Is My 1st Real Show Planned Out Perfectly?

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around a participant's planning for their first cooking show, discussing recipe choices, timing, and the overall structure of the event. Participants share their experiences and thoughts on how to balance the number of recipes with the show's length and guest engagement.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions scheduling three shows for March and considers making a 30-minute chicken recipe with an aioli spread and chocolate cake.
  • Another participant shares their experience that two recipes, one more complex and one simpler, are often a good approach, suggesting the host could provide some ingredients.
  • Several users mention the importance of not overwhelming guests with too many recipes, emphasizing that the goal is to provide a taste rather than a full meal.
  • One participant notes that keeping the show short can be beneficial, suggesting incorporating games or guest involvement to extend the time without complicating the cooking process.
  • Another participant expresses concern about the cost of ingredients and suggests considering simpler recipes to manage expenses.
  • One participant highlights that a shorter show may appeal to busy guests and demonstrates respect for their time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the ideal number of recipes and the length of the show, with some participants advocating for simplicity and brevity while others suggest a more elaborate approach. No clear consensus emerges on the best strategy for the show.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from their own shows, reflecting a range of strategies and considerations for planning cooking demonstrations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants preparing for their first shows may find the shared experiences and viewpoints relevant as they navigate their own planning processes.

SilverCeladon
SilverCeladon
Messages
704
I have three shows scheduled for March. My first one is on the 19th. (I scheduled them out that far because I wanted to make sure I got the freebies that are between 3/16-4/20)

Anyways I was thinking about making the 30 minute chicken recipe with the aioli spread for sandwiches. For dessert I was going to make chocolate cake in the rice cooker. I might add a salad to show off the salad dressing mixer-I can't even remember the name of it right now....is that enough to make? I don't want to have a super short show but I don't want to have a super long one either.
 
That is more than what a lot of people make! Remember that we are there to give them a taste, not feed them. I would ask the host to make a salad if she wants, and that you will provide the dressing... I would also ask her to provide any extras for the sandwiches. I usually do 2 recipes, one tougher and one easy...or bring the 2nd one already or mostly made.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Okay, that does sound better. I just do the dressing for the salad then. I was worried because while the chicken is cooking-I'll probably have it done by the time the guests arrive-that all I'll be making is the spread and that doesn't take long at all.
 
SilverCeladon said:
Okay, that does sound better. I just do the dressing for the salad then. I was worried because while the chicken is cooking-I'll probably have it done by the time the guests arrive-that all I'll be making is the spread and that doesn't take long at all.
Click to expand...

I would wiat and do the chicken when the guests first arrive...and then while it is in the microwave, do the spread and your talk...go through the catty or some products. And you can also get the cake ready to go so that you can put it in soon after the chicken comes out!
 
WOW!!! Slow down! What you don't want to happen is make it look too hard to do or too expensive to host! If you want to do the 30 minute chicken, great. While the chicken is cooking, make something to go along with the chicken, like the aoli spread for the sandwiches. Then use the Simple Additions to display all the sandwich fixings as you prep them. If you still want to do a dessert, have one of the guests or the hosts put the batter together and place it in the microwave once the chicken is out.Look at what you want to do from a cost perspective.
Chicken - $3 (average)
Ingredients for aoli - $3
Chocolate Cake Mix - $1
Ingredients for cake - $3
Lettuce - $1
Other assorted veggies - $10 (it can get pricey depending on what you use!)
Dressing ingredients - $4$25 total - and that is if the host doesn't have anything else!Yes, some of the ingredients might be on hand, but the host will still have to replace them at some time in the future.As for the time, this really sounds like it could be a long show! Especially since you have never done it before and you could be nervous, forget things, etc. Then there always seems to be people with tons of questions when you are trying something new! Murphy's Law or something. Make the decision for yourself, but my director (NED Susan Kaufmann) makes only one recipe per show unless she has a specific goal in mind - like selling more 12" skillets - and then she will add an easy recipe like the Turtle Fudge Skillet Cake.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Wow Kate-you're so right! I didn't even think of the cost! I wonder if I should do the Three Cheese Garden Pizza instead? lol
 
You might want to offer to bring the cake batter or something. Make it simple and fun!
 
I think that the 30 minute chicken is a GREAT idea, and will actually be easier than most of the other recipes. Then just do the spread when you first put the chicken in. That should be enough!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Okay...I was wanting to do the chicken recipe because it is easy. I don't need something complicated while doing my first show-I can't imagine talking and cooking at one time! If it's short it's short, right? I guess I will get better as time goes on. Thanks for your replies!
 
Short is sometimes better. Plan to do a game or two and maybe even have the guests get involved. That should lengthen the time of the show a bit. Also realize that a lot of people are busy and don't have time to sit through a 2 hour show - and not many people want to. So, this might show them that they too can book and have a short show and get busy people to come. It also shows them that you value their time. In fact, you might want to say that at the beginning so that they understand when it is short. When you mean short, how short? My show last weekend was 40 minutes. However, the guests chatted for the first 10-15 and then I got started. It had been an hour since the "show time" when I finished. Then I was able to mingle with them and answer any questions. That one-on-one time with the guests to "help them spend their money" is crucial to sales and bookings. And, who knows, you might find someone who is too shy to ask about the opportunity in a group but might ask you some red flag questions when you are talking privately.You'll do great!
 
So, what did you decide to do?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider when planning my first real show?

When planning your first real show, consider the date and time, location, guest list, theme, and menu. Ensure you choose a date that works for your target audience and a location that is convenient. Think about the type of demonstration you want to conduct and what recipes or products will be featured to engage your guests effectively.

How can I ensure I have enough guests at my first show?

To ensure a good turnout, start by inviting friends and family who are supportive and interested in the products. Use social media, email, and personal invitations to reach out. Consider offering incentives, such as a small gift or a discount on their orders, to encourage attendance. Follow up with reminders as the date approaches to keep your show on their radar.

What if I run out of time during my demonstration?

To avoid running out of time, practice your demonstration multiple times before the show. Create a clear outline of what you want to cover and stick to a schedule. Be mindful of the time spent on each segment and adjust your presentation as needed to ensure you cover all key points without rushing through the end.

How can I handle unexpected issues during my first show?

Unexpected issues can arise, so it's essential to stay calm and adaptable. Have a backup plan for equipment failures, such as bringing extra utensils or a portable stove. If a recipe doesn't turn out as expected, use it as a teaching moment to showcase problem-solving skills. Remember, your guests are there to learn and have fun, so maintaining a positive attitude will help keep the atmosphere enjoyable.

What follow-up actions should I take after my first show?

After your first show, follow up with your guests to thank them for attending and to gather feedback. Send out thank-you notes or emails, and share any special offers or promotions. This is also a great time to encourage them to host their own shows or place orders. Building relationships and maintaining communication will help grow your business and customer base.

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