Originally Posted by ILoveToQuilt

If possible, have your friend put her baby in a carrier (back, front, sling...any should work) and leave the stroller in the car. Most shows give your a bracelet or stamp your hand, so you can go in and out. Take the baby out of the show if he gets too fussy, you won't be able to enjoy yourself worrying about him. The Expo folks will let you back in if you have your bracelet/stamp.

Snacks and drinks are a must. However, most shows do not allow any liquids (including water and baby bottles) or foods into the area where the quilts are hanging, so you will have to eat and drink outside the area where the quilts are. Food/drinks are usually expensive to buy at the show.

As someone else mentioned, cool clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Leave your pocketbook at home and keep credit/debit card, driver's license, cash, etc., in a pouch that fits around your neck (Walmart sells these "nametag" pockets in the stationery section for $3). If you can't find a neck pouch, use a fanny pack. Bring a couple of cloth bags (like the ones you put groceries in) to put your purchases in or use a backpack (some shows will not allow backpacks). Also, don't forget any medications you need and it is also a good idea to carry Tylenol, Advil, aspirin, (whichever you use), antacids and bandaids (not usually available at convention centers and very expensive in hotels). Make sure your camera has a fully charged battery (or an extra), you have plenty of room on the memory card (or an extra) and your cellphone is charged and ready. (Most of these are probably self-explanatory and probably didn't need to be mentioned as this is probably not your first show).

Have a wonderful time! Take the show slowly - you probably will have to if the baby doesn't sleep - see everything and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!

Anita