This past weekend i did the ACC Atlanta Show at the Galleria Convention Center. I was a little worried because last year it coincided with the Atlanta Garden Show,with a two for one entry price and really pulled in the big crowds. This year a railroad show was going on and I figured that wouldn't quite have the same effect (not dissing any railroader's around). It really didn't matter, people came out and came out to buy. I saw so many patrons with packages going by and everyone I talked to was pretty happy with the outcome.
Load in for me was great because I did it on Wednesday instead of Thursday. I live about four hours away and for the last few years it's worth it to spend the extra night in a hotel. So, my load in was easy, but I am sure that Thursday was a zoo, as there are two portals and not much parking close to the entrance. Everything inside is organized as only an ACC can do it. It is such a well-oiled machine and everyone is helpful and considerate. There is absolutely no buy-sell, everything is of the highest quality, honestly, I feel very fortunate to be included in this group, the quality of work is outstanding.
The Patron Party on Thursday night was as usual. The food was situated on the far side of where I was and most of the patrons have a three day pass, so they don't really see too much of the show that first night. They even had a Scotch tasting, which kept them occupied and away from looking too closely. But they do come back, many have three day passes and this show is not for the faint of heart as it is a $12 entrance fee and a $30- three day pass. So people come to really look, learn and buy. Friday was mostly the ladies who lunch set, which probably was better for the jewelers and fiber artists ( I do 2D mixed media ) so that first day I paid expenses, but not much more. At 5pm they have a 5 dollars entry fee until 8pm, when the show closes for the night and that brought in a younger crowd.
Saturday was steady but the weather outside was sunny and slightly warmer than it had been so I think that people took advantage of that. I had a so-so day but many others had a really good day. There were 7 hat makers (believe it?) and fabulous clothing and fiber artists and they really did well, so did sculpture and clay. Occasionally, I would talk to someone a bit disgruntled but hell, I was a bit that way by Saturday night. Last year this had been my best day and I was chalking that up to last year's Garden Show by this time.
Then Sunday came-glorious Sunday- ah....it was raining... and cold and gloomy. What better time for an indoor art show? And they came! It was really crowded. When you have a good day it's amazing what it does to your attitude during break down....i didn't even mind lugging everything out to my car a block away. Loading out at the Galleria is crazy but it gets done. They have these huge dolly's that if you can snag one makes your load out a one trip wonder but well....it wasn't so bad. It always amazes me that people that do this show fly in from all over the country, they really do have a following and people support the ACC because they know it delivers the goods. Regardless of the money made this weekend (and so far this year it has been up and down for me)...it is one of the nicest shows to do.
Comments
For me a get lots of nice comments. Sure they don't pay the bills,but it lets me know I am on the right track with my designs.
Yes thanks Margaret
Great info, Margaret, and congrats on the great show!
Hey Vicky, The cost per booth is higher than most (around $750) plus ,you need to spend 100 dollars for electricity. Atlanta is one of the cheapest towns to stay in-my hotel, an Extended Stay was 45 a night and it was clean and nice. Of course there are all price ranges, but my first show this year broke the bank for me (Florida with all the expenses and not much of the return) so I was watching pennies. The show layout is an extremely tight fit (exactly 10x10) so no room for a cooler, but you can still be creative and cut down on eating at the venue by bringing a sandwich or something. Hope this answered your question.
It sounds like a show I should think about, being a fiber artist...thanks for your thoughtful review and congratulations on doing well.
Great review Margaret. Can you talk about the costs involved in doing the Atlanta ACC show?
Great review Margaret, thank you! I'm so glad it rained on Sunday and they came in to see and buy :)