Here's an idea,
To sell RS to vendors, you can promote the bond between RS, it's members and knowledge. To potential members, we are well connected. Basically, we are smart cookies, we research, get great deals and buy,buy,buy online. Perhaps the vendors we already have would like to donate samples, goodies, anything with their logo on it for RS to hand out?
This would look good to potential vendors and members alike.
Do we have a banner? I have a friend who is a phenomenal graphics guy, I could probably get a BIG one at a really good price