Community, Family & the Future of UK TCG Events
At SSINT, we believe the strongest partnerships are built on shared values — passion, community, and a genuine love for trading cards. One partnership that truly reflects this is our collaboration with the Lincolnshire Card Show, a UK card show built on family, inclusion, and genuine community spirit.
How the Lincolnshire Card Show Began
The Lincolnshire Card Show was founded in May 2024 by Mel, following the birth of her son, Henry, in December 2023. During maternity leave, Mel became immersed in Pokémon card collecting and the welcoming online community surrounding it.
Starting her Instagram journey as Pokemum Mel, she quickly found herself part of a close-knit collector community known as the Poke Mob. While card show meet-ups were thriving across the UK, Lincolnshire was noticeably absent.
One conversation with COATlectibles sparked the idea that changed everything:
“I remember discussing with COATlectibles one day, saying it’s a shame Lincoln doesn’t have a card show. Then it hit me — Lincoln doesn’t have a card show and I’ve been an events and marketing professional for 10 years.”
With that realisation, the idea wouldn’t let go. By the following bank holiday Monday, Lincolnshire Card Show Ltd was officially registered.
👉 Visit COATlectibles
Building More Than Just a Card Show
The Lincolnshire Card Show was never about simply adding another event to the calendar. It was about connection, accessibility, and courage.
As Mel puts it:
“If I could have this amazing little boy and be brave enough to go through pregnancy, why should I be scared to start my own card show?”
Convincing vendors to take a chance on Lincolnshire wasn’t easy. As one of the largest counties in the UK, it meant asking businesses from London, Manchester, and Newcastle to believe in something brand new. Mel started locally, gaining the trust of independent TCG shops who instantly believed in the vision.
What began with 16 vendors soon grew into something far bigger — expanding from 22 tables to 40 as demand increased.
Family-First, Always
One of the defining features of the Lincolnshire Card Show is its focus on families and inclusivity. Rather than maximising vendor space, Mel made a conscious decision to prioritise comfort and accessibility:
“What our vision for our Card Shows is, reflects our family — it’s family first.”
From pram parking and open space to layouts that avoid sensory overload, the show continues to evolve with its audience at the heart of every decision.
Why the Partnership with SSINT Matters
One of Mel’s favourite collaborations to come from the Lincolnshire Card Show has been its partnership with SSINT Grading.
Reflecting on that decision, Mel shares:
“I remember the message I received well. I sat on the decision for a while, wondering how a new grading company would sit with our audience.”
But after taking the time to understand SSINT’s ethos, the alignment became clear:
“The more I researched SSINT, the more I felt comfortable with a value the Card Shows naturally took on. We support local businesses. We don’t compete, we thrive together.”
When SSINT attended the first Lincolnshire Card Show, the response was immediate:
“It was more than just ‘slabbed cards’ — it was an ethos, a passion and a drive to preserve the memories, the joy of the pull and the value of these shiny bits of cardboard that drive us.”
The impact was so strong that the decision for the future was an easy one:
“SSINT over delivered in their time with us… when planning began for our next event, I knew I needed SSINT with me every step of the way.”
Shortly after, a two-year partnership was announced.
👉 Learn more about SSINT Grading:
Looking Ahead
Just 366 days after its very first event, the Lincolnshire Card Show is heading to its dream venue — The Lincolnshire Showground. What started as a local idea has now welcomed attendees from across the UK and even internationally.
👉 Explore upcoming events at:
https://www.lincolnshirecardshow.com
A Final Thank You
Mel is clear that this journey hasn’t been a solo one:
“Thank you to everyone that bought tickets to that first show — you truly propelled the Lincolnshire Card Show to what it’s going to be.”
And finally, a heartfelt thanks to those behind the scenes:
“Thank you to my team of volunteers; Jamie, Paige, Cathy, James and Claire for always being there for me.”
