Discuss the process of getting your t-shirt line into brick and mortar stores and selling offline. Topics include industry tradeshows, events, line sheets, sales reps and other retailing tips and advice.
I just exhibited at the pool trade show in Las Vegas last week and I wanted to know if anyone went to the project show during this time? Didn't get a chance to check out that show and I'm trying to decide about next year. Any comments about
either show would be appreciated. I was disappointed with the traffic at
the pool show on the second and third day.
It was our first time exhibiting at that show and it was an amazing
experience. However, I was surprised at the number of people who
were also showing just t-shirts. The show was just outside the Las
Vegas Convention center where The Magic show was being held.
They constructed a huge tent in the parking lot. The vibe of the
show was really cool, A Dj cranked out hits all day long and their
was a bar near our booth. The first day of the show was packed and
I expected that all three days of the show would be the same. But,
once the Project show opened up Pool was dead. We covered the
cost of our booth and plane tickets but no profit yet. However, the
phone keeps ringing everyday with calls from people who picked up
our line sheet and place orders. So, I am hopeful
We covered the
cost of our booth and plane tickets but no profit yet. However, the
phone keeps ringing everyday with calls from people who picked up
our line sheet and place orders. So, I am hopeful
That's cool to know. So you were able to get some orders from retail stores and at least break even (and get your line out there).
Part of the learning curve is getting out there and meeting people. Also,
networking and picking peoples brains who have been in the business for
a while.
I'm sorry Gail got sick! That had to be tough talking to customers all day
and trying to be positive when you don't feel well. But, it sounds like
it was worth the struggle. I agree with her comment about getting noticed
you have to talk to anyone and everyone. Some people did some strange
things at the pool show to get noticed ( like bring in their huge bulldog,
run threw the aisles with a huge flag, and some evens set up bars
for drinks in their booths).
It was grueling. Most of the time, I had my sunglasses on, but I stuck it out and knowing me, I have a very eclectic and fun personality even when I'm sick, ask Rodney.
There were a few times where I thought I was going to pass out.
One of the buyers, said that I should go home and I said I wanted to be here and her comment to that was, "Now that's dedication".
I was going to visit my friend's booth at Pool but could not.
2 of my friends exhibited at Magic, 1 at Project and 1 at Pool.
As you said, its all about networking, schmoozing and following up with them. Get as many business cards as possible. Remind them how you met them and thank them for speaking with you, etc. etc.
At least you got the contacts at Pool.
I plan to exhibit at Agenda in September. I'm still contemplating though...
Quote:
Originally Posted by arvalenti
I'm sorry Gail got sick! That had to be tough talking to customers all day
and trying to be positive when you don't feel well. But, it sounds like
it was worth the struggle. I agree with her comment about getting noticed
you have to talk to anyone and everyone. Some people did some strange
things at the pool show to get noticed ( like bring in their huge bulldog,
run threw the aisles with a huge flag, and some evens set up bars
for drinks in their booths).
pool trade show 
Re: pool trade show 
