Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Do you ever go to or have a table at any of the small local shows like the on in Lake Worth this weekend? Thanks!

I have attended several local shows of various sizes. I have found it generally does not pay for me to exhibit. The small shows do not draw much of a crowd. Those that do show up are there to see cool animals they never saw before. Since there are no large vendors, there are not too many bargins. If you go to enough of them I am sure you can find some but they are few and far between. Not much of a selection or anything special to see either. The medium and larger shows do draw some larger and more dedicated breeders. There are usually bargins to be found if you go not looking for something sppecific. Many of the people attending are herpers there just to look and see all the cool animals. Of course you also get people with kids that just take them to the show because it's better than the local zoo. There are vendors who attend these shows with many animals that are presold and they are there to deliver them. Of the people that are there to buy (that have not already purchased and are only there to pick up their purchase), most are looking at price not genetics or breeder reputation. Why would they buy from me when there is a guy selling the same type animal for $10 less? It does not matter to them that my bloodlines are bred for size and color. They dont care that my animals are held back untill a certain age to guarantee they will survive the transition of ownership when the guy 2 tables down sells newborn hatchlings that have not even eaten for $10 less.

I could go on but I think you get the idea. Just my jaded opinon...

I do go to Daytona every year and I enjoy meeting people I speek with during the year and seeing old friends. I am guilty of gauking at some of the amazing animals there myself. It is almost in my backyard (4 hour drive) so I wouldn't miss it. I hope to be a vendor there in '05. Even if I dont bring anything to sell, just for PR.
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Bennett

beardiedragon.com
Home of the Florida Orange

I should have asked before the last Daytona. I can understand you opinion of the small shows there are similar instances in my business. I have never been impressed at the few I have been to.