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Get The Hell Out of Your Life
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Get The Hell Out of Your Life
Unwrapping the Legacy of the Ron Myers Christmas City Gift Show
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Ready for some holiday magic Always. Okay good, Because today we're going deep on the Ron Myers Christmas City Gift Show.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah.
Speaker 1:This is a Mississippi Gulf Coast thing, you know it's a big deal. It's been going on for like over 40 years.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Crazy. So we've got like all kinds of sources from like their website to you know applications for vendors.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:We've got sponsor info. We've even got articles about like how it started and you know how it affects the community.
Speaker 2:It's become a real institution down there.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it really has. So the mission today is to give you the full picture. We're going to start with the guy who started it all.
Speaker 2:Ron Myers.
Speaker 1:Yeah, ron Myers, and then we're going to go all the way to like what it's like to shop there.
Speaker 2:That's what I'm talking about.
Speaker 1:I may be even convinced you to head down to the Gulf Coast this November. I might be convinced already. We'll stay tuned, you know. All right, let's see. So first up, Ron Myers the man, the myth, the legend.
Speaker 2:He had an interesting start, started in the Air Force.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah, I read that.
Speaker 2:And somehow ended up putting together like over 250 events across the Gulf South.
Speaker 1:It's crazy, right I? Mean what a change. Total career pivot. And get this. He's originally from Cedar Rapids, iowa, no way. So he's like a fish out of water down there, exactly, which I think makes it even more interesting, you know.
Speaker 2:Totally. It shows real vision. You know to create something so unique in a place that's like, so different from where you started.
Speaker 1:Totally, totally Okay. So let's talk about Christmas City gift show. This is no like ordinary craft fair.
Speaker 2:Oh no, it's massive.
Speaker 1:It's huge, like picture this the Coast Convention Center.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:Completely transformed into like a winter wonderland. I love that. Over 300 booths. You can find anything there. I mean anything.
Speaker 2:I heard it's the place to go for unique gifts.
Speaker 1:Yeah, like for those people who are impossible to shop for.
Speaker 2:Yeah, yeah, you know the ones who have everything.
Speaker 1:You'll find something for them there.
Speaker 2:I bet.
Speaker 1:Okay, okay, enough teasing, let's get into the specifics. So, mark your calendars, folks. November 8th through the 10th 2025. Okay, At the Mississippi Coliseum in Biloxi, Got it? General admission 10 bucks.
Speaker 2:That's not bad at all.
Speaker 1:Not bad at all, but they also have this thing Shopper's Paradise Ticket.
Speaker 2:Ooh, tell me more.
Speaker 1:It's 17 bucks. Yeah, we'll get into what that means a little later.
Speaker 2:Looking forward to it.
Speaker 1:And if you've got little ones, Breakfast santa saturday morning classy 30 bucks a kid okay that includes entry for two parents and it's like the whole, the whole santa experience oh, that's so cute photos and all that photos, ornament craft community crafting that's fun yeah, it's the, it's a whole thing sounds like a great way to kick off a day of shopping. Now shopper's paradise. This is where things get interesting. Friday night Adults only.
Speaker 2:Ooh, I like the thought of that.
Speaker 1:Live music, wine, beer. They even have a silent auction.
Speaker 2:Wow, they've really thought of everything.
Speaker 1:They really have. It's like a whole different vibe, like a more like I don't know sophisticated shopping experience.
Speaker 2:Right, sip and shop, but make it holiday themed.
Speaker 1:Exactly, but it's not just about the shopping at this thing, like they really focus on making the whole experience enjoyable for everyone.
Speaker 2:That's important. It's got to be comfortable.
Speaker 1:Right, so in 2020, they actually widened the aisles. Oh, that's smart. So you don't feel so like crammed in even when it's crowded? Especially with all those bags, you need room to maneuver exactly and they've got this whole santa land set up, you know, for the families oh, that's sweet you can take photos with santa, write them letters.
Speaker 2:It's really cute they're really going all out to create a family-friendly atmosphere yeah, it's definitely a multi-generational event.
Speaker 1:You know, like people bring their kids, their grand grandkids. It's a whole thing.
Speaker 2:I love that it becomes a tradition.
Speaker 1:Totally Okay, but let's talk about like the bigger picture.
Speaker 2:Okay, the impact yeah.
Speaker 1:The impact this event. It doesn't just spread holiday cheer, it actually gives back to the community in a big way.
Speaker 2:Really how so.
Speaker 1:So get this Ron Myers Ministries. It's entirely funded by this Christmas show.
Speaker 2:Wow, that's impressive.
Speaker 1:Isn't that amazing? So, like every purchase you make, every ticket you buy, it goes towards their charities.
Speaker 2:That's incredible. What kind of charities do they support?
Speaker 1:Oh, all kinds Christian rehab centers, oh wow, anti-trafficking organizations, missions, podcasts that promote like good values.
Speaker 2:That's amazing.
Speaker 1:They do a lot.
Speaker 2:So you're not just buying gifts, you're contributing to something meaningful.
Speaker 1:Exactly, it's like built-in giving back, you know.
Speaker 2:I love that. It adds another layer to the whole experience.
Speaker 1:Totally, and it's not just the charity aspect. We read an article about how this event is like a big economic boost for the Gulf Coast, especially after the summer tourism season ends.
Speaker 2:Right, because things tend to slow down after the summer rush.
Speaker 1:Right. So this event? It brings in people from all over.
Speaker 2:Spending money at hotels, restaurants, local shops.
Speaker 1:Exactly, it's a win-win for everyone and get this. It's actually considered one of the top 20 tourism events in the Southeast.
Speaker 2:Really Wow, that's a big deal.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's pretty impressive.
Speaker 2:It's come a long way from a local gift show.
Speaker 1:It really has. But okay, let's circle back to this shopper's paradise thing.
Speaker 2:Yes, Tell me more.
Speaker 1:It's not your average shopping spree, it's more of a whole experience, like picture yourself with a glass of wine.
Speaker 2:Ooh, I like where this is going.
Speaker 1:Browsing all these amazing handcrafted goods.
Speaker 2:While listening to live music.
Speaker 1:Yes, and there are door prizes, and all the while, you know you're supporting local businesses and charities.
Speaker 2:It's like the perfect combination of holiday indulgence and doing good.
Speaker 1:Exactly. I'm kind of sold myself now.
Speaker 2:Me too, but you know we've talked a lot about the shoppers. What about the people selling all this amazing stuff?
Speaker 1:Oh, the vendors.
Speaker 2:Yeah, what's it like to be on the other side of the booth.
Speaker 1:That's a great question. Let's dive into that next.
Speaker 2:So you know, the vendor application actually gives us some insight into what it takes to be a part of this whole thing, oh really.
Speaker 1:So it's not just like show up and sell your stuff.
Speaker 2:No, no, no. They've got like a whole selection process, hmm, interesting. They want to make sure it's a really good experience for the shoppers that there's variety, that the stuff is, you know, high quality.
Speaker 1:So they're curating it. It's not just any old craft fair.
Speaker 2:Exactly Like. You have to submit detailed descriptions of your products.
Speaker 1:Oh, wow.
Speaker 2:Photos of your like booth setup, even like examples of your pricing.
Speaker 1:Wow, they're serious about this. So they really are going for that whole like magical holiday shopping experience.
Speaker 2:Yeah, yeah and get this. They actually ask vendors to donate like a $25 gift certificate.
Speaker 1:Oh, for what?
Speaker 2:For door prizes.
Speaker 1:That's a good idea it is right, Gets people excited. And it's good for the vendors too. Yeah, totally yeah. More exposure and it's good for the vendors too yeah totally yeah, more exposure and it kind of creates that sense of community, you know.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. They're really good at that like promoting that community feel.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's like everyone's in it together. Oh, and I noticed they offer to male vendors like promotional stuff, really yeah, so they can like hand them out at other events.
Speaker 2:That's smart.
Speaker 1:That's really smart marketing, both both for the show and for the vendors.
Speaker 2:Totally More exposure for everyone. Okay, but let's get into the nitty gritty, the booth options.
Speaker 1:Yeah, yeah, like, how does that work?
Speaker 2:So they have different sizes from like a standard 10 by 10 space. Okay, all the way up to these like 20 by 20 island booths.
Speaker 1:Oh wow, that must be prime real estate.
Speaker 2:Oh for sure, Location is everything, Even in a holiday wonderland. A standard booth starts at $425.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:But if you want a corner spot, better visibility, more foot traffic.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:That'll cost you an extra like 50 to 75 bucks.
Speaker 1:It's all about location, location, location, right, just like in regular retail.
Speaker 2:Exactly A prime spot can make all the difference. And then of course there are, you know, the usual add-ons electricity for your booth, extra tables, that kind of thing.
Speaker 1:So vendors can really customize their setup, make it their own.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It all depends on their needs, their budget. But one thing that caught my eye was the cancellation policy.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah, what about it?
Speaker 2:No refunds, no credits If the event has to be canceled because of, you know, like a hurricane or a virus outbreak. It's tough it is, but I guess from the organizer's perspective it makes sense. They have to cover their costs.
Speaker 1:Right, but yeah, vendors have to put down a 50% deposit.
Speaker 2:Right, and then the rest is due by July 1st, so it's a pretty significant financial commitment.
Speaker 1:It is for sure. But I imagine for a lot of businesses it's worth it.
Speaker 2:Yeah, especially if you're selling like handmade stuff or you know something unique.
Speaker 1:It's a chance to connect directly with customers which you just can't do online.
Speaker 2:you know Exactly and you know people are in that holiday shopping mood. They're looking for special gifts or more open to trying new things.
Speaker 1:It's prime time for those small businesses and artisans to really shine.
Speaker 2:Absolutely, it's their time to shine and I think there's also, like this, sense of community among the vendors. Oh yeah for sure, like they're all in it together, supporting each other. It's like a team effort you know Totally, and for a lot of these small local businesses, these events are everything.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's their bread and butter.
Speaker 2:It's how they connect with their customers, build their brand.
Speaker 1:It's the heart of entrepreneurship and that adds another dimension to this whole Christmas City gift show thing. You know.
Speaker 2:Definitely. You're not just buying a product, you're supporting someone's dream.
Speaker 1:Exactly, and that human connection is so important, especially during the holidays.
Speaker 2:Totally. It's about so much more than just checking things off your shopping list.
Speaker 1:It's about the experience, the connection, the community.
Speaker 2:Exactly so. We've talked about like the present day stuff, but this event has been going on for a while, right?
Speaker 1:It has. Do you remember how long?
Speaker 2:41 years 41 years. Can you believe that Over four decades of holiday cheer?
Speaker 1:That's amazing.
Speaker 2:It really is. It just goes to show how popular this thing is.
Speaker 1:It's become a tradition.
Speaker 2:And you know it's not like they've just been doing the same thing over and over.
Speaker 1:Right, they've been evolving, changing with the times.
Speaker 2:Exactly Like that Shopper's Paradise thing that started in 2016, I think.
Speaker 1:Yeah, and it's been a huge hit.
Speaker 2:And those wider aisles.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that was 2020.
Speaker 2:Smart move. They're listening to feedback. They're making it better every year. Exactly that's how you keep people coming back. I wish we had some like stories from past shows. You know anecdotes from shoppers or vendors.
Speaker 1:I know right. Can you imagine all the memories that have been made there, like the ribbon-cutting ceremony every year, where Santa actually cuts the ribbon?
Speaker 2:Oh, I bet the kids love that.
Speaker 1:Oh, I bet it's probably a core memory for some of those kids, totally yeah.
Speaker 2:And then there's breakfast with Santa on Saturday morning. Smart move for the parents, you know, keeps the kids entertained. Really shop.
Speaker 1:Genius, strategic parenting at its finest, and then Shopper's Paradise on Friday night for the adults.
Speaker 2:Live music wine it's a whole vibe.
Speaker 1:It is, but you know, sometimes it's the unplanned moments that are the most memorable.
Speaker 2:Oh, absolutely, those chance encounters, the unexpected finds.
Speaker 1:Talking to the vendors, hearing their stories.
Speaker 2:That's what makes it special, that human connection.
Speaker 1:And Ron Myers has clearly created something really special here. It's not just a gift show.
Speaker 2:No, it's an experience.
Speaker 1:It's a reflection of the community, yeah, of the spirit of the Gulf Coast.
Speaker 2:And you know, as we're talking about all this, I'm struck by how much personality this event has. It's not just some generic holiday market.
Speaker 1:Right, it's got charm, it's got character, it's got heart.
Speaker 2:It's Ron Myers himself. Yeah, his energy, his vision.
Speaker 1:Totally and his dedication to giving back.
Speaker 2:It's a great example of how a business can be a force for good.
Speaker 1:Absolutely Uplifting others, spreading holiday cheer. It all comes back to that human need for connection you know, especially during the holidays.
Speaker 2:Right. That need to belong, to be a part of something bigger than yourself.
Speaker 1:And in this world where everything is so digital, it's so important to have those real-life experiences.
Speaker 2:Those face-to-face interactions, those tangible memories.
Speaker 1:Exactly, and sometimes those experiences come in the form of a bustling holiday market, you know.
Speaker 2:Filled with unique gifts and the warmth of community spirit.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's a reminder that the holidays are about more than just stuff.
Speaker 2:It's about connection, memories, sharing joy with others.
Speaker 1:And the Ron Myers Christmas City Gift Show really seems to capture all of that.
Speaker 2:It does. But as we're wrapping up this part of our deep dive, there's one question that keeps coming back to me.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah.
Speaker 2:What's that?
Speaker 1:What is it about this specific event that keeps people coming back year after year? We've talked about the vendors, the charity, the atmosphere, but what's the secret sauce?
Speaker 2:That's a good question. What is it? Is it the sense of community? Like, you're surrounded by people who just love the holidays.
Speaker 1:Maybe, or is it the thrill of the hunt?
Speaker 2:Ooh, finding that one of a kind gift.
Speaker 1:Yeah, or maybe it's knowing that you're supporting local businesses, doing something good.
Speaker 2:It could be all of that.
Speaker 1:It probably is. It's like this magical combination.
Speaker 2:Whatever it is, it's powerful it is.
Speaker 1:It transforms a simple gift show into something so much more.
Speaker 2:A tradition, a community gathering, a reminder of the true spirit of the holidays.
Speaker 1:So well said, but now we want to hear from you, the listener.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:What are your thoughts? What stood out to you about the Ron Myers Christmas City gift show?
Speaker 2:The gifts, the family atmosphere, the charity, the shopper's paradise.
Speaker 1:We want to know what you think.
Speaker 2:Has this deep dive sparked your curiosity?
Speaker 1:Would you consider a trip down to the Mississippi Gulf Coast this holiday season? Let us know.
Speaker 2:We love hearing from you.
Speaker 1:We've explored the history, the details, the impact of this incredible event, but remember this is just the beginning of your own exploration.
Speaker 2:So dive deeper. Check out the vendors Ron Myers Ministries.
Speaker 1:Maybe even plan that Gulf Coast road trip, why not? Until next time, keep learning, keep exploring and we'll see you on our next deep dive.
Speaker 2:So we've gone from, like Ron Myers, starting in the Air Force, to this huge event with hundreds of booths. We've talked about how it helps the community and all the cool stuff you can buy, and that Shopper's Paradise thing which sounds pretty amazing, by the way but now. Now it's your turn. It Pretty amazing, by the way, but now.
Speaker 1:Now it's your turn. It's your turn. What are you thinking about all this? What's stuck with you?
Speaker 2:Was it like the sheer size of this thing or the fact that it's been going for over 40 years, that's?
Speaker 1:incredible. Or maybe it was that picture of Santa cutting the ribbon. I mean, come on, that's adorable.
Speaker 2:Or the thought of finding a gift that you literally cannot find anywhere else. Yeah, or maybe knowing that when you buy something. Yeah, you're helping out all these good causes.
Speaker 1:It's a pretty cool combo. So the big question does this sound like an event you'd actually go to? Would you like brave the crowds?
Speaker 2:Head down to the Gulf Coast.
Speaker 1:To experience this thing firsthand. And OK, here's another question. If you could ask Ron Myers himself, the man himself, just one question, if you could ask Ron Myers himself, the man himself, just one question, what would it be like? What's his secret? How's he managed to create this event that people keep coming back to year after year for over four decades? What's the magic formula? We've given you a taste of the Ron Myers Christmas City gift show the history, the vendors, the impact all that good stuff, but it's just a starting point.
Speaker 1:You know, it's up to you to dig deeper, to explore more. Maybe check out those vendors online.
Speaker 2:See what catches your eye.
Speaker 1:Learn more about Ron Myers Ministries Heck, maybe even start planning a trip down to the Gulf Coast. You know who knows?
Speaker 2:Become your new holiday tradition.
Speaker 1:Exactly so until next time, keep that curiosity alive, keep exploring and we'll see you on our next deep dive. We've got lots more fascinating stuff to uncover.