Vendors Night

One of the highlights of an IGCA Convention is an opportunity to meet with some of our suppliers. You see their ads in The Candlelighter or on the website but you don¹t know the people behind those ads. So at our conventions we have an evening devoted to the suppliers. They set up a display to show you what they have to offer and especially what they have that is new. Last year we saw new soy or vegetable waxes along with the clear pillar material. There are also always new scents to smell and new molds to view.

Some of the vendors will give presentations about some of their new products on Monday afternoon or at some time during the convention. There are some of the suppliers who will only be available on Monday while others will be staying for the entire convention. You will see those who stay at meal time or in the hospitality room at which times you will be able to have more time to spend one on one with them. You will find them most helpful with any problems you might be having so don¹t miss this great opportunity.

Flea Market
We all like to get bargains as well as purchase some of the materials shown in some of the workshops. This will be something you won¹t want to miss on Tuesday evening.

Many of our candlemakers have surplus supplies - sometimes we have to order in larger quantities than we can use but that is the only way to get some products. Others are scaling down their businesses or changing directions and have some good supplies they need to find a home for so they bring them to the Flea Market. 

Some of our workshop teachers have supplies that they will sell to you and they will bring them to the Flea Market rather than try to handle that in their classes. Sometimes you may want to try a few more of what you learned but don¹t want to invest in all the materials as you test them in your market area. This gives you an opportunity to do just that.

So put the Flea Market on your list of things to do at the 2003 Grand Rapids Convention.

Auction
Annually we have a auction of things donated by suppliers as well as members. There will be some candles, candlemaking equipment, and other crafts that members make. This a fun filled evening and the proceeds go to help with convention and IGCA expenses. Last year we asked members to bring some non-perishable food items that are made in their area. This was a big hit and we expect it will be continued. This provide affordable items so everyone can take part in the auction. We have had pictures, quilted wall hangings, quilts, honey, gift baskets, scales, scent, and on two occasions  a wax melter. So there are always a large variety of items available.

Along with the gems one can go home with, there is  a lot of good humor blended in.

Workshops 
Our convention is what one might call a "working" convention or a "hands on" convention. During the day on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the time is devoted to classes to learn new techniques in candlemaking, learn business skills, be brought up to date on candle safety issues. There are several workshops in which you can share some of your ideas such as special occasion candles, tips and tricks that make your candlemaking easier, or ways to use scrap wax. One idea that you go away with from these classes could be the new item in your line that really takes off in sales for you. Or even though you may not want to make a particular candle, you may come away with an idea that could save you lots of time or find a supplier for something you need.

There is a charge for each of the workshops that goes to the presenter or the IGCA but it is usually very small in relation to what you gain from the class. Sign up for classes is on Sunday afternoon with a short period for sign up on Monday after lunch for the late comers. Some classes will fill up with participants early in the sign up period but most presenters will allow observers and some classes will be demonstrations rather than your getting to make something. This year we anticipate having classes about candle parties and selling on the internet also.

We invite anyone who would like to share a technique to do so. You need to contact Anna at troudybush@comcast.net . Also if you are coming to convention and would like to learn a special technique, she will see if she can find someone to teach that class.

Competition
Members can enter candles into competition on Sunday afternoon and evening.

Please read through all the classes and rules before making your candles. It is so disappointing to you and to the judges to have to disqualify a candle because it does not meet the criteria. You will find the classes and rules on this website.

Don't be afraid to enter even though it is your first convention or you are a new member. It gives you an idea of the quality of your candles in comparison with others. Plus to me it adds interest to the convention. No one should see your candles except the people helping you enter your candles and the judges until the doors to the Competition Room are opened for viewing.

Meals
We all like to eat and at a convention mealtime not only nourishes our bodies but provides us time to share ideas with and ask questions of other members. It is a good time to develop lasting friendships. Another reason to be sure to be at meals that are included in your registration, is the fact that door prizes are given out at meal time. Our suppliers and members donate door prizes including wax, scent, molds and many other useful items, which are distributed after each meal. You will also enjoy the table favors which will be at each place at each meal.  Lots of addition perks!