First Show Flop: How Can I Boost Bookings for My Open House?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses challenges faced by participants in securing bookings for their Pampered Chef shows, particularly after initial events. Participants share personal experiences, strategies, and suggestions for improving attendance and bookings at open houses.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expressed frustration over not receiving bookings after their first show, despite achieving a total of around $600 in sales.
  • Another participant shared that they also had no bookings from their first three shows but eventually secured six bookings from their third show.
  • Several users mentioned the importance of actively asking guests about booking shows during events and providing information about host benefits.
  • One participant recounted their experience of hosting an open house with low attendance but still achieving good sales, though they did not receive any bookings.
  • Another participant suggested offering incentives, such as free items or discounts, to encourage bookings.
  • One user highlighted the significance of making open houses engaging and fun to attract more attendees and potential bookings.
  • Another participant noted that they had success with door prizes and incentives to encourage bookings during shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various strategies for securing bookings, with no clear consensus on the best approach. Some participants emphasize the need for proactive engagement, while others suggest offering incentives.

Contextual Notes

Participants shared experiences from their early days in the business, reflecting a range of outcomes and strategies related to open houses and show bookings.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on improving bookings and engagement at their shows may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

S
schel
Messages
787
:(
Hello!
Well, had my first show, totals are not all in yet but I think we are at around $600.00 so far.
No one wanted to book though. (Frustrating!)
I have my Open House this weekend and hope things are going to go better.
I was wondering if I should have put an ad in the weekly paper in town, but never got around to it.
I am going to put signs out kind of advertising like when you have a garage sale the day of the Open House with directions to my house.
I really have no Idea how many this will bring in, has anyone ever done this?
So; I am really hoping for some bookings off of this show.
Wish me luck!
Schel
 
Here are some threads about open houses..
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=7467&highlight=open+house
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=7273&highlight=open+house
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=6407&highlight=open+house
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=6406&highlight=open+house
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=5322&highlight=open+house (doing open house as a fundraiser for Help Whip Cancer)
http://www.chefsuccess.com/showthread.php?t=5270&highlight=open+house

those are just some. if you click on the "search" button at the top right of your screen, you can type in "open house" and get pages of threads. good luck at finding the help you need, and if you need anything else, everyone's here for ya!
 
I had no bookings from my first 3 shows then only 1 from my third! 4 months later and bookings are still my hard spot. Just keep it up. It is well worth it the first time you see the $$$!!
 
I didn't get any bookings from my 1st 3 shows either:( My SS1 was March. But things are looking up! My SS3 I already have 6 bookings for May. Just keep at it, if you build it they will come lol!!:D If you can find the CD by Belinda Ellsworth called "Step into Success" definitely listen to it! Ask around at your Cluster meetings! And definitely go to your Cluster meetings, everyone is soooo helpful! And this site is a must!!:D And just make sure that you spend more time working than you do on this site "addicting"!!
 
Last edited:
Get on the phone. Call everyone and ask them again.
 
in my first month of business I did 3 cooking and 1 catalogue show and only got 1 catalogue booking.
I did a open house last month and I sent out a mass email, made invitations and passed around the neighbourhood...and I think less then 10 came, but I still ended up with a $600 show, but no bookings :(
 
Are you asking every single person at check out if they want to book a show? Are you mentioning it at least three times during your demo? Do you talk about host benefits?
 
If you are desperate...offer FREE stuff along with host benefits. I'm not selling to go into bankrupcy or anything but a little arm twisting is needed sometimes and a little incentive goes a long way. Sometimes it is the reason some people will take a chance and do a show. Something small but something nice!
You could even offer to buy the ingredients "Free Show!"
I know when I first started PC we had to have 6 shows to qualify and I had them already set up and ready to go. I didn't get any bookings the first 3 shows but then after that I offered a little something FREE that I would tag on to their host order and I got bookings.
I also did FREE ingredients a few times and that worked!
Plus I also said "Look everyone honestly I am new at this and I really need some help to boost my business! I would appreciate you doing a show for me, catalog or kitchen or giving me some referrals. I know you must know some people who love to cook, or love to have their cooking time made easier and quicker with PC products!"
I offered the highest selling host for my first three starter months a FREE gift also! Just some pot holders, oven mitts, kitchen towels, and a PC cookbook!
Debbie
Just some ideas!
 
I started off the year by drawing the door prize and it being a free cooking show. That got me going for a couple of months and then at the February show I only had four people show up and no one put their name in or pulled their names out when I said what the prize was. Now i don't know what to do. I have a couple of catalog shows out and I don't want to sound desperate for cooking shows. Any ideas?
 
I have ordered samples and such from the paperwork supply, especially for door prizes! These are some items I have given out as door prizes:
• Season's Best (Paperwork, 10 for $6)
• Citrus Peeler (Paperwork, 10 for $3)
• Quick-cut paring knife (Paperwork, 5 for $4)
• Dill seasoning samples (Paperwork, 5 for $4)
• coffee samples (Paperwork 4 for $4)

When I really want bookings, I add an extra incentive when talking about it. Such as recently, I offered a free batter bowl when they book a show. To encourage hosts this month getting bookings at their shows I am offering $5 off the top of their order if they get two or more bookings. I am also offering free cooking shows if people book a show with me by May 15.
 
People love free stuff, and make sure that the open house is fun, like with games maybe? My open house was a bust because I didn't say anything about any of the products and everyone was sitting around waiting to leave. It barely closed above $300. I gave free things to everyone (good stuff like the saute pan, jumbo turner, and outdoor plates) but it just wasn't any fun. I was going to put out signs for the public like you say, but I chickened out.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my first show didn't generate any bookings?

If your first show didn't generate any bookings, don't be discouraged! Analyze what might have gone wrong—consider factors like timing, guest engagement, or product selection. Reach out to your attendees for feedback and ask if they would be interested in hosting a future show. Additionally, consider offering incentives for bookings, such as discounts or free products, to encourage them to host.

How can I promote my open house effectively?

To promote your open house effectively, utilize social media platforms, create eye-catching flyers, and send personal invitations to friends and family. Highlight the benefits of attending, such as exclusive offers, fun activities, and the opportunity to sample products. Engage with your audience by sharing sneak peeks of what they'll experience at the event.

What types of incentives can I offer to boost bookings?

Incentives can be a great way to encourage bookings. Consider offering a discount on their next purchase, a free product for hosting, or a special gift for the host's guests. You can also create a tiered incentive program where hosts earn more rewards based on the number of guests they invite or the sales generated during their show.

How can I engage guests during my open house to encourage bookings?

Engaging guests during your open house is crucial for boosting bookings. Create interactive experiences, such as cooking demonstrations or hands-on product trials. Encourage guests to ask questions and share their own experiences. Make sure to highlight the benefits of hosting a show, such as earning free products and having fun with friends.

What follow-up strategies can I use after my open house to secure bookings?

After your open house, follow up with attendees through personalized messages or emails thanking them for coming and reminding them of the benefits of hosting a show. Share any special offers or promotions that are still available. You can also ask for feedback on the event and express your enthusiasm for working with them to create a fun and successful show.

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