Antiques trade show area unique when it comes to this type of gathering because most of the exhibits at the show are not necessarily pushing new and exciting items. While some may be selling a new way to protect antique investments, most exhibits will focus on a niche audience in the wider aspect of the antiques and collectibles world. Antiques trade show information is important to gather at least a year in advance to know which antiques trade show will best fit your products.

An antiques trade show will need to have certain important factors in order to appeal to your specific needs. First, with antiques it is best to be close to home unless you do not want to bring any actual products to the show. Other aspects of the show to consider are:

1. The location of the antique show.

2. How much exhibit space you are allowed.

3. Which antiques trade shows cater to your niche.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find antiques trade shows that showcase antique booksellers

There are thousands of dealers across the country who specialize in antique books. An antique book trade show will feature many great antique items, but will also include the newest products to keep your antique book collection safe and intact. You can find hundreds of antique book trade shows each year.

I recommend: The Boston Antiquarian Book & Ephemera Fair is part of the larger Boston Antiques Weekend, a huge fair that brings together a variety of antiques dealers from around the world. If you happen to be near the other coast, you can attend the California International Antiquarian Book Fair.

Choose an antiques trade show for furniture dealers

Furniture is always one of the hottest categories on the antique circuit. Antique furniture is always appreciated because of its stunning beauty, old world craftsmanship, and the way these pieces of furniture can tell a story and stand the test of time. There are many furniture trade shows that cater to all those working in the antique furniture business.

I recommend: The Gibraltar Trade Center in Michigan hosts an annual antiques trade show that features many antique items, including furniture. There is also a lot of antique furniture pieces to choose from at the North Atlanta Antique Show in Atlanta, GA.

Explore antiques trade shows for antique dolls

Dolls are highly sought after collectibles and antiques. From rag dolls to porcelain dolls, there are quite a few antiques trade shows that cater to those looking to sell and buy antique dolls, as well as those who have helpful products for displaying and preserving these precious toys. Make sure to pick up an antiques trade show guide to stay on top of trade shows for antique dolls that happen throughout the year.

I recommend: You can find antique and collectible dolls from all around the world at the International Trade Fair for Toys, Hobby & Baby Articles. You can also find many collectible and antique dolls at the Chicago Toy Show.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Once you choose the antiques tradeshow you want to attend from any antiques trade show directory, begin planning months in advance. Decide which items you will bring, and how you'll transport and set up your exhibit. This will take some planning, but it will leave you free to enjoy the show once you arrive.