Maker's  Market

​

1. Table Rental and Payment:
   - Tables are available for rent based on an evaluation process conducted by the HanaCon Exhibits Team.
   - Payment must be made in advance to secure a table.

2. No Subletting or Transfers:
   - Vendors/Artists are not allowed to sublet or transfer their table to another party without prior written approval from convention organizers.

3. Refunds and Cancellations:
   - Refunds may be provided for cancellations made within a specified timeframe before the event, subject to a processing fee.
   - Late cancellations may not be eligible for a refund.

4. Booth Assignments:
   - Booth/table assignments will be made by convention organizers and are not negotiable. Exhibitor may request assignment changes, but the final decision will fall to the discretion of the HanaCon Organizers.

5. Vendor Behavior:
   - Vendors/Artists are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner.
   - Respectful behavior towards neighbors, attendees, and convention staff is mandatory.

• Noise Levels: Exhibitors should maintain reasonable noise levels within their booth spaces to ensure that neighboring exhibitors and attendees can communicate comfortably. Excessively loud music, demonstrations, or announcements should be avoided during crowded or quiet periods.

• Booth Space: Exhibitors are expected to respect the boundaries of their assigned booth spaces and not encroach upon neighboring areas. This includes keeping merchandise, displays, and signage within the designated space.

• Merchandise Setup:  Exhibitors should arrange their merchandise and displays in an organized and visually appealing manner that maximizes the efficient use of their booth space. This helps create an inviting atmosphere for attendees.

• Cleanliness:  Exhibitors are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their booth spaces throughout the event. Trash, packaging materials, and other waste should be properly disposed of in designated areas.

• Courtesy:  Exhibitors should be courteous and patient when interacting with attendees, addressing their questions and inquiries politely. Additionally, it's important to be considerate of fellow vendors and convention staff when seeking assistance or support.

• Conflict Resolution: In the event of any disputes or conflicts with neighboring  Exhibitors or attendees, vendors are encouraged to reach out to convention staff for assistance in resolving the issue in a constructive and peaceful manner.

• Accessibility: Exhibitors should ensure that their booth setups do not obstruct walkways, emergency exits, or accessibility ramps. It's important to maintain a clear and accessible path for all attendees, including those with disabilities, Service Animals, or Mobility Aids.​

6. Badge Requirement:
   - Vendors and those accompanying must wear convention badges at all times within the vending area.
   - Badges must be visible and worn prominently.

7. Access Rules:
   - Vendors and their staff are allowed access to the vending area only during open hours.
   - Early access or after-hours access requires prior arrangement with convention organizers.

8. Promotions and Advertising:
   - Use of convention logos and descriptions in promotions must adhere to branding guidelines provided by convention organizers.

9. Maryland-Specific Requirements:
   - Vendors must comply with all applicable state and local laws and regulations.
   - Check for any specific forms or permits required for selling at conventions in Maryland and display them as necessary.

10. Security and Liability:
    - Vendors are responsible for the security of their merchandise and equipment.
    - Convention organizers are not liable for lost, stolen, or damaged items.

11. Insurance:
    - Vendors are encouraged to have their own insurance coverage for liability and property damage.

12. Set-Up and Tear-Down:
    - Vendors must adhere to set-up and tear-down times specified by convention organizers.
    - All areas must be left clean and undamaged after the event.

13. Table Sharing

    -  Should Vendors wish to share a table they must get prior permission from HanaCon Organizers and both Vendors need to be approved. No unapproved table sharing allowed.

14. No Weapons 

     - The Silver Spring Civic building is a government and has a strict no weapons policy. Vendors are not permitted to sell real , replica, or prop weapons  in the Maker's Market.

​

Refund Policy:

- Refunds for table rentals will be provided as follows:
   - Full refund (minus processing fees) for cancellations made within 60 days before the event.

   - Partial refund (minus processing fees) maybe offered between 60 days to  30 days before the event.    
   - No refunds for cancellations made within 30 days before the event.

   - No Charge Backs. If you have dispute over a Refund you agree to reach out the the Event Organizers.

​

AI Art Sales and Merchandise Policy:

HanaCon strictly prohibits the sale of AI-generated artwork. Exhibitors found in violation of this policy do so at their own risk and will be held fully responsible for any legal consequences that may arise as a result of their actions and exhibitors maybe asked to leave the event. HanaCon, its organizers, and affiliated parties assume no responsibility or liability for the sale of such materials and do not endorse or support any unauthorized use of intellectual property. We expect all exhibitors to respect intellectual property rights, and any violations will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

​

Latecomers and No-Shows Policy:

HanaCon values punctuality and reliability from all participants, including exhibitors. To ensure a smooth and efficient event experience, we have established the following policy regarding late arrivals and no-shows:

​

1. Late Arrival: Exhibitors are expected to arrive and set up their booths within the specified load-in hours provided by HanaCon. Late arrivals may result in limited set-up time and may disrupt the overall flow of the event.

2. Advance Notice: If an exhibitor anticipates a delayed arrival due to unforeseen circumstances, they should make every effort to contact HanaCon organizers as soon as possible to provide advance notice.

3. No-Show: Exhibitors who fail to arrive and set up their booths by the designated event start time without prior notification to HanaCon organizers will be considered no-shows.

4. Impact on Booth: Late arrivals and no-shows may impact the overall layout and organization of the event. HanaCon organizers reserve the right to reassign booth spaces or make necessary adjustments to accommodate any disruptions caused by late arrivals or no-shows.

5. No Refunds: Exhibitors who are classified as no-shows will not be eligible for refunds or compensation for their booth fees.

6. Communication: Open and timely communication with HanaCon organizers is essential. If an exhibitor encounters unexpected delays or issues that may affect their arrival time, they should contact HanaCon organizers immediately to discuss potential solutions.

7. Attendance Commitment: By reserving a booth space at HanaCon, exhibitors commit to attending the event and adhering to the load-in and load-out schedules provided. Failure to do so may result in penalties, including ineligibility for future HanaCon events.

​

It is our aim to ensure a successful and well-organized event for all participants, and your cooperation in adhering to this policy is greatly appreciated.

​

​

Waitlist Placement in the Case Latecomers and No-Shows:

​

In cases where an exhibitor arrives late or does not show up for the event without prior notification, HanaCon organizers may consider contacting exhibitors on the Exhibitors on the waitlist . Waitlisted Exhibitors may be offered a booth space at the discretion of the organizers, should additional space become available during the event. Please note that waitlisted exhibitors will be required to pay the full table fee if a space is allocated to them.

​

HanaCon organizers prioritize a fair and organized event experience for all participants, and while we make every effort to accommodate latecomers or no-shows, we cannot guarantee booth availability. Your understanding and cooperation in adhering to event policies are greatly appreciated.