I asked a couple of women in this group I am in if they had freebies or free samples and they  did! They have bunches! Some even have websites that have FREE STUFF and GIVEAWAYS!

So here they are (why procrastinate with free stuff right?):

Margaret Ropp

Get a FREE dog and/or cat food sample!

Stefani Partin as a:

Freebies on Twitter

and a

Freebies Blog

Nataly has frequent GIVEAWAYS on her blog, check her out!

 You can also contact her for LiBri Skincare samples and Watkins samples

 L’Bri Pure n’ Natural - All-natural, aloe-based skin care and cosmetics

Watkins Incorporated - Natural home and personal care products and organic, gourmet spices and seasonings

Gail Hess is sending out FREE samples for her new product from GBG : EnRgy

Okay so there is a website where you can sign up to get FREE stuff everyday and even make money off of this FREE stuff Freebie Force. Do not come back here upset that you have turned into some FREEBIE junkie or something, enter that website at your own will.

Love jewelry? Want some for FREE? Go to Stacie’s website: Beading by Stacie all you have to pay is the Shipping cost which is about $3 or so.  Free bracelets, bookmarks, tickets 

 I hope you all enjoy going from site to site looking through the FREE samples and giveaways and such, I know I did!

Thanks for reading!

Jarmelia Ladson

Enter to win a FREE candle!

Go to http://www.mbgourmetcandles.com

Hi all!

 I know it has been a while, a long while since I have dropped by to spread my lack of knowledge. But, I was out of town for 2 weeks, and then I was swamped trying to get my house back in order and trying to put my brain back in my head, after I had lost my mind FROM ALL THE LAUNDRY. HAVE MERCY. I left for 2 weeks and I think I packed every single article of clothing I owned along with every bedspread and sheet set.

So now, I am back and can sit down on the computer with out feeling guilty due to all the dirty laundry needing my immediate attention.

I have learned some valuable, DUH! Lessons.

Why is it that I always think I have my business cards in my purse, but lo’ and behold when I need to give someone a business card or brochure all I can find is, candy wrappers and loose change? I looked crazy not 1 but 3 times this week looking for business cards- that I know I put in my purse last night….

So, now I am fully stocked with business cards, catalogs and brochures to give to the masses about my business. I think I am going to buy myself a change purse, you know the cute quilted ones, to put my business cards in so I don’t run out of them or leave them at home.

Next…

I am thinking of putting together a Blog-A-Thon of sorts. Where some of us mom/wife bloggers can get together and talk about our businesses and what it is like working from home. If you want to be a part of it leave a comment or email me.

I am thinking about running it from May 26 - June 2. Which gives us 1 week to advertise it and get started!

I am going to post the blog names here on this post so we can keep track of who is participating.

The topic: What do you do in the Summer months to grow your business? Is the summertime a slow time for you or does it remain steady?

The guidelines: None really except please share useful information about the topic. Don’t do a shameless plug about your business. we are trying to help others.

 I will put up an official post for this soon when I get it all straightened out in my mind, which may take a while.

Jarmelia Ladson

www.mbgourmetcandles.com

Enter to win a FREE candle!

Hey!

I should be packing but of course I am not…..it’s all about priorities people.

Anyway, I was reading an email I received that was talking about why Mia Bella’s Candles are “gourmet” or more so, why they are labeled as gourmet. It stated because our candles were for the “candle connoisseur”. I have read this before when different people were speaking about where to find potential customers and such. So I started thinking, how do you know who your market is or whatyour target market is? Is it possible that people who don’t do well in retailing are just targeting the wrong customers? Then, I was like is that even possible to have a “wrong” market, because they (the smart marketing people) say that everyone isa potential customer or business partner and don’t judge.

Well, I have drawn my own conclusions on the matter.

Conclusion #1: You do have a target market or particular market of people that would be ideal for your product.

Conclusion #2: You shouldn’t judge. You should offer your product or service to all but, be able to weed through those who will buy and those who are just pulling your leg. In other words don’t spend all your time on nickels when you could be catching dollars.

Conclusion #3: Price! Different people can afford and will pay for different things. Some people are bargain shoppers and will not pay retail for anything no matter how great or “ideal” it is for them, they believe they can find the same quality or quantity for $5 less or 25% off at Wal-Mart or something.

What I have learned that you have to do is make your product or service available to all people, no matter what. I see billboards for $100,000+ homes in lower income neighborhoods, they may not be able to afford that house now, but they may in the future and that’s what counts.

Compare your prices not only to others in your industry online, but also in the stores that you normally shop in. Is your product double or triple the price of similar products? For me, our candles are triple the prices of the candles in Wally World or any other bargain store. Double the price of candles in other stores as well. But, they are the same price as one of the leading candles in America, so I know my customer base exists in my city since they have a store here.

Now lets say I sold candles that cost $40 or so a jar. I don’t have any shops around me that sell candles for that price. The leading candle company in my city sells candles, for half that. Where am I going to find my customers? Who are my customers? Do you see how candles at this price would be a bit harder to sell in my city?

But, if I lived in ”celebrity city”, California, where most things cost an arm and a leg, I could get away with probably selling my candles for $50 a pop in the right stores. That wouldn’t fly here where I live, we are not that high class.

So maybe if you are someone who is not doing so well retailing your particular product or service you should check your prices. See if people in your area can afford your products. If they can’t that doesn’t make them unaffordable to all, just in your city. You will probably have to advertise in other areas.

Hope this helps answersome questions!

Thanks for reading!

Jarmelia Ladson

Hi all,

I have been on a hiatis for a few weeks due to trying to pack for a trip and getting my business in line for when I return. Off topic: If you have a wordpress blog, how do you like the new dash board? It’s all “fancy” and such. Why is the Jefferson’s theme song playing in my head? “We’re movin’ on up!” I am such a cornball!

So, I thought since I have interviewed others and asked them about their businesses and such, why not interview myself? I should let you all know what I do from home and what kind of business I run. I also want to tell you all about some future plans I have on expanding my business, I’ll tell you about those if this post doesn’t get too terribly long.

Okay on to letting you all know about my business…

I am a Independent distributor for Mia Bella’s Gourmet Candles. I have been with this company for about 1 1/2 years. The candles are an alternative wax candle, that is made from vegetable wax and other alternative waxes. The waxes are all natural, no parrafin. Our candles have 2 wicks and are triple scented. Triple threat! But, the thing I like the best about them is the fact that the scent is not over powering, you would think it would be since it is triple scented but, it actually isn’t and as with all candles, some scents are strong and some scents are lighter than others.

I have bruned the leading candle that is about the same price as ours and have to say, I can tell the difference. The other candle company is a “nice” candle, making it better than a bargain store candle, but it is not gourmet or a nice fit for a true candle lover. Our candles fit that bill.

So in saying that, I have learned that our candles aren’t for everyone and everybody, some people are quite content buying the $4.99 candles from Wal-Mart and aren’t looking for a better candle. And you have the others people who want a long lasting, strong scented, evenly burning candle, that actually looks nice when burning and creates virtually no soot, our candles are for them.

That is what makes our candles GOURMET. We are a step above the rest and definitely ahead of your average candle.

Our work from home opportunity:

We offer 3 ways for you to make money from home; Retail, Residual and Fundraising. You can choose just one way or all three, it is up to you. I do all three, myself and I am a trained Fundraising Consultant and Business Recruiter. I didn’t go to school or get a bachelors to earn these titles, either, I just followed the system and become knowledgeable in these subjects, you can too.

Our programs are so simple and easy to follow. You buy the candles at wholesale- Candle of the Month= $9.50 and you sell it at or above retail price = $18.95. You can sell them for more than that price, that decision is up to you, since it is your business. I sell them for a square $20.00, which allows me a 50%+ profit.

Is this business run solely online and at home?

Honestly, I get a little irritated when people say “Work from home, no commute!” and such, it is a bit misleading. You can build a business completely over the internet and never have to leave your “home office”, people are doing it everyday. This is usually the route most people who want to earn residual income go, which is when you sign-up other people who want to work from home and kind of “take them under your wing”. It’s called team building.

But, if you want to do retailing, which is selling the candles, you may and most likely will, have to leave your office chair and get out and about. I don’t mind doing this, it allows me to talk to more people face to face and interact with them. You will have to go to the Post Office to mail off scent-samples and information packets, you will need to pass out catalogs and brochures. You don’t have to do these things, but more than likely you will if you are retailing. Some people even set up booths and have home parties. You can work this business so many ways, again this is up to you!

Fund-raising also may involve you leaving your office to meet with churches or other organizations to tell them about the products and give them their packets.

So for me, I am not doing this because I can do it solely from home or because I save on gas, I do it because I can be my own boss. I don’t have a cap on how much money I can make, so the possibilities are virtually endless.

Are there flaws in this business plan or company?

I don’t think their are flaws with the company as in the structure or compensation plan, but you do have a few bad apples among you as with any company. You have those who do this exclusively for the money or people who seem to always be looking for trouble. No business is without people like this, they are everywhere but, gladly they are not the owners or the ones who make the decisions.

If you have any questions about Mia Bella and would like to contact me please feel free to send me an email. You can also fill out the contact form on my website: http://www.mbgourmetcandles.com for more information.

Hope that whatever you choose to do in life, you succeed!

Jarmelia Ladson

Fundraising Consultant and Business Recruiter

Thanks for reading!

Click it! You can do it!

Hello everyone!

Long time no chit chat, been busy doing nothing, you know how that is….

Okay well, I have a delimma (did I spell that right? d-e-l-i-m-m-a, doesn’t look right) but anyway. Well, I spell it right didn’t thanks to, dictioanry.com and google, the word is spelled: dilemma, which still don’t look right! Okay moving on! Back on topic- I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I have no money to spend on my business, at all. Not sqeezing another dime out, I have to go out of town and can’t go broke, now can I? Umm no, I can’t. I have to buy clothes for the trip, food, and shelter and those things are kind of important, know what I mean? Why are needs so important?

So, what do you do when you are in this position? No leads, no money, no time but you are still paying your monthly payment to stay “active”. What do you do? What can you do?

I looked online and tried to get some advice, well that did not work at all. I am not maxing out my credit card and living on the edge just to “hopefully” make enough money to pay it off. I am sorry, but I am a square and don’t take risks like that. I will not go into debt for this business, to me that is not too smart and a little extreme. Extreme + square = not me at all.

So then, I looked at some other things and they said, pass out flyers and samples all over town. Well bing that I leave in a few weeks and my house looks like a tornado hit it, not to mention my desk looks like someone dumped a compost pile on it, I don’t have the time to walk all over town! Well, then I thought “drive around town then!”, sounded like a great plan until I saw the gas prices, Father help us all! Gas is $3.11 and we have an SUV, so that’s like oil and water, they don’t mix. Especially when you have no money….

Next, I said to myself, call people, do some cold calling around town. Bright idea right, no gas, just a few hours, and it’s free. Sounds like a great idea, right? I thought so too, until I called 54975 churches for fundraisers and I guess they took the day off! On a Wednesday, they decided to go on vacation or something. What’s really going on?

So should I take a break and just concentrate on “life”? I am thinking about doing that, but this is recruiting season and I will miss out on all the leads and growing my business. What do I do? What’s a gal to do? Anyone gonna answer me?

I am not quiting my business, that’s not an option, I am just at a stand still right now. So, I am going to study some more and sharpen my “marketing skills” while I have the opportunity and who knows what may come of this?

I don’t know! I am all out of ideas! I know how to grow a business with a shoe string budget, but how do you do it on no budget with no money? You can’t! It takes money to make money!

So, I’ll relax until my budget allows me to actually make some money…

Thanks for reading,

Jarmelia

http://www.mbgourmetcandles.com 

I got to do an interview with Chris and she sells adult “things” (I don’t want to attract the wrong searches, LOL). As she said “At her parties there is never a dull moment!” 

1.       Why did you choose to join/start a home party plan business? 

I wanted to stay home after having my son, and several other WAH opportunities just didn’t work out for me, so I thought I’d give it one last shot and try the home party plan scene.

2.       Can you tell us a bit about the party plan industry and why it is such a hot market to join? 

 The party plan industry not only gives women (and some men too) the chance to work their own hours, be their own boss, and make great money at it, but also the hostesses for these parties get great rewards!  Who doesn’t love to get together with their friends and have a great time doing a little shopping and getting free and discounted products?

3.       How do you book parties? How do you advertise your business? 

I book parties in a variety of ways.  The biggest way for me is bookings from other party guests.  I have some great booking games that really help out the hostess, so her guests are always willing to book to get their own rewards, as well as to help out their hostess.  I also do online advertising, hand out business cards, word of mouth (referrals), print advertising, etc.

4.       Do you find party plan companies more difficult than other direct sells companies that don’t have a party plan? Yes or no and why? 

No, not really.  Then again, I think it all depends on your market area too.  I’ve done other party plan businesses before with no results.  Well, bad results, I guess….lol!  Some areas are more popular for some party plans, while other areas may not be.  I also think that it’s easier for the fact that it’s a chance for hostesses to have a great time with their friends & family and the opportunity for free and discounted products, rather than just buying from a direct seller, which may not have such rewards.

5.       What are some challenges that you face in building your business?

  Well, sometimes home party plan businesses have a bad name.  What I mean by that is, some people think there are costs to hosting a party, they just don’t think they’re going to have the time, or they think the products are just going to be too expensive and no one will make any purchases if they do come to a party.

6.       How has owning a party pan business changed you as a woman? (Specifically party plan aspect) 

Oh my goodness, I’m much more open to discussing topics with complete strangers.  I’m more willing to approach someone I don’t even know and am thrilled that I can honestly offer them a great reason to have a party or to join my team.  I have such pride in what I do!

7.       How do you approach people to book parties? What do you say? Where do you go?

  I hand someone a business card and tell them what I do and tell them a little bit about the business.  I often listen to what I hear ladies talking about and relate their conversation to how a party could benefit them.  I’ll do this anywhere I am, whether it be at the store, the mall, a restaurant, wherever!  Wherever I am, someone or everyone is going to know what I do!

8.       What type of themes do you use for your parties? How do you come up with fresh party ideas?

  I can do most any theme…..bachelorette parties, bridal showers, birthday parties, anniversary, girls night in, holiday parties, you name it!  Many times I just listen to what the hostess has going on in her life and she’ll have an idea for a theme herself without even knowing it!

9.       What are some tips for someone just starting out? Organization, confidence, record keeping, etc.

  Believe in yourself!  Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are great businesses!  Don’t lose hope if your businesses starts out slow.  Give it some time and keep the enthusiasm.  Know your products and party plan!  The more you know, the more people will trust in you and turn to you as an “expert”.  Make a name for yourself.

10.   Can you describe a typical party? How long it lasts, how long you talk, what the guests do, etc.

  Wow, with my business, there really is no “typical” party!  Lol!  That’s what I love so much about it.  Every one is so much fun and you just never know what you’re going to hear or see!  I love it!  I’ll never get bored with it just for that reason.  However, to sum it up a little, I introduce myself, my background and the business and have everyone introduce themselves too with a game.  My parties are usually about an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the size of the crowd, how many questions are asked, etc., and that includes a short break halfway through.  I speak about my products in a fun and informative way, pass them around for guests to see, touch, taste, hear, etc. and play a couple of games to keep everyone on their toes and very entertained!  Let me just say, there’s never a dull moment at my FYP parties!  Lol!

11.   Do you have a mentor? If so who? Why did you decide to get a mentor? How has it helped you? If not, how do you stay focused?

  My mentor is my sponsor and director, Jen Hasseler.  She’s one of my driving forces.  I aim to be just as great, if not better (hee hee) than her.  As busy as she is, she always has time to help me and support me.  She knows when I have a party and cheers me on, even if it’s a quick text message when I’m actually AT a party!  A great sponsor/mentor is very important!  I’ve had other sponsors with other businesses and found that if the personalities just don’t match up, it’s not going to be helpful.  You need a great relationship with your sponsor.  If you’re not comfortable with that person, find someone who is willing to help you that you ARE comfortable with.  Choose who you sign up with carefully.  Make sure they’re there for you and not just the commissions they may be receiving from you.  They need to be supportive and helpful, not untouchable.  You should or will be in contact with this person sometimes on a daily basis, so make it an enjoyable relationship.

Chris Bowen

Website= At Home With Pleasure

Thanks Chris!

Here is her interview:

1. Why did you choose to join/start a home party plan business?
I chose this industry because I have a passion for it.  I love the diversity of the types of parties that I am able to plan.  I do many children’s birthday parties and it means a lot to me to be able to assist parents save time and be able to give the children the party that they still deserve.

2. Can you tell us a bit about the party plan industry and why it
is such a hot market to join? 

Many people think that anybody can do this business, so many people are attempting it.  Other people realize that there is a great need to help parents and businesses with the preparations because sometimes there just is not enough time.  When others can take some of the burden away, there is a great need and many people are cashing in on that need.

3. How do you book parties? How do you advertise your business? 

 Because I have a diversity of parties that I do, I do a variety of advertising.  I have a listing in The Perfect Wedding Guide, which is a free magazine for brides that are getting married.  I use this for my bridal showers and bachelorette parties.  For the children’s birthday parties I advertising in a local magazine that is designed for parents’ use for children’s activities and vendors.  I also advertise in the yellow pages, have my own website and on a local radio station website.

4. Do you find party plan companies more difficult than other direct sells companies that don’t have a party plan? Yes or no and why? 

I guess I am not sure the exact meaning of this question.  I find this industry more challenging than other direct sell companies because this is a newer industry that people are still getting used to.  As more people come around to the idea and realize the need for this business, it will become less challenging.

5. What are some challenges that you face in building your
business? 

 As I said above, this is a newer industry that people are still getting used to.  People are starting to realize that they can give the perfect party without having to do all of the work.  People are starting to learn to delegate and let go of some of the tasks needed to be done during the party planning because there just is not enough time to do everything.

6. How has owning a party pan business changed you as a woman?
(Specifically party plan aspect) 

It gives me a satisfaction that I am supporting my fellow working moms.  I am able to help them realize that everything can be accomplished, even if it is not by their own hands.  Owning my own business also allows me to work from home and spend time with my 4 year old.

7. How do you approach people to book parties? What do you say?
Where do you go? 

I am working with many of the local day care centers and passing information out in their facilities.  We have been running a free website for parents for 2 years and I have many contacts in that world.  I simply ask if I can send them flyers to share with their parents.  Any parent needs to have one of my brochures and I try to pass them out whenever possible.

8. What type of themes do you use for your parties? How do you
come up with fresh party ideas? 

I am able to personalize parties to any theme that parents want.  I use the hottest trends (Hannah Montana, High School Musical, Spider-man, etc.)  I use these themes and do a lot of research of great ideas that parents will not think of and to come with new ideas that are special for each party.

9. What are some tips for someone just starting out? Organization,
confidence, record keeping, etc.

Organization is IMPERATIVE!  You have to have everything in order and know exactly where you’re going.  Knowing what clients want what (because if you screw that up, you will lose that client right from the start).  Knowing where your money is going and where it’s coming from.  If you don’t know some of this information, then you will never make it. 

10. Can you describe a typical party? How long it lasts, how long you
talk, what the guests do, etc. 

My typical birthday party is about 2 hours depending on the age of the child.  I arrive about an hour early to set up and get everything in place as well as speak with the parent.  After everything is in place, I try to stay out of the way and let the parent take over.  I am available to help whenever needed but they are running the show.  At the end I help with the clean up also.

11. Do you have a mentor? If so who? Why did you decide to get a
mentor? How has it helped you? If not, how do you stay focused? 

I do not have a mentor because what I do is something a little different than anybody that I know around here.  I have checked into other companies just for competition factors.  I stay focused by my own self-motivation.  I set monthly goals with marketing and customer interaction and such.  I feel accomplished when those goals are reached.

I enjoyed reading this inteview because this is a service that so many busy moms need!

Thanks Angie,

Angie Travis, Master Mind Planner

614-374-6353

http://www.SpoyledRottynParty.com 

…Because everyone deserves to be Spoyled

Okay so I got to “talk”to Shannon who works in the party plan industry and I could tell from her answers, that she is ball of energy! I can see why she is in the party plan industry!

Enjoy! 

1. Why did you choose to join/start a home party plan business? 

I am a stay at home mom with two small children.  I needed to get out once in a while and talk to adults!

2. Can you tell us a bit about the party plan industry and why it
is such a hot market to join?

The party plan industry is so successful , in my opinion, because you completely have control over your time. No one tells you how much or how little you have to put into it.  Also….people love getting together with friends…..and in the technology age…..where we tend to call or email……people dont have as much quality time with friends and family anymore.  With party planning….it gives your hostesses an excuse to have people over and socialize while earning FREE STUFF!

 3. How do you book parties? How do you advertise your business? 

 SAMPLING!!!

I use one on one consultations, local events, and area hospitals (new moms) to advertise and find potential hostesses.  I also book parties from parties.  I do a lot of promo material…..business cards…sample packs…..fliers.  I put them anywhere that would be applicable to  my business or where they would be noticed by a lot of people.

4. Do you find party plan companies more difficult than other direct sells companies that don’t have a party plan? Yes or no and why?

 I personally do not find it difficult, because I wanted to go out and meet new people…..Plus in my business, our product is very hands on….so just selling online or in a catalog…..we’re just another jar on a page….. at the partys though I can really show people what makes us special!

5. What are some challenges that you face in building your business? 

Promoting myself.  Thankfully this area is not saturated with consultants in my field…..but on the other hand….not many people have heard about our products either…..so my biggest challenge is getting in the door….once im in…..its great!

6. How has owning a party pan business changed you as a woman? (Specifically party plan aspect)

Public speaking……goodbye shyness!!

Professional appearance…..When you look nice…you feel nice….and it gives you a confidence that carries over onto the days youre cleaning your stove in sweat pants!  Because once you become a diva….it stays with you…..

Time out of the house……it has helped me to be calmer and more together while at home.  I’m a better mom because I am doing something for me once or twice a week!  Most people dont think of going to work as time for yourself….but for me…it truly is.

Financial gain……having the extra money to take care of things i need in my life has helped me relax a little.  I’m not so worried about the little things anymore….because I know that not only will there be enough now…..there will be extra!

7. How do you approach people to book parties? What do you say? Where do you go?

I really promote our hostess program…..let them know the benefits of having a party vs just placing an order with us.  I approach people with promo material or samples in hand….and then just ask for their opinion.  You can book or recruit ANYWHERE.  It is easiest with the people you see all the time…..store clerks, receptionists, other moms, school events, church….the list keeps going.

8. What type of themes do you use for your parties? How do you come up with fresh party ideas?

 It really depends on the hostess….if she has a certain flair about her….or she enjoys doing certain things with her friends….work with it…..

some of the themes we have used…..super bowl widows party (party plan divas idea)…..pedi-party (learn to use your current products in new ways)……mystery hostess party…..I am getting ready to have an open house for the ladies in my neighborhood….(Broad meadow ladies night out)I am going to walk around the neighborhood passing out fliers and invite them to a show at my home…..and offer a spectacular door prize!

 9. What are some tips for someone just starting out?

Organization, confidence, record keeping, etc.   Check out vista print.  They have so many things that will help you get your business together….professional business cards and a rubber stamp are a MUST.  Have a filing system.  Start a folder for each hostess….and keep her show info together….so you arent searching for little pieces of paper all over the office/house.  Keep your outlook POSITIVE.  Sell products you truly believe in….so that way when you dont have confidence in yourself….you can at least be confident in the product.  This is your garden….plant seeds(make contacts)…..water them (follow up)…..watch them grow (Throw some awesome parties!)

10. Can you describe a typical party? How long it lasts, how long you talk, what the guests do, etc.

I usually take between 1 and 2 hrs for the show….it depends on how the guest react.  If they have a lot of questions I make time to answer them.

-Introductions

-Thank the hostess ( make a BIG deal out of giving her a gift! make it special)

-Break the ice ( play some games, relax your guests, talk about yourself and your business)

-Promo (talk about the benefits of hosting/business opp)

-Demo (show products, demonstrate items)

-Q&A (let guests informally talk about what THEY want to know)

-Wind it up…..remind them again about the 3 opportunities they have…..customer…hostess…business….thank everyone….

-Take orders (while refreshments are being served….offer one on one info to the guests as they place orders.)

-Closing (make a big deal of the show sales total….tell them what all your hostess earned that night……tell them how much money you made off this show…..encourage them to get a piece of the action!)

11. Do you have a mentor? If so who? Why did you decide to get a
mentor? How has it helped you? If not, how do you stay focused?

Our company offers an excellent mentoring program…..I have several mentors.  It helps because….even though you are independent….you arent alone.  There are still people there to answer questions for you.  Getting in on conference calls and training really helps you to stay on top of whats IN in the business….it keeps you at the top of your game.  They are also a great sounding board when youre having a bad month…..it helps to keep things grounded….so you CAN keep the positive attitude!

Shannon Neal

L’Bri Pure And Natual

www.shannon1677.lbri.com

Thanks Shannon!

I asked quite a few people what it is like to be in the party plan business. I got some great and informative answers. I do have the option of doing parties with my business but never really ventured into that aspect of my business so reading this was informative even for me. I hope this can asnwer any questions you may have about the party plan industry. Okay, okay, I am finished rambling so here you go:

First is Willa Craft and she is with Tupperware.

1.       Why did you choose to join/start a home party plan business?

Willa answered: I honestly joined for the consultant discount.  I had a party for my sister-in-law and realized that I could really make some good money selling and having parties.  I planned my schedule to work around church, dance and my husbands work schedule.  It has been great!  I use this extra money to give my kids the extras (dance, gymnastics, scouts, and recently piano lessons)

2.       Can you tell us a bit about the party plan industry and why it is such a hot market to join?

Willa answered: The party plan industry is a hot market right now due to the recent lay offs we hear about all the time.  Its great for the new trend in Stay at Home and Work at Home Moms.  It is great way for Home Schooling Moms to make some extra money to contribute to the family income, without taking away from the family.  The best is flexible scheduling!  I work when I want and how much I want.  If I need extra money, I just do extra parties, it’s that simple! 

3.       How do you book parties?

Willa answered: I book most of my parties at parties.  I do make phone calls and have been successful in dating over the phone.  I also date parties just about anytime.  You have to talk about what you do.  Let others know that you have a product they want and need.  I carry items to give away and have information ready if they seem interested.  The key is to always be prepared!

4. How do you advertise your business? 

Willa answered: I stamp all catalogs with my number and website address.  I leave flyers and catalogs where I can.  I have a special bag that says “Ask me for a FREE catalog!”  I have booked parties just from that!  I try to carry some small free items to pass out to people.  I have gotten response from that as well.  I have a car sign and have placed adds in the local paper.  I send out marketing emails to former customers and hosts.  I have had booths at fairs and craft shows.  I have had shirts made with my company name and  I wear them while running errands.

5. Do you find party plan companies more difficult than other direct sells companies that don’t have a party plan? Yes or no and why?

Willa answered: I think the party plan is much easier because they get to see the product and hear what I have to say about it.  It is very different than just looking at a picture.  I can tell them all the ways they can use the product.  How to clean and care for it.  They can only put but so much in the catalog.  Not to mention that picture don’t always do it justice.

6. What are some challenges that you face in building your business?

Willa answered: You have to be creative and well seasoned around the holidays.  Keeping your business going and getting it rolling again around Christmas can sometimes be hard.  It can be done!  You just have to be a little creative.

7.  How has owning a party pan business changed you as a woman?

Willa answered: I have had to become more organized and creative.  I have learned to “read a group”, know when to tell a funny joke and stop to play a game.  I have a great sense of what my customers like and what they will think is a good deal.  I also enjoy helping others on my team.  I often come up with ideas and instead of keeping it to myself, I will email it to others. I have learned about time management as well.  Multi-tasking is my specialty.  I have learned to squeeze in things here and there to keep things running smoothly.

8. How do you approach people to book parties? What do you say? Where do you go?

Willa answered: I usually play a game at the parties.  I have envelopes with a slip of paper and let them know how the game works.  I make them an offer they can’t refuse.  I do not force anyone into parties.  It is their choice.  I may call someone and let them know about current specials and ask them would they like to have a party to get some free products.  I will even carry product with me.  Someone usually asks “Why do you have that _____” ?  I tell them I work for a company that wants me to give as many of these away as I can.  Would you like to have one?  Of course they say that they do.  I let them know if they have a party, they can get one for free. 

9.   What type of themes do you use for your parties?

Willa answered: I do theme parties by request.  I have cooked at my parties.  The host can request recipes to use.  I have had traditional parties as well as bingo parties.  They are always a big hit!  I love to do a Mystery Host party and split the host credits as the winnings!

10. How do you come up with fresh party ideas?

Willa answered: I have a great network of friends on my team!  We are always sharing ideas and brainstorming together.  Basically, I think about what I would find fun and exciting and give it a try.

11. What are some tips for someone just starting out? Organization, confidence, record keeping, etc.

Willa answered: Set up a filing system from the beginning.  Have folders for each party, note prizes, milage and supplies.  You will need this for taxes.  Have a separate account set up for your business.  You will see your money grow and it won’t mix up the family account.  Just transfer any money you may need when you need it. As far as confidence, I tell my girls just say what you know.  The customers don’t expect you to be perfect.  Just relax and have fun!

12.   Can you describe a typical party? How long it lasts, how long you talk, what the guests do, etc.

Willa answered: I  start a typical party with introductions and passing out tickets for a challenge sent on guest invitations.  They love this part.  I start with some sales specials and the featured buy.  I stop after 10 to 15 minutes and play a game.  I show some regular products and play another game (usually a recruiting game).  I have a few more things to add and play a dating game.  I pass out order forms and lead slips for everyone.  I party plan with those that have dated a party and take orders.  After the orders are taken, the tickets are used for a drawing for free products.  Anyone that doesn’t win a drawing get a small gift from me. (just because)  My parties are usually between 1 to 1 1/2 hours, not including set up and closing.

12.  Do you have a mentor? If so who? Why did you decide to get a mentor? How has it helped you? If not, how do you stay focused?

Willa answered: My mentor is my director!  She is awesome.  I email and talk with her weekly.  She is so energetic and positive.  She has monthly meetings and motivates us to do so much.  I have friends that I talk to alot.  We brain storm and share ideas.  They too are an important part of what I do.  Networking is very important to me. 

Thanks Willa Craft for helping us non-partying , no fun people out! I kid I kid! But thanks!

Check out Willa’s Tupperware website for more information: http://my2.tupperware.com/wcraft