SIP & Shop
Vendor Q+A and application Form
Event Information:
At the Downtown Rutland Partnership's Sip & Shop on Thursday, May 22nd, from 5-8 pm, attendees can sample food and beverages from local producers while shopping in the heart of the historic downtown. They can meet up with friends at participating locations, support the local economy, and try beer, cider, spirits, and more! Tastings will begin at 5:00 pm. Participants will pick up a map and bag at check-in and then visit all the participating locations at their leisure.
Question & Answers for Vendors:
How many vendors are involved?
The event will have 20 participating downtown businesses that host vendors inside their stores.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Vendors are accepted as long as we have available downtown businesses to host the vendors.
What type of vendors are involved?
For our event, the majority of vendors are food and beverage producers (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages). With space permitting, we also accept arts, crafts, music, and other entertainment to supplement the experience.
Is there a cost? What are the expectations?
- We do not charge a fee for Sip & Shop vendors.
- Vendors agree to provide samples to 200+ guests for the duration of the event (5-8 pm) with setup between 4:00-4:30 (or at any time prearranged with the host location).
- Please note: The City of Rutland has a 1% local option tax. Please read this linked document, Understanding City of Rutland’s Local Option Tax, for more information.
Where will I be located?
Vendors are hosted inside downtown businesses, and each shop is a unique space; participating businesses sell books, plants, music, clothes, and more! We also have restaurants, yoga studios, and more. Each space is unique: some can accommodate larger tables, while some can only fit a card table. Event organizers will match vendors with appropriate spaces based on the host business and the outside vendor.
How is the event marketed?
The Downtown Rutland Partnership's Sip & Shop is promoted on our webpage, print, digital, and communications. Our marketing budget is heavily centered on social media advertising, as we have 12,800+ followers on Facebook and 5,300+ followers on Instagram.
Is there parking for vendors?
The DRP will validate your parking in the downtown Parking Garage, which is a short walking distance from all the host shops.
COMPLETE THE FORM TO BE CONSIDERED AS A VENDOR: