Considering an Open House? Get Expert Opinions and Tips Here!

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread centers around the idea of hosting an open house event by a participant considering this option while visiting family. Various participants share their thoughts on the potential benefits and challenges of hosting such an event, along with suggestions for maximizing engagement and attendance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant is contemplating an open house during a family visit but expresses uncertainty about the commitment of attendees and the potential workload during vacation.
  • Several participants believe hosting an open house is a great idea, suggesting it could generate excitement around new products and recipes.
  • One participant mentions the possibility of using the event to spark interest in recruiting new team members or booking future shows.
  • Another participant suggests advertising new spring products and hosting a drawing for attendees.
  • One participant shares their experience with hosting mystery host shows, noting that offering multiple time slots helped increase attendance.
  • Another participant advises against calling it an open house, suggesting a Mystery Host party format instead to encourage commitment from guests.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While many participants express enthusiasm for the idea of an open house, there are differing opinions on the best approach to ensure attendance and engagement. No clear consensus emerges regarding the format or naming of the event.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and varying levels of comfort with hosting events, highlighting the challenges of engaging potential attendees.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants considering hosting events or open houses may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant to their planning process.

krzymomof4
Silver Member
Messages
1,682
I am considering having an open house. To make a long story short, I do alot of shows in my parents part of the state, 3 hours away, since the weather has been unpredictable lately I have not had as many shows. My family will be going there during our kid's spring break(cheap vacation). I thought about having an open house while I was there. I have never done an open house and have read through the posts about them. I like the idea of doing a drawing for a $50 shopping spree, etc. This could potentially go really well, or be a total disaster. I wanted to get your thoughts of whether or not I should do this. I am having trouble having people over there commit to shows right now, and don't know if I am all that excited about working every day of my vacations.
What are your thoughts and suggestions on what would be best? You guys are the greatest for pushing me in the right direction.
 
I think it sounds like a great idea. Be sure to whip up lots of excitement about seeing new products, tasting new recipes, etc.
 
I think it sounds like a great idea! Great way to show off the new spring catty!

Maybe with doing this you can also spark some interest for recruiting and starting a team there since it is a 3 hour drive. Or get some bookings maybe for spring or summer when your kids could visit again!

HTH-
Kelly :-))
 
Def. advertise the new spring products. Maybe have a drawing to win one of the new spring products.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Well, I just finished a list..just to see how many orders I have gotten from there with their contact infor on the order form. This doesn't count people I went to school with that I haven't spoken to in years. I already have 80 names. That is a little overwhelming. I do have one show for my SIL while I am there, so I am not even putting the people I know she will be inviting on the list!!! Now I'm scared!
 
Deep breaths! Just think of this as a really intimate fair/festival.
 
You are correct, open houses are 'hit or miss'.

I have not had one, but I did host mystery host shows last August. I held one on Saturday evening and one on Sunday afternoon. That way the guests had a choice as to which show would work for them. I thought that worked very well. About half the guest came on Saturday night and the other half on Sunday afternoon. If I did not offer both dates, I would have had half the crowd.

The best advice I can give is you will need to host coach yourself. If you want the guests to attend, you will need to invite them and then place reminder calls to all.

Lisa
 
I wouldn't call it an open house. That means people will come and go as they please or not commit to coming at all. Call it a Mystery Host party and give away the host benefits or something like that.

Definitely make reminder calls and follow up with EVERYONE!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Open House in the context of Pampered Chef?

An Open House is an event where a Pampered Chef consultant invites guests to their home or a designated location to showcase products, demonstrate cooking techniques, and provide an opportunity for attendees to purchase items. It's a casual setting that allows potential customers to experience the products firsthand.

How do I prepare for a successful Open House?

To prepare for a successful Open House, start by selecting a date and time that works for your target audience. Create a guest list and send out invitations well in advance. Plan your menu, focusing on recipes that highlight Pampered Chef products. Set up your space to be inviting and organized, and ensure you have all necessary materials, including catalogs, order forms, and payment options.

What products should I feature during my Open House?

Feature a mix of best-selling items and new products to attract interest. Consider showcasing versatile tools that can be used in various recipes, as well as seasonal items that may appeal to your guests. Demonstrating a few recipes using these products can also help illustrate their value and functionality.

How can I encourage guests to make purchases at my Open House?

To encourage purchases, offer exclusive discounts or promotions for attendees. Create a sense of urgency by highlighting limited-time offers. Engage guests with interactive demonstrations and tastings, and provide incentives for booking future parties or referring friends. Make sure to have a clear and easy checkout process to facilitate sales.

What follow-up actions should I take after the Open House?

After the Open House, follow up with guests by sending thank-you notes or emails expressing your appreciation for their attendance. Share any additional information about products they showed interest in and remind them of any ongoing promotions. Additionally, consider reaching out to those who expressed interest in hosting their own parties or joining your team for further engagement.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

  • JennyJennJen
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
3K
ChefHeidiD
  • LakesideMom
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
5
Views
2K
LakesideMom
  • pampered2007
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
15
Views
4K
TheFreddiesCook
  • Christa
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
7
Views
2K
pamperedangie
  • robochick84
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
robochick84
  • daricsmom
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
daricsmom
  • Chef_2_Four
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
5
Views
2K
pampchefrhondab
  • passiontecooking.t
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
3K
passiontecooking.t
Replies
7
Views
2K
DebbieSAChef
  • ehall
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
pchefinski
Back
Top