Wholesale Jewelry/Gem shows can be a great way to purchase jewelry supplies and materials at reasonable prices. If the right steps are taken, you can have a lot of fun and get some great deals.

Difficulty Level: easy      Time Required: 8 +/- hours

1. Get a fanny pack that has plenty of room to store cash, show invitation (if required), credit cards, business cards, and copies of tax id number, and have all these items stored there before going into the show.
2. Wear the fanny pack around your waist and a back pack to carry all your other necessities and any purchases you make at the show. This way your hands are kept free.
3. Plan for meals ahead of time. Either bring a lunch or bring extra money to buy food at the show.
4. Try to go to a show on the first day so you get the best selection.
5. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You will do a lot of walking.
6. If you go with friends but are looking for different items, split up and set a time and place to meet up later for lunch or shopping together.
7. Try to carry all your purchases. It’s not safe to make trips back and forth to your car. If necessary, ask vendors if they will ship items to you. If you do need to go back to your car, NEVER go alone.
8. Bring a bottle of water and store it in your back pack.
9. Thoroughly look at all booths before making any large purchases in order to ensure you get the best price.
10. Prepare a list before you go so you don’t get side tracked and forget important items.
11. Determine how much you can spend, and always bring a little extra. You’ll need it.
12. If you really have to be careful about your money, bring cash and just a few checks. Leave the credit card at home.
13. Pick up business cards, price lists, and catalogs whenever possible.
14. If you don’t get a receipt, ask for one. If you forget after leaving the booth, write your purchase on the back of your business card or scrap of paper.
15. Once home, take out all your purchases and make a list of what you bought and how much it cost for your records in case you need to contact a vendor for more supplies at a later date.
    

1. You need to have a tax id number and must prove you have a jewelry or related business (such as an occupational license) in order to get into one of these shows.
2. Don’t forget that meals, mileage, gas, and toll receipts should also be saved for tax purposes.
   

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