You've received a lot of good suggestions. First, I usually try to do a quick first walk-through of both the quilts and the vendors. Then I stop, sit down, drink some water (I'm in Tucson) and then do another slow walk around - this time taking pictures of the quilts. I ALWAYS ask permission before I take pictures in the vendor areas. I usually walk through the vendor areas at least 3 times, and I'm amazed at how much I miss the first and second times! This year at the Tucson show, there was a woman who had great earrings made from antique buttons - some over 100 years old. I've had more compliments on these than any others I've ever bought! There's no rule that says you have to just buy stuff for quilts at quilt shows!
JoanneS