Shall we take our first business trip together?
How exciting! I’ll prep for the show while you book the hotel… deal?
I have prepared some questions so that we can get as much done as we can in the little time we have. Badges on, check. Notepad and pen, check. Large coffee in hand, check. (I do love my coffee in the morning…or all day.)
Remember in our previous post we discussed Fake it till you make it? Yep that’s right, you need to come off as if you know what you are talking about, even if you don’t. We want the sales rep to take you SERIOUSLY. Which means you need to understand industry language and know what you are asking for.
1. WHAT ARE YOUR MINIMUMS?
As a new company you will work with companies that have low minimums usually 20 – 100 yards.
2. ARE THESE FABRICS IN STOCK AND READILY AVAILABLE?
Try to avoid “Jobbers” as they do not produce fabric and usually cannot supply yardage if you get a large order or reorder.
3. DO YOU PROVIDE SAMPLE YARDAGE? WHAT AMOUNT?
You can usually order 5 – 20 yards to start your sample line.
4. ARE THESE FABRICS DOMESTIC, OR IMPORTED?
Domestic mills will have lower minimums, less issues in shipping and late delivery.
5. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SHIP THE ORDER?
Know your production deadlines. If you don’t know, ask the DCC for help.
6. ASK FOR SWATCHES OR HEADERS OF FABRICS YOU ARE INTERESTED IN.
These will be helpful for fabric storyboards and line development.
7. THE BEST HOBBIES THAT WILL HELP YOU STEP AWAY FROM PRESSING MATTERS IN WORK AND FAMILY.
Photography: Capturing moments through the lens of a camera, whether it’s landscapes, portraits, or macro photography, allows you to express your creativity and explore the world through a different perspective.
Gardening: Cultivating plants and tending to your garden can be a therapeutic and rewarding hobby. You can grow flowers, herbs, vegetables, or even bonsai trees, depending on your interest and available space.
Cooking and Baking: Experimenting with recipes, cooking techniques, and creating delicious dishes or pastries can be a delightful hobby. You can explore different cuisines, flavors, and even start your own food blog to share your culinary adventures.
Hiking and Nature Exploration: Exploring the great outdoors by hiking through forests, mountains, or along scenic trails allows you to connect with nature, stay active, and discover new places.
Online Gaming: Engaging in online gaming at websites like Slotogate can be an exciting pastime. Slotogate offers a wide range of games and multiple deposit methods like payid australia casino, providing entertainment and the possibility of winning prizes. Just remember to gamble responsibly.
Painting or Drawing: Express your artistic side by creating visual art. Whether you prefer painting with acrylics, watercolors, or sketching with pencils, this hobby lets you unleash your imagination and improve your artistic skills over time.
These hobbies offer a variety of ways to unwind, express creativity, and have fun, catering to different interests and preferences.
Tip: Remember to take business cards, take notes, and write down style numbers and color-ways you are interested in.
Tip:Always follow up on orders and sample requests. Fabric Mills are very busy after shows and need to be reminded about new customers.
Worried you won’t remember the questions to ask?
Don’t worry partner, I have you covered!
Click on the GIANT button below to download the script, What to Ask at a Textile Show.
Take this script with you! Heck, print out 20 copies and write notes based on the vendors you meet. Isn’t that easy.
Tip: Bring a mini stapler and staple their business card or PO to the script so you have everything in one spot.
Remember, I am here for you. If you would like to spend some time prepping for the show in a One-On-One Strategy Session, click here. You will be taken to a link to purchase the session and we will follow up with you to set up a time. It is that easy!
Next up: Finding the best materials for your line.
