First Cook Show Success: Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Perfect Open House

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread centers around a participant's experience hosting their first cook show, described as an Open House. The discussion includes reflections on the event, sales outcomes, and the excitement of securing future bookings. Participants share their thoughts on the challenges and successes of hosting, as well as strategies for engaging guests.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared their experience of hosting their first cook show, noting it was a way to ease their nerves.
  • Several participants expressed excitement about the five bookings secured, highlighting the potential for future sales and customer growth.
  • Another participant mentioned feeling slow while totaling orders and sought reassurance that speed would improve with experience.
  • Some users noted the importance of engaging with guests one-on-one to discuss orders and hosting opportunities.
  • One participant reflected on the challenges of selling to guests who are newly married and not particularly interested in cooking.
  • Another participant shared their experience of transitioning to Pampered Chef products after their wedding, emphasizing the quality of the items.
  • Several participants discussed the importance of showcasing easy and quick recipes to attract guests who may not enjoy cooking.
  • One participant mentioned the need to build up their product inventory for better demonstrations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of engaging guests who are not interested in cooking, with some participants expressing optimism about converting them through easy recipes, while others acknowledge the challenge.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences from various participants, particularly those who are consultants, regarding their initial hosting experiences and strategies for future success.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on hosting cook shows, managing guest interactions, and strategies for securing bookings may find this thread beneficial.

pamperedchef_OK_LA_MS
pamperedchef_OK_LA_MS
Messages
135
Well, last night was my first cook show! It was basically just an Open House... enough to let me get my jitters out! I invited my Pokeno group because it is a group of girls that I am comfortable around. I made the Garden Dip during the show. I already had the Chicken Enchilada Ring and Chocolate CHip sensation already prepared.

Everything went well... I played pass the product to help me figure out what I still need to learn!! :)

The sales weren't very high (around $150.) I think that was because most people had never gone to a PC show and they also thought it was just an Open House for me to get comfortable (which it was.) I still have some outside orders to get too...

GOOD NEWS--- I got 5 bookings!!! Better yet... all of the bookings are from different circles of people, so it wont be the same people at each cook show!!! YEA!!
 
Way to go! That's exactly what it takes to build a successful business.
 
Congrats!!! The bookings are one of the best things for your business, because that will lead to more sales, and a larger customer base since it will be different circles of people!! :)
 
AWESOME!!!! You are sure to have a fantastic start with all those bookings!
 
Way to go on getting your first show under your belt!! And congratulations on so many bookings - that's awesome!! :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
YEA!! I was kind of nervous when people weren't really ordering alot, but I guess it will all turn out. Also... most of the girls there last night were recently married, so they still have lots of 'new' things... and most of them aren't really into cooking. But, they are all about hosting a party and inviting their families and in-laws...

I felt so slow last night when I was totalling people up!! Is that normal?? Will speed come with time?? Please say yes!!! :)
 
pamperedchef_OK_LA_MS said:
I felt so slow last night when I was totalling people up!! Is that normal?? Will speed come with time?? Please say yes!!! :)
Click to expand...

Yes it will! You will become more familiar with the receipts, taxes, shipping, etc! If you feel like you are being rushed because they are standing over your shoulder, then start asking them to drop them off on the chair next to you, and then you do them at your pace, and they can go back and chat with their friends! Also, you can ask people to bring them up as they are ready...so that you don't get them all at once!
 
You'll get a bit faster at the actual figuring of the orders. However, I like to take a few minutes with each guest. It's the only real opportunity to talk one-on-one with them about their order, hosting, and the business opportunity.
 
5 bookings??!!??

wowza!!!!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Great ideas!!! Thanks so much!! Here is what my calendar looks like so far... I think I am on the right track...

February-- 3 cookshows and 2 catalog shows
March-- 5 cookshows and 0 catalog
April-- 1 cookshow and 1 catalog

I just don't want it to be really strong and then dwindle out... I have a good friend who works for another direct selling company... and her sales were really, really good to begin with and now they aren't to hot. I think that is because she hasn't really networked her business... She has only gone as far as her close group of family and friends. I don't know???
 
Last edited:
  • Thread starter
  • #11
dannyzmom said:
5 bookings??!!??

wowza!!!!!!
Click to expand...

Ya!!! I was really excited!! Only one of them is in February though.. all of the rest are for March!! One good thing... It will help me get my super starters!!!
 
Wow - congrats! I wouldn't balk at the $150 in sales when you have 5 bookings, that will draw more!

On the newlyweds that don't like to cook...don't let that deter you...get them hooked. Pick out a recipe that is EASY to make, and tastes good. Show them how having PC tools in your kitchen can make it "quick and easy" and get you on to other things. Show them how most things can clean up VERY easy - like the chopper - speeds things up then opens fully for cleaning.

Good luck - I hope I will be sharing a good first soon too!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
Ya... that was the aspect I took last night... EASY, SIMPLE, and YUMMY!!! They all were impressed 1- at how easy it was and 2-at how little time it took!!!
 
Congratulations! I started selling PC 7 months after I got married, and I have gotten rid of most of my kitchen items that I received for my wedding because PC items are so much better! If they haven't come to shows before, then they just don't know how great PC is. Keep on them and ask them about their products they did buy. Provide them with other uses for those items and before you know it, they'll be hooked!:)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
I found that the products they did buy... were the ones that I had with me... the ones in the 'old' starter kit'

I just need to build up my stuff, so i have more to demo with and show off!!
 
show off the simple additions to your friends who don't cook but are all about having parties. If they like to entertain then they will love our pieces. I can't tell you how many non-pc parties I have been to where there are Simple additions serving pieces! If you don't have them yet show them in the catty...I think they show well in the catty.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a First Cook Show and why is it important for Pampered Chef consultants?

A First Cook Show is an introductory cooking demonstration hosted by a Pampered Chef consultant to showcase products and share cooking tips. It is important because it helps consultants build relationships with potential customers, demonstrate the value of the products, and generate sales while creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.

How can I effectively promote my First Cook Show to ensure good attendance?

To effectively promote your First Cook Show, utilize social media platforms, send out personalized invitations, and create an event page. Encourage your friends and family to share the event, and consider offering incentives such as a raffle or discounts for attendees. Additionally, follow up with reminders as the date approaches to keep your event top of mind.

What are some tips for creating an engaging atmosphere during the open house?

To create an engaging atmosphere, set up a welcoming space with good lighting and a clean, organized kitchen. Use upbeat music to create a lively environment, and encourage interaction by asking guests to participate in cooking or tasting. Sharing personal stories about the products and offering samples can also enhance engagement and make guests feel more connected.

What types of recipes should I prepare for my First Cook Show?

Choose recipes that are simple, quick, and highlight the versatility of Pampered Chef products. Opt for dishes that can be made in under 30 minutes and require minimal ingredients. Popular choices include dips, appetizers, or one-pot meals that allow guests to see the products in action while also being delicious and easy to replicate at home.

How can I follow up with guests after the First Cook Show?

After the First Cook Show, send a thank-you message to all attendees, expressing your appreciation for their participation. Include a recap of the recipes demonstrated and a link to your Pampered Chef website for easy ordering. You can also invite them to join your mailing list for future events and promotions, and consider offering a special discount for their first purchase to encourage sales.

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