Posted by Bert Herrera on November 17, 2009 at 12:30pm
Show takes place in downtown Gainesville. Streets are wide, and set-up (Sat AM) and tear down are usually fairly easy because of the width. Show is put on by the City of Gainesville, run by Linda Piper (who does a great job, in my opinion) and usually has a real good turnout. If you're doing a show in G'ville, usually this is the one to do. They have bagels and drinks on Sat AM, and they bring you lunch to your booth both Sat and Sunday!Gainesville is home for me, and as most know, it is the home of the University of Florida. There are over 40,000 studens, with no money to speak of, so they're not the ones you're selling to, unless you have items $20 and under. The town lives and dies with the Gators, who are currently riding a high in the football world. The weather was absolutely as good as it gets. With everything going in the positive column, we all hoped sales would be as positive. Unfortunately, for a lot of folks, they were way down. Saturday was very slow for me, but Sunday was decent. My numbers were down about 30% from last year, but still respectable, especially when I can sleep in my own bed. One photographer who was here who said this used to be his 3rd best show in Florida, said his numbers had nosedived. There were lots of folks, but not too many packages walking by.RC, I hope your Sunday improved for you.For folks traveling to the show, there is a brand new Hampton Inn right in the middle of the show, which I understand had a decent artist rate for the weekend.
This show was good for us but not great. I am thankful for the last minute Be Back... YEA! ..Linda did a great job organizing the show. So easy in and out, as well. We will try again next year. Great meeting you in FL, Bert!
I had a good show in Gainesville......not great but good. Saturday was my best day. The crowds were there but not a spending group this year....I think folks are still afraid with the economy. The weather was hot and I had a hot booth......next year if accepted I will ask for the other side of the street that had some shade.
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