Jeff Shrader
Member
Well, it's over for another year. Speaking for myself, this was one of the most interesting SOS events that I have ever attended, and I have been to all but the first one. There were hiccups, of course - there will always be a few things that go haywire, but all in all, it was quite smooth from an OVMS perspective. We saw very heavy attendance. Not sure what the public numbers were yet (the office staff has yet to run the tapes and tally those numbers) but I would bet it was a record. Lots of families, new collectors, and young collectors - a real challenge to the stereotype that this is an old man's hobby.
Honestly, I think one of the major factors driving people to attend this show was the very positive buzz on the forums and on facebook. Remember this - every time you post something positive about this (or any other show), you are contributing substantially to the success of the event. Sharing the event ad, posting encouraging things, photos of the items you scored while at the event - it all adds up to happy 'buzz'. That group effort does not go unnoticed, and it is sincerely appreciated.
There seemed to be just a generally better mood at the show as well. There were a few years there when I thought we might actually run low on taser cartridges, flex cuffs, and ketamine.. but this year most everyone seemed to be on their best behavior. Sales were brisk, and the bulk of the dealer complaints were that they were so busy at their tables that they never got much of an opportunity to get away and see the show!
There are plenty of things that can be improved for future years, but if the Show-of-Shows is any indication, 2020 is going to be a GREAT year for militaria shows. If you attended - thank you. If you could not attend, but said happy things online about the show - thank you. This show was a success because of the enthusiastic support of the collecting community!
Honestly, I think one of the major factors driving people to attend this show was the very positive buzz on the forums and on facebook. Remember this - every time you post something positive about this (or any other show), you are contributing substantially to the success of the event. Sharing the event ad, posting encouraging things, photos of the items you scored while at the event - it all adds up to happy 'buzz'. That group effort does not go unnoticed, and it is sincerely appreciated.
There seemed to be just a generally better mood at the show as well. There were a few years there when I thought we might actually run low on taser cartridges, flex cuffs, and ketamine.. but this year most everyone seemed to be on their best behavior. Sales were brisk, and the bulk of the dealer complaints were that they were so busy at their tables that they never got much of an opportunity to get away and see the show!
There are plenty of things that can be improved for future years, but if the Show-of-Shows is any indication, 2020 is going to be a GREAT year for militaria shows. If you attended - thank you. If you could not attend, but said happy things online about the show - thank you. This show was a success because of the enthusiastic support of the collecting community!
