Casey, I get the same treatment at boat shows. For you, It might be because you had your kids with you. I was told that brokers are not too crazy about them boarding boats. They touch things. Not saying that yours do, but just in general. Or perhaps you're a minority, which I am, and suspect might be the reason.
I talked to a broker friend about my lousy experience at my first boat show which I brought my 10 year old son to. He offered that it was likely because I had a child with me and how they don't like that. So, I started going alone or with my wife. But I noticed that I'm still ignored (not necessarily bad) and sometimes the salesmen are short with me when I ask a question. I once started a conversation with a sales rep of a budget brand boat and my wife noticed that the guy was brushing me off. She interjected by making a comment that indicated to the salesman that we own a boat and were looking to move up. He seemed very surprised by this and became polite and happy to talk to us. I had lost interest at that point.
I don't get the snobby treatment at the product booths though. I find the people to be nice and eager to talk about their products.
Btw, I dress just like most boaters when attending boat shows. Khaki shorts, polo shirt and Sperry deck shoes.
Odd that I don't get this kind of treatment when I go to other business establishments. Even shops on Rodeo Drive. But no Sperry's there, I put on Ferragamo loafers. Maybe I should wear them to boat shows.
But there's a positive to this. Now that I'm accustomed to this treatment, I no longer feel guilty of being aboard and no one bothers me when I tour a boat.
Funny that you would say that about the kids. Interestingly enough I had two broker / reps tell me how well behaved my kids were. (we are very diligent parents when it comes to our kids and good behavior). One even went on to ask me if I had a boat because my kids seemed well behaved and "at ease" when walking around on board. I do agree that this isn't an event well suited for kids in general. On the other hand, a huge influence in our boat buying decision is how well the kids like the boat. After all, they'll be spending much of their young lives on it.