There are ways of trading cards outside of your computer. Sometimes there are local events for trading cards. You can always search for an event using google or other local news outlets.

However, since the scene isn't as big as you'd think, you may have to host your own event.

This is difficult. Absolutely difficult. So you will need to be open to a few failures before you can get it going. But who knows, you may be lucky!

First, planning. Plan plan plan. Lots of planning.

Where will you meet?
How long will you meet?
What are the qualifications your members would need?
What kind of information would you give your new-comers?
How will you advertise your event?

So much planning. However, the initial parts of the planning are only a one-time thing! Once you work out all of that, you won't need to think about it much later, unless you need to change things.

Here are a few tips that I have come across over the years of looking around. Some of this stuff may, or may not, work for your area, so make sure you check up with any local authorities to make sure you aren't breaking any ordinances, especially since we are still in a pandemic.

Safety first.

Where will you meet?

You will need a very accessible location for your event, so that you can get as many participants as possible. However, LARGE events will probably need a permit.

If you want to host a small trade event among friends, you can ask your local coffee shop, library, or convention center if you would be able to host there. Most of the time, it will require a fee, or at the very least, a generous portion of purchases. It would be rude to host at a coffee shop and not buy coffee, for example.

Decide whether or not you would take an entrance fee from your participants. Fees could be used towards getting supplies for those who don't know what they are supposed to bring, as well as paying the location fees.

This is one of the first things you should look for. If you don't have a location, it wouldn't be a good idea to try hosting an event.

You COULD use your own home for the location, also. However, this would depend solely on how comfortable you are with having strangers in your home. Think it over before using this as an option.

How long will you meet?

This one would be tough to decide. How long does it take YOU to draw one card? You will need to extend that time period. It would also be good to discuss this first with potential attendees. Maybe you already know a couple of people who would like to participate. Ask around. Be sure you keep a strict schedule. Most people like to have a defined time period to do daily things.

Here is an example of a time schedule.

1 day a week. Maybe on a Saturday around 4pm, so you can be sure your participants aren't working. Having your events so close together would ensure that everyone wanting to participate can make it at least one time a month. Maybe make the event last 2 hours. This would give your participants enough time to at least get some ideas going!

A few time tips:

Maybe they would prefer to finish their artwork at home, then bring it back for the next event for trading. This is a social event, not a school project, so be sure to let your attendees participate in the way they feel is easiest for them.

Remember that not everyone would be able to attend every event, but you would need to be there. If you have a need to NOT be there, you would need a host to replace you. Always be sure you give advanced notice, or at least have a backup host in case an emergency arises.

If you host your event and NO ONE arrives, stay! Stay for the entire allotted time. You can use the time to draw your cards like you would if everyone showed up. Don't just give up and leave, because, what if one of your attendees decides to show up 30 minutes before it's time to wrap it up? They may think that is plenty of time to get a card done at least. One card is better than none :wink:

What are the qualifications your members would need?

Do you want your event open to the general public? Would you be ok with people coming just to see what it's all about? Do you want your attendees to already know what and how to do things? These are questions you need to ask before writing up your advertising mode.

Make this all VERY clear from the beginning.

What kind of information would you give your new-comers?

This is IMPORTANT.

Maybe you could make flyers for your town. There is a load of information here at the forum for your use when holding a local event. None of the tips and information I have given here are secrets. Please use it!

Everything from how to cut cards, the mediums to use, the sleeves and other protective means, etc.

If you see some information around the forum, or on the general internet, be sure to get it all together. You will most likely need to explain a lot of things on your first few events. Even if you think the concept is extremely simple, your participants may not think the same. Be ready for LOTS of questions from your attendees.

So study up on everything before you host your first event.

You have thought of everything for your event, right? Ready to host!? LET'S DO THIS!

But... and this is the absolute most important thing of your entire journey.

Advertising...

How will you advertise your event?

There are loads of ways.

The first, and most obvious, is making a Facebook event. It's the easiest way to get your events noticed by the public. These days, most everyone has a Facebook account. So, start there! (disclaimer: I am not a Facebook advocate... hate the place, but it is good advertising)

You could also make flyers. You can place these (with permission) at local libraries, convenient stores, bulletin boards, cafes, etc. You can put lots of information in a flyer.

Another good way is to make stickers with a QR code. This code can lead to a website with ALLLLLLLL the information anyone would ever need. The good thing about this method is, you can even add videos and photos to explain all of the tiny little details.
But how do you get a QR code?

First... make your website. There are tons of free hosts out there for websites. Blogger, WordPress, Wix, GoDaddy, HostGator, etc. So many.

After you have built your website, you can go to various QR code generator sites to produce your unique QR code. Flowcode, the-qrcode-generator, qr.net, etc.

Then use the saved code on printable items. Stickers, business cards, stamps, stencils, etc. Just be sure you have permission before just sticking your items to everything around town!
 
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