I believe you are missing the point Kevin is trying to make. There was time when comic book conventions were just comic books and comic book professionals. In some cases, these cons were very large and very well attended. I remember going to some Javits shows that were huge and did not contain superfluous non-comic book related content. I remember going to a couple Boston shows that were similar.
Now, in fairness to you, you seem to be constructing a show that has comic books as a much lesser focus, and that's fine but please don't attempt to compare the content of a modern "fan expo" to comic book centered shows of old. There is no comparison. Perhaps those old time shows are no longer viable for the larger venues and that's a shame. Although, there are a couple that seem to still be bucking that trend, Baltimore for one and perhaps Chicago? (not sure about that one)
Thank goodness for church basements rec halls indeed. That's where I'll be spending my money and time these days if I'm looking for a comic book centered event. And for the higher ticket items that I can't find at these smaller shows, the internet is a good source. I won't be attending events in the larger cities because when you factor in the costs and the travel for someone like me that just wants comic books, the juice just isn't worth the squeeze.
I wish you the best of luck (seriously, no sarcasm) in growing your brand into what you want it to be and I suppose changing the name to Fan Expo and removing "comic book" from it is a good first step.