Too bad about the way you were treated. I know that at some shows the vendors can get quite backed up if it's crowded but to shun you because you look younger...not good. I've never been witness to that sort of thing...not at any of the shows I've been to or been involved in. Too bad.
As for the small number of vendors...there could be a whole host of reasons for that. Bad planning, small site, conflicts w/other shows, etc, etc, etc. As a board member of the local club, I say definitely give feedback...hearing from the show goers is the only way the club knows what's working and what might need improvement. Feedback is invaluable.
Our OS has had both large and small numbers of vendors. Our lowest year was a couple of years ago when we had only 3 pro vendors, our club sale table and one of our members had a table...and the reason we had so few pros was because our show lined up w/some other biggie shows for the region. It's just the way it worked out and so some of our regular vendors were off at other shows.
The funny thing about it...it worked out to be a great show and the vendors that did make it were very pleased because their sales were better than they'd had in a few years at our Spring show. Less comp = each sold more. The Pros had some of the more...what I call "collectors" orchids...our club sales table had more of the in bloom and "ordinary" stuff that appeals to those people just looking for pretty blooming orchid and our club member's table had a nice mix of both.
With that said...and even though our small show was a success...I always like going to shows where there is a LOT of vendors and a huge selection.
AOS member or not...you can go to their website and access the calendar of events...that'll give you a list of all shows in your areas of the country. Florida has some super big ones...Redlands being a monster w/a ton of vendors including many from outside the country. Also, check the Mid America Orchid Congress site for their Spring and Fall shows each year...another great way to access other country vendors and some really great plant selections.
BTW - for anyone in the Central OH area...COOS (my OS - Central Ohio Orchid Society) is hosting the Fall Mid-America this year. Put it on your calendar...November 6th and 7th! When we have more of the details nailed down I make a posting w/a link to the site for all the info.
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