01/07/2024
Hi everyone!
Yesterday was undeniably busy, far more busy than we had anticipated it was going to be. While we love the response and appreciate everyone coming out it lead to the building being absolutely packed and caused some logistical issues.
I'd like to address some of the concerns we received on our public forum page.
1. First there was a concern for fire safety and we'd like you to know that although it was very busy, we were still within the amount of people allowed to be in the building at one time. All Fire exits were open at all times in case of an emergency.
It was also mentioned that the vendors had a large amount of space within the islands. All the vendors within those island are confined to them the better part of the day and typically have a lot of stuff they have to keep within those islands from when they are transporting animals to the show. So the space is needed for them as they do not have anywhere else to put equipment during expo hours.
2. Next was foot traffic flow. With this being our first show in the new building, we are still learning the best way to handle the flow of traffic. We were already discussing before the show ended how we can better improve flow for the following show to help avoid people becoming jammed up.
As for the vehicle situation, we will be talking to the grounds keepers about opening up other gates to allow for more seamless traffic in and out of the event area.
3. Someone did mention that it was a "Reptile show" not an Exotic Animal Expo.
First, Reptiles/amphibians are exotic animals they always have been and always will be considered that. We do not just have Reptiles and Amphibians, we do have other animals there that are also considered exotic animals (invertabrates, chinchillas, Hedgehogs, birds, sugar gliders and more). We chose to use "Exotic Animal Expo" because it's a more inclusive term that covered the wide variety of animals patrons can see there any given month.
4. NON flash photography IS allowed.
With that said though, you do need permission from each vendor to take pictures of their animals. All vendors do reserve the right to decline photographs if they wish so please be respectful.
We are taking everyone's opinions and thoughts in and we will strive to continue to make the show better. We DO hear you, I promise. We are looking into expanding to give more walking room, but can not promise that will happen by the next show.
We appreciate the massive support we received and look forward to making improvements to provide the best expo possible for patrons and vendors alike!
