Trade Show: Should you go?

Tradeshow: Should you go?  Have you thought about going to Quilt Con or Quilt Market? Do you wonder which one to go to? Is it worth the money? In this episode I share what to have before being a vendor, and who should go as a guest. I share tips on what I’ve seen in booths that are successful and what to be sure to do if you do go. See how going to a quilt trade show can be good for your business 

In this episode, I cover:

• What the difference is between Quilt Con and Quilt Market. 
• Why you should consider going to a quilt trade show or market and why going as a guest and or a vendor is beneficial to you and your business.

Have you considered being a vendor? I share some things to prepare for and think about before you register. Some of the things I talk about are:

• Do not go until you have nailed down and very specific niche 
• Plan for your booth display. How are you portraying what you offer? I suggest a simple, clean display that clearly states you and your business.
• Know your audience. Do a little research on the show to find its purpose and to make sure it is a good fit for you. 
• Be sure to sell a tangible item…something they can walk away with. 
• If you are at the point in your business that you need more exposure and you are ready to grow?
• Make sure that you take advantage of the time you have there to chat with people and make connections.  This is great for your business. Make those connections with customers and other business owners. 
• Provide a way to gain others emails to help grow your email list. Offer a coupon or a giveaway…something that will intrigue people and make them feel it is worth it.

What if you aren’t ready to become a vendor and just want to go as a business owner? You will never regret going as a guest! Here are some things I have learned as I have attended several trade shows:

• You meet new business friends! Friends that you can collaborate with, that will inspire you, help you get out of a rut and gain new ideas.
• As you visit the shops, you are making connections and gaining long term business opportunities.
• It is a great time to do market research and observe while you are there.
• Don’t be afraid to tell people who you are. Do something that will become memorable.
• Bringing business cards or something else you can share is a great way to not only share your information but gather others as well.
• Jot down the names of those you meet so that you can be sure to stay in touch.