Only 4 more days!

We are looking forward to all that the NYIGF has to offer this year. Remember to check back to the blog and Twitter for updates on the show!

If you’ve ever been to a craft or trade show you know how hectic and stressful all the hustle and bustle can be. From parking...to crowds...to food, we’ve compiled a list of must do’s to make the NYIGF a little bit less stressful and easier to navigate while allowing you to fully enjoy what the best designers, artists and crafters across the country have to offer.

1. Get a Map and Mark it Up

Think of your map as your guide to a vacation. Everytime I go somewhere new, I get a map, some stickers and a sharpie and continue to mark up everything I know about it – where I want to go, where I’ve been, what I know about each place (this restaurant has the best tacos, or this is where the best view of the city is). As you go through the show, take a moment to mark each booth, write down the items you liked in case you get home and can’t stop thinking about that particular piece of jewelry, artwork or piece of clothing. This way, you know exactly where to go back to. And, everyone will be jealous of your map because you’ll look like a pro.

2.  See it all, then go back

After you have everything marked, use the last day of the fair to go back to those that you absolutely loved and want to purchase something from. You can also use this last day to bring your laziest friend along, who will be especially appreciative that you now know all the best booths and places that they would enjoy the most. Thanks again to that handy map.

3. Bring Snacks and Water

Depending on the show, most of the time you can bring in survival snacks. However, remember that the food there can be delicious if the show hosts local culinary artists. Water is very important as the shows can be crowded and hot, which means you may be walking for a long time before stopping to purchase a beverage or snack. I suggest the small 4 oz bottles because they fit right in your handbag. If you wanted to be professional, a camelbak is great too, even if you may look like you should be hiking a mountain instead of going to a gift show!

4. Be Patient

I know you may want to rush through the crowds and you might get annoyed with that woman in front of you with 5 strollers and her toy chihuahua in her handbag. Unless you really have to use the bathroom, try to be patient. Gift shows are large events and there is a lot going on at once, you just have to stop and take it one step at a time. Trust, me that comes from years of trying it the wrong way. If you feel like you are rushing around, stop, take a breath and look around at all the other people in a hurry. You’ll then think, “…I didn’t know that’s how crazy and impatient I looked…..”

That’s all for now, but stay tuned. If any more tips and tricks to the show come up you will know first thing!