Potential for Huge Booking despite Unexpected Costs

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the experiences of a participant regarding an upcoming show with a large potential guest list, alongside the challenges faced in communication with the host and unexpected costs related to postage. Participants share their thoughts on managing invitations and express support for the original poster's situation.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares their excitement about a potential show with 83 invited guests, despite concerns about the host's communication and the high postage cost.
  • Several participants suggest using e-vites to reach out to guests, especially those who are out of town.
  • Another participant mentions the idea of mailing postcards with incentives for bringing friends or placing orders to offset postage costs.
  • One participant expresses optimism about the potential for bookings and recruit leads from such a large guest list.
  • Another participant shares a similar experience where a host mistakenly invited more guests than intended, leading to confusion and wasted effort.
  • Several participants express support and encouragement for the original poster, wishing them luck with the show.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the best approach to managing invitations, with some participants advocating for e-vites while others suggest traditional mail. Overall, there is a general sense of support for the original poster's situation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences related to managing shows and guest lists within the context of Pampered Chef consulting, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arise.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling large guest lists and managing communication with hosts may find this discussion relevant.

chefbritt
chefbritt
Messages
369
So, I've been having a really hard time finding bookings, and I only have one show on the books for the future. It's a week and a half away, and I had not been able to get a hold of the host once to get her guest list. I was starting to think she was going to cancel on me. Well, it turns out she had a death in the family and has been out of town, but she sent me her guest list today. 83 people!!! I have never even gotten a host to invite 40 people before, nevermind 83. I'm trying hard not to get too excited yet though, because a lot of them were out of state. Hopefully i'll get some orders off of me website though. This could be a potentially huge show! Only one downside, I offered to pay for postage, thinking it would be 6 or 7 bucks like most shows, but this ones going to cost me $20.00. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping it turns out good, I could really use it right now!
 
See if you can get some email addresses from her and do some of them via e-vites.
 
Woo Hoo For You!!!!
 
That's great!! And I am with Lind a- send Evites as well!!!
 
I'd mail them & add a sticker that says bring a friend or order get a free gift.
Think about what you have to sell to recoup the $19.92 postage expense!!
Not much :)
Teresa
 
That's great!! It is well worth the postage to have that many invites. With that many invites you have huge potential for the show, bookings and recruit leads. Let us know how it turns out!
 
Are you doing reminder calls, too? I use postcalls.com (email me if you want special pricing) and this would be ideal for a huge guest list![email protected]
 
I would only send the postcards to those in town but definitely email invitations to everyone especially those who are out of town.
 
That is great!!!! I hope it is a great show for you!!!
 
Good luck! Get ready to change your high show total!! AND double points!
 
Good luck Brittany! I hope at least half show up and the other half gives outside orders!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
Ugh... so I thought I'd updated you all on my situation.

I've been trying to get ahold of my host all week because I had questions about a few of the addresses. Well, I finally hear from her today ( I was going to mail them today) and she says: "Oh, I must have copy and pasted my whole address book in there, I only invited 23 people." Well, that would have been nice to know before I wasted my time and money writing out all 83 of them! I tried to suggest just sending them anyways, because as we say nobody's ever going to be offended by getting invited, but she didn't go for it. She's sending me a correct guest list today. Oh well, on the bright side, at least I hadn't stuck the stamps on them yet.
 
That really stinks! What a waste of time for you...Good job looking on the bright side though!:)
 
I am so happy you didn't attach the stamps yet! On the bright side you have enough postage for a few more shows!
 
Well, I hope that everything still works out anyway! :D Good Luck!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unexpected costs I might encounter in direct sales?

Unexpected costs in direct sales can include shipping fees, promotional materials, samples for potential hosts, and event participation fees. It's essential to budget for these expenses to ensure they don't eat into your profits.

How can I manage unexpected costs while maximizing my bookings?

To manage unexpected costs effectively, create a detailed budget that includes potential expenses. Look for ways to reduce costs, such as using digital marketing instead of printed materials, and focus on building strong relationships with hosts to secure more bookings.

What strategies can I use to increase bookings despite unexpected costs?

To increase bookings, consider offering special promotions or discounts to hosts who book parties during a specific timeframe. Additionally, leverage social media to showcase your products and share success stories, which can attract more interest and bookings.

Is it possible to recover from unexpected costs through bookings?

Yes, it is possible to recover from unexpected costs through increased bookings. By actively promoting your business, engaging with potential hosts, and providing exceptional service, you can generate more sales and offset any unexpected expenses.

How can I prepare for potential unexpected costs in my direct sales business?

Preparation involves setting aside a contingency fund specifically for unexpected costs. Additionally, regularly reviewing your expenses and sales performance can help you identify trends and prepare for fluctuations in your business.

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