Have you been wanting some new decor for your home? Is your candle supply running a little low? Need a new kitchen gadget or recipe ideas? Would you like to update your cosmetics, or get some new clothes? Of course! Who doesn’t — right? Well, if you are low on extra money; I have a great way to make you feel like you splurged, without spending too much.

Most of us have heard of Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Tupperware, Home Interiors, Party Lite, etc. Maybe you have a friend or two that earns extra money, or has built a successful business through one of these direct sales companies. You can support her  – and earn yourself some goodies in the process – by hosting a party. There is a direct sales company for just about everything!

Before we begin, I think it’s important for me to mention that I am not affiliated with these companies in any way, other than I have attended and/or had parties for one of their consultants. When I realized that I would be an at-home Mom I tried my hand at a couple direct sales businesses but it just wasn’t my thing.

Is direct sales for you?

First of all, I was my own best customer (a very bad thing if you want to make any money at all) and secondly, while I love attending these parties — but I didn’t really want to be the one running the show. I do however, know many people who are in direct sales and are absolutely fabulous at it.

Now, what was I talking about before I got all side tracked? Oh yes of course… FREE STUFF!

As I was saying, many of these companies offer their hostesses fantastic rewards for hosting a party. Sometimes free stuff, discounted items, hostess only specials and more.

So how do you host a direct sales party anyhow?

The first thing you need to do, is to decide which company you want to party with — and there are many to choose from. Next, you will want to find a consultant, if of course you don’t already know one. You can also book your own party during shows that you attend — which helps the host, the consultant and you.

Once you decide what type of party you would like to have – and you have booked a party – you need to start getting the word out to all your friends and family about the event.

Get the word out

Social media is such a wonderful tool for this. You can tweet about it, create an event on facebook to invite some – or all – of your Facebook friends, and of course mention it in your status updates. You can also send e-mails to people and of course, there’s always the good old postal service. Remember, the more people you tell about your party, the more successful it will be, and the more free and discounted stuff you will get!

Most companies even have the ability for people to participate in your party online and don’t forget about the catalogs! Carry around current catalogs and order forms wherever you go. You might get a few orders this way as well. Make sure you are aware of any specials for the month, so you can pass this information on. Don’t forget to send out reminders a day or two before the party!

The day of event make some treats for your guests. You don’t have to spend a lot, to let people know you appreciate their participation. Most consultants will also have drawings and giveaways for your guests as well.

I actually just had a party on Saturday for one of my friends who just became a Thirty-One consultant. She gave me a fabulous lunch tote (pictured above), just for hosting. Plus, I was able to order two items that I really wanted — for half the retail price. I also had a lot of fun, with some of my favorite ladies!

Have you hosted a successful direct sales event? What did you do to get the word out? What is you all time favorite direct sales company and what is your favorite item?

Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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