PDA

View Full Version : Michigan Coral Expo & Swap - February 22, 2015



jimsflies
07-07-2014, 08:28 AM
Save the Date!

The Michigan Coral Expo & Swap (aka Lansing Swap) will be on February 22, 2015.

MCES is the largest reef event in Michigan...now in its 9th year! The event is hosted by two clubs...The Mid-Michigan Marine Club and Grand Rapids Marine Aquarium Society. Both clubs are busy making preparations and working on speakers and raffle to make it even better. Last year, MCES brought together over 700 hobbyists from around the state and upper midwest with 50 vendors from across the country. If you are a reef keeper in the midwest, you do not want to miss this event!

Date: February 22, 2015
Where: Best Western Plus Hotel and Convention Center
6820 South Cedar Street
Lansing, MI 48911

Admission is $10 per person (kids under 16 are free)

The itinerary for the 2015 Michigan Coral Expo & Swap is as follows:
10:00: Admission for morning speaker session
10:30-11:30: Speaker #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) - Bill Backus of A&M Aquatics
11:30-12:00: early exhibition hall admission for morning speaker attendees
12:00: doors open to exhibition hall for general admission
1:30: early raffle (main exhibition hall)
3:30: raffle (main exhibition hall)
4:30: end

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.png?02152015

dknuckles
07-07-2014, 01:57 PM
Put me down for a full table when avail.
Already missed two swaps can't miss any more

msumatt
07-09-2014, 10:58 PM
Earliest post ever haha. I too would be interested in a table when the list becomes available. I want to grab one as fast as possible as everyone will probably want to snatch one up too.

jimsflies
11-09-2014, 10:31 AM
The next event is MCES on Feb. 22, 2015.

Vendors can now reserve tables at this link:
Table Registration (http://www.mi-reefs.org/store/)

Here's the layout:
http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.png?11092014

ebushrow
11-09-2014, 01:58 PM
Signed up for my table.....if anyone is looking for anything odd, let me know.

dknuckles
11-09-2014, 02:01 PM
Table 42 for me!!

larryandlaura
11-09-2014, 02:34 PM
Awesome can't wait to attend. I'll be browsing tables this year until my frag tank gets set up.

jimsflies
11-09-2014, 06:27 PM
Tables are going fast!

dputt88
11-09-2014, 07:51 PM
just bought table 26

msumatt
11-09-2014, 10:09 PM
First time in 4 years I got my first choice table, woo hoo! Probably because I was on there within minutes of the announcement this time haha. They go fast!

jimsflies
11-12-2014, 07:53 PM
Here's an updated map showing registered vendors and available tables:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.png?20141112

dputt88
11-12-2014, 10:33 PM
its sad to say but this may be my last swap as a vendor. i plan n selling everything in my frag tank. maybe even the frag tank too.

dknuckles
11-12-2014, 10:42 PM
its sad to say but this may be my last swap as a vendor. i plan n selling everything in my frag tank. maybe even the frag tank too.

No way! This is a terrible loss :(
Hope everything is ok

dputt88
11-13-2014, 07:26 AM
dknuckles everything is fine but ive been soo busy working and trying to get into grad school, i have no time.

that Reef Guy
11-15-2014, 08:15 PM
The Greatest Show of the Year.

Can't Wait!

Sir Patrick
11-16-2014, 07:40 PM
Im ready!!! Lansing has always been my favorite.

jimsflies
11-27-2014, 07:16 AM
Here's an update showing vendors that have already registered:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?11272014

ebushrow
12-09-2014, 08:20 AM
Just an FYI to those booking the night before at the hotel....the Best Western has changed ownership to "CAUSEWAY BAY LANSING HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER".

jimsflies
12-10-2014, 12:28 PM
Just an FYI to those booking the night before at the hotel....the Best Western has changed ownership to "CAUSEWAY BAY LANSING HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER".

It was Causeway Bay and then changed to Best Western... maybe it went back to the old name? Both show up when googled.

jimsflies
12-10-2014, 01:58 PM
Here's a vendor update... spots are filling up fast!

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?12102014

Tom@HaslettMI
12-11-2014, 03:57 PM
Where is PacificEastAquaculture ? I'm counting on them being at the swap so I can pick up a clam!

Tom

larryandlaura
12-12-2014, 12:24 PM
+1 Tom I need a killer clam as well.

jimsflies
12-12-2014, 12:33 PM
PacificEastAquaculture registered yesterday right before Tom posted actually. They are Booth 51. There have been a couple more booths reserved so I will have another updated vendor map for you guys soon.

jimsflies
12-14-2014, 10:21 AM
Here's an updated vendor map:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?20141214

MizTanks
12-16-2014, 10:55 AM
Hey guys/gals!! Make sure you all check out Jims Reef (2FarNorth) table #31 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=31) . He's coming form the U.P. don't ya know eh!! He also runs our little annual frag swap held here in Marquette. Totally dedicated reefer and an awesome guy! :)

jimsflies
12-16-2014, 11:03 AM
MizTanks are you coming to the swap this year?

MizTanks
12-16-2014, 11:07 AM
jimsflies I would give just about anything if it were possible. Just isn't in my budget life style don't ya know eh :)

Tom@HaslettMI
12-16-2014, 03:00 PM
+1 Tom I need a killer clam as well.

Not if I buy them all first!

Tom

Tom@HaslettMI
12-16-2014, 03:33 PM
jimsflies I would give just about anything if it were possible. Just isn't in my budget life style don't ya know eh :)

You should catch a ride down with 2FarNorth!

jimsflies
12-16-2014, 04:39 PM
@jimsflies (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/jimsflies/) I would give just about anything if it were possible. Just isn't in my budget life style don't ya know eh :)

Tom has a good idea there.... we've moved the swap date to late February so that you'll have your tax return by then. Come on down! Especially with the cheap gas prices, it shouldn't cost much to get here.

MizTanks
12-16-2014, 04:41 PM
Hey!! That's a thought!! I'll talk to James (2FarNorth) about it :)

Tankster
12-16-2014, 05:40 PM
Tom has a good idea there.... we've moved the swap date to late February so that you'll have your tax return by then. Come on down! Especially with the cheap gas prices, it shouldn't cost much to get here.
And i think jimsflies has a spare room. ;)

jimsflies
12-21-2014, 03:26 PM
Here's an updated vendor list... spots are filling up!

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?20141221

Tom@HaslettMI
12-21-2014, 09:19 PM
Nice! Looks like a great turnout. I can't wait!

I'm curious though, why Cherry Corals has two tables, one on each side of the room (11 & 24)?

Tom

jimsflies
12-21-2014, 10:46 PM
They are setting up two booths this year.

Tom@HaslettMI
12-21-2014, 10:50 PM
Interesting strategy. I guess that just means twice the cherriness!

Tom

jimsflies
12-31-2014, 09:45 AM
Here's a vendor update:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?12312014

briansweber
01-01-2015, 01:06 PM
Hello, I visited your swap a few years back and you had a guest speaker before the swap. The people who attended the speech were allowed to get in an hour earlier then anyone else. Just wondering if that will be the case this year or not. I was also wondering what the start time of the swap will be. I can't find it anywhere. Thanks in advance! Brian.

jimsflies
01-01-2015, 06:44 PM
Hello, I visited your swap a few years back and you had a guest speaker before the swap. The people who attended the speech were allowed to get in an hour earlier then anyone else. Just wondering if that will be the case this year or not. I was also wondering what the start time of the swap will be. I can't find it anywhere. Thanks in advance! Brian.

Yes, we will have a speaker again this year. This year our speaker is Bill Backus of A&M Aquatics ( AM Aquatics). I don't have Bill's full bio yet, but he is a diver/coral collector, operates a coral farm, and owns a successful wholesale aquarium business. I've heard Bill speak several times and he's very interesting.

We'll post more details as the swap date nears.

jimsflies
01-16-2015, 11:51 AM
First update this year.... still a few tables available. But don't wait too long.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?20150116

dknuckles
01-16-2015, 12:58 PM
Just want to clarify that the Smokin Reefs selling is not the original aka juniormc8704 which is the original namer of Everlasting Gobstoppers paly and Dragon Skin acans.

Hopkins
01-16-2015, 01:07 PM
I thought I had recognized that name. What ever happened to that guy?

dknuckles
01-16-2015, 01:25 PM
Hopkins he had 3 children and self employment.

msumatt
01-19-2015, 12:29 AM
Are we going to have a "what are you bringing" thread soon? I have some big corals I want to post to see if anyone is interested in the larger piece before I frag it. :)

jimsflies
01-19-2015, 06:58 AM
Here it is:
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/reefing-events/what-you-bringing-michigan-coral-expo-and-swap-2-22-2015-a-38044/

BTW- We have a club meeting next Sunday. Info on that is here
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/reefing-events/mmmc-january-meeting-lansing-mi-jan-25-a-37912/

jimsflies
01-19-2015, 08:56 AM
Another quick vendor update:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?20150119

that Reef Guy
01-21-2015, 11:44 PM
I was wondering if anybody would be selling any of the following at the Frag Swap?

ACROPORA NEEDED
1 Blue Slimer
2 Red Planet
3 ORA Strawberry Shortcake
4 ATL Strawberry Shortcake
5 Any other Strawberry Shortcake out there
6 Pink Bird's Nest
7 ORA Green Tip Orange Bird's Nest

ZOANTHIDS NEEDED
1 Emeralds on Fire
2 Latin Lovers
3 Treehouse of Horror
4 JF - Bloodshots
5 WWC - Purple Monster
6 WWC -Twizzlers
7 WWC - Sun Drops
8 WWC - Sour Apple
9 Monarchs
10 Space Odyssey
11 Sapphire Paly
12 Blue Orgasm
13 Bizzaro
14 Leprechauns
15 Yoda
16 Superman Paly
17 Papa Smurf
18 Smurf's Blood
19 Spidermans
20 Miami Vice
21 Sopranos
22 Paradise
23 Blue Agave PE

CHALICES NEEDED
1 Mummy Eye

I am also looking to buy Kessil LED's.

A150 15K Ocean Blue LED
A150 20K Deep Ocean Blue Actinic LED
A350

PM me if you have any of this Stuff for Sale.

paintguru
01-26-2015, 02:21 PM
Did I miss how one gets tickets for the complete session? Or do we just show up at 10am?

jimsflies
01-26-2015, 04:19 PM
Did I miss how one gets tickets for the complete session? Or do we just show up at 10am?


That's correct, just show up at 10am. The morning session doesn't cost any more than standard admission to the swap. Its one of the ways the club has chosen to promote education within the hobby.

mole
01-28-2015, 10:40 AM
did I miss what time vendor setup would start?

MyNemesis
01-28-2015, 04:14 PM
We have Vendor set up on Saturday evening the 21st from 6:00 to 11:00 pm or Vendors can begin their setup on Sunday morning, the day of the Swap, beginning at 8:00 am.

mole
01-29-2015, 02:36 PM
Thank you Jim.

that Reef Guy
02-10-2015, 02:55 AM
All of these Frags (SPS, LPS, and Softies) are 10.00

I will make another post right after this one with my Zoanthids for sale (I try my best to make those Frags 10.00 each as well but prices will vary depending on type of Zoanthid and number of polyps).

No need to Prepay.

You can pay me at the Swap. (If you are not going to the Lansing Swap on Sunday February 22nd let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals).

PM me if you want me to bring any of these (I will not have a Table so I am not Bringing any of these Frags unless somebody says that they want them so please PM Me before the Swap).

I have all of the following for sale for only 10.00 each

10.00 Frags (SPS, LPS, Softies)
1 Chili Pepper Montipora
2 Orange Digitata Montipora
3 Metallic Blue/Purple Digitata Montipora
4 Bali Green Slimer Acro
5 Blue Cali Tort Acro SOLD OUT
6 Purple Bonsai Acro
7 Blue / Gray Tenuis Acro
8 ORA Birds of Paradise Bird's Nest
9 ORA Green Bird's Nest
10 ORA Hyacinth Bird's Nest
11 Hollywood Stunner Chalice
12 Tyree Blue Chalice
13 Green Star Polyp (Brightest Green GSP that I have ever Seen)
14 Pink Briareum (Very Similar to Green Star Polyp - Just Lavender in Color instead of Green)

PM me if you want any of these Frags.

If you are not going to the Swap let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals.

that Reef Guy
02-10-2015, 02:57 AM
This is my Zoanthid List.

(I try my best to make the Zoanthid Frags 10.00 each but prices will vary depending on type of Zoanthid and number of polyps).

No need to Prepay.

You can pay me at the Swap. (If you are not going to the Lansing Swap on Sunday February 22nd let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals).

PM me if you want me to bring any of these (I will not have a Table so I am not Bringing any of these Frags unless somebody says that they want them so please PM Me before the Swap).


ZOANTHIDS FOR SALE
1 Bam Bam's - SOLD OUT
2 Blue Hornet - 5 Polyp - $50
3 Candy Apple Reds - 2 Polyps - $30
4 Everlasting Gobstoppers - 7 Polyps - $35, 8 Polyps - $40, 9 Polyps - $45
5 Eye of Rah - SOLD OUT
6 Fruit Loops - SOLD OUT
7 Goblin's Fire - 4 Polyps - $20
8 King Midas - 3 Polyps - $15, 4 Polyps - $20
9 L.A. Lakers - SOLD OUT
10 Mindblowing Paly's - SOLD OUT
11 My Clementines - 2 Polyps - $20, 5 Polyps - $50
12 Nuclear Green Paly's - 2 Polyps - $10, 4 Polyps - $20
13 Purple Hornets - 2 Polyp - $20
14 Rastas - 3 Polyps - $15
15 Sunny D's - 3 Polyps - $15
16 Tyree Orange Rainbow - 1 Polyp - $15, 2 Polyps - $30, 3 Polyps - $45
17 Wow Paly's - 3 Polyps

PM me if you want any of these Frags.

If you are not going to the Swap let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals.

jimsflies
02-11-2015, 03:00 PM
Less than 2 weeks to the swap!!!!!

Anyone else excited?!

Motor city
02-11-2015, 03:35 PM
My fingers are covered in super glue, motor city is bringing some nice sps this year, i will post up some pics soon.
Joel

Ravenstone
02-11-2015, 03:41 PM
Less than 2 weeks to the swap!!!!!

Anyone else excited?!

My daughter and I are counting down the days. She is very excited to walk around selling raffles tickets.

Sir Patrick
02-12-2015, 02:59 AM
Heck yeah im excited!!!

Sir Patrick
02-12-2015, 03:06 AM
This is my Zoanthid List.

(I try my best to make the Zoanthid Frags 10.00 each but prices will vary depending on type of Zoanthid and number of polyps).

No need to Prepay.

You can pay me at the Swap. (If you are not going to the Lansing Swap on Sunday February 22nd let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals).

PM me if you want me to bring any of these (I will not have a Table so I am not Bringing any of these Frags unless somebody says that they want them so please PM Me before the Swap).

Sorry for the Bad Pictures (I only have a bad old Camera right now).

ZOANTHIDS FOR SALE
1 Bam Bam's - 2 Polyps - $10
2 Blue Hornet - 2 Polyp - $20 , 5 Polyp - $50
3 Candy Apple Reds - 2 Polyps - $30
4 Everlasting Gobstoppers - 3 Polyps - $15, 7 Polyps - $35, 8 Polyps - $40, 9 Polyps - $45
5 Eye of Rah - 4 Polyps - $20
6 Fruit Loops - 7 Polyps - $35
7 Goblin's Fire - 4 Polyps - $20, 5 Polyps - $25
8 King Midas - 3 Polyps - $15, 4 Polyps - $20
9 L.A. Lakers - 9 Polyps - $45
10 Mindblowing Paly's - 3 Polyps $15
11 My Clementines - 2 Polyps - $20, 3 Polyps - $30, 5 Polyps - $50
12 Nuclear Green Paly's - 2 Polyps - $10, 4 Polyps - $20
13 Purple Hornets - 2 Polyps - $20
14 Rastas - 2 Polyps - $10, 3 Polyps - $15, 4 Polyps - $20
15 Sunny D's - 3 Polyps - $15, 4 Polyps - $20, 5 Polyps - $25
16 Tyree Orange Rainbow - 1 Polyp - $15, 2 Polyps - $30, 3 Polyps - $45
17 Wow Paly's - 3 Polyps - $45

PM me if you want any of these Frags.

Picture #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) - Some of my Zoanthid Mother Colonies.

Picture #2 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=2) - Some more of my Zoanthid Mother Colonies.

Picture #3 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=3) - Some of the Actual Zoanthid Frags for Sale.

If you are not going to the Swap let me know and maybe we can arrange something depending on where you live if you are interested in any of these Corals.

1049810499

Too bad you wont have a table. Would be great to see these frags in person, before considering paying for them.

I usually dont pay $5/polyp for frags under 5 polyps, unless seen before hand.

Sir Patrick
02-12-2015, 03:17 AM
Is there a raffle this year? What ya guys got this year?

that Reef Guy
02-12-2015, 09:19 AM
Too bad you wont have a table. Would be great to see these frags in person, before considering paying for them.

I usually dont pay $5/polyp for frags under 5 polyps, unless seen before hand.

I'm sorry you feel that way.

I do not have a lot of Coral to Sell so I cannot use up a table.

I know some dealers that are bringing as many as 1,000 corals.

And I (like most people) do not have anywhere near that number.

I hope to have a table for next years swap but it is not in the cards for this year.

I have good prices though.

You say you do not like 5.00 a polyp zoanthids but every time I am at a Swap and see Fruit Loops they want 10.00 a polyp.

The same goes for Rastas. Once I even say a guy selling them for 20.00 a polyp (that is 4 times what I am charging).

I have seen the Tyree Orange Rainbow (One of my all time favorites) sell for as high as 50.00 a polyp but I am only charging 15.00 a polyp.

I know there are Polyps selling for as high as 125.00 a Polyp at this swap (Maybe more 125.00 is just the highest number that I have seen so far) so I think that 5.00 a polyp is not a bad price.

jduck
02-12-2015, 09:35 AM
I'm sorry you feel that way.

I do not have a lot of Coral to Sell so I cannot use up a table.

I know some dealers that are bringing as many as 1,000 corals.

And I (like most people) do not have anywhere near that number.



I try and keep it under 500 frags....

What do you mean you don't have "a lot to sell"? I count 80+ zoa/polyp frags in that one pic

jimsflies
02-12-2015, 01:21 PM
I'm not going to require you to get a table. I assume that when someone reaches a point in terms of number of frags, they will decide to get a table on their own. Rather than trying to connect with others in a crowded hall, it is a lot easier, more efficient, and enjoyable to have a table that you can tell people to meet you at. You certainly do not need to have a frag tank to have a table. You can leave stuff in a cooler until your pre-sales show up and hand it to them at a table.

At a recent swap we had someone meeting up/selling frags outside in the fourier. They didn't make all their connections and wanted to "come in for a minute" to look around (to see if others they missed were inside). They said, "well I'm not really buying anything...do I need to pay the entry fee?". I guess to me, that is the epitome of not getting it.

They are taking full advantage of the fact we have put all the work and expense into setting up the event...and then taking $$ away from paying vendors in the form of potential sales. (If they are selling just outside the front door, they are taking sales away from paying vendors.) I had always told myself that most of the time when people are selling like that, they typically come in and spend a lot of that money with the vendors. But in this case, they had no intention of spending anything. So it essentially took that money away from vendors in terms of potential sales.

At least by offering items for sale on the swap threads, you are bumping the thread and helping to promote the event. In my mind there is value to having these threads being at the top of the forums to generate more excitement for the event.

With that said, I have a couple tables remaining... :)

jimsflies
02-12-2015, 01:23 PM
Is there a raffle this year? What ya guys got this year?

Yes there is! We have some great prizes. I will try to post a few of them soon.

jimsflies
02-12-2015, 01:24 PM
Here is a vendor update....we've got a great line up this year! Several new vendors as well as our old favorites.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-layout.jpg?20150212

that Reef Guy
02-12-2015, 04:33 PM
I'm not going to require you to get a table. I assume that when someone reaches a point in terms of number of frags, they will decide to get a table on their own. Rather than trying to connect with others in a crowded hall, it is a lot easier, more efficient, and enjoyable to have a table that you can tell people to meet you at. You certainly do not need to have a frag tank to have a table. You can leave stuff in a cooler until your pre-sales show up and hand it to them at a table.

At a recent swap we had someone meeting up/selling frags outside in the fourier. They didn't make all their connections and wanted to "come in for a minute" to look around (to see if others they missed were inside). They said, "well I'm not really buying anything...do I need to pay the entry fee?". I guess to me, that is the epitome of not getting it.

They are taking full advantage of the fact we have put all the work and expense into setting up the event...and then taking $$ away from paying vendors in the form of potential sales. (If they are selling just outside the front door, they are taking sales away from paying vendors.) I had always told myself that most of the time when people are selling like that, they typically come in and spend a lot of that money with the vendors. But in this case, they had no intention of spending anything. So it essentially took that money away from vendors in terms of potential sales.

At least by offering items for sale on the swap threads, you are bumping the thread and helping to promote the event. In my mind there is value to having these threads being at the top of the forums to generate more excitement for the event.

With that said, I have a couple tables remaining... :)

Jim, you know me, I am not that type of guy.

I don't "take the money and run" like the person you are talking about.

I spend everything I get from selling frags and spend a lot more on top of that at every swap I go to with the vendors there.

I enjoy everything about the swap, getting new corals, talking with old friends, making new friends, raffles. etc.

I do not make a lot of money at my job so I (like many people) try to offset this crazy expensive hobby by growing out and selling frags. I am not trying to get rich doing this and am not in it for the money. I am merely trying to fund what I am very passionate about.

I buy more coral at every swap to grow out so one day I will have enough coral to sell to warrant getting a table.

How much do tables cost for frag swaps?

I figured that this swap would be sold out right away since it is the most popular swap in Michigan.

Sir Patrick
02-13-2015, 02:38 AM
Im sorry, I just meant I would have been happy to see them in person displayed, you have a very nice list of awsome sounding polyps.

I did not mean that they were being charged too much for, or that you should get a table, for any other reason than being able to see the variety.

Sorry if that might have come out wrong in typing.

paintguru
02-13-2015, 07:46 AM
I'll be honest, if I was a small scale frag seller, I doubt I would buy a table at these organized swaps. It is hard to compete with the larger scale individual frag sellers much less the commercial businesses that have tables. As a buyer, I do like the option to see corals live and in person better than in the older days were all sales were mostly done pre-order. I almost wish there were two areas, one cheaper area for people who do pre-sales and don't have a lighting/tank setup, and the other for folks that want to have tanks/lights/live corals on display.

jimsflies
02-13-2015, 08:24 AM
I'll be honest, if I was a small scale frag seller, I doubt I would buy a table at these organized swaps. It is hard to compete with the larger scale individual frag sellers much less the commercial businesses that have tables. As a buyer, I do like the option to see corals live and in person better than in the older days were all sales were mostly done pre-order. I almost wish there were two areas, one cheaper area for people who do pre-sales and don't have a lighting/tank setup, and the other for folks that want to have tanks/lights/live corals on display.

I think as a hobbyist as long as you price them accordingly, there are still good sales potentials using the old school "bags and cooler" method. As a hobby seller, your not necessarily as worried about margins (in fact you might sell frags for less than you had into your original piece)...in theory you are trimming excess growth and raising some extra cash to bring home a couple frags. There are lots of people attending these events looking for good deals. As long as you have something to show them what they look like and they look good in the bag, I think you'd be okay. (An ipad/tablet with some nice photos would be the ideal way to show off some pics.)

I can tell you that businesses attending these swaps have the same concern...that hobbyists will out sell them due to lower pricing. Which is in part why we haven't created a separate pricing structure that differentiates hobbyists from businesses (other than half tables vs. full tables).

Besides doing presales on the forums, if I were selling as a hobbyist and didn't want to mess around with a frag tank, I would put frags in small styro or plastic containers and bring an LED strip/T5 light on a pvc stand. Put them under the LED light on the table and take the lids off. Most will open up under the lights and then people can still see what they are getting. Sell one, slap a lid on and hand it to them. Easy, breezy.... I believe @dknuckles (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/dknuckles/) usually uses this method at his table.

dlhirst
02-13-2015, 10:47 AM
Decent photos of the ACTUAL mother colony would suffice a buyer like myself. If you google, eg Tyree Orange Rainbow images - you will see some very different looking polyps. And, while "experts" might be able to eliminate some as just being wrong, the rest of us can only judge based on looks. In fact, what I consider the "best looking" TOR might not even be the legitimate one! This is why I have concern over something that isn't WYSIWYG. For half the corals in my tank, I have already forgotten the names. I just like the way they look. That's my two cents, and probably not worth two...

BTW, there ARE two buying areas - in the building, and in the parking lot. They both have their uses.

jimsflies
02-13-2015, 03:50 PM
BTW, there ARE two buying areas - in the building, and in the parking lot. They both have their uses.

One is a lot colder than the other. :cold:

jimsflies
02-13-2015, 03:51 PM
If you are wanting to stay at the hotel, there is a block of rooms available. They are only holding them until the 20th so don't wait too long. The code is "MMC". The rate is supposed to be $94.50.

jimsflies
02-15-2015, 08:09 AM
MCES is has a legendary reputation for its raffle and this year will not disappoint. In fact we have such a big raffle, we have split it into two raffles! One will start at 1:30 the other will be at 3:30.

Note that you MUST be present to win as prizes will NOT be mailed or delivered.

Raffle tickets are sold in bundles 10 for $10 or $20 for 25.

Subscribe to this hash tag to get notifications of swap updates: #mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces)

I don't want to leave you in total suspense, so I'll post a few of the items that will be in the raffle over the next few days... first up....


From one of our biggest supporters Inland Hobby, we have one of these in the raffle:

INLAND HOBBY DFS-100 REEFKEEPER SAW (http://www.inlandhobby.com/ReefKeeper_Fragging_Saw_p/91060.htm)

As seen in Reef Hobbyist Magazine (http://www.reefhobbyistmagazine.com/archives/vol_3/issue11/pages/10.htm)! Coral fragging has just gotten easier with the ReefKeeper saw. It is made to meet the specific needs of Reef Aquarists:

- Reduced Heat Transfer Yields More Viable Frags: Heat is the enemy when cutting corals; it destroys tissue and seriously affects viability, especially with sensitive species like chalice corals. The DFS-100 ReefKeeper Saw employs a continuously cooled narrow diamond blade to dramatically reduce heat transfer to the delicate tissue when cutting. Less heat means more viable frags can become healthy colonies to swap or sell.

- Clearance to Handle Larger Specimens: Saw through materials as tall as 3 1/2" - something you can't do with cut-ff wheels, tile saws, or any other band saw. So go ahead, tackle that Tubastrea or Favites or any large specimen with confidence.

- Narrow Cutting Path: Rotary tools and tile saws plow a wide swath through your valuable stock. The narrow diamond blade of the DFS-100 ReefKeeper Saw is removing the least possible amount of material as it cuts, resulting in less waste - up to three times less!

http://a248.e.akamai.net/origin-cdn.volusion.com/fzj64.e693x/v/vspfiles/photos/91060-2.jpg?1359034426

that Reef Guy
02-15-2015, 09:01 AM
Jim is right the Raffle at this Swap is Huge and Awesome every year.

In my opinion this is the best item in the Raffle.

I bought one of these and it is probably the best investment that I have ever made.

No Reefer should be without a Frag Saw.

Yes, some stuff (like SPS) can be cut easily with Bone Cutters but if you are a Zoanthid Nut like myself there is no easier and more efficient way to cut around Polyps than with this Saw.

If you do not already have one I would drop some Raffle Tickets on this Awesome Prize for sure!

Ravenstone
02-15-2015, 10:11 AM
This will be my first big swap, so I am extremely excited. Between raffle tickets and coral purchases my wallet is already giving me dirty looks.

jakem
02-15-2015, 06:00 PM
1 Week to go and cant wait to do this!


I will have hundreds of frags on hand.
Table 6, 7 and 8 Here's a taste .Everything is 25.00 or 5 for 100.00 I recommend pm because I have already had a ton of pre order's
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/022313120126_zps4589b5e7.jpg
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/IMG_0022_zps96c624f9.jpg
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/IMG_0031_zpsf9c9c227.jpg
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/IMG_0058_zpsc3c1293b.jpg
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/DSCF8465_zps9c417f5d.jpg
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/mikes20chalice_zpszpwq4jnc.jpghttp://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/grafted20cap_zpsnjw4xvxn.jpghttp://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/mummy%20eye_zpsykiprydc.jpghttp://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag97/jakem0321/mistic_zpsdah6l3hd.jpg
Ora Red Planet
Pc Rainbow
Coolers Turaki
Jason Fox Barney Acro sold out
Aussi Gold
Jason Fox Bonsai
meteor shower
Jason Fox BLUE FLAME sold out
Jason fox bling bling
Jason Fox Bushy Blue
Jason Fox Grape Juice
ora tri color
Jason Fox Mr. Yuck Acro sold out
ora joe the coral
Jason Fox Medussa's Hair sold out
ors catus coral
Yellow Tort
Jason Fox Purple Forest
ora orange digi
Cali tort
Jason Fox Purps Acro sold out
ora purple plazma sold out
TBD Mountain Dew
This is not everything if you don't see it ask cause I probably have it. Most frags are around 1" or bigger

dknuckles
02-15-2015, 06:41 PM
I think as a hobbyist as long as you price them accordingly, there are still good sales potentials using the old school "bags and cooler" method. As a hobby seller, your not necessarily as worried about margins (in fact you might sell frags for less than you had into your original piece)...in theory you are trimming excess growth and raising some extra cash to bring home a couple frags. There are lots of people attending these events looking for good deals. As long as you have something to show them what they look like and they look good in the bag, I think you'd be okay. (An ipad/tablet with some nice photos would be the ideal way to show off some pics.)

I can tell you that businesses attending these swaps have the same concern...that hobbyists will out sell them due to lower pricing. Which is in part why we haven't created a separate pricing structure that differentiates hobbyists from businesses (other than half tables vs. full tables).

Besides doing presales on the forums, if I were selling as a hobbyist and didn't want to mess around with a frag tank, I would put frags in small styro or plastic containers and bring an LED strip/T5 light on a pvc stand. Put them under the LED light on the table and take the lids off. Most will open up under the lights and then people can still see what they are getting. Sell one, slap a lid on and hand it to them. Easy, breezy.... I believe @dknuckles (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/dknuckles/) usually uses this method at his table.


The foam cups are awesome! Really simplifies set up and break down!
I never really worry about competing w/ anybody as it is just my hobby. I often hook up people that have done favors for me such as jakem, binford4000, Reeftanker, and Cherry Corals. So sometimes I return the karmic debt w/frags.
Table prices are fair and reasonable IMO, it will help a Reefing organization stay viable a bit longer which benefits us all.

jimsflies
02-16-2015, 06:05 AM
This will be my first big swap, so I am extremely excited. Between raffle tickets and coral purchases my wallet is already giving me dirty looks.

This might be a good time to mention there are two ATMs available just outside of the exhibition hall. :propellerhead:

Plus, wi-fi is available in case a vendor takes paypal.

Ravenstone
02-16-2015, 07:04 AM
This might be a good time to mention there are two ATMs available just outside of the exhibition hall. :propellerhead:

Plus, wi-fi is available in case a vendor takes paypal.

Awesome. That will make all my purchases much easier to hide from my wife. Well, at least until the credit card statements come in. :jester:

jimsflies
02-17-2015, 05:56 AM
Here's another nice item in our raffle! Donated by Kessil, an A150w LED lamp.

http://www.kessil.com/images/aquarium/product/product_ad_004.jpg

Kessil A150W Special Blend LED Aquarium Light Information
Using the latest Dense Matrix LED technology, Kessil is drastically transforming the way LED lighting is used in the aquarium industry. Featuring an intense, point-source LED aquarium light, Kessil`s specially designed optics focus and direct light both efficiently and effectively. Not only do these long-lasting LED aquarium lights save energy, they eliminate excess heat that is characteristic of traditional broadband sources.

The Kessil A150W Special Blend, available in three variations, is a compact, versatile and radiant choice in aquarium LED lighting. The advanced thermal design of Kessil LED lights prevents them from heating up your tank and also ensures they’ll shine brightly for years to come. Kessil light is densely packed and features a high-power LED array that creates the beautiful shimmery effect of without the excessive heat and power consumption. Highlight the kaleidoscope of colors in your coral reef with Kessil LED reef lighting.

jimsflies
02-17-2015, 06:13 AM
As usual, we've also got some sweet corals this year! Here's a nice orange aussie acan donated by Detroit Coral Farm:

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k621/jimsflies/detroit-coral-aussie-acan_zpsvtjssqps.jpg

Ravenstone
02-17-2015, 06:28 AM
That acan is beautiful. I have noticed myself slowly becoming addicted to acans. I was just telling my wife last night that we need to upgrade to a bigger tank so I can get more.

dlhirst
02-17-2015, 07:11 AM
Agreed, Eric. Acans are a great visual in any reef tank. I need more...

Tank2379
02-17-2015, 11:32 AM
I just called about a room for the Hotel they stated they don't have a code for the book of rooms? Is there a special code we need to book a room at a set rate? As of now they don't see an event going on for Sunday...

jimsflies
02-17-2015, 02:03 PM
I just called about a room for the Hotel they stated they don't have a code for the book of rooms? Is there a special code we need to book a room at a set rate? As of now they don't see an event going on for Sunday...

Hopefully they have us down for an event this Sunday!!!

The code is "MMC". The price should be $94.50.

jimsflies
02-17-2015, 03:11 PM
Here's another nice item that will be in our raffle:

Donated by The Reef Rock Company (http://www.reefrocks.net/index.php) (Reef Rock), a 50 pound box of awesome reef rock!

http://reefrocks.net/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/50_Pound_Box_of__4dd5c926caeae.jpg

Tom@HaslettMI
02-17-2015, 08:35 PM
Here's another nice item that will be in our raffle:

Donated by The Reef Rock Company (http://www.reefrocks.net/index.php) (Reef Rock), a 50 pound box of awesome reef rock!

http://reefrocks.net/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/50_Pound_Box_of__4dd5c926caeae.jpg

Nice! Keep 'em coming Jim.

Tom

jimsflies
02-17-2015, 09:08 PM
Here's an awesome plate coral that will be in the raffle!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k621/jimsflies/detroit-coral-orange-plate_zpsem2edo0c.jpg

paintguru
02-18-2015, 07:25 AM
Hopefully they have us down for an event this Sunday!!!



Well this is a worry!! :smash:

jimsflies
02-19-2015, 11:07 PM
Bashsea has donated their latest frag rack...the mad rack for the raffle!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k621/jimsflies/FullSizeRender_resized_zpsg91mskdo.jpg

Aznnutty
02-19-2015, 11:47 PM
I need 60g of premixed heated saltwater for this weekends swap. I need at the start of setup on Saturday night. please call or text me. 216-534-4402 theres $100 credit towards coral for anyone who can take care of this. it doesn't have to be all one person.

dave.522
02-20-2015, 11:26 AM
That's correct, just show up at 10am. The morning session doesn't cost any more than standard admission to the swap. Its one of the ways the club has chosen to promote education within the hobby.


Ho much does it cost to get in?

Tankster
02-20-2015, 11:41 AM
Ho much does it cost to get in?


Admission is $10 per person (kids under 16 are free)

jimsflies
02-20-2015, 12:03 PM
Ho much does it cost to get in?

$10 per person. kids under 16 are free.

dave.522
02-20-2015, 05:41 PM
Thanks guys! I will be there and next year, hopefully ill have a table!

jakem
02-20-2015, 09:09 PM
Over 800 healed SpS Frags mini colonies and 200 zoo,s favia and chalice's

Table 6, 7 and 8

Affordable Pricing too!!!

jimsflies
02-21-2015, 05:32 AM
This has been arranged. :)

larryandlaura
02-21-2015, 12:05 PM
I can't wait to see everyone tommorrow. It's going to be great to enjoy walking around and not having a table.

timfisher
02-21-2015, 08:42 PM
what time dose expo start

rfgonzo
02-21-2015, 09:11 PM
Frag swap starts at 12pm