November Mystery $1000 Catalog Show - Participants and Results

[Bren706]

I added 4 more participants today. 3 were guests at the 2 cooking shows I had today. (Offered the mystery show after they turned down the option of a cooking show). The 4th was in response to my e-mail. It is my stepson's mother, who is out of state. I am not sure how to handle that now, as I have 2 out of state participants (the other one is my SIL).

 

[lacychef]

I'm doing this also, but need to get on the phone. I only have 1 so far. I'm letting mine go until after turkey day though; in case people want to hit up their family members.

 

[jillbean]

I hadn't thought about hitting up family at Thankgiving. I may need to move the cut off date. It's just that I want it in by the last day of November and I don't usually work on Sundays. I guess I could do it on Saturday though.
That's a BIG weekend for me! I have two family dinners on Thanksgiving Day, Shopping the day after Thanksgiving and then we deliver supper to the Ronald McDonald House and head home to put up our tree (we only do the tree itself, lightson the tree and three ornaments...one for each kid) and then we get up early on Saturday to finish the tree and our other Christmas decorations!

 

[jfaith13]

Hey everyone, I read this idea and excitedly emailed my director about it, asking if she'd ever tried it before. Her response surprised me, but I felt like I should share it with you guys. She's been in the company for 19 years, so she's seen and heard a lot of things come down from Home Office. Here was her reply:

"This is an idea that went around a few years ago. In fact, I even tried it once. However, once the home office heard about what was going around the country, they labeled it as cheating and did not sanction this type of combined show. Their reasoning was because these $100 hostesses did not earn those types of benefits and it was not fair to those $1,000 hostesses who worked hard to do so. They also said that it was expensive for the company and that it did not go along with company policy or the host program since even a dual hostess catalog party is not accepted."

I know no one is trying to "cheat", but I also know that knowing this information may affect whether or not some of you choose to use this method. It's always good to be informed!

 

[Humble Beginnings]

Not sure how this can be labeled cheating. Its the same as if you hosted your own open house had 10 guest and they each ordered 100.00 worth of products. Except instead of keeping the benefits for yourself you decided to give them out to your guest. Also not how is it is costing home office anymore, they are still receiving 1000.00 order and shipping it to one host to distribute. I think this is a great idea just I personally haven't tried it yet.

 

[JAE]

Hey everyone, I read this idea and excitedly emailed my director about it, asking if she'd ever tried it before. Her response surprised me, but I felt like I should share it with you guys. She's been in the company for 19 years, so she's seen and heard a lot of things come down from Home Office. Here was her reply:

"This is an idea that went around a few years ago. In fact, I even tried it once. However, once the home office heard about what was going around the country, they labeled it as cheating and did not sanction this type of combined show. Their reasoning was because these $100 hostesses did not earn those types of benefits and it was not fair to those $1,000 hostesses who worked hard to do so. They also said that it was expensive for the company and that it did not go along with company policy or the host program since even a dual hostess catalog party is not accepted."

I know no one is trying to "cheat", but I also know that knowing this information may affect whether or not some of you choose to use this method. It's always good to be informed!

I don't understand why it's expensive for the company. I have an incentive for the hosts for the number of orders, too, not just total. I'm doing that to avoid combining orders so people are paying their own shipping. I'm not giving anyone all the host benefits. They are earning them.

Really, I'm doing most of the work and choosing to give the host benefits away. It's like inviting 25 people to a show and they all bring friends and/or orders that I didn't get myself. I'm sure someone else can provide some more insight into this.

BTW, I have 6 "yes" responses and while I was making my calls, I gained 3 separate catalog shows and few "yes" responses to my actual cooking show. I need to get back on the phone and get more people involved.

 

[jillbean]

The way I am doing it is that there is one real Host. He or She is the one that is charge of all the orders. If the host decideds to gather all $500 orders then that's what they do. If they choose to get friends to help he/she shares in the weath. How many shows have you had where one of the guests have said "Can I take a catalog with me? I think my _______ would like to order something?"
I don't see the difference.

 

[ChefBeckyD]

Hey everyone, I read this idea and excitedly emailed my director about it, asking if she'd ever tried it before. Her response surprised me, but I felt like I should share it with you guys. She's been in the company for 19 years, so she's seen and heard a lot of things come down from Home Office. Here was her reply:

"This is an idea that went around a few years ago. In fact, I even tried it once. However, once the home office heard about what was going around the country, they labeled it as cheating and did not sanction this type of combined show. Their reasoning was because these $100 hostesses did not earn those types of benefits and it was not fair to those $1,000 hostesses who worked hard to do so. They also said that it was expensive for the company and that it did not go along with company policy or the host program since even a dual hostess catalog party is not accepted."

I know no one is trying to "cheat", but I also know that knowing this information may affect whether or not some of you choose to use this method. It's always good to be informed!

I'm not sure what your director was doing - and what I am doing are the same thing. I got the idea first from my director - who has been with PC for almost 14 years.

The way that I do is basically a Consultant-hosted party. All orders come to me, and are separated and packed and then given to my 10 "hosts". Every order is charged it's own shipping. I'm sure there are orders here and there that are combined, but there are on any show - you can't stop some people from doing that. When I did it in June, each host had an avg. of about 6 orders they turned in - some more, a couple less. This would be the same as having a show, and then the people who order passing along a catalog to some other people to gather a few more orders. Don't we love it when guests at shows do that for their host?
Then, instead of taking the host benefits for myself - I take those very same host benefits and divide them up between the "hosts" of the show. I'm not costing the company any more money than any other show. I'm making money. People who would never want the responsibility of hosting a show on their own will participate in this type of show.

I guess I'm just confused as to how this would be frowned on. I am pretty much a stickler for rules myself....so all I can think is that the way she presented it to HO was a different type of plan than what I do.

 

[lacychef]

Well said Becky, & I agree.

 

[krzymomof4]

Up to 8...Woo Hoo

 

[Butterfly15]

I've decided to give this a try, too. I borrowed and tweaked some of the letters and flyers from this thread (thank you) and sent out some emails yesterday and today. Have one "yes" from the emails so far. Then I took 4 Mystery Host Packets to a family cookout tonight, and got 3 definite "yes" and 1 "maybe". So I've got 4, and possibly 5 already! I also sent out about 24 snail-mailed flyers today, for people I really wanted to offer this to, but didn't have an email addy for. Those will hit their mailboxes on Monday, and I'll start making some phone calls to them on Tues.

 

[Akiba]

I think I'd like to do this, but I have an idea that I'd like to run pass everyone.

I was already planning to host my own cooking show on 11/15. I'm inviting everyone I know and calling it "The Holiday Preview Show" (gift ideas and entertaining focused). What if I did the $1000 mystery host, collected the orders at the show, and then put on a show for my "hosts" to entice them to book actual shows and give them ideas on ways to spend their rewards?

Thoughts?

 

[krzymomof4]

okay...Got my 10!!!
Now let's see if they come up with their orders. Keeping my fingers crossed.

 

[KimberleePowell]

I have 9 people signed up to do this. I have a question about the technicalities of this. I know that everyone will end up getting 30% off of anything that they personally order after they have turned their orders in. How do you take payments for these various orders? Do you just have all of the hosts write you out checks and then use your TPC Debit or Credit card or is there a way that you can charge various amounts to their credit and debit cards? I hope that makes some sense to someone. I just know that once the benefits are divided up they will still go in as one Host order in the end.

 

[teacher10]

Hi Everyone,

I am having my first open house on November 7th and I am in desperate need of a great flyer to put in my mailroom.

Thank you. I really appreciate any help.

 

[Humble Beginnings]

if you go to files and put in open house there should be some that come up.

 

[ChefJoyJ]

I think this sounds like a fantastic idea and just what I need right now! I've been kinda submitting just enough every 2 months to stay active since March, b/c my grandfather was diagnosed with cancer (subsequent surgery removed some of it) and then my grandmother (his wife) had a slow multi system organ failure due to congestive heart failure. My DH, DD, and I spent every weekend from late May until Aug (when she passed) going to where my family lives to visit her. After that, life got in the way, know what I mean? I'm also pregnant, due in early Dec., and would love to remind my old customers about me, get some bookings for Jan/Feb, and get in a good show before she comes. I've missed PC and would love to get back in the game (only to leave for a bit...), but hopefully set up a few shows for when I come back to PC after she is born...

A few questions...
1. Is it too late to send out the email/snail mail? I would take tomorrow and possibly Wed. to craft and finalize it and get it in the mail...
2. Do you think Nov. 21 is too late for a deadline? Then I could offer a party Saturday for all the hosts, with food, Christmas gift ideas, opportunities for booking, etc...where I would draw the winners of each prize. I would do it later, but that's the weekend before Thanksgiving (and the weekend I start my 37th week, also known as full term )
3. Since I've been so MIA, should I forgo the email/snail mail and just call everyone? That way, I connect personally with all my old hosts/guests and I also can offer opportunity for ind. catty shows or early Nov. cooking shows...I would offer Dec., but I don't trust I won't deliver the week of Thanksgiving
4. I would love some advice or suggestions from everyone. :blushing:

Thanks in advance!!!

 

[Bren706]

Hi Joy! It is nice to "see" you. I had been wondering how you were doing.

1. I don't think it is too late. Especially since you have the entire month of November.
2. Nov. 21st is not too late. We have the entire month of November to submit shows for the Sell-a-thon.
3. I think you could send the e-mail out to everyone, and then follow up with phone calls if you don't get a response in a day or two.
4. Congratulations and best wishes for the upcoming birth of your second baby girl!

 

[BigJohn]

I sent out my email last night, looking for participant volunteers by the 3rd and orders in by the 21st. Already have 4 volunteers, I don't want to turn anyone away from it, so what do you do with over 10 participants?

 

[BigJohn]

Just read through, love the idea of the open house to conclude the show.....I'm doing it! I'm going to do a pool that night, and Deal or No Deal. Love this site!

 

[ChefJoyJ]

Hi Joy! It is nice to "see" you. I had been wondering how you were doing.

1. I don't think it is too late. Especially since you have the entire month of November.
2. Nov. 21st is not too late. We have the entire month of November to submit shows for the Sell-a-thon.
3. I think you could send the e-mail out to everyone, and then follow up with phone calls if you don't get a response in a day or two.
4. Congratulations and best wishes for the upcoming birth of your second baby girl!

Thanks! It's good to be back! I can't believe how life got in the way of my PC business...morning sickness (well, all day sickness), followed by my grandfather, grandmother...and then lack of motivation, I guess. But, I'm glad to be back and hope to begin to "catch up" with everyone and with PC! Even though it's an odd time to try to catch up, with a new baby due anytime from 4-7 weeks (my doc thinks I'll deliver no later than my 38th week).

Thank you for the responses. I'm going to craft my email, probably post it here to see what you guys think, and then send it on out today or tomorrow at the latest. Then I've got the weekend to make phone calls to get my participants.

I've already got one - my mom. She was planning on doing some Christmas shopping through me anyway, and said to go ahead and add her to the mystery host show, b/c she thought it sounded like a great idea. So...yippee! 1 down, 9 to go!

 

[ChefJoyJ]

Okay, here's what I've sent out. I've just finished sending about 25-30 invites and we'll see what happens and I'll go from there. I figure I can make some calls on Thursday and then the rest on Sat/Sun. Hopefully I can fill this up and make it great!!!

Dear Past Host or Guest of a Pampered Chef cooking show:

I have some huge goals in November! One is to earn the new spring products that will be available in March ’09 and the second is to end November with a bang before the birth of our second baby girl in December. So - I need your help!! (and you will be well rewarded for helping me out!)

I am asking for 10 volunteers to participate in my $1000 Mystery Host show!

If you would love to earn some free and discounted products for yourself, or for Christmas gifts, but don’t have time to host a cooking show, then this is your chance to join in on all the fun!! (Of course, if you want to host a cooking show, feel free to call and schedule!)

Here is the scoop - I need 10 people willing to collect just $100 in orders (10 x $100 = $1000!) - you can do this by passing around a catalog at work, or in your neighborhood, at ballgames, family gatherings, and I can also set you up to send out an announcement online to friends and family.

I will collect all the orders from the 10, compile and tally them, and at a special “party” just for participants (with food, fun, and prize drawings) I will draw names from the 10 participants for the Show Host Benefits.

Here is what they will look like:

1 Participant will win $100 in FREE Product!
1 Participant will receive $60 in FREE Product!
2 Participants will receive $25 in FREE Product, plus a Festive Holiday Desserts Recipe Collection Book!
2 Participants will receive 60% off either the Deep Covered Baker, or the Unglazed Stone of their choice!
4 Participants will receive 50% off ANY ONE product of their choice (including cookware sets, or any other product in the catalog!)
PLUS – each participant will receive 50% off one piece of unglazed stoneware AND 30% off ANYTHING ELSE you order!
2 Participants will be chosen as the "Hosts" of the Show, and will receive 10% off anything they purchase for a full year following the show, plus they will receive the option of 60% off the host bonus from all shows booked from the Mystery Host Show! (drawing for this)

I will also have a special drawing for the following products:
Regtangle Stone
Stackable Cooling Rack
Classic Batter Bowl
Various other pantry items and kitchen tools


All participants will be entered into this special drawing. Gather $150 in orders and you will receive an extra chance in this drawing - plus another chance for each additional $50 collected. Secure a booking (or book your own show!) and you will also receive two extra chances for each booking!

Respond by November 2nd, and receive a FREE Season's Best Cookbook.
I need to hear soon, so that I can get your Show Information to you ASAP!

I need all orders turned in by November 20th (any turned in later will not be able to be counted as part of the show - sorry!) The special “party” for participants with food, fun, and prize drawings will be held on Friday, November 21st from 6-8:00pm.

All orders will be shipped to me, and I will sort, pack, and label your orders for you & deliver them to you, or we can arrange a time for you to pick the order up.

First 10 To Respond will fill the open spots!

Come On! Be Part of the FUN and get some FREE and DISCOUNTED Gifts for yourself and to give to others!! (and I will greatly appreciate your assistance!)

Thanks,
your Pampered Chef Consultant,


email:

phone:


The Fine Print:

The Mystery Host event works only when at least 10 people collect $100 in orders, before tax and shipping. If show sales are below $1000, the prizes will be based upon the subsequent show level.

 

[ChefJoyJ]

Okay...I'm sorry I keep posting, but I came to the thread late and have some questions!

Good news - I already have 4 participating and I just sent out the emails yesterday evening and night! :sing: Now I need to get the packets together and to them so they can start collecting those orders! Are you just giving them typical catalog show packets? Are you adding anything special relating to the holidays, ie gift ideas, stocking stuffers, etc? Any suggestions on things I can add???

I'm hoping that I can fill all 10 spots in the next 2 days, and maybe even start a second show after that. How great would that be??? :love:

 

[pampcheflisa]

Well, I just sent out my flyers as well. Got a late start due to life getting in the way. I already have 3 participants and just sent out the email an hour or so ago.

My question is about the packet too, does anyone have a document that they included in the host packets? Not sure what other information they will need in addition to the flyer and cover letter (tweaked from Becky D's)??

TIA to any help that is offered!!

 

[nicki25]

I am up to 4 people. I need to get on the phone and find 6 more, but I am trying to get over strep throat. Gotta get better then get on the phone!

 

[ChefJoyJ]

Well, I just sent out my flyers as well. Got a late start due to life getting in the way. I already have 3 participants and just sent out the email an hour or so ago.

My question is about the packet too, does anyone have a document that they included in the host packets? Not sure what other information they will need in addition to the flyer and cover letter (tweaked from Becky D's)??

TIA to any help that is offered!!

I included a stocking stuffers flyer (one for each catty), a gift ideas flyer (again, one for each catty), the Nov. guest special, 101 ways to use stoneware, 10 reasons to buy stoneware, my invite/flyer (with pertanent things highlighted), and a host cover letter. I'm not on the computer with my files, but if you want, I can post them later. Of course, I also included OOFs...

 

[pampcheflisa]

I included a stocking stuffers flyer (one for each catty), a gift ideas flyer (again, one for each catty), the Nov. guest special, 101 ways to use stoneware, 10 reasons to buy stoneware, my invite/flyer (with pertanent things highlighted), and a host cover letter. I'm not on the computer with my files, but if you want, I can post them later. Of course, I also included OOFs...

whatever you could post would be great!! I am putting together my flyers this weekend and want to have them all delivered by Mon/Tues. I just wasn't sure what verbage to use other than the invite flyer/letter I already sent to the participants.

 

[ChefJoyJ]

Here ya go! The only file I didn't include was my invite/flyer, b/c I posted the wording on here earlier. I print one out, highlight key parts, and include it in the packet too.

Hope it helps!

 

[pampcheflisa]

AWESOME!!!
Thanks Joy!!

 

[cactus_flower]

I am doing one also. I mailed out 15 flyers. So far, I heard from one real excited host. Then she passed the info on to her daughter, who called me immediately to make sure she could be included.

Tomorrow is my craft show and I made a sign "Ask me about my mystery host show" to display. I'm hoping that some of the 15 will be at the craft show and give me a "yes."
Who could pass this up! My concern is that they really never read the flyer. I am taking five host packets along with me. I plan to make calls on Sunday.