From bake sales to the annual calendar, most historical organizations occasionally sell something to raise funds. Many have also hosted someone’s event, upon occasion. But what does it take to make this a regular part of your income? What’s involved in having a shop, merchandising your collections, or running an event or wedding venue? Have you tried it? Where do you have things printed or made? What are some questions you have? Do you stock 200 logo tees or work with print on demand suppliers? How are you doing at creating income?
A conversation with Amy Consalvi, Director of Education and Visitor Services at the Museum of Russian Icons, and Erica McAvoy, Executive Director of the Lexington Historical Society