ISO Tips/Advice: Attending your first Orchid show!

[Ray]

Most of the shows I've attended take cash, checks, and plastic - anything to get your money!

I guess I should have stated that as "prepare to spend".

[Fairorchids]

Emma,

You will see gorgeous things that you did not know existed. BUT, before you grab them, check what the cultural requirements are.

There is nothing worse than plunking down $30-50 for an exiting new plant, and then finding out that it cannot stand your growing conditions.

[SundayGardener]

Ray beat me to it but it can't be said enough...

Bring lots of cash.

Although I have found more and more that vendors are using their cell phones to process credit card payments.

But even more so if you are on a budget, think about how much you are willing to spend, have that and a little extra (because temptation) in cash and when the cash is gone, you're done buying.

[Ray]

One more thing, shows can be great places to buy supplies as well, avoiding shipping costs and getting higher quality stuff than you'll ever get at a Lowes or Home Depot.

[emmajs243]

Thank you all so much! Sorry, life got busy!!

Ok so! Fishmom! GREAT to know some shows have a plant hotel! Totally helpful and definitely makes sense! I didn't think about that part of things until the cooler was brought up!

Mountaineer! I am for sure going to the Treasure Valley Orchid Show in Boise ID, especially since I have hopes I can get some good culture questions answered since they are closest to where I live and in a very similar environment! Then I also am going to try to go to one other show between now and then, either one In Oregon, Washington, or maybe Texas/Colorado! They all have some I just haven't decided which to do! Recommendations on a shows in any of those states???? No matter when in the year, If it's a great show I would love to work my schedule to attend it!

Sara Jean great to know on payment and a budget! I luckily am very financially cautious so I have that going for me!

if I get caught up with anything it might be supplies! I've kinda reached that point with plants where I am content, I actually have a few plants I would like to get rid of....but in terms of buying, idk....i started off just wanting to buy everything and I found so much stuff beautiful and a "must have". Then I came to find these unbelievable plants or varieties I didn't even know existed and now many of the other plants I originally had on my wish list are now like ehh...I would much rather save money and space because I just now know that there are exquisite plants out there that I would prefer instead! Even if I haven't yet found the plant, I've finally just learned that they are out there and they will take my breath away in a whole new way!

BUT I currently have been working on ordering supplies so maybe I'll hold off until I choose a second spring show and decide when that is!

Leafmite! Definitely good to know I can join the society while there! I have been waiting for winter weather to end for me to join because they are an hour and a half away from us! With bad weather, no way I can make it to the meetings so I decided when spring breaks through I'll join! Which should be right around their show! I definitely am excited to get some cultural advice for IDAHO!

Ray! Great to know on money and again on supplies!!! I am working on a supplies order right now so maybe I'll downsize that and stock up at the show!

And if I missed anyone....forgive me! I did read everyone's and REALLY apreeciated all of your help and advice!

BIG take always, Take LOTS of money in all forms, but THEN ironically, set a serious budget and a temptation budget! Don't buy things I can't care for! Plus have fun!!