So what about your networking idea??

Did I also mention the four future bookings from other vendors, and the eight coffee dates I set up?

I made no secret of the fact I was new in town.  I let the other vendors know that I had secured eight bookings with the customers, and that I wanted to promote their business to those customers, too.  You see, at these events and expos you need to realize that you and other vendors have the SAME customer, but you are selling them different products.  They need both of you, so why not work together?

Rather than trying to hammer out business details right then and there, I asked if they'd like to have coffee in a few weeks, to go over some business ideas that could be profitable to both of us.  All of them said yes, and four said they'd love to schedule a show when I got to town.  Here's were I regretted bringing only twenty catalogs!

For my next event, I will PREPARE a vendor packet of information!  These little packets (with a gift attached, of course!) will be specifically for other vendors.  Everyone loves a present, so why not bless those you wish to have further business with?  In the meantime, since returning home, I am taking a little time to write a quick note, letting them know it was a pleasure to met them and I look forward to their future acquaintance.  I am then adding a little reminder - a coupon for any item in the current catalog (up to $100) for free when they host a qualified show with me.   I am now even more excited about the move - as I think I will find a few potential friends in the mix!