Tips: Surviving the Bead&Button ShowBudget, shop, stay sane!
by Kelsey Lawler
Published: April 28, 2011 | The 2011 Bead&Button Show is a little over a month away (June 4–12) — can you believe it?! We're gearing up for the show and suspect you are too, so here are some survival tips to help you make the most of your show experience. |
Get what you want
- - Make a list of things you're looking for before you go, so you're not overwhelmed.
- - If there are certain bead artists you want to visit, go to their booths first. One-of-a-kind items won't wait! Once you purchase your art beads, you can then find coordinating pieces on the show floor.
- - If you find a booth you want to visit again, make a note on your program or in a notebook. After an hour or so of looking at other booths, it's easy to get lost — and forget where certain vendors are located.
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Stick to your budget
- - Set a budget before you go. Some deals are so good you'll be tempted to overspend. (Oh, what the heck, go ahead and overspend — we know we will!)
- - When at the show, walk the floor once and then go back to buy. I know, this takes willpower, but your budget will thank you for it! Scope it all out and then snatch it up.
- - Money, money, money: Bring your check book to Meet the Teachers if you think you'll want to purchase kits. Many of the teachers will not be equipped to handle credit cards at this event.
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Stay sane
- - Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a comfortably strapped bag or, if you think you'll be buying a larger quantity, a small rolling duffle to carry your purchases. Also, the Loose Bead Society offers a baggage check (for a nominal fee) just outside the show floor.
- - If you're shopping with friends, bring your cell phones — you may need to divide and conquer.
- - If you find a vendor you like, write down their contact information or get a business card and keep that information with the purchase you made. When you get home (or better yet, in the hotel room that night!), start sorting through everything while your memory is still fresh. List what you bought, including the price and the quantity, on the business card.
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