Creating the Perfect Host Packet: What to Include

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around the various components that participants include in their host packets for Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their personal experiences and preferences regarding the materials and organization of these packets.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, includes a host planner, invitations, a checklist, current specials, and catalogs in their host packet.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using a big envelope and including similar items, emphasizing the organization of materials.
  • One participant mentions using folders without prongs, detailing specific items for both guests and hosts, including catalogs, order forms, and addressed envelopes for collecting orders.
  • Another participant discusses their approach to mailing invitations and the challenges of ensuring hosts send out a sufficient number of invites.
  • One participant notes that they have had varying success with hosts completing the 40-name requirement for invitations.
  • Several users mention the idea of pre-made host packets from Super Starter Kits, with mixed feelings about their effectiveness and completeness.
  • One participant expresses concern about the cost of postage and considers asking hosts to cover it, sharing their thoughts on potential impacts on the number of invitations sent.
  • Another participant highlights the importance of including monthly specials in the packets, as their outside order forms do not have this information.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness and completeness of pre-made host packets, with some participants expressing dissatisfaction with their basic contents. There is no clear consensus on the best approach to organizing host packets or the handling of postage costs.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal experiences and preferences regarding the contents and organization of host packets, reflecting individual practices rather than a standardized method.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas on organizing host packets and those interested in different approaches to managing invitations and materials for shows may find this discussion relevant.

W
whatsthefkeydo
Messages
9
Hi Everyone
I'm new to all this and I was wondering what should you include in your host packets.
 
whatsthefkeydo said:
Hi Everyone
I'm new to all this and I was wondering what should you include in your host packets.
Click to expand...

I get folders with the middle tabs. In the left hand pocket, I put the Host planner and invitations, in the middle I put a checklist for the host to do, the current and next month's host/guest specials, a checklist of last minute stuff, and in the back pocket I put 2-3 catalogs 10 outside order forms and an opportunity borchure.

and an ingredient list if needed :)
 
I put all of that in there as well. :D ( I use a big envelope.
 
I use similar folders, but without the prongs in the middle. The left pocket is the "for the guests" side and includes:
  • 3 catalogs
  • 3 sale fliers
  • 5 outside order forms (I use my own so I don't have to worry about which ones are in the folders, because I try to make up a bunch of host packs at a time)
  • an envelope (6x9) addressed to me for collecting outside orders
  • 2 sets of the invitation address labels from supply order
  • 40 guests in 4 minutes sheet
  • stamped envelope (6x9) addressed to me for the host to mail me the labels
Those last 3 items are clipped together with a card that says, "These labels are for your invitations. Please complete as many as possible and return them to me in the attached envelope. If you send me 40 or more names, I'll pay the postage. Otherwise, please include postcard stamps or a check to cover the labels that you do complete."

The right pocket is the "host" side and includes:
  • 1 catalog
  • flier with host and guest specials on it (2-sided)
  • show planner
  • Two hostesses poem
  • Do you love a bargain flier
  • recruiting brochure
  • recruiting DVD (the new one)
  • bright postcard with their web password
 
Ann, I've been sending out the invitations for my hosts and covering postage but never put a minimum number of invitations on it. Wondering how that's working for you. What percentage of your hostesses complete the 40. Do you get some back without payment that are less than 40 names? I like the idea of the host having their own side. I'm wondering about making up the packets with os order forms ahead of time too. Do you have them generic or do you do something additional when you send the packet to make them aware of guest specials? Is that what the sale fliers are for? Are the sale fliers the guest special?
 
Andrea,

What is your checklist of last minute stuff?
 
I know of a director that has the hosts pay for the postage and if the show goes up over $500, she gives them back the cost of postage. She mails the invites out, they included the cost when the list comes back to her.
She says she had never had a problem.

I have been thinking about doing this, one for better sales, and two the cost of postage has been unreal!
The only thing I worry about is having them want to send out like 10 invites since they are paying for it.
I like Ann's idea, at least you would get 40 names and not 10!

Kelly
 
YOu'll find a couple of threads on this..type in host packets and see a variety of what people do. You'll see everyone puts a couple of basic things and then some change it up. The best thing to do is make a host packet list for youself and put it by your desk so you can stuff them the save and don't for get anything.
 
MicheleC said:
Ann, I've been sending out the invitations for my hosts and covering postage but never put a minimum number of invitations on it. Wondering how that's working for you. What percentage of your hostesses complete the 40. Do you get some back without payment that are less than 40 names? I like the idea of the host having their own side. I'm wondering about making up the packets with os order forms ahead of time too. Do you have them generic or do you do something additional when you send the packet to make them aware of guest specials? Is that what the sale fliers are for? Are the sale fliers the guest special?
Click to expand...
Sometimes the postage works for me, sometimes it doesn't. I've had a few shows book in real close lately, and I just give the host a packet of invitations that have already been labeled with the show info. I don't often get 40 names. But I also offer the free mailing when I offer a "free" show as an incentive.

My outside order forms do not have the monthly specials on them. They are blank. That's why I include the monthly specials fliers in the packet. I'm not organized enough to keep track of special order forms for every month. When I go to shows, I take a couple of generic host packs and a folder with specials for the next couple of months. Then I put the appropriate fliers in the host pack.
 
Good idea, Ann. Has anyone seen the host packets that come pre-done in the Super Starter Kits? I would love to buy those and save me some time!! Maybe if enough of us bug them......
 
DizziePixie said:
Good idea, Ann. Has anyone seen the host packets that come pre-done in the Super Starter Kits? I would love to buy those and save me some time!! Maybe if enough of us bug them......
Click to expand...

They are VERY basic - 1 catalog, the show planner and 1 pack of invitations in an envelope. By the time you add outside order forms, a couple more catalogs and specials for the month, they really don't save any time.
 
chefann said:
They are VERY basic - 1 catalog, the show planner and 1 pack of invitations in an envelope. By the time you add outside order forms, a couple more catalogs and specials for the month, they really don't save any time.
Click to expand...

Yes, very true - I spent more time looking at what they included and adding a few catalogs and outside order forms than if I started fresh...At least it gave me some supplies! :)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a host packet and why is it important?

A host packet is a collection of materials and information provided to potential hosts to help them understand the benefits of hosting a Pampered Chef party. It is important because it equips hosts with the necessary tools to promote their party, understand the products, and maximize their rewards.

What should I include in a host packet?

A comprehensive host packet should include a host brochure, a catalog of products, a party planning checklist, a sample invitation, and information about host rewards and incentives. You may also want to include tips for successful parties and any promotional materials relevant to upcoming sales.

How can I personalize a host packet for each potential host?

To personalize a host packet, consider including a handwritten note that addresses the potential host by name and mentions specific products they might enjoy based on their preferences. You can also customize the packet with information about their social circle and suggest themes or activities that would resonate with their guests.

How do I present the host packet to a potential host?

Present the host packet in a friendly and enthusiastic manner. Schedule a time to meet with the potential host, either in person or virtually, and walk them through the contents of the packet. Highlight the benefits of hosting and answer any questions they may have to encourage them to take the next step.

How often should I update the contents of my host packet?

It’s a good idea to review and update your host packet regularly, especially when new products are released or when there are changes to host rewards or promotions. Aim to refresh the packet at least every season to ensure that it remains relevant and appealing to potential hosts.

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