Should I go to RAP in California?

[Aaron75]

Just looking for some general feedback, experiences, advice, etc. Interested in going but it's a 7hr drive so it would be a multi day thing. Is it worth it? Are there good deals? Is it crowded? Show off what you've scored if you'd like. All input welcome.

 

[Vivid Creative Aquatics Verified Sponsor]

its one of our favorite shows, next to RAP Orlando. Of course we go as a Vendor, and have been to every one since 2017. I can tell you the it is very well attended both by hobbyist as well as all the top equipment and dry goods brands and coral sellers.

Last year's Cali show was crazy, and was only topped by RAP Orlando this year.

I would say worth a 7hr drive and multi-day visit.

 

[Aaron75]

its one of our favorite shows, next to RAP Orlando. Of course we go as a Vendor, and have been to every one since 2017. I can tell you the it is very well attended both by hobbyist as well as all the top equipment and dry goods brands and coral sellers.

Last year's Cali show was crazy, and was only topped by RAP Orlando this year.

I would say worth a 7hr drive and multi-day visit.

As a vendor, is there any incentive for me to go, or is it just a convenient way to empty my wallet all in one place and maybe avoid a shipping charge? Do you offer deals, promos, raffles or anything of the sort?

 

[Rothric]

As a vendor, is there any incentive for me to go, or is it just a convenient way to empty my wallet all in one place and maybe avoid a shipping charge? Do you offer deals, promos, raffles or anything of the sort?

There are definitely deals to be had if you're buying multiple things from the same vendor and are paying in cash.

 

[cilyjr]

I go 1 day. Usually Sunday. I started out going 2 days. But found that was too much time for me. I am only about 3 hours away though

 

[cilyjr]

There are definitely deals to be had if you're buying multiple things from the same vendor and are paying in cash.

Yes this. I always walk up to the booth point out a few things and say what's the cash price?...

 

[ryshark]

As a vendor, is there any incentive for me to go, or is it just a convenient way to empty my wallet all in one place and maybe avoid a shipping charge? Do you offer deals, promos, raffles or anything of the sort?

If you’re looking for deals, then day-2 is best for that.

 

[Aaron75]

If you’re looking for deals, then day-2 is best for that.

That is when I would be going as i work Saturday. Maybe stay the night Sunday and head home Monday.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Just looking for some general feedback, experiences, advice, etc. Interested in going but it's a 7hr drive so it would be a multi day thing. Is it worth it? Are there good deals? Is it crowded? Show off what you've scored if you'd like. All input welcome.

If similar to RAP Orlando - worth it

 

[KrisReef]

As a vendor, is there any incentive for me to go, or is it just a convenient way to empty my wallet all in one place and maybe avoid a shipping charge? Do you offer deals, promos, raffles or anything of the sort?

Many people go to these gathering, some to hunt for deals and others to offer things up for sale. How the event turns out for folks depends on what they hope to accomplish, what they have to offer, and who all shows up to engage in these activities.

People who do the best at these gathering are the ones who go for fun and make the best of it, imo.

 

[smitten with ocean life]

following! curious where you are from? im guessing i would have about that far too....

 

[Aaron75]

following! curious where you are from? im guessing i would have about that far too....

Sacramento. The hobby around here is dead/dying. Everything good is always a drive, either bay area or socal.

 

[smitten with ocean life]

oh wow. ok im 5 hrs above you! i cant find anyone up here

 

[ryanjohn1]

Just looking for some general feedback, experiences, advice, etc. Interested in going but it's a 7hr drive so it would be a multi day thing. Is it worth it? Are there good deals? Is it crowded? Show off what you've scored if you'd like. All input welcome.

I’m going to Rap NY next week

 

[klc]

Absolutely go to RAP in California, it is a full day of reef related everything. Most vendors will have RAP deals as well as coral farmers. Even if you bought nothing, you'll go home with a bag full of swag.

And be sure to stop by the Vivid Creative Aquatics booth and say Hi to Antonio and Darlene, they are good people.

 

[Aaron75]

I’m going to Rap NY next week

Is this the first time you've gone?

 

[ryanjohn1]

Is this the first time you've gone?

Yes.

 

[Aaron75]

Yes.

Well, be sure to come back and let me know what you think!

 

[ryanjohn1]

Well, be sure to come back and let me know what you think!

There’s a vendor there I want to meet. Tusi if you’re familiar with him he will be there. Jason fox and peices of the ocean. Plus R2R has a booth.

 

[Vivid Creative Aquatics Verified Sponsor]

As a vendor, is there any incentive for me to go, or is it just a convenient way to empty my wallet all in one place and maybe avoid a shipping charge? Do you offer deals, promos, raffles or anything of the sort?

Seems like the consensus is you should definitely attend - at least one day if not both.

@KrisReef is correct, in that your experience will depend on your goals for going. if you want to see a huge crowds, and have first crack at some of the best corals, then day one is you best bet. if on the other hand you main goa is deals on coral, and you would rather deal with a smaller crowed, then Sunday may be the better option

If you want the full experience than go full VIP and do both days with early show-floor access. I think VIP level also gives you access the Saturday Vendors Event as well - I could be wrong about that, so check it.

and as @klc said, please do stop by the VCA booth and say "hi" to both Darlene and myself - we love meeting people at these shows .

I don't know what my booth number is yet, but keep an eye out - we'll be there.