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In these days of time deprivation, fast food and high expectations, to get anything accomplished, you have to have a plan! So what’s a home and garden enthusiast to do when faced with the daunting task of visiting the mega Home and Garden Show, covering 1000’s of ideas, products, services, of exhibits, demonstrations and how-to clinics? Here are some tips for making the most of your visit – “the one stop shopping home and garden experience”.
Make your list! – Before you go make a plan with a list of everything, even if it is only a dream, of what you would like done or redone within your home, garden and even lifestyle.
Highlight your priorities!
Write it down –At the show, whether it’s in a notebook, paper napkin or a matchbook cover, write down your home remodeling and gardening ideas and take notes as you visit booths.
Swatches, specs and samples – Bring fabric sections, photographs and measurements with you to help exhibitors understand your needs. Remember décor is not only for the inside, let’s decorate the outdoors. Outdoor living and entertaining is the latest and greatest, so bring the swatches, drawings and the ideas for the spectacular outdoor grill areas!
Map it out – Sit down with the Show Guide and circle the exhibits, special show features and areas of interest that are “must see” destinations.
You don’t ask, you don’t get – Be prepared with lots of questions including, how long will a project take? What will it cost? How long has the product been out? What are the benefits? Are there any cost-saving alternatives? And who are your competitors?
There’s no free lunch, but experts galore. But there are lots of free seminars and how-to clinics. Stop in and listen to one of experts speak at one of the Classes and Demonstrations or visit with them directly at their booth. Make sure you take full advantage of having so many experts all under one roof!
A picture is worth a thousand words – Brochures are a great way to get general information about a product but nothing beats a face-to-face chat with a professional. Don’t be shy this is your opportunity to see, hear and talk to everyone in one place and at one time.
Eenney, meeeney … – Don’t be afraid to compare the pricing, services and offerings of one exhibitor to another before making your final decision.
What’s hot and what’s not – Look for trends by visiting the spectacular landscaped gardens, Home Decor, Outdoor Living, and floor display. Listen to the great chefs about the hottest restaurant dishes and about what’s new in food and fun around town.
Let’s make a deal – Be sure to ask about show specials or discounts offered by exhibitors. Make your best offer and begin your first steps on the project you have been putting aside. Enter to win a Home and Garden Show shopping spree at the texashomeandgarden.com booth. And have a shopping bag ready to take it all home!
Pack it up and take it home – You have experienced the market place and found many things that you were looking for or maybe cemented your ideas. Now make sure you keep the Show Guide, product brochures and business cards in a file at home. They will serve as a resource for future purchases and projects.
P.S. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
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