Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice. Please do your own research before making any financial or purchasing decisions.

Attending my first card show recently was both exciting and a little intimidating. I went to the East Bay Card Show in San Francisco on July 19th, and it was a good size show to start off at (although most of the tables were TCG).

Here are the key lessons and reflections from my experience:

1. You Don’t Need to Be an Extrovert to Succeed

While it certainly helps to be an extrovert (and someone who doesn’t care about hearing no for an answer), this isn’t the only way to succeed at a card show.

As someone on the shy side, I was nervous about diving right into conversation or negotiation. What helped me was setting tiny wins for myself:

• My first goal was just to talk to one person. It took me an hour plus to actually do so, but I was eventually able to ask a dealer a question (even though it may have been dumb)
• Next, I aimed to try to buy something and actually negotiate. I didn’t end up getting the cards I was eying, but the process helped me get comfortable hearing no
• Finally, I worked up to selling some cards I had brought to the show. I had specific price points in mind based on my research before the show and didn’t force a deal (I was ready to walk away if my number wasn’t met). However, I was able to negotiate with one dealer on a couple of cards and make my first live sale!

Setting small goals kept me motivated and made the overall experience far less overwhelming.

2. Approach Dealers with Respect, Especially the Experienced Ones

I learned quickly that you want to engage with dealers who look friendly and approachable. It’s pretty easy to tell who has an easier-going personality. However, no matter the dealer, it’s key not to making “lowball” offers, especially to seasoned dealers. While you’re there to negotiate, I recommending start with the lowest number you believe could actually be accepted (assuming you’re comfortable with it). Anything lower can set the wrong tone and hurt your chances of reaching a fair agreement.

3. Be Selective—and Know Your Numbers

With so many tables and inventory, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and want to buy something just to say you did. My advice: be selective and go in knowing your numbers. Don’t reach for a card you wouldn’t otherwise buy on eBay or online. Having clear standards kept me from making impulsive buys I’d later regret.

Practical Tips for Your First Card Show

• Seek out free parking if possible: If you’re really trying to do this full time, it’s important to try and avoid any additional costs (within reason). For this particular show, parking was $10 at the hotel, but I was able to find free street parking just 2 mins away. It’s not a huge saving, but it’s $10 more I had to spend on cards!
• Double-check the cash you receive on sales: Make sure you count and confirm the money when someone buys a card from you, as there’s no recourse later.
• Set mini goals as milestones: Breaking the day into small, achievable steps makes the experience less daunting and more rewarding.
• Most of all, have fun! The thrill of the hunt, making connections, and enjoying the community is what it’s all about.

If you’re naturally shy like me, card shows can still be incredibly rewarding. Start small, work up your confidence, and don’t be afraid to walk away from deals that aren’t right.