I just attended a scrapbook convention in my area.  After spending the afternoon with the crowds of women looking for bargains, I realized I should have had a plan before I went.  Here are a few tips I'm going to remember for my next scrapbook expo.

1. Register in advance.  Check out the convention's website and see if you can buy an advance admission.  Preregistering is essential if you plan to attend workshops.  While I waited in line for my ticket, I heard again and again that the popular workshops were full.  Many scrapbook conventions' crop sessions fill up fast as well.  Reserve your crop workspace ahead of time.

2. Subscribe to the convention's email list.  You will find out first about upcoming shows and when registration opens.  For this convention, I also received special email coupons to use at the exhibitor booths.

3. Arrive early.  If you plan to shop or crop, you don't want to be in the back parking lot.  Carrying your packages back to the car and bringing in your crop supplies could be a long haul if you're parked in aisle 36.   

4. Bring water and snacks.  The conventions I have been to are usually short on food, and most have no seating available to eat lunch.  Take a few snack bars or plan to go outside the location for food.  

5. Carry a tote bag.  If you are shopping, a tote bag for your purchases is much easier to manage than plastic shopping bags.  I also keep my water and snacks in there.

6. Limit the supplies you bring for crops.  This is a personal preference, but also a practical one.  Scrapbook conventions vary on how much crop workspace is available to each person.  Oh, and please don't spread out and migrate into your neighbor's space.  We hate that.

7. Scope out the exhibit hall before you shop. Resist the urge to start at one end and start shopping.  Take a quick walk down the aisles and get an idea of what booths you most want to shop at and which are the busiest. Also check your coupons for special offers that are limited to time and quantity.  Then pace your time and money according to what booths most interest you.  

8. Bring a pen.  This one seems so simple, but when you are signing up for mailing lists and filling out door prize entries, you don't want to have to wait for the pen.  

9. Take advantage of the "Make and Takes."  Some exhibitors charge for Make and Take projects. Others offer free projects.  It's a great opportunity to learn a new technique and try out new products.  

10. Bring business cards.  If you have a scrapbook business of your own, bring a supply of your business cards.  Workshops, crops and even shopping are great ways to interact with other scrapbookers who might be interested in your products or services.

Don't forget to have fun.  It's easy to get frustrated with the crowds and long lines, but bring along a friend or two and take your time exploring the latest in scrapbooking products and techniques.  Use these tips to help make your next scrapbook convention more enjoyable.