For those of you that don't regularly go to bonsai conventions, Dale Cochoy
has a very good post on the gallery under the title of:

MidAtlantic symposium vending area

There are a lot of benefits to going just for the vending area. It's a real
eye-opener, and a great experience (particularly for "newbies"). Doesn't
cost much, either. MidAtlantic was $5.

There is usually a banquet/auction attached to the convention at which some
real bargains can be had. It's a great place to meet bonsai people.