Big Shows vs. Small Shows
Sunday March 23, 2008
The idea behind a post from the forum is that larger shows (150+ exhibitors) sometimes seem to lose the quality of smaller
events. Accepting buy/sell and not paying as much attention to juried booths are qualities of the larger venues that you do
not see as much at smaller shows. I'll have to admit, a lot of the larger shows we have attended in the past have had a more
"flea markety" (my own phrase) feel. Although, I can remember several huge events that were also of the highest quality and
coincidentally we had fantastic sales at these shows. I would say that the quality of any show, large or small, depends on the
quality of the people who promote it. What are your thoughts?
Comments
I consider a “BIG SHOW” one that costs over $250. For me they are the best they bring in more people who are really there to buy. I did my 1st convention center one last November it was great even though it cost $560. to get in and I had to miss 2 days of work (my regular job) it was work it. People, customers, were bussed in and they were there to do their Christmas shopping. I was more that happy to help them. At the other end I have done many High school and Church shows that were $50 or less. Yes, it’s easy to make that back but if you don’t have the crowds you won’t do the volume of a larger show. I might come out with $200 whereas one day at the large one I will do $1000. Most of my summer shows are large outdoor arts & crafts shows. I do OK with the entrance fee around $150 ($1200 for a 2 day show in sales). My product sells for $12 - $15.
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