Preparing a Show for 55 People: Seeking Advice

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread centers around preparing for a cooking show with approximately 55 attendees, with participants sharing their experiences and suggestions for effective demonstrations and food ideas suitable for large groups.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, suggests bringing help to manage the large number of attendees and taking orders efficiently.
  • Another participant shares their experience of doing a bridal shower for 40 people, highlighting the importance of preparation to ensure a smooth demonstration.
  • Several users mention portion-controlled food ideas, such as mini pizzas, ice cream socials, and brownie truffle bites, to accommodate many guests.
  • One participant discusses the success of a taco bar setup at a previous show, allowing guests to assemble their own meals using various products.
  • Another participant notes the idea of using pre-baked brownie cups for an interactive demonstration during the show.
  • Some participants express enthusiasm for the ice cream social concept and suggest using additional tools to enhance the experience.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on specific food ideas and setups, but there is a general agreement on the importance of preparation and having assistance during the show.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and ideas shared by participants who have hosted or attended large cooking shows, focusing on practical solutions for managing large groups.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas and strategies for hosting large cooking shows may find the shared experiences and suggestions beneficial.

Chef Bobby
Gold Member
Messages
1,045
Has anyone ever done a show for around 55 people before? I was just asked to.
Anyone have any ideas for a demo?
Thanks for any advise.
 
Ask a cluster member (or recruit lead) to go and help you! Even at one minute per order (and we know it usually is longer...) that's an hour of taking orders!

Don't be a caterer...get your host to make up extra recipes!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Yes. Thanks. I would try to bring help.
 
For a demo, I would do something that could be portion-controlled. Like a pizza that could be cut into small pieces - or something in the mini muffin pan. Then, in order for everyone to have a bite, I would do one ahead, and one as the demo.
Another thing that might work well would be some type of Ice Cream Show - get those big buckets of ice cream, and then demo different toppings. A brownie in the bar pan could be cut into small pieces to go with the ice cream.
 
Good idea Becky on the Ice Cream Social!!
 
how did this fall into your lap Bobby?
 
Bobby - another thing that serves a ton of people are the Ham & Cheese Brunch squares. And as Becky suggested, you could make one up ahead of time and then cook them both at the show.
 
Bobby, the brownie truffle bites in the MMP would be good. You could make one batch ahead of time and the 2nd one there. The ingredients are fairly cheap and it is a very yummy recipe! Good luck!
 
AWESOME!!!! How cool will this be for you!!! I LOVE the thought of a show w/ 55 people...how cool!! I like the Ice Cream Social idea. Borrow some extra Ice Cream Dippers and use the SA bowls and such for the toppings and make bar pans of brownies!!
And for sure take help!!! LOL!!!

When is it?! I can't wait to hear how it goes!!
 
Bobby I am curious how you got your hostess to keep her guest list going???? Did you offer anything such as a host Chanllenge?
 
I did a bridal shower with 40 people....we demoed the Feista Salad Pizza. I made one ahead of time and me and the bride demoed the other. I had everything prepped which made it go quickly!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
This will be an office show at our local Girl Scout office. They are having a staff meeting just before they want me to do the show. They don't have any choice but to be there. They said last year they did one and cleared $600 for the council. That's 15% of $4000. I think that I would faint on the spot.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
smspamperedchef said:
how did this fall into your lap Bobby?

I sent out an email to everyone in my contact list saying that the new fall catalogues are out. The lady that answered my email is in charge of grants for the local Girl Scout council.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
ChefBeckyD said:
For a demo, I would do something that could be portion-controlled. Like a pizza that could be cut into small pieces - or something in the mini muffin pan. Then, in order for everyone to have a bite, I would do one ahead, and one as the demo.
Another thing that might work well would be some type of Ice Cream Show - get those big buckets of ice cream, and then demo different toppings. A brownie in the bar pan could be cut into small pieces to go with the ice cream.

I like the ice cream and brownie idea too. Thanks. I made brownies in the sheet pan lined with parchment paper for the first time today. They came out perfect and didn't stick at all. The paper helps to hold the brownie mix from running too thin also.
 
There is an older recipe called Tuxedo Brownie Cups in the Celebrate cookbook that would be perfect. You would pre-bake the brownie cups and then fill them at the show. You would probably want to double the recipe (one recipe makes 48)but these are delicious and you could even be interactive with the show, having different guests mix the filling, fill the easy accent decorator, fill the cups, slice the strawberries with the egg slicer plus, grate on chocolate with the microplane etc...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #16
Brownies with strawberries? Yum yum
 
What I did at one of my big shows, was to demo a fast dessert, then cut everyone loose for a taco bar, where they got in line, used different products at different stations to assemble their tacos, and served themselves a pre-made bev. from the q-s-pitcher. It worked beautifully!
 
You could do the game day food too. Have the hamburgers in the oven and just demostrate with the touchdown taco dip in a "double" version?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #19
cookin to the top said:
What I did at one of my big shows, was to demo a fast dessert, then cut everyone loose for a taco bar, where they got in line, used different products at different stations to assemble their tacos, and served themselves a pre-made bev. from the q-s-pitcher. It worked beautifully!


To do a Taco Bar I guess I would have to borrow some Simple Additions to self serve from. What I have now is out dated.
 
prep ahead. A very very successful early Million Dollar Consultant used to only make Pineapple Upside Down Cake in the skillet - ahead of time, and have it portioned out ready to serve for big shows like this. Make 2 or 3 and you're good to go!GET HELP tallying orders - no one wants to wait in line for 30 minutes to be totalled out.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #21
Sounds good.
I've been working on getting some help.
Thanks
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to organize a show for 55 people?

To effectively organize a show for 55 people, start by selecting a suitable venue that can accommodate everyone comfortably. Create a detailed plan that includes a timeline for the event, a list of necessary supplies, and a menu of recipes to demonstrate. Consider using a seating arrangement that encourages interaction and engagement, and ensure you have enough staff or helpers to assist during the show.

How can I engage such a large audience during the show?

Engaging a large audience requires interactive elements. Use icebreakers to get everyone involved right from the start. Incorporate hands-on activities where guests can participate in the cooking process. Encourage questions and discussions throughout the demonstration, and consider using visual aids or technology, like a projector, to enhance the experience.

What recipes should I choose for a show with 55 attendees?

Select recipes that are simple yet impressive, and can be prepared in a short amount of time. Choose dishes that allow for multiple servings, such as appetizers or finger foods, which are easy for guests to sample. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences by offering a variety of options, including vegetarian or gluten-free recipes.

How do I handle product sales during a large show?

To manage product sales effectively, set up a designated area for orders and payments. Use a mobile payment system to streamline transactions. Offer exclusive discounts or bundles for attendees to encourage purchases. Make sure to have product catalogs available for guests to browse, and consider providing a follow-up option for those who may want to order later.

What promotional strategies can I use to attract attendees to my show?

Promote your show through various channels, such as social media, email newsletters, and local community boards. Create an event page and encourage attendees to invite friends. Offer incentives like a raffle or giveaways for those who RSVP early. Collaborate with local businesses to cross-promote and reach a wider audience.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

  • pmprdprettyinsnj
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
5K
LBotzler
  • Lisa2Boys
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
20
Views
3K
Lisa2Boys
  • jennc112
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
  • carol
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
3K
Admin Greg
  • jterre
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
15
Views
3K
esavvymom
Replies
5
Views
5K
baychef
  • Careyann
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
8
Views
2K
Careyann
  • bakinwithbacon
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
2K
Admin Greg
Replies
7
Views
3K
ajadzioba
  • jkowalski
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
7
Views
4K
jla8279
Back
Top