My Takeaways from this Year's Dance Retail Show

1.  Zoom is a blessing & a curse

I think I finally got a taste of what it's been like for my daughters to go to school virtually.  The endless pit of black screens with one person talking to you, dogs barking, husbands interrupting, phones ringing.  For one on one meetings, I had to make my top half presentable, while wearing sweatpants.  At least I was half comfy!

2.  I love Eurotard!

I've said it once and I'll say it a million times.  They are THE. MOST. UNDERRATED. BRAND.  From amazing customer service, to being one of the only vendors that doesn't try to become one of your competitors.  They truly care about us little guys.  Not to mention their quality and prices.  Where were all of the top brand companies this weekend anyway?  Very interesting... 

3.  I miss touching products

For the same reason a dancewear store is important, so is a live vendor show.  I want to see in person products I'm going to invest in.  I want to know that my customers are getting what they pay for.  Looking at it on a screen or a video just isn't cutting it.

4.  I didn't impulse buy

Well, I definitely saved some money!  Between the hotel stay and the impulse buying, last year we spent a pretty penny at this show.  This year...I'm saving it for my rent.  #goawaycovid

5.  We are all struggling with the same issues

As much as it saddens me, I'm not alone.  Every retailer voiced the same concerns as I have.  How do we plan?  What if we get shut down again?  Are we going to make it?  I literally don't know what to focus on anymore.  What do we order?  How much do we order?  We don't want to be the store that is always out of everything, but we don't want to be the store that isn't here any longer because we over bought.