Creating a local makers' exhibition catalogue without exposing private contacts

How an exhibition organiser can commission a makers' catalogue using approved profiles, permitted photographs and public contact channels.

Collect profiles makers have approved

Ask each participant to confirm the name they want published, their workshop or brand name, a short product description and a contact route they are comfortable sharing. Offer a public portfolio page or business profile instead of a personal number. Record the photographer and the permitted uses of each image. Avoid including children's details or private home addresses unless there is a justified reason and the necessary permissions have actually been obtained.

Use a consistent catalogue format

Set a comparable length for each profile, image dimensions, required captions and a clear sort order. Describe objects and processes rather than relying on vague claims about 'unique quality'. Decide whether the catalogue will be printed, digital or both, and test whether a reader can reach the maker's chosen contact channel on a small screen. Do not make a QR code the sole route to essential information; provide a readable text alternative.

Brief the designer and editor safely

Give contractors only approved materials and a table of profile codes, not a full private participant database. An editor checks names and headings, while each maker signs off their own description before publication. Request an editable source file so an outdated link can be corrected without rebuilding every page. Agree when an online catalogue will be taken down and how requests to correct or remove information will be handled.

Hypothetical example in Leeds

Imagine a Leeds craft fair featuring work from twelve makers. The organiser collects separate approvals for the information to be displayed and sends the designer labelled photographs. One participant chooses a studio website as the contact channel, while another supplies an email address used for orders. Each profile is checked before the catalogue is shared; no list of private mobile numbers is attached. This is an illustrative workflow, not a report of a real exhibition.

Check quality and recognise the limits

A catalogue does not certify product quality, guarantee a maker's availability or verify every claim a seller might make. Obtain the relevant permissions for images and chosen contact details. Before releasing the files, test hyperlinks, inspect pictures for visible personal information and check the legibility of a printed copy. Retain a record of where each approved field came from and when the participant confirmed it, so future updates can be managed.

Commission the work on Match2Go

Describe the catalogue format, number of profiles and editing needs in a Match2Go request, with the relevant town or area and reference examples free of confidential data. Match2Go is a geosocial service made by people for people. It does not buy paid advertising; recommendations help it grow. If useful, share it with friends and colleagues. Organisers, designers and makers should agree directly on permissions, deadlines and file ownership and check all conditions themselves.

Prepared with AI assistance; independent human editorial review has not been confirmed.