Rising Gas Prices and Long Distance Shows

[chefsteph07]

I was wondering if any of you are thinking about curbing the distance you now travel to shows due to the increase in gas prices...alot of my shows tend to be at least 45-60 min away and I am still going to do them, but I'm thinking of suggesting a host minimum for attendance or outside orders.

 

[wadesgirl]

I don't and don't think I ever would. For me I never know what might come out of those small shows in the future and I would hate to discourage a host who doesn't think she can have that big of a show or outside orders. Personally for me, the tax write off at the end of the year is good enough compensation for me. For a 100 mile round trip, we get $50 back for it.

 

[NooraK]

Yes, you can write the mileage off, but I do understand the pain of having to pay for the gas now.

I wouldn't specifically state to any host that they have to have a minimum number of guests or outside orders etc. before the show, but I would encourage to coach all of your hosts that this IS a business, and you do count on the money from it.

 

[Intrepid_Chef]

I wouldn't but I would host coach and encourage your host to make every show the best so it's the best use of her time and yours.

 

[raebates]

Remember, too, that you can use that trip to do some personal things, too. The IRS allows you to determine your reason for the trip. So, for instance, I have a show to close tomorrow that's about 1.5 hours from my house. (Yes, I close all of my shows in person. This happens to be a catalog show.) I have some shopping to do in stores that aren't available in my area. I also made a couple of appointments* to help out a new friend. These are things I'd drive that far to do anyway, but I get to deduct the mileage (just to my host's house and back, mind you; not my running-around mileage).*I made a new friend through a networking event. She's a stylist who is in school to become an aesthetician. She needs so many hours doing facials, waxing, and makeup application to get her license. I made the supreme sacrifice and made appointments for a facial and makeup application. After all, I'll need to reapply my makeup after the facial. Right?