Intergem show -- how much time?

[sparkleme]

I'm excited to attend my first Intergem show next month. How much time should I plan to spend? (I need to arrange for child care.)I would like to have a leisurely fun time and not feel rushed.

Any other tips would be great, too. This is what I have read so far from other PSers:
- Negotiate prices -- Sunday is best for negotiating
- Bring a loupe
- Don't have any gems set at the Intergem show
- Check on return policies

 

[chrono]

Are you just looking around or plan to purchase? If just looking, don't bring too much money or temptation might bite hard. How long you spend there will depend on the size of the show (number of booths and vendors attending). Find out if there's a particular favourite vendor hosting a booth; if so, tell them what you'd like to see so that they can prep some stones for you to view.

 

[sparkleme]

Good point on bringing limited funds, Chrono! Lots of temptation there, I'm sure!
I would like to purchase, but definitely within a modest budget.

It looks like there will be 324 vendors -- plenty of eye candy

 

[LLJsmom]

I like going on the first day early. Much fewer crowds and vendors more available to talk. I don't go with a plan to buy anything but eager to try different styles on.