*If the distance is pretty far to drive to a show, consider getting a group of bead buddies together to help drive and pay for the gas. It will make the day much more fun, and you won't have to spend so much on gas to get there, which means more money for beads!
*Be prepared for all types of weather inside and out. I went to a bead show a few years ago only to find that the building it was being held in had to air conditioning. This was in Orland, Florida, so needless to say, that literally put a damper on the day to some extent.
*Wear comfortable shoes since you'll probably be walking a good deal depending on how large the show is.
*Price before you buy. Very often you'll find some vendors selling the exact same beads, so shop around before you start plucking down your money.
*Buy when you love it. On the flip side of pricing before you buy is buying when you discover some amazing beads because if they are that fabulous there is a good chance another beader will think so as well. Those beads may be gone when you decide to return to purchase them.
*Check vendor sites for discounts on entry fees. Most shows these days charge buyers (as in you) to enter the show. I have mixed feelings about this since they are also charging for those people selling at shows, but check the vendors' web sites who sell at the show as well as the show promoters' because sometimes they will offer discount coupons on-line.
*Though you may go with friends, if you don't have the same taste in beads or agenda, then it's a good idea to split up and rejoin some place at a later time at the show. You'll get a lot more accomplished that way.
*Bring extra cash for lunch, and make sure you don't spend it on beads.
*Pick up vendor cards, especially if they have web sites so you can purchase from them later if you discover you really like their product. These are just a few tips to help your bead show day be the best it can be, but even if you don't follow all these tips, I can't imagine any day shopping for beads could be a bad day.
