sites.
PROFESSIONALISM & WORK EITHICS, PART II
It is important that PCVs project professionalism and adhere to good work ethics when
attending craft festivals. It is far too easy for PCVs to consider a trip out-of-site as a vacation
trip. On the contrary, leaving site to attend a craft festival generates more work than staying insite.
 Facilitating and encouraging artisans to
interact with customers is an important role of
the PCV. PCV (2006-2008) Laura Hoppenjans
steps back and watches how the artisan she
accompanied to a craft festival interacts with
important guests and local officials. Sometimes
the PCV - at the urging of the artisan - spends
more time interacting with customers than the
artisan. However, it is important for the PCV to
play the role of facilitator, and not the
salesperson.
Consider:
 Do not be Late. Show up at the booth, training sessions, etc in a timely manner. It is
rude and disrespectful to keep everyone waiting.
 Dress Appropriately.
 Be Flexible. Maintain an acceptable level of professionalism, but be flexible when/if
meals are late, no hot/running water, etc. Bring up issues directly, in private to the
PCV organizing the festival.
 Integration While Out-of-Site. A key component of Volunteer Life is integration
with the community. Attending a craft festival does not mean going off and leaving the
artisan to him/herself all the time. It‟s natural that PCVs want to catch-up with other
PCVs, and artisans with other artisans. Plan for downtime for separate activities, but
also plan activities together such as meals, product research, sight-see, etc.
Strengthening PCV-artisan relationship is proof that community integration is possible
even when out-of-site.
 Lodging. If PCVs and artisans are sharing the same lodging, then it is important to
adhere to local customs and be culturally sensitive.
 Remain Positive. Everyone is doing their best. Offer assistance and be patient; if
appropriate, take initiative to help others have a positive craft festival experience.
 PCV site. The craft festival may take place in a PCV site. If this is the case, then be
sensitive to that PCV‟s time, relationships to the community, norms of the community,
etc. Keep that PCV informed and invite him/her to events, meetings, meals, etc. as
appropriate.
END OF SECTION
POST CRAFT FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
THANK YOU MESSAGE
Once the craft festival ends, the follow-up begins. There is still much to do post-event. The
most important is to send a thank you note and a short evaluation to all participants, including
non-attending PCVs, artisans, staff and members of the Ministry of Tourism who showed
interest during the planning process or facilitated planning of the event.
If funding is available, provide each PCV and artisan with a group photo or CD of photos and
training materials to remind them of the experience, facilitate networking, provide images for
creating their own marketing tools, etc.
 Group photo from the AIWA
Christmas Bazaar with PCVs (20052007) Veronika Soul, Nam LaMore
and artisans. PCV (2005-2007)
Cory Driver not shown as he was
on watch for three artisans who
were arriving late.
 Group photo from the
Zagora Craft Festival. Not all
PCVs and artisans shown due
to the complexity of gathering
everyone for a group photo.
PCVs are expected to prepare a craft festival report for program staff and the organizing PCV
within two weeks of the craft festival. Allow PCVs time to respond due to travel, re-integration
with community, lack of internet in-site, etc; however, impress on everyone to respond while
the experience is fresh on everyone‟s mind.
A “Craft Festival Report for Participating PCVs” template can be found in the APPENDIX
section of this guide.
REPORTS
Every PCV is required to complete a craft festival report:
 PCVs who attended the craft festival.
 PCVs who did not attend, but sent artisan(s) to the craft festival.

PCVs who planned to attend, but cancelled. It is important to understand the extent of
preparation/involvement, and reasons for cancellation.
Reports can be categorized either from participating or organizing PCVs. A “Craft Festival
Report for Participating PCVs” template can be found in the APPENDIX section of this guide.
The organizing PCV is expected to write the final, wrap-up report with more details,
incorporating feedback from participating PCVs and artisans, sales figures, general challenges,
etc.
As noted in the template, participating PCVs should send their reports to program staff and the
organizing PCV NO LATER THAN TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CRAFT FESTIVAL. This
allows the organizing PCV time to write the final, wrap-up report.
FEEDBACK
The organizing PCV may request participating PCVs/artisans to complete a questionnaire or
survey of their experience of the craft festival to help assess the success of the event, fine-tune
steps in organizing future events, etc.
PCV (2005-2007) Nam LaMore developed the following simple questionnaire for the
AIWA Christmas Bazaar 2006:
Questionnaire for AIWA Christmas Bazaar 2006
1. Did the artisan(s) have a positive experience at the Bazaar?
(YES .. NO .. MIXED .. and provide narrative, if possible)
2. Based on artisan(s) feedback, would the artisan(s) want to attend next year's Bazaar?
(YES .. NO .. and provide narrative, if possible)
3. What were the biggest expenses for attending artisan(s)?
(prioritize 1-2-3-4: FOOD .. TRANSPORT .. LODGING .. OTHERS, please explain if "OTHERS")
4. What were the biggest challenges for the artisan(s) preparing and attending the Bazaar?
(list up to five)
5. What were the biggest challenges for you in preparing your artisan(s) for this Bazaar?
(list up to five)
###
FOLLOW-UPs & VISITS
The organizing PCV is often the point-person the PCV community for potential customers as a
result of organizing a craft festival. Locals, expatriates, long-term tourists, etc may contact the
organizer about products they heard about or saw in photos from festival attendees. It is the
responsibility of the organizing PCV to facilitate the introduction of the PCV/artisan with the
inquirer. Send the inquirer photos of products at the festival to help identify products of
interest.
The inquirer can contact the PCV/artisan directly once products of interest have been
identified. The PCV/artisan may invite the inquirer to visit the site, artisan‟s studio/workspace,
family, etc. This becomes a cultural experience/exchange that most tourists/expatriates
welcome. It is an opportunity for the artisan to make additional sales, since more products can
be shown that were not available during the craft festival.
Point out to visitors (reasonable to note some of these prior to their visit to site or cooperative):
 History/background of site, especially if the region is hosting events.
 Background of artisan/cooperative; ask for a specific artisan.
 Best time of day or year to visit site/artisan.
 Directions to site.
 Suggestions of other activities in or around site while they are visiting the site.
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Places to rest, take a break, have coffee/lunch, etc.
Availability or lack of bank/cash machine within site.
Provide driving or transportation directions, including estimated drive-time and/or cost of
transport to site, landmarks, meeting point, who to ask for, etc. The PCV is encouraged to meet
the visitors and observe how artisans interact with them; however, it is best that artisans
interact directly with the visitors, with minimum facilitating from the PCV.
This is a map to the artisana complex in Khemisset:
Prepare artisans for the
visit. Brief the artisans
about the visit, and why
they are visiting. Remind
artisans that this visit is a
direct result of attending
the craft festival; this is an
important point to make.
Though it is important to
introduce a few artisans to
the visitors, do not
overwhelm the visitors with
introductions to everyone who works at the cooperative. Step back and observe how artisans
interact with the visitors, stepping in as necessary to facilitate awkward situations.
Step in immediately if the artisans become overly aggressive trying to make a sale, remind
artisans that the visitors traveled specifically to see them, the site or just wanting a cultural
experience, and not necessarily visiting to make a purchase. Pressure selling techniques may
work for single sales, but never for repeated sales. It is important that visitors have a positive
experience so they can recommend visits to others, or return themselves.
Encourage visitors to take photos of the artisans at work and products; negotiated this with
artisans prior to visitors‟ arrival. Before the visitors leave, ask if a photo could be taken of
them and the artisans. This serves two purposes:
 Artisans are reminded of the new/expanded market [bringing others to their site or
cooperative]
 Visitors are reminded of the impact that the sales made to the artisans; hand the visitor
an envelope with the cooperative‟s address to encourage visitors send in a photo.
HOST DISCUSSIONS IN-SITE
Upon returning from a craft festival (or when the artisan returns, if PCV was not attending)
schedule time with the artisan/cooperative to discuss the experience of attending a craft
festival, the skills learned, workshops attended, how to prepare for the next craft festival, what
could have been improved, what were the business risks, etc.
Preparing and attending a craft festival is a learning experience for both artisans and PCVs,
share this wealth of knowledge and experience with others in the community.
END OF SECTION
APPENDIX
Projets Promo 2006 - entre Maison de l’Artisan & les Chambres d’Artisanat
Chambres d’artisanat
- Agadir
Date
Juillet
Lieu
Centre touristique
- Beni Mellal
Juin
Centre ville
- Casablanca
Ain Diab
- El Jadida
Juillet/Août
Novembre
Juillet/août
Complexe culturel
- Essaouira
Juin
La Corniche
- Es- Smara
30 avril au 4 mai
Tata/Piscine municipale
- Fès
Juin
Place Florence
- Kenitra
Juillet/août
Place Hôtel de Ville
- Khémissat
Hay Essalam ou Place Hassan 1er
- Khenifra
Juillet 29 –
Août 10
5-12 juillet
Ensemble d‟artisanat ou Place Arokou
- Laâyoun
Mai
Ensemble d‟artisanat ou Souk d‟artisanat
- Marrakech
- Meknès
Juin
Août
Juin
Jamaa el Fana
Jnane Harti
Sahrij Souani
- Nador
Juillet/août
Espace Corniche ou Espace Municipalité
- Ouad Eddahab
Août
espace Wilaya à Dakhla
- Ouarzazate
Juillet
Espace touristique
- Oujda
Juillet/août
Sahat Jeddah
- Rabat
Juillet/août
Bab El Had
- Safi
Décembre
Salle des Fêtes
- Salé
Juillet
Bab Mrissa
- Settat
Mai
Place de la Municipalité
- Tanger
Juillet
Ensemble d‟artisanat
- Taza
Juillet/août
Sahat Al Istiqlal
- Tétouan
Juillet/août
Bab Nouader
Festivals likely to take place every year :
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End of May - Festival of Roses, in Kelaat-Mgouna (Dades Valley).
May or June - Festival of Moulay Bousselham (south of Larache).
Beginning of June - 10 days in Marrakesh; the National popular arts festival.
June - cherry festival in Sefrou.
Beginning of July - Mdiq moussem (15 km northeast of Tetouan).
End of August - Setti Fatma festival (Ourika valley, south of Marrakesh), three days long.
End of August - Festival of Moulay Abdallah (10 km south of El Jadida).
August - Festival of Moulay Driss Zerhoun (north of Meknes). One of the biggest and most
important.
End September - Festival of Sidi Moussa Ou Quarqour (near Kelaat-Seraghna, north of
Marrakesh).
Third week of September: - Bethrotal festival in Imilchil (middle Atlas).
First week of October - festival of Moulay Idriss (in Fez).
End of October - Dates festival (in Erfoud).
Changing dates - Festival of Tangiers, Tetouan, Fes and Agadir.
AIWA BAZAAR, PCV (2005-2007) Nam LaMore update #2 to all PCVs:
EVENT: AIWA BAZAAR
(updated Nov 8)
WHAT:
 American International Women's Association (AIWA) Bazaar 2006
 (aka Second Annual Rabat American School Winter Craft Fair/Festival)
WHEN:
 11:00 – 16:00, Saturday, December 9, 2006
 This is a one-day event.
WHERE:
 Gymnasium of the Rabat American School
 Address: 1 Bis Rue Emir Ibn Abdelkader / Agdal, 10000 / Rabat
WHO/CONTACTS:
 Nam LaMore (coordinating for Peace Corps Volunteers), 077 11 34 07 / [email protected]
 Bouchra el Achkar, Program Manager/Small Business Development Program, Peace Corps
 Connie McDaniel, Liaison to AIWA Bazaar
FUNDING:
 NO FUNDING IS AVAILABLE.
 AIWA has generously waved rental fees for tables and entrance fees for workers (Peace Corps
and artisans) at the bazaar for Peace Corps.
 There is absolutely NO funding available for transportation, lodging, or food from the Ministry,
Peace Corps, or AIWA.
 Funding sources to explore by each Volunteer/artisan: cooperative/association members,
Chamber of Artisana, community fund-raising, etc.
LOGISTICS:
SET-UP/TEAR-DOWN
 Free entrance for 2 people/table before 10:00 for set-up; others can come later but need to pay
the entrance fee (I don‟t have this answer yet).
OVERNIGHT/LODGING OPTIONS
 I am currently researching lodging options; last year‟s group (after failed attempts at securing
free lodging within YD‟s Ministry contracts) stayed at the Hotel Velleda.
 Hotel Velleda, 037 76 95 31, 106 Avenue Allal Ben Abdallah / Rabat (room rates: 89120dh/night).
OTHER DATES TO CONSIDER:
 Nov 27: Close-Of-Service for 2nd Year Volunteers
 Dec 4-6: Mid-Service Medical for Volunteers in Rabat
BRING FOR SET-UP:
Each artisan should consider bringing the following items but it‟s all up to you to bring what you need
for table display. I will have limited supplies of stickers for prices, scissors, and masking tapes. 2
artisans to a table, so different sites will need to share table for display space.
 Cloth to drape over table (these are standard, rectangular 6-feet banquet tables)
 Calculator, pen, notebook/paper (for accounting/inventory control)
 Price tags/stickers
 Business cards – if you want business cards for your artisan, please email me by Nov 26 what
info (name of artisan, name of cooperative/association, town/province, etc) and a photo
(product or artisan). I‟ll print 26 business cards for 6dh, the cost of 2 sheets of stockcard paper.
Artisans can re-pay me during the Bazaar when they pick up their cards.
 Promo catalogs/brochures, photos, etc., if you have any.
BACKGROUND:
(2nd Year PCVs Andy Allen & Victoria Wilson provided most of this section)
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In total, 2005/last year‟s sales was about 35,000 dirhams.
The items that sold best were high quality products between 50 to 200 dirhams.
Most of the buyers are Americans looking for interesting Christmas presents that are reasonably
priced and not too difficult to transport.
As a whole, our products were much better than anyone else's and that is why we are being
invited back.
Basically, high quality products at reasonable prices or cheap interesting but still quality
products as stocking stuffers will sell. The big, bulky, high priced items have little chance.
Traditional items that often appear unattractive to Westerners such as bulky carpets with odd
colors and traditional items like tahruets did not sell well.
On advertising: Brian Perusse produced a brochure that was good. He basically listed the date,
times, and location of the fair as well as that we were supporting rural artisans, so buyers would
be getting products directly from the makers. Peace Corps printed out the brochures and then
distributed them for us in Rabat.
We did a day long training the day before at the volunteer lounge with the assistance of ATA.
The textiles that Lindsay [Tameslohte] works with sold very well and so did Yousseff's [Azrou]
rock lamps.
Yousseff sold about 14 lamps to someone he met that day who decided to visit his store in
Azrou and check out all of his products a week after the fair. I also think that Lee (or his
replacement), Lisa [Boujad] and Lindsay's [Tameslohte] artisans could sell well.
The Imilchil artisans alone sold over 1000 dhs.
I think your wood guy [Khemisset] will do well if he brings some of the smaller items and
tables. He could bring an item list of other stuff, as most of the clients have cars and would
have no trouble driving to Khemisset to pick up some bigger items.
OPEN QUESTIONS/NEED RESOLUTIONS:
 Should we have a day-long training session(s) the day before the bazaar? Who will conduct the
session(s)? Who will participate? Objectives/goals of session(s)? (All to provide input to Nam)
o Currently no training session is scheduled.
 Research lodging options? Costs? (Nam)
o Still looking into this.
 Since 2nd Year Volunteers are COSing, who will bridge/communicate with artisans from these
sites? (COSing PCVs)
o This has been taken care of on an individual basis. New Volunteers who have just
sworn-in cannot attend the Bazaar unless taking out-of-site leave and approved by
Peace Corps. Consult “Absence from Site Policy While Not on Leave” section of the
Policy and Procedure Handbook.
 Each Volunteer is responsible for submitting signed Request Form for Work-Related
(Appendix K) to Bouchra for the out-of-site log. (All)
o From Peace Corps perspective, this is an artisan-only event and Volunteers are
discouraged from attending to help with their artisans, with the exception of Nam
LaMore, Cory Driver and Veronika Soul (attending for onsite coordination and
communications). Volunteers who want to attend as “shoppers” can bridge the days
between end of Mid-Medical and Bazaar via taking personal vacation days.
 Request copy of last year‟s brochure. (Nam)
o Done.
 Solicit PCV co-coordinator. (Anyone have time to help me sort this?)
o Cory Driver and Veronika Soul are signed up for this.
 Can we get map/directions to the Rabat American School? (Nam)
o TBD
 Some artisans need official invitation so they can travel, when and who will provide this?
(Cory/Veronika)
o TBD
 Is there advertising of the Bazaar? (Veronika)
o A flyer will be created and distributed around Rabat. Veronika is designing the flyer,
please send her any input or photos (limit to 1 or 2) if you think she can use them in
designing the flyer. Email no later than Nov 26 to [email protected]
CALL TO ACTION (Current Volunteers):
 ASAP: Please read the entire document; now, share the information with your artisans,
counterpart, delegate/delegation, etc.
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By Sunday night/Nov 5: As space is limited, please let me know if you intent to participate or
send an artisan to the AIWA Bazaar; don‟t need specific names as yet – just need to determine
who/which site is interested in attending AND what craft products (carpets, wood products,
fossils, handbags, etc) you plan to be selling. What other information do you need to determine
if you plan to participate, plan your budget, etc? If you‟ve already determined not to attend or
send artisans, then I also need this information so I can put a ticker next to you name/site that
you are not participating (optional: cite reason for the comment box).
By Sunday night/Nov 26: Need to confirm if you are participating or not. Send
questions/comments to me ([email protected]) as you have them, I would like to consolidate all
questions/comments and bring to Connie‟s (AIWA) and Bouchra‟s (Peace Corps) attention on
Monday/October 30th. Send info/photo (to [email protected]) for business cards if you want
them. Send 1 or 2 photos (to [email protected]) no later than this date to be included in
a flyer to advertise the Bazaar. It will be posted around Rabat.
By Sunday night/Dec 3: Need names of Volunteers and artisans to submit to Connie (AIWA) to
prepare name tags (Hello, My Name is …) for free entry into Bazaar for set-up.
Saturday/Dec 9: AIWA Bazaar
POST-EVENT: In addition to, or separate from the Monthly Report, each Volunteer is to
provide Bouchra with Volunteer/artisan
feedback, amount/what sold, photos, etc; I will also need this info for a wrap-up report.
SITES SENDING ARTISANS TO THE BAZAAR (as of Nov 8):
We have only 12 spaces, currently there is an “over-subscription”
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Ait Hamza: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls).
Azilal: Wood sculptures (bowls, spoons)
Azrou: Rock Lamps and mineral & fossil collections
Boujad: Woven products (handbags, wallets, possibly carpets) some wooden products
(decorative boxes) and hopefully some paintings.
Imilchil: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls).
Itzer: Traditional middle atlas weaving mostly carpets, hanbils and pillows
Khemisset: Wood sculptures
Khenifra: Jellabas & caftans
Midelt: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls).
Mrirt: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls).
Ribat el Kheir: Woven products (shawls, blankets, handbags)
Tiznit: Jewelry, silver
DAYS TO EVENT (as of Nov 9): 30 days
###
AIWA BAZAAR, PCV (2005-2007) Nam LaMore UPDATE # 3 to all PCVs:
Hi Everyone,
If you're getting this, then you have an artisan signed up to attend the AIWA Bazaar in Rabat on Sunday,
Dec 9. Let me know what other questions you have. More info below to communicate to your artisan.
INVITATION
I'm working with Connie at AIWA to get an official invitation. I'm hoping to get this to everyone by
Nov 27, as some PCVs need to leave site to make it to Mid-Medical.
ENTRY FEE/LOGISTICS
Because space is limited, each of site is limited to ONE artisan (except Lauren, who needs TWO
artisans) for FREE ENTRY as exhibitor. Artisans are asked to arrive before 10:00AM for set-up (gates
open at 8:00AM). Others can arrive as "shoppers" 11:00AM-4:00PM, paying the entry fee of 20dh, with
in/out privilege.
Please be sure that artisans understand they are sharing table space (I'm told these are rectangular,
banquet tables). If there is a preference to pair up artisans from two sites, please let me know (list of sites
planning to attend at the end).
If there is a "cancellation" please let me know as soon as possible; there are artisans on the "waiting list"
and they need to know if they should prepare to attend or not.
NAME TAG/PHOTO
Exhibitors get name tags -- as a group (artisans+volunteers), our tag simply says "Peace Corps" -AIWA does not need a list of names of artisans; however, Bouchra requires the list, please send to me by
Nov 26 and cc Bouchra ([email protected]). If possible, please send a photo of the
attending artisan to us (veronika.soul@gmail, [email protected], [email protected]) so we know
who to look for.
Attached are photos and phone numbers of the three of us for you to share with your artisan so they
know who to look for, and how to contact us if there should be a problem.
BUSINESS CARDS
As I mentioned in a previous update, I'm creating business cards for attending artisans if you send me
the info -- I'll include a picture if you want me to. The cost is 3dh per sheet of cardstock paper; the
template I'm using yields 14 cards a sheet (4cm x 8.9cm. I will do layout/design unless you have specific
requests. The sooner you send me the info/photo, the more time I can work on it and get feedback.
Printing cards with different designs/info is possible.
Or design and send me a file (I prefer Microsoft Word doc file, but can work with other file types) for
printing on cardstock - please set your file printing to A4 paper.
The attachment has two samples for Christine's artisan.
BREAKS/LUNCH
There are many food items available (hamburgers, chwarma, etc.) and there are several small hanoots
right outside the back door.
DIRECTIONS
I'm still working on securing a map so I can forward to you. From Andy Allen, COSing PCV: "The
Rabat American School is about two blocks from the Peace Corps Office. From the Peace Corps Office,
take a left out of the door walk to the first intersection and take a right. Take a left on the next street and
the entrance to the school will eventually be on your right. You can actually see the school (surrounded
by fences) from the Peace Corps office. A public bus has a stop a block from the school."
I think a petite taxi from the medina would run about 12-15 DH.
SITES PLANNING TO ATTEND
(as of Nov 17)
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Ait Hamza: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls). Deanedra McMillan
Azilal: Wood sculptures (bowls, spoons). Christine Koleski
Azrou: Rock Lamps and mineral & fossil collections. Sharon Keld
Berkane: paintings. Jessica DeVreeze
Boujad: Woven products (handbags, wallets, possibly carpets) some wooden products
(decorative boxes) and hopefully some paintings. Lisa Smith
Imilchil: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls). Jesse Starkey
Itzer: Traditional middle atlas weaving mostly carpets, hanbils and pillows. Lauren Stark
Khemisset: Wood sculptures. Nam LaMore
Khenifra: Jellabas & caftans. Veronika Soul
Midelt: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls). Cory Driver
Mrirt: Woven products (smaller rugs, blankets and shawls). Jehan Khaleeli
Tiznit: Jewelry, silver. Carolyn Knoblock
Days to Event (as of Nov 18): 21 days
###
Zagora Craft Festival, PCV (2005-2007) Rachel Beach inviting PCVs to the planning team:
Ina, Nam, Ann, Jong and Veronika,
The rumors are true. There will be a craft fair in Zagora, April 16th - 22nd*. You are invited to be part
of the planning team. Please confirm with me ASAP whether or not you are interested. (I am in Rabat
and just met with Bouchra. We discussed plans over the phone with Si Zahir, the Zagora Entraide
Nationale Delege.) *See dates breakdown below
BIG PICTURE: Zagora has an annual music festival that will be held this particular weekend (April
19th - 22nd). This gives us the benefit of tourists and Moroccans already heading to Zagora. (Sadly, I
could find no information about it on the Internet, so I cannot give you the official music festival name,
but Ina has promised to send a link this evening. I'll pass it on.) Si Zahir has promised to provide
complimenting musicians/entertainment scene. Our job is to bring the artisans/advertise handicraft
component.
DATES:
April 16th: All artisans & volunteers arrive
April 17th - 18th: Artisan Training Sessions
April 19th - 22nd: Craft Fair & Music Festival
TEAMS/DELEGATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:
 Rachel: Overall coordinator; Regional Artisan coordinator
 Ina & Jong: Local contacts/coordinators
 Nam & Veronika: Advertising/Marketing team
 Nam & Ann: PCV Logistics coordinators
 Ann & Rachel: Training workshops
DEADLINES: As we have exactly one month until the festival begins, here are the deadlines for
various responsibilities.** Please scan/find your name below for specific responsibilities.
 Thursday, March 22:
o 1) List of all artisans & accompanying artisans interested in participating. (Re:
Nam/Ann; Rachel).
o 2) Suggested training workshop ideas (Re: Ann/Rachel)
 Monday, March 26:
o 1) Advertising flyer & poster completion (Re: Nam/Veronika)
o 2) Meeting with Si Zahir: (Re: Rachel/Ina) - present list of interested artisans/PCVs request funding for brochure/poster marketing materials - discuss tents location explore best transportation/lodging funding/availability options - logistics - sites for
training workshops; suggested topics
 Wednesday, March 28:
o 1) Confirmation of lodging, transportation for artisans/PCV's. (Re: Rachel/Zahir)
o 2) Confirmation of tents (Re: Bouchra/Chamber of Artisans in Oz)
o 3) Display posters/flyers distributed in Zagora/Ouarzazate; display handicrafts in hotel
(Re: Ina/Jong/Rachel)
 Monday, April 2:
o Training Workshops components compiled. PCV trainers arranged. (Re: Ann/Rachel)
 Friday, April 6:
o Transportation routes/Attendees/Lodging communicated to and confirmed by
PCVs/Artisans (Re: Nam/Ann)
 Monday, April 16th:
o Artisans & PCVs arrive. (Re: All)
 Tuesday & Wednesday, April 17-18th:
o Training Workshops (Re: All)Tent setup; handicrafts arranged (Re: All)
o Finances arranged (Re: TBA, Nam/Ann?)
 Thursday - Sunday, April 19th - 22nd:
o Actual craft fair/music festival begins. (Re: All)
 Sunday, April 22nd:
o Pack-up; tent site clean-up.
o Final financial arrangements settled (if necessary)
*Pending confirmed interested by each of you. Please feel free to let me know if you would prefer other
responsibilities. I welcome any great ideas you have to contribute.
**I will send each team an email regarding your responsibilities/specific information/deadlines.
I look forward to working with all of you. Hopefully we can make this craft festival a success!
PS. When you reply/confirm, please feel free to give me all advice/suggestions/request other areas of
responsibility.
Yeah, teamwork!
Zagora Craft Festival, PCV (2005-2007) Rachel Beach updating all PCVs (a series of updates
follow):
I have some solid information for all of you!
The dates of the craft festival have been changed AGAIN. May 24th - 27th. We still have six weeks to
prepare so you can reassure your artisans they have more time. (This date change was partly to
accommodate Bruce and I, neither of which would have been able to attend at the earlier dates. )
I have met with the Zagora delege, so all this information should be solid. Please forgive the migrating
schedule!
NEW DATES IN
 MAY: May 21th (Monday): All artisans & volunteers arrive (UNLESS NOT ATTENDING
WORKSHOPS)
 May 22th - 23th (Tuesday through Wednesday): Artisan Training Sessions (OPTIONAL)
 May 24th - 27nd (Thursday through Sunday): Craft Fair (MUST BE PRESENT FOR ENTIRE
EXHIBIT PERIOD)
LODGING:
 Female Artisans: Dar Taliba (student dorms) in Zagora
 Male Artisans: Dar Taliba in Tamergroute (12 minutes outside Zagora: transportation to and
from will be provided).
PCVs: There is a center in Zagora that PCVs are welcome to stay in. I have not inspected the
particulars of this center yet, so when I/Ina visit it, we will let you know. There may be a possibility of
some staying with "local" PCVs as well. TBA.
Soap and blankets should be provided. No need to bring.
FOOD: Will be provided for all artisans and PCVs. Entraide Nationale (the local Ministry we're
partnering with) has committed to cooking for all participants.
TRANSPORTATION: Should be provided:
Plan: Entraide Nationale will send two (2) buses to the following rendezvous points (stops along the way
( i.e. Errachidia) to be determined)
1) AZROU: (Errachidia: Tinghir?) Zagora
2) MARRAKECH: (Ouarzazate?) Zagora
However, please note that we are currently in negotiations with the Chamber of Artisans to provide
funding for gasoline . EN is not providing gasoline to use the buses. We hope to have confirmation
mid-next week. If you feel the need to inform your artisans about transportation in the mean time,
please make sure you do not promise transportation yet.
TENTS: One tent per organization/artisan should be provided:
However, please note that we are currently in negotiations with several ministries to provide tents . EN
is not providing tents. Prospects look good. We hope to have confirmation mid-next week. If you feel
the need to inform your artisans about tents in the mean time, please make sure you do not promise tents
yet.
LOCATION IN ZAGORA: Next to Marche on main strip in Zagora ( Seaha hda Marche ). Very good,
high profile location.
WORKSHOPS: TBA
I wanted to keep you all of informed about the date change and information that is confirmed, as I know
artisans are asking lots of questions. As soon as I can confirm the rest of the information I will be in
touch. The important thing to know is that you have six weeks instead of 1.5 left to prepare!
Thanks for your patience,
Rachel "Raja" Beach
Small Business Development Sector
Peace Corps Morocco
PS. If date changes your/your artisans ability to come, please let Anne Richardson know ASAP.
Thanks!
###
Zagora Festival, PCV (2005-2007) Rachel Beach updating entire group:
Here is the latest update on the craft fair: All our funding requests were approved:
TENTS: We have forty (40) tents available: twenty new white tents from the Chamber of Artisans in
Ouarzazate and twenty older tents available from Entraide Nationale, already in Zagora.
BUSES: We also have gasoline to fuel the buses, so we will be picking up all volunteers at four
rendezvous points:
1) Bus #1: Azrou
2) Bus #1: Errachidia
3) Bus #2: Marrakech
4) Bus #1/2: Ouarzazate
Exact pick-up times have not yet been determined, but it would probably begin very early Sunday
morning in Marrakech and Azrou.
PCV ATTENDEES: Peace Corps, for security and other strategic reasons has put a cap on the number
of volunteers who will be attending. There is a list of approved volunteers attached. Please refer to it to
determine whether you can attend. If you are not interested in coming, or would rather offer your place
to another volunteer, please let us know ASAP so that we plan accordingly (inform another volunteer
who may be able to take your place). Our top priorities were as follows: first-year volunteers/pcvs who
have never attended a craft fair; PCVS (second-year) who would would be helpful in conducting
workshops; and the craft fair planning team (Anne Richardson, Ina Celaya, Jong Son, Andrea Lueke,
Nam LaMore and myself). We hope that everyone who attends will benefit from the experience.
ARTISAN ATTENDEES: Due to the fact that we have forty tents, we want each organization/artisan
to be represented. Forty (40) Artisans was our cap from Entraide Nationale, so we have chosen to allow
more organizations to come, and limit attendance to one participant per group/site. So for those of you
who were hoping for a second or third, please explain to your artisans why we have chosen to limit
attendees. I am very excited about the fact that we will have such a diverse representation attending.
Please fill in highlighted blanks in the approved artisan/pcv list if you have it available, and email back
updated form to us.
# ##
Zagora Festival, PCV (2005-2007) Rachel Beach updating entire group:
More IMPORTANT Information for ALL ATTENDEES!
1) UPDATED BUS SCHEDULE: The Azrou bus is now stopping in Timhadite, Midelt, and Rich.
We are staying through Monday morning. Leaving at 9AM. (Please see BusSchedule.doc for updated
times.)
2) POINT-OF-CONTACTS: I have appointed one PCV (or artisan) at each stop to be responsible for
making sure everyone is present and accounted for. Please be prompt. The Driver will not wait.
Points-of-Contact: Please print out this list and take it with you! When you are 15 minutes from the
next stop, please beep the next point-of-contact. (PLEASE FIND YOUR NAME ON ALL
ATTENDEES.doc attachment . Your name has an arrow beside it/in bold.)
3) MARRAKESH BUS: There are 22 seats in this bus and 15 passengers. However, the delege clearly
stated that there is not much room in this bus for product besides the empty seats. So please scale back
as much as possible and prepare to be a bit crowded!
4) PCV HOUSING & MEALS: We have a house, ladies and gentlemen . Just for volunteers. So...if
you were dreading spending every moment of the next week with your beloved artisan, fear no more ;)
I was unable to confirm ponges/blankets for all 15 of us, but I'll let you know as soon as I hear
something. All meals will be provided at the Dar Taliba. Otherwise you are on your own.
5) ARTISAN HOUSING & MEALS: Female artisans will be staying in the Dar Taliba. Male
artisans at another location (in Zagora?). Sheets, pillows and soap will be provided for all.
(Enshallah.) All meals will be provided at the Dar Taliba. Otherwise they are on their own.
6) TENTS, TABLES & LIGHTING: We have twenty (20) tents. We have forty (40) SMALL tables.
We have thirty (30) artisans. Most likely your artisan will be sharing a tent with another
organization/artisan. Please inform them of this and tell them to pack accordingly. Considering the
heat already toasting the sidewalks of Zagora, we assume people will be out strolling in the evenings
more than daytimes. The Delege has kindly offered to provide lighting for all tents. (If this does not
actually happen, be not surprised. We live in Morocco.)
ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE EXPECTED TO HELP SET UP TENTS, THURSDAY MORNING.
PLEASE INFORM YOURSELVES AND YOUR ARTISANS OF THE NEED TO BE PRESENT.
THANKS! (Refer to Schedule of Events.doc for times.)
7) NIGHT GUARDS: There will be night guards to watch all products in tents. (Enshallah.)
8) WE HAVE FIVE WORKSHOPS PLANNED: Please see WORKSHOPS.doc for more
information. Also, wool-dying and "How to Start A Co-op" are two possible extras. If either sound at
all interesting, please reply ASAP so we can prepare for them.
###
Saidia Craft Festival, PCVs (2005-2007) Jessica DeVreeze & Justin Brown
created this Invitation Letter:
Nous avons le plaisir de solliciter la présence de __________________________ à
l‟exposition artisanale en l‟honneur de l‟exceptionnelle qualité dont il témoigne dans la
réalisation d‟artisanat traditionnel Marocain.
L‟Exposition aura lieu du 1er au 15 Août 2006 à Saidia, Place du 20 Août, Boulevard
Mohammad V.
Avec le soutien de la Chambre de l‟Artisanat Marocain, le Corps de la Paix des EtatsUnis, la Délégation de l‟artisanat du Maroc et l‟association environnement et l‟homme.
Signature de l‟artisan _________________________________
Signature d‟une personne autorise _________________________________
LOGOS
Entraide Nationale logo:
Khemisset logo:
Tislit/Imichil logo:
Example of product tags:
5cm x 4.4cm (actual size)
5cm x 3.4cm (actual size)
Posters/flyers from previous/recent craft festivals:
PCV (2004-2006) Victoria Wilson created these informative marketing tools:
PCV (2004-2006) Cybel Cochran created this (1 of 2 sides) tri-fold eco-tourism brochure to encourage visitors to site:
PCV (2005-2007) Nam LaMore created this poster introducing region/site and cooperative:
PCV (2004-2006) Lee Wilbur created this postcard that also serves as a photo-business card
(actual size, 10cmx15cm):
PCV(2005-2007) Carolyn Knoblock created this product catalog for products not sold at
(or sold-out during) craft festivals:
Examples of business cards, actual size:
This one is 5.15cm x 9cm
This one is 4.12cm x 9cm:
This one is 4.12cm x 9cm (blank space for name/notes):
This one is 3.22cm x 7cm:
CRAFT FESTIVAL REPORT – TEMPLATE FOR PARTICIPATING PCVs
Name of Craft Festival:
Date(s) of Craft Festival:
Name & Site of PC (note if PCV did not attend):
Name of Cooperative:
Name of Attending Artisan(s):
Some information to include in report:
 What type of products/crafts were sold (wood, textile, etc. be specific as possible)?
 How many units of each product line were sold? For example, a weaving co-op may have the
following product lines: handbags, blankets, shawls, bread covers, scarves, etc.
 What workshops (group or individual) did the artisan(s) attend?
 What was the artisan(s) general impression of the craft festival?
 Would you recommend they attend this craft festival again? Why/why not?
 What was the cost to the artisan(s) to attend this craft festival? This can include food,
lodging, hotel, telephone calls, incidentals, office supplies/plastic bags, etc in preparing,
attending and post-craft festival activities directly relating to the craft festival.
 Who were the primary buyers (overseas tourists, local tourists, expatriates, etc)?
 What influenced traffic to the craft festival or booth? For example, a music festival,
moussem (religious festival), or city-wide/region-wide participation can generate traffic. Also
booth activities (artisan carving, spinning, etc) can attract crowds.
 Attach/include a few photos; of interest include table/booth display, artisan interacting with
customers, PCV engaging with artisans, artisans/PCVs preparing to attend craft festival, etc.
 What were some challenges PCV/artisans faced that could have been avoided?
NO LATER THAN TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CRAFT FESTIVAL, send report to Bouchra &
Tariq and the organizing PCV.
PCV Victoria Wilson prepared the following report:
From August 25-27 during the Imilchil wedding festival, the Imilchil weaving cooperative exhibited and
sold their products. The craft fair was different from last year because there was no music festival in the
center of town, so the large craft fair in Imilchil Centre was cancelled. A small set up at the moussem site
was still feasible and turned out to be a success. August 25 was a set-up day, and the 26 and 27 were
devoted to sales, plus a presentation to the governor and regional governor. We sold a total of seven items
for a total of 1550 DH. Though it was a small local event, we consider it quite a success and were happy
with our participation. Next year I would recommend that the cooperative and the PCV work to organize a
craft fair with wider participation from other towns at the festival site.
Sales at the Imilchil Festival
Jellaba 500
Aznar 550
Timindelt (x3) 100 + 100 +100
Pillows (x2) 100 +100
Total sales 1550 DH
###
CRAFT FESTIVALS COMPARATIVE
(Prepared for IST, June 2007)
Festival
Zagora
(Craft Festival)
May 24-27, 2007
Outdoors
Locals; (some) Overseas
tourists
15
No
30
Rabat
(AIWA Christmas Bazaar)
Dec 12, 2006
Indoors, gymnasium of Rabat
American School
Expatriates; Local, affluent
Moroccans
3
Yes
14
25
15:30
Yes; 3
12
3:14
No
Yes
Entraide Nationale; Ministry
of Tourism
None; tables donated/space
(AIWA)
SPA Grant (PeaceCorps);
Ministry of Tourism
Yes
Yes
Yes
19,000 MAD
No
No
No
20,000 MAD
Yes
Yes
Yes & No
4,750 MAD
Local government officials
(Governor);
PeaceCorps Staff
1st time
Yes*
No
Woven baskets (Essouaira)
20,000 MAD
PeaceCorps Staff
Dates
Setting
Types of Tourists
# of PCVs Attended
COS/New PCVs
# of Artisans
Participated
# of Sites Participated
Ratio PCVs : Artisans
Workshops, How
Many
Funding type

Meals

Lodging

Transport
Total Amount Sold
(appx), MAD
Avg Sold Daily
Special Guests
Attending
Frequency
Again?
Entrance Fee
Best Crafts Sold
Top Three Blessings
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

Top Three Challenges



2nd time
Yes; Dec „07
Yes, 20dhs
Rock lamps (Azrou)
Ministry of Tourism
and Peace Corps staff
supportive
Well-organized
Fully-funded

Changing dates
Over-subscription of
artisans attending
Limited # of 2nd YR
PCVs attended





Transition of contact,
information
Peace Corps staff
supportive
AIWA supportive of
Peace Corps
Too many artisans
attended, not enough
table space
No funding
Limited # of PCVs
attending
Saidia
(Artisana Exposition)
Aug 1-15, 2006
Outdoors, on the beach.
Marrakech
(Springtime Festival)
March 23-April 1, 2006
Outdoors, at artisana complex
Expatriates; Overseas
Moroccans; Locals
Overseas tourists; expatriates;
Local, affluent Moroccans
9
No
16
No
14
9:16
Yes; 4
Aid-to-Artisans; Marrakech
Delegation of Artisana
(Ministry of Tourism)
Yes & No
Yes & No
Yes & No
73,000 MAD
7,300 MAD
PeaceCorps Staff
1st time
No
No
Low-priced Middle Atlas
carpets (Mrirt)

Ministry of Tourism
and Peace Corps staff
supportive

Well-organized

Funding available



Considered far for
many
Festival considered too
long for many artisans
PCV misconduct
2nd time
No
No
Paintings (Tingdad)






* Priority given to 1st Year PCVs and select 2nd Year PCVs
###
Well-organized
Funding available
Ministry of Tourism and
Peace Corps staff
supportive (secured
exhibition space at
artisana complex)
Aid-to-Artisans too
aggressive; promoted
two festivals at the same
time
Location change (no
public gathering
allowed) day before
festival
Perception of not
organized

Guide to Organizing Craft Festival

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