See you at the Show!!

The Lyons Den
By Kimberley M Lyons
        For the sports enthusiasts January marks the beginning of the sportsmen
shows all over the United States. Here in the Northeast there is a show
almost every weekend through the month of March.
        Some guides and outfitters follow the circuit going from one show to
another, while others pick and choose the ones or one that benefits them
and their schedules the best. For Big E and I, we exhibit at the Eastern
Outdoors and Sports Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania which is considered
the biggest show in the northeast. This is also one of the longest shows
running for nine days beginning the first weekend of February every year.
        To the outdoor lover, this is like the Disney world of sports shows with
everything the outdoors man and woman could possibly think or dream of
for any and all outdoor activities. For many, this is the place to talk
with the guides and outfitters to book their adventures for the upcoming
seasons. But how do you choose? Here are some tips to consider when
making the decision, that for some, is a once in a lifetime adventure.
                First, understand the difference between a guide, guide service and an
outfitter. When you are talking with a guide service you are generally
talking directly with the folks who will be guiding and hosting you. An
outfitter may also be a guide, or guide service; however some outfitters
are more like a travel agent. They will set up all the details and you
may never see this person again.
        There are hundreds, even thousands depending on the show to choose from.
Of course, first is your destination. That will narrow the choices down. 
What is it you want to do? That will narrow it down even further and this
is where you want to start. You may wish to book your adventure right at
the show, or you have a bag full of brochures to look at, read and think
about. I think it is good, if you know you want to book an adventure to
book at the shows as you can talk face to face, and ask questions. Have a
list of questions ready that covers all aspects of services with you.
This will save you time, effort and money.
        Next, what is the difference between big well known services and smaller
businesses? The big guys often come with big prices, much like paying for
brand name items versus bargain brands. This comes down to how deep are
your pockets. Many of the big guys provide all the bells and whistles of
a fancy resort with all the luxuries while the smaller ones have most of
the comforts of home, and some are very rustic. These kinds of details
should be considered before going to the show.
        Finally, the price. What are the services offered? Remember the golden
rule; if it sounds too good, it probably is. Some offer discounts and
show specials for those attending and booking at the show; others will
not. This is where is can get complicated. Some may lower prices as the
show progresses if they are not booking clients. Be careful! After all,
speaking from experience, business expenses do not go down. Therefore if
someone is offering something for that low of a price, they may be
cutting services and you may really be disappointed. Unless you have the
cash to shoot for the stars, I recommend looking at those that are
offering the same services for just about the same price range give or
take a couple hundred dollars. Take time to talk, ask questions. Do they
seem to be putting on a show, reading from a script or are they genuinely
friendly?
        Have a great time at the show!!!!