Beep Beep Beep. Back up the truck...
Study first... then you shall see and will become more clear. Patience Grasshopper, Rome was not built in a day.. I have said b4; My first trip (1998) to Japan, I couldn't tell the difference between a $500 koi and a $5000 koi less'n it was Monsta Lahge. Easy to tell a $25 koi from the above for most people.
Hang out with Russ and Kari. This can only help their business, but realize that your "target" is not the only one with something to offer. The more educated you become, the better customer and referral source you will be. But don't use them as your sensei unless they have the time and inclination. Which they might, one never knows til one asks. Politely asking a question is not rude, unless one does not pay attention to the answer. And maybe the question might just be "how can I best accomplish what I want to do? Or maybe ask them to point you toward one of their more experienced customers. Or you could ask questions as you meet others who are there when you are. The more experienced and good Sensei "candidates" will be likely just hanging out there alot, or probably swoop in and out when new shipments come in. I know if I had your resources in my area, I would be there alot in just that way.
Thank you for asking me to help you. As I mentioned, I am honored and happy to help as I can and appropriate. I do have an arsenal of saved articles and pictures that I, and others, have written that may be helpful and you are welcome to read. But unfortunately, the best lessons I will not be there for. Unless we see each other at a koi show or event, in which case please feel free to come up and grill me..LOL