Help with a first timer setting up a table at a show

[JustinD]

Hi guys!

Personally I have never set up at table in my life but have been to many shows.

My son and his best friend, both 15, want to reserve a table at the local show and sell some basketball cards. (what they both are into)

I am astronomically proud of his inititive and supportive. I think the rest of the traditional dealers are going to be a tad surprised to see these two kids giving this a shot. I am thinking it will be a good life lesson for him.

Any advice on what I should set him up with as far as materials and info for a successful day?

[Rich Klein]

I have written tons of columns and made tons of posts on various sites abo

First: PRIE YOUR CARDS. I know some people are fine having to ask about pricing or think they know all their prices cold but when I go to a table and don't see a price -- I just keep walking

Second: All cards I sell are already in sleeves, semi-rigids or BGS holders. If you have loose cards, bring paper bags to put the cards into.

Third: Figure out, and we had a spirited discussin recently, what is your purpose in selling your cards. If you are going for profit then study the market and be ready on the most popular cards; if you are going to recoup your outlay, then know what you have into your cards and if you are using spare cards to generate cash to buy cards for your collection, then enjoy the ride and flip those cards for what you want.

We have some kids and teenagers who set uo at times at my show. Their money is as good as anyone else's and they usually have a good time and that is what counts.

Just some ideas of the top of my head

Rich

[Sean1125]

Set out your cards with prices and be ready to negotiate. That's it. If you are reasonable with prices you will create a few sales, meet new people, and make plenty deals.

Any dealer that is making fun of kids for taking it upon themselves to open up a table is not a dealer this hobby needs.

[Laxcat]

Not sure how to quote two people. I agree with everything Rich and Sean said. As for materials they could need: cash box, it keeps the bills neat and in a safe place. Paper and some sort of marker, for impromptu signs. Bags for customers and extra sleeves. Some people don't like your sticker/sharpie price on their card! Weird, in my opinion, but to each their own. Water and a snack. Jerky,peanuts the such. Smiles. Seriously. It helps. Extra stickers to price on the fly. Also, paper towels. I know it sounds silly but they come in handy.

I wish them the best and I hope you convey my message to them. I'm sure they could school me on some of the newer products.

Cheers
Matt

[JustinD]

Thanks for everything guys!

Just as an idea, (and as a reference they will be dealing in low dollar cards, nothing fancy) how much change should I set them up with?

All advice welcome!

[Eric72]

Originally Posted by JustinD

Thanks for everything guys!

Just as an idea, (and as a reference they will be dealing in low dollar cards, nothing fancy) how much change should I set them up with?

All advice welcome!

Give them $100 in ones. Holding a stack of cash that thick is an experience that should make them giddy. It does the same for me, to this day.

Additionally, give them fives and tens, perhaps ten of each. This method also gives them a bank of $250 to buy cards.

During the show, make your presence known to prospective buyers. This will plant a seed within their minds. Just strike up a conversation, and then pass the torch and let the kids run their business. Would-be con artists who don't pass the," smell test" will move on when dealing with an adult. True hobbyists will likely treat the kids fairly...or better.

Hope this helps.

Best regards,

Eric