Streamline Your Hostess Packets: Tips and Ideas for Organizing and Personalizing

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores various ideas and personal experiences related to organizing and personalizing hostess packets for Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their methods, materials, and thoughts on the effectiveness of different approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, describes using a folder with clear sleeves to keep hostess packets organized, expressing concern about potentially overdoing it.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using inexpensive folders, decorated with stickers, to create a professional look while reusing them throughout the season.
  • Several users mention using various types of folders, including custom cover presentation books, to keep materials organized and accessible during host coaching.
  • One participant discusses the use of lap boards made from tri-fold folders, highlighting their lightweight and colorful nature.
  • Another participant notes that they provide guests with a catalog and order form, having moved away from using colored two-pocket folders due to issues with guests writing on them.
  • Participants express appreciation for shared resources, such as flyers and ideas for improving show averages.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best materials and methods for hostess packets, with no clear consensus on a single approach. Some participants prefer colorful, reusable folders, while others opt for simpler solutions.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences, reflecting a variety of organizational strategies and materials used in their hostess packets.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for creative ideas and personal experiences related to organizing hostess packets may find this discussion beneficial.

amerrigan
Messages
162
I am interested and looking for ideas of what all of you do for hostess packets. I send a list out first to my hosts for them to compile their guest list (I send the invites for them). Once I have the list I send them the hostess packet. i have been putting mine in a folder with clear sleeves in them. So everything is separated and such. I sometimes I feel I am doing to much for my hostess packet, but it is more organized then throwing everything in a two pocket folder.

What do you do for your hostess packets???
 
a Folder with clear sleeves...like a binder????
 
I don't think it's doing too much. I think it looks professional. I use the folders you can get for like 7 cents at back to school time & stock up on tons in the same color. I reuse them throughout the season (usually change colors with the season). I put stickers on the outside that say Thank you, Men love our products too, a couple recruiting stickers, the Please read this carefully sticker & a sticker with my name & contact info. In the left pocket, I put recruiting info, a wedding brochure, a guest list sheet with envelope to mail it back & the show planner. In the middle I put a thank you letter, show benefits flyer & host & guest special. In the right pocket, I put 3 catalogs & outside order forms. I just take the folder with me after the show (what would they do with it anyway?) & leave the specials, show planner & a catalog or two if needed.
 
I am putting together hostess packets righ tnow and just came across this terrific flyer in my files (yes, my DISorganized freakin' files!!!)
Anyway - it's great so I thought I'd share...
 

Attachments

Thanks, Carolyn. I love this! I'm really trying to up my show average & I think this will help!
 
pamperedgirl3 said:
I don't think it's doing too much. I think it looks professional. I use the folders you can get for like 7 cents at back to school time & stock up on tons in the same color. I reuse them throughout the season (usually change colors with the season). I put stickers on the outside that say Thank you, Men love our products too, a couple recruiting stickers, the Please read this carefully sticker & a sticker with my name & contact info. In the left pocket, I put recruiting info, a wedding brochure, a guest list sheet with envelope to mail it back & the show planner. In the middle I put a thank you letter, show benefits flyer & host & guest special. In the right pocket, I put 3 catalogs & outside order forms. I just take the folder with me after the show (what would they do with it anyway?) & leave the specials, show planner & a catalog or two if needed.

I don't understand how you have a middle....I can see 2 pockets but what kind of folders have a middle....I want to do some.
What do you give to guests? File folders like some suggest?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Thanks for the file, I love it!!! I will definitely start using it!

At any office store you can get Custom Cover Presentation Books by Acco. They are 12 pocket books, they come in black or white. They cost about $3 each, but I get them back after each show..so I reuse them alot.

It allows for everything to be divided up (show materials, fund raiser information, bridal registry, recruiting, ect.). Then I can have them go to a certain page during our host coaching and they dont have to dig through a folder.
 
Jilleysue said:
I don't understand how you have a middle....I can see 2 pockets but what kind of folders have a middle....I want to do some.
What do you give to guests? File folders like some suggest?

Sorry--guess I didn't explain that! I put plastic sheet protectors in the 3 prongs in the middle.
 
amerrigan said:
Thanks for the file, I love it!!! I will definitely start using it!

At any office store you can get Custom Cover Presentation Books by Acco. They are 12 pocket books, they come in black or white. They cost about $3 each, but I get them back after each show..so I reuse them alot.

It allows for everything to be divided up (show materials, fund raiser information, bridal registry, recruiting, ect.). Then I can have them go to a certain page during our host coaching and they dont have to dig through a folder.

So you send this to your hosts and then get the whole thing back after the show. This is actually what I was talking about to put the current catalog in. It is actually what the video shows for PC in the SS kit.
 
I am confused, which do you use the 7 cent folders or these bigger folders?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
Yes I send these to my hosts and get it back after the show.
 
Jilleysue said:
I am confused, which do you use the 7 cent folders or these bigger folders?

If you're asking me--I use the 7 cent ones. I think ammerigan uses the bigger ones.
 
OH HAHAHA..getting later..I am not reading correctly...LOL. sorry
 
dannyzmom said:
I am putting together hostess packets righ tnow and just came across this terrific flyer in my files (yes, my DISorganized freakin' files!!!)
Anyway - it's great so I thought I'd share...

Thanks, Carolyn! I love it!
 
Thanks for that file Carolyn!
I get my folders from the dollar store: 3 for $1. I put show planner, guest address labels, pamper me flyer, recruiting info in first pocket. Back pocket I put outside order forms & 3 catalogs. In the middle I put clear sheet protectors with: host benefits flyer, host/guest specials flyer (printed back to back), steps to a successful show flyer & 40 guests in 4 minutes flyer, recruiting info, wedding info, and fundraiser info. I also put stickers on outside & inside pockets. I also get these back after show so I can reuse them.
 
What is 40 Guests in 4 minutes?
 
Jilleysue said:
What is 40 Guests in 4 minutes?

It's kinda like the one Carolyn posted. I don't have it saved on my computer, just a copy that I copy. Actually it's called A Tale of Two Hostesses, with room at the bottom to brainstorm guests. Maybe if you do a search you'll find it; I'll try to figure out how to save & attach later...
 
lacychef said:
It's kinda like the one Carolyn posted. I don't have it saved on my computer, just a copy that I copy. Actually it's called A Tale of Two Hostesses, with room at the bottom to brainstorm guests. Maybe if you do a search you'll find it; I'll try to figure out how to save & attach later...

I have it...here it is...
 

Attachments

  • Thread starter
  • #19
I have the fifty guests in five minutes you were looking for. I have attached it!
 

Attachments

Very cool...Love it. Course I had to add my border..bla bla bla..I am ridiculous...LOL
 
Oh i ordered a folder for The booster tonight to just see what they look like..I really like them. They are very motivating.....but there is nowhere to put the pampered chef sticker...but they are colorful and awesome. I am very torn as to what to use???????
 
Help, has anyone see this? Do you like this or think a solid folder with stickers looks more professional? boy does my office look messy tonight...LOL
 
I have a stack of the colored 2-pocket folders that I used to use but I found my guests would tash them and scribble on them...so I gave up on using them. Now I just give each guest a catty and an order form.

I am thinking about doing the homemade lap-boards though...maybe in August when school supplies go on sale
 
This is what I use for Lap Boards:

I buy the Theme Show folders (the tri fold) that we can get off of supply for $1.00). I cut it into 3 and re-inforce the pocket sides with clear tape. I add a few colorful stickers to it ("I Love Referrals"...) In the pocket part I put an order form, my recruiting flyer and a catalog. In the little slice pocket I put my biz card and a pen. at the end of the season I also add a flyer listing any discontinued and price change items.

I like using these because they are cheap and colorful. Plus they are very light-weight.
 
That's a great ideal Linda!
For guests, I give a manila file folder with my info on the tab, containing a catalog, order form, recruiting brochure.For hosts, I use the two pocket plain folders - blue for cooking shows, red for catalog shows. Then I color-code the file folders I use to keep all the hard copies.Jill- I've got a couple of those Booster folders (I used to get their Key Packs each month). They're a little busy for me, and I don't think they look "corporate professional." But they are very fun-looking, and eye-catching. Again-- personal preference!
 
chefann said:
That's a great ideal Linda!

Thanks, I can't take credit for coming up with it though. I read about it somewhere - maybe here....don't remember.
 
Host packets
amerrigan said:
I am interested and looking for ideas of what all of you do for hostess packets. I send a list out first to my hosts for them to compile their guest list (I send the invites for them). Once I have the list I send them the hostess packet. i have been putting mine in a folder with clear sleeves in them. So everything is separated and such. I sometimes I feel I am doing to much for my hostess packet, but it is more organized then throwing everything in a two pocket folder.

What do you do for your hostess packets???
First of all this is my first post so I hope you receive this o.k.
I really don't think it is crucial what you put in your hostess packet as opposed to how you coach your host. Hostess coaching is the key. Whatever you put in the packet as well as what you may not be sure they have a full understanding of how to have a successful show.
I enclose in my packets: Cover letter explaining my "incentive" program I have for them, 1 packet of invites (I do not send invites for them) page of labels with info. of show that they do not have to fill out including a line saying bring a friend get a gift, show planner, 4 catalogs, 1 outside order form, recruit flyer, and business card... all in a manilla envelope I mail.
I have my hosts call when they receive it so I know they are ready to discuss the show and we go through my "incentive" program based on Pat Reinville's "How to have a $1,000 show". I focus on them over-inviting and getting orders only on my first call.
I could go on and on but I will stop for now.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #28
Is the Pat Reinville's "How to do a$1000 show" a cd we can order, where would I find information on this??
 
C. Schapker said:
First of all this is my first post so I hope you receive this o.k.
I really don't think it is crucial what you put in your hostess packet as opposed to how you coach your host. Hostess coaching is the key. Whatever you put in the packet as well as what you may not be sure they have a full understanding of how to have a successful show.
I enclose in my packets: Cover letter explaining my "incentive" program I have for them, 1 packet of invites (I do not send invites for them) page of labels with info. of show that they do not have to fill out including a line saying bring a friend get a gift, show planner, 4 catalogs, 1 outside order form, recruit flyer, and business card... all in a manilla envelope I mail.
I have my hosts call when they receive it so I know they are ready to discuss the show and we go through my "incentive" program based on Pat Reinville's "How to have a $1,000 show". I focus on them over-inviting and getting orders only on my first call.
I could go on and on but I will stop for now.

What is your incentive program you have for them?
 
Pat Reinville for $1,000 showPat Reinville was the keynote speaker at National probably about 4 years ago. I do not know if any tapes would be available through PC any longer however, I am sure if you search Pat Reinville you will probably come across it. It was a great workshop.

I tweeked her concept to cater to my show's needs. My incentive program is some what based on her idea. It is actually my hostess coaching I do as well.
I tell all my hosts to focus on the 3 numbers, 2, 20, and 200. When I host coach I tell them to only worry about reaching these numbers and the night of her show we will see where they took her.

I start with the number 200. This is the number of product sales before her show starts with outside orders. (I coach about outside orders)

Secondly is 20. Have 20 people at her show. (I tell her she will clean house for 20 just like she would for 2)

Third and last 2. Have 2 people committed to a show before the night of the show with their name and phone number. (I hype up the upcoming bonuses to get her to want those to encourage her friends to book)

With every incentive they reach they get to choose the night of their show from a list of about 10 items what they would like to receive for their gift. If they earn 2 incentives they get 2 gifts off the list or I add up the $ amount to allow them to choose a pricier item. My list consists of items in the range of $4-$6.

Typically I have hosts earn the $200 in sales before the show. However, I tell them it is a bummer if you only have 18 people instead of 20. But, remember your 18 people is awesome and you HAD 18 PEOPLE AT YOUR SHOW!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hostess packet and why is it important?

A hostess packet is a collection of materials provided to a Pampered Chef hostess to help them prepare for their cooking show or party. It typically includes product catalogs, order forms, party planning tips, and promotional materials. A well-organized hostess packet is important because it equips the hostess with the necessary tools to effectively promote the event, engage guests, and ultimately drive sales.

How can I personalize my hostess packets?

Personalizing your hostess packets can make a significant impact on your host's enthusiasm and engagement. You can include a handwritten note expressing your excitement about their party, customize the packet with their favorite products, or add recipes that align with their interests. Additionally, consider including a small gift or incentive for hosting, such as a discount on their next purchase or a free product for hosting a successful party.

What tips can I use to streamline the organization of hostess packets?

To streamline the organization of your hostess packets, consider creating a checklist of essential items to include in each packet. Use labeled folders or envelopes to keep materials organized, and prepare packets in advance for upcoming parties. You can also create a digital version of the packet that can be emailed to hosts, reducing printing costs and allowing for easy updates. Regularly review and refresh the contents to ensure they remain relevant and appealing.

What materials should I include in a hostess packet?

A comprehensive hostess packet should include a product catalog, order forms, a party planning guide, tips for inviting guests, and information about host rewards. You might also consider adding recipes, a calendar for scheduling the party, and promotional flyers for any current specials. Including a small gift or incentive can also enhance the packet's appeal and motivate the hostess.

How often should I update my hostess packets?

It's a good practice to review and update your hostess packets at least once a season or whenever there are new product launches or promotional offers. Keeping the materials fresh and relevant ensures that your hostesses have the best tools available to promote their parties effectively. Additionally, soliciting feedback from your hostesses can provide insights into what materials are most helpful and what might need improvement.

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