What a good idea…after reading Noel’s post about the value of
going to Tucson (for those who don’t live here), I’ve been mulling.
What is the value? Well, on the surface I am personally astonished
at the huge amount of junk that has taken over in the last few
years…the amount of cheap/fake gemstone beads is really kinda
scary (as are the crafters and store owners who snap 'em up by the
armload) and depressing.
I personally only visit a few favorite vendors, the tool shows, and
maybe one show with a friend for fun…but mostly I steer clear. It’s
just too much, and you can make serious buying mistakes when tired
and overloaded.
If I were buying rough for cutting (I already have plenty), then
there would be more value in beating through many of the tents,
especially the mines and importers.
BUT, Tucson is not just about buying. There is other value to being
here. The free seminars, classes and workshops offered at Rio alone
would pay for the trip. As would the networking, at the Rio weekend
ALONE, not to mention all the other shows. Many other venues also
offer classes.
Combine some judicious buying with learning with networking, and I
think you get a really good value. It also infuses one with new
energy and creativity. I only spent an afternoon at Rio and was so
jazzed - since collapsing after Christmas and then following that
with a complete business plan overhaul I was really in the doldrums.
Not enjoying the bench any more :-((
But the enthusiasm energy and CREATIVITY celebrated at Rio just got
me going again!
Now THAT is priceless.
Roseann
