Expect to get frustrated

I'm just full of advice! My post, Put on a happy face, offered some simple advice to exhibitors at the Indiana Flower and Patio Show. A successful show is a two-way street, so I wanted to also provide some timely advice to the shoppers.

Arrive with the expectation that it'll be crowded, you'll get bumped into, stepped on and treated grumpily (is that word?) by other attendees. For some reason, year after year, people go, knowing what the crowd will be like, then act surprised when they once again get frustrated by the mass of people 'in their way'.

Treat the vendors with respect. They are there to promote their business. If you are "just looking", be sure not to monopolize their time. Someone else might be a serious shopper, so if another attendee comes up to the booth, allow the exhibitor access to this person.

If the booth is not attended, but a "be back at X time" sign is there, understand that sometimes only one person is there for the entire day. They need a break, and will be back as promised.

Looking for an addition on your home? A major landscaping project? An enclosure for your patio? Bring plans or photos with you. However, sometimes the people hosting the booths are not ones who can give you all of the answers. Big projects often need a few days to pull a quote together. Leave your name and phone number; they will contact you, sometimes even before the show is over. Also ask for the person who will be calling you in case you need to get in touch with them immediately.

Arriving prepared for the above issues will make your time at the Flower and Patio Show much more enjoyable for you, for the exhibitors, and for the other attendees.

Enjoy the show as we welcome spring to Indiana!