An event like this is always going to be "a bunch of blokes in a backyard shed" unless someone takes it seriously. A proper event planner needs to be employed and steps need to be taken to advertise the event to the widest possible audience and with the most advance notice possible. Most events like this are advertised as much as a year in advance.

Sure there are costs involved such as venue hire, advertising etc etc but some or most of these can be recovered through drink/food sales - a modest door charge that could (for one example) be refunded upon the purchase of any item from an exhibitor with the exhibitor undertaking to cover the door charge upon purchase.

If a person (or group of people) are only running it to 'make money' it is doomed to failure right from the start as most can spot a money grab a mile away.