It has been a few years since I last set up at a show in Indiana. I had visited this show once before and I liked what I saw. It is a huge room, lots of dealers, bar with food and drinks.
The promoter Bob does a really great job getting the word out about the show. I saw it listed all over Facebook. I also saw a listing for another show at the same venue and was a little confused. I think others may have been confused as well because attendance was very light. The other show was held just the week before.
Apparently, Bob originally had a partner with this show and the two had a falling out so they split in two and there are now two shows, by different promoters, at the same venue every month.
I was able to eek out some sales to long-time customers/friends Mike, Howard and the Mantle guy. Not a whole lot of vintage in the room other than my set up. Thus, not a whole lot of vintage buyers -- which benefited me greatly as I purchased a 1966 Topps complete baseball set. So it was a worthwhile venture for me.
There was a large number of dealers at this show and all seemed very friendly. I saw a lot of wax, dime boxes, modern star cards and the like. Some jerseys and other memorabilia as well.
I was able purchase a steady stream of diet Cokes from the bar along with a hot dog. Having food and drink at the show is key for me.
I knew some of the dealers like Eric, Cigar and Karl. I also saw a bunch of people that I knew.
I enjoyed talking to the promoter Bob who grew up at a card shop then worked at one, after his dad sold his shop. Bob currently sells cards full time. I really like this venue, though it is tough drive for me coming down from Northern Illinois through a ton of road construction.
I booked the next show on October 30 and am hoping for better attendance. Seems like Bob's former partner runs his show on the same weekend as Orland, so Bob's show is the better option for me.
I had a really enjoyable day, other than the horrible traffic driving home. Next up is my show at the Salvation Army, 8853 S. Howell, in Oak Creek, WI, on Saturday, October 2, 2021. Former Brewers Pitcher Don August is signing autographs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Autographs cost $15. I will have some of Don's cards to purchase for $1 each while supplies last.
Hope to see everybody next weekend in Oak Creek!