If you are planning to attend, here are a few tips:

1) If you can, bring samples from your own PTO. When you start talking to others, you may wish you had copies of your school directory, volunteer form, flyers, bylaws, other documents. If you have space, pack a set.

2) Spend time in the exhibit area. The vendors have great info to share (and exhibitors are the reason the show is so affordable). Even if you don't need a particular idea NOW, you might later. It maylead to a spin off idea. If nothing else, you might pick up a marketing tip you can use on another program.

3)Be prepared to take LOTS of STUFF home - catalogs, flyers, business cards, samples, candy, candles, jerky...

I passed over some of the big catalogs for things we just don't need, not wanting to waste those materials. And I was not greedy about all the samples they were giving. Even so, I came home with 26 POUNDS of stuff! No kidding! I kept unloading and unloading the car, and finally I had my kids weigh it all as a quickie project.

4) Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. It's impossible to predict in any conference setting when a room will be hot or cold.

5) Come back and SHARE on the Forum. I learned so much, and I can't wait to hear more from those who attend ALL the shows.

6) If you are with a group - split up. Cover as much as you can, talk to others. Divide and conquer!!

7) If you are alone, jump in and share, ask questions, talk. By definition, you are with a group of people who love to reach out and help others. Make some new friends.

8) Make an effort to meet the PTO Today staff. They are some great folks.

9) The exhibitors are professionals and they will follow up. If you give your home address versus the school, prepare for lots of big, heavy mailings. At least that's how it was after the last show I attended. It may be better to use the school's address. (So KNOW the school's address.)

10)Don't even think about starting a diet before you go. You will be sampling candy, cookies, pizza, chicken nuggets, donuts, jerky, cobbler... and it's all yummy!

Have a great time!