Jpjoe, if you frequent any B&M's, ask them if there are any vape "meets" which are gatherings for local vapers and shops to show their wares. A "convention" is usually much, much bigger and involves suppliers and shops from all over the U.S. and usually has to be located in a convention center. Any B&M worth it's salt should know.
Two years ago the Scenic City Vapers club had their first "meet" at a local restaurant where 90 people showed up. The club has now grown to over 2,200 people and has to hold it's "meets" in a ballroom where anywhere from 400-600 people show. The larger amount especially when Phil Busardo makes an appearance.
We had our first "convention" here last Feb. that was for 3 days: Fri. for shop setups, meetings and a communal dinner, Sat. & Sun. opened to the general public. Over 6,000 people walked through those glorious doors!
This activity is happening in our relatively small city of Chattanooga, but took the commitment and a great deal of effort of a small group of people led by "The Vapin' Greek", Dimi Agrafiotis. I only found out about the meets by buying my first setup at the one and only B&M newly opened store in town 17 months ago. There are now over 20. Then I went 6 days later to my first meet and won a ProVari in a raffle! Hubby won an eVic! I mean......what's not to like?!
Have fun, fun, fun! Hopefully they've have a place to sit to rest your feet and some eats around somewhere. 
