Ugly Utensil Contest: Tips for Hosting and Judging

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses ideas and experiences related to hosting and judging an "ugly utensil" contest at Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their methods for engaging guests and incorporating the contest into their events.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions needing help to organize an ugly utensil contest for an upcoming show and seeks advice on invitations and judging.
  • Another participant shares their experience of hosting an ugly wooden spoon contest, where guests judged the entries and the winner received a bamboo spoon as a prize.
  • Several users note the importance of reminder calls to guests to ensure participation in the contest.
  • One participant expresses interest in expanding the contest to include various kitchen tools, not just wooden spoons, to promote a wider range of products.
  • Another participant recalls a successful Margarita glass contest, highlighting the fun and engagement it brought to the event.
  • Some participants suggest incorporating themes related to specific months, like Cookware month, to enhance the contest's appeal.
  • One participant expresses enthusiasm for the ugly cookware idea and plans to host a contest at an open house event.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the specifics of how to promote and execute the contest, with no clear consensus on a single best approach. However, there is general enthusiasm for the concept of the contest itself.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and ideas for engaging guests through contests, reflecting a variety of approaches and themes that can be adapted for different shows.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for creative ways to engage guests at their shows may find the shared experiences and ideas beneficial.

sburnside
Gold Member
Messages
193
I need help in pulling this off. I've read a couple posts about an ugly scraper or ugly oven mitt contest so I offered this to my upcoming hosts. One host wants to do it and now I'm not sure what to do. Does anyone have an invite made for this? What's the best way to judge the utensils? How can I feature utensils within my show?

This should be a big show so I know the contest will be a hit. Any help would greatly be appreciated.
 
I used to do this as bring your ugliest wooden spoon. The guests were the judges and I only got involved in the judging if there was a tie. The winner left her ugly spoon and got a bamboo spoon as her prize. I didn't include this in the invitation. I told the hostess that she needed to make sure to tell everyone during her REMINDER CALLS. It gave her a reason to call everyone and remind them about the show and it gave her a reason to call the people she hadn't heard from "Oh, I just called to tell you we are having a contest at my Pampered Chef show on Tuesday and I wanted to make sure you knew about it. It's going to be really fun, are you going to make it?" And now with all the new bamboo that just came out and will be coming out it's a great tie in to the line. You can explain whey everyone's spoons look the way they do - split, cracked, discolored - and why ours won't do that.
 
That's exactly how I do it, too. I call the hostess a few days prior to her show, and suggest doing an ugly wooden spoon contest. I aske her to make sure she calls all her guests, even those who haven't confirmed. I suggest that it's a great way to give a gentle reminder w/o seeming pushy or nagging. Plus, she'd hate for a guest to get left out of the fun b/c they didn't get callled.
I avg 12-15 guests per show & more when we do the contest.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
bumping for any more ideas...
 
does anyone does these contests anymore? I was thinking about putting on invites about bringing ugliest/worst kitchen tool and wondered if anyone had an invite to share? Also, I didnt want to limit to wooden spoon in hopes of selling other products.

What do you guys think? I thought it might draw people in if they think they will win something. Also. I thought of giving the winner 10% a replacement tool. Thoughts anyone?
 
I just found the Dr. Phil one- so cute.
 
I love doing this - haven't done it in a while, need to start again - but I prefer to have it be told in the reminder call instead of on the invitation. This encourages the host to make those calls or give me the numbers to make them for her.
 
I haven't done this exact one...but I did do a Margarita glass contest---at a Margarita and Fajita show. These ladies actually MADE glasses--it was hilarious and the guests had a great time!
 
Since August is Cookware month, you might have people bring their 'non-stick' cookware - the more peeled the better!! You can still give a Bamboo Spatula or Chef's Tool as a gift (add it to the host's order for the discount, if you don't have any extras at home).

Wow, I really like this idea! I think I'm going to do this at my next shows.
 
pampchefsarah said:
Since August is Cookware month, you might have people bring their 'non-stick' cookware - the more peeled the better!! You can still give a Bamboo Spatula or Chef's Tool as a gift (add it to the host's order for the discount, if you don't have any extras at home).

Wow, I really like this idea! I think I'm going to do this at my next shows.

I love that idea! Maybe I'll give them ideas on what to bring and mention cookware- great idea for getting bookings! Thanks!:D
 
I LOVE the ugly cookware tie-in for August!! I am moving and am planning on hosting an open house so I can stay active in August, and to get to know my neighbors. I may ask them to bring their yuckiest pan for a contest.

Thanks for the idea Sarah.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ugly Utensil Contest?

The Ugly Utensil Contest is a fun and engaging event where participants showcase their most unattractive or quirky kitchen utensils. The goal is to celebrate the uniqueness of these items while fostering a sense of community among Pampered Chef consultants and customers.

How do I host an Ugly Utensil Contest?

To host an Ugly Utensil Contest, start by setting a date and inviting participants. Encourage them to bring their ugliest utensils and share a story about why they chose that particular item. You can set up a voting system for attendees to choose their favorites, and consider offering small prizes for the winners to increase participation and excitement.

What criteria should I use for judging the utensils?

When judging the utensils, consider criteria such as creativity, uniqueness, and the story behind the utensil. You can also include a category for the "ugliest" utensil based on visual appeal. Having a panel of judges or allowing attendees to vote can help make the process more interactive and fun.

Can I incorporate Pampered Chef products into the contest?

Absolutely! You can encourage participants to use Pampered Chef products in their presentations or cooking demonstrations. This can help showcase the versatility and quality of Pampered Chef items while adding an extra layer of fun to the contest.

What are some tips for promoting the Ugly Utensil Contest?

To promote the Ugly Utensil Contest, utilize social media platforms, email newsletters, and in-person gatherings to spread the word. Create engaging graphics and posts that highlight the event details and encourage participation. You can also offer incentives for participants who bring friends or share the event on their own social media channels.

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