People often ask me, what goes on behind the scenes of a trade show as a vendor or exhibitor, instead of attending?
Let me share with you what challenges I discovered as I got ready to head to Louisville for the 4th annual concealed carry expo and traveling with a firearm.
First off, let me say there is A LOT of planning that happens in advance of the “big event”.
tradeshow, display, guns, purses, For me, that also meant “how” was I going to get there. Do I drive and haul all of my displays and merchandise? Do I ship it? Since I can’t run home to get what ever I might have forgotten (assuming it’s not a replaceable item like toothpaste) thorough planning must ensue.
So, the biggest and most important thing right now is planning- There’s a lot to plan for.
Do you need directions? What about your cell phone and GPS? Lets say there’s a possibility of losing a cell signal; then what? Should you print out directions-just in case? And, perhaps the biggest question in planning for a trade show, will it all fit?
1. Will it all fit in whatever vehicle your driving or towing
2. Will it all fit in your booth space.
I recommend a scaled drawing of anticipated display arrangement. However, it’s always good to have a back up plan…Because, something, most likely not go as planned. ‘That’ is something you can plan on.
If you are flying, also consider how to get from airport to hotel and to the venue. Should you rent a car or Uber? Flying with a firearm can be a hassle and time consuming for security checks. Make sure to give yourself extra time. Running late is not good idea in this scenario.
Now, what about getting to your final destination? what about the states’ reciprocity laws? Does this state recognize your home states ccw permit? Not only do you need to know ccw laws where you are going, but don’t forget about the state(s) you have to travel through to get there.
What if you have to stop for gas or food? Can you take the gun out of the car? What if you get stopped by police? Should you mention you have a gun?
There are several great resources such as USCCA reciprocity map or guns to carry just to name a few. Remember to verify the type of ammunition that can be used in that state. Hollow points aren’t allowed everywhere. We still have some work to do, folks.
Now, what about the Hotel. This wasn’t an issue since the hotel had a block of rooms reserved for this specific concealed carry event. But let’s suppose, you were traveling by yourself for work, and the hotel wasn’t expecting the majority of their guest to have firearms; Do you ask the hotel about their firearms policy? Will this draw unwanted attention, or concern? I’d suggest you look at the hotels website or google the hotel chain to find it’s firearm policy before securing reservations.
Women’s Section Cover
Now, what to pack? We realize this can drive a man insane, but women will always over pack. We want to look good A
ND have the right outfit – we’re women after all! It’s about looking good, feeling good and being comfortable. This is not an easy accomplishment in the world of gun toten’ fashion. Here’s a great looking top and it conceals!
This may be the biggest challenge of the whole trip for some. This is one reason why we created Incognito Wear IX, and our tag line: Never be a victim because of style.
This point happens to be highlighted in Kevin Michalowki’s Editor’s Shot: Fashion & Function article in this months’ issue of USCCA Concealed Carry Magazine.
concealed, carry, guns, training, holsters, guns, gear, AR-15
“This (April 2018) edition of USCCA Concealed Carry Magazine focuses on comfort and style, components of the bigger concealed carry picture…When all those (items) are in place, you then have the chance to think about your comfort and style. It might be the last thing on the list, but it is still on the list, because anything that keeps you from carrying a gun every day could be the thing that gets you killed when an attacker chooses you.” www.USCCA.com/April – page 8
Ultimately, whenever you leave the house, the goal is to arrive safely to wherever it is you’re headed. Whether it’s for a trade show, work, or errands, the goal is to come home safely. That’s why we carry, practice, train and why we are designing clothes for the concealed carry market. To stay safe and stay out of the news…
I believe the recent news dialog of “gun violence” is one huge reason why events like the Concealed Carry Expo are happening and being successful. Thank you to the USCCA for hosting the “Concealed Carry Expo” and to all the wonderful folks we meet over the 3 day event in Louisville, Ky. A special Thank you to Beth Alcazar, Editor of the Concealed Carry Women’s Section.
Just remember as you plan your next vacay – research the concealed carry laws getting to and where your final destination will be. Your family’s safety is your own responsibility and you’re doing something about it. Good for you!
Tell us how you travel with your firearm in the comment section below, we can all learn from each other.
Never be a victim because of style. Be armed, Be beautiful and Gun Chic.
Jan
P.S. This trip was especially rewarding as I got to spend time with my sister, Lynne Tanner of FL. and meet up with a high school classmate and her family. Thanks Louisville ?. Hope to see you at the next one!
