Thread: 1st Annual Straight Razor/Wet Shaving Convention is a Go!!!

Is there going to be a formal agenda with time slots designated for things such as "learning how to hone", "the correct way to strop a razor", etc.? Maybe as we get closer to the convention, a poll can be taken as to what those attending want to learn or take away from the convention.

Unless I missed it, has there been a preliminary schedule of planned events? I guess I'm thinking this convention will be similar to work-related conventions I've attend where a preliminary schedule is issued a few months in advance of the event and then a formal schedule is released within a few weeks before the event.

I guess another way of phrasing this is...is this convention basically a group of us just meeting and talking informally or will there be breakout groups for those who wish to either teach or learn a specific aspect as well as time for casual socializing?

Thanks,
Rob

My idea of a worthwhile reason to go to the conference:

1) vendors of consumable supplies (soap/aftershave/cologne) showcasing their product range so I can smell everything and decide what I like.

2) vendors of consumable supplies giving out small free samples to try (lotions/cologne/shaving cream/etc)

3) vendors offering some discount from the regular website prices for some (if not all) their products.

4) break-out sessions/interactive demonstrations on learning techniques such as honing, stropping, shaving, restoration tips.

5) a restoration supply area, for small/hard to find items such as brass pins, ss pins, tubing, washers of various sizes, spacers, wedges, and even scales. Maybe even anvils, ball peen hammers, magnetic blade holders & such. (where's Bill Ellis?)

6) opportunity to test-drive (test-shave) with a particular razor (shavettes, artist clubs, Dovos & TI's, as well as unique one-of-a-kind razors. Obviously some kind of shaving station with hot towels (towels+water+microwave), mirror, soap, disinfectant, etc may be necessary. This may not necessarily be just for us, but for any friends we bring along intending to 'convert'.

7) nearby 'watering hole', with comfortable seating, for people to get a drink, and talk.

8) raffle / door prizes. or silent auction of donated items for fundraising?

9) interactive straight-razor/barber trivia game, (with possible option for prize at end.)

10) Trader's corner. I know this kinda defeats the purpose of the vendors paying for each table, so it might not work. But possibly allowing members to trade (or purchase) items from other members. Maybe this can happen at the watering hole 'under the table'.

These are just some thoughts.

Also, I see that you can make a reservation for the hotel room, but there is nowhere to register for the conference. Is there a registration fee, or process, or do we just stop on by?

Is there a list with who has committed to going?

Of the members? Not that I know of but a great idea. We can do a sticky. We have had quite a few indicate they were however as well as some folks from the other forums.

Thanks,

Lynn

Hello all,
If anyone is looking for a cheap place to stay I'd recommend the following bed and breakfast in evanston:
http://www.janetspl.com/

I stayed there a couple years ago when I was visiting Northwestern and it was the cheapest place I could find. Not sure of the prices now, but I thought I'd throw it out there for anyone who might be interested. Keep in mind however that if you stay there you'll have to take the train into the city, which will be about 45 minutes.
Fortunately I live here now, so I can just commute, but I feel for anyone on a budget who really wants to go.

Is there going to be a list of vendors or some type of program put together for this? Are you looking for people to help out?

Best,
Aaron

There will be Aaron and we will definitely need some helpers.

Thanks,

Lynn

Money is very tight so if I go for more than one day, would want to share a room. I am close enough I can commute if absolutely necessary.
Jay in Indiana

Hello Jay,

Good to see you here. Maybe you can help out with some shaving discussion at the convention. You out of Barber College yet?

Lynn