Vendor Event Tips for a Busy Mom: Setting Up a Table at a High-End Preschool

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses strategies and ideas for setting up a vendor table at a high-end preschool event. Participants share their experiences and suggestions for engaging the audience and making the most of the limited time available for demonstrations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses uncertainty about setting up an appealing display and managing a quick demo at the preschool.
  • Another participant suggests pre-cooking items like mini cakes for children to decorate, emphasizing the fun aspect of the event.
  • Several users mention focusing on entertaining products, such as Simple Additions and Woven Selections, to appeal to the upscale audience.
  • One participant shares their experience of successfully engaging wealthy attendees by offering bargains, noting that they appreciate good deals.
  • Another participant proposes using height in the display and incorporating a tri-fold board to communicate host benefits and specials.
  • Some participants suggest specific food items for the demo, such as the Island Breeze Rum cake and caramel pecan pull-apart breads, to keep the audience engaged.
  • One participant mentions the importance of having a variety of items on display, including cookware and decorative elements, to attract attention.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to engage the audience and what items to showcase, with no clear consensus emerging on a single strategy.

Contextual Notes

The event is described as a moms-only gathering at a kosher preschool, which influences the types of food and products that can be presented.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas on how to effectively set up vendor tables at similar upscale events may find the shared experiences and suggestions beneficial.

dannyzmom
dannyzmom
Gold Member
Messages
9,271
I am doing a non-demo-ish vendor event at my son's preschool this week. I will have a table and about 10 minutes to do a quickie demo...this is a very upscale preschool - most moms have nannies, shop in boutiques, etc (and then there is me - bahahahaha). Anyway -- I have NO clue what to do - I have not set up a table in eons, am not good at all at setting up an eye-appealing display...heeeeeeeeeeeeelp!?!?!?
Oh - and they have no oven, only a micro-sized microwave and it's at 9:15am...yikes!!?!?
Ideas???
 
I just got back from a fair!! I suggest already coming with the egg done for the Ham and Cheese Omelet roll and do the veggies (chopping, cutting and stuff) In front of them and then cut it up! Just warm it in the micro after you add the cheese. Depending on the micro, the large bar pan will fit.

We did a tropical theme for the new season and filled the trifle with shells, wore laias (sp?) and just really decorated it up. Try and make sure you have height to your table!! That's the key!!!

Most of all, GOOD LUCK!:D
 
dannyzmom said:
I am doing a non-demo-ish vendor event at my son's preschool this week. I will have a table and about 10 minutes to do a quickie demo...this is a very upscale preschool - most moms have nannies, shop in boutiques, etc (and then there is me - bahahahaha). Anyway -- I have NO clue what to do - I have not set up a table in eons, am not good at all at setting up an eye-appealing display...heeeeeeeeeeeeelp!?!?!?
Oh - and they have no oven, only a micro-sized microwave and it's at 9:15am...yikes!!?!?
Ideas???
Click to expand...
Hey Carolyn
Can you pre-cook mini cakes in the prep bowls for the kids to decorate themselves? That would be fun!! You could just put all the stuff out and they could come and decorate.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Sorry - I forgto to mention it's a kosher preschool so no ham...and it's a moms only event so I don't need anythign kid-friendly to play with.
 
I would focus on Simple Additions and our Woven Selections. Sounds like they would be more the "entertaining" crowd.

You could demo the new Island Breeze Rum cake. Have the cakes made and cooled, have the filling and syrup made and ready to go and then you are only assembling it, cutting the mango and kiwi and topping it with cool whip. That should keep your time way down.

Let us know how it goes! Hope you get tons of sales and bookings!
 
KellyTheChef said:
I would focus on Simple Additions and our Woven Selections. Sounds like they would be more the "entertaining" crowd.

You could demo the new Island Breeze Rum cake. Have the cakes made and cooled, have the filling and syrup made and ready to go and then you are only assembling it, cutting the mango and kiwi and topping it with cool whip. That should keep your time way down.

Let us know how it goes! Hope you get tons of sales and bookings!
Click to expand...

Boy, any mom who serves Rum at 9:15 in the morning is a friend in my book!! :p

I would do the caramel pecan pull apart breads with a creamy cream cheese icing or fresh fruit skewers with cool fruit and sour cream dip. That way, they can munch and mingle and always have a reason to come back around to you.
 
Bring your 3-tiered stand with an assortment of Simple Additions, maybe the Cranberry Medium Square, a white Small Square with the Small Tiles Bowl, and the Striped Medium Bowl so they can see what the different designs look like. Bring the fancy cookware and put a sign up that says COOKWARE 50% OFF! *When you host a show with sales of $300 or more I love the Silicone Floral Cupcake Mold, maybe make those and plate them individually with the drizzle sauce and the drizzle designs. They are amazingly beautiful when you do that!

Don't assume that just because they're well-to-do that they don't love a bargain. I had a really great run with a bunch of rich ladies who were THRILLED to get a great deal on things!
 
I agree with Kim--even wealthy people love a bargain! Sometimes that's the whole reason they're wealthy! :)

I like to do mini-workshops with time like that--show them how to do chocolate garnishes, then let an adventurous mom or two give it a whirl. Fun, and involves the audience.
 
I agree, definitely have height to your table. I made up a tri fold display board that explains host benefits, monthly specials for the next two months and also them shows that I do. That way, while you are talking to one person afterward, the others can read and learn more about the business. I also mention the wedding registry on the board. I would use the three tierd stand and put a sign on the top saying "be a smartie, book a party" and put little smarties on the top dish and then I'd make ahead of time the cherry cheese ring and cut it up and put it on the 2nd shelf and maybe some mints or something on the third plate/bowl. I would definitely take some veggies to demo on the ultimate mandoline, cheese for the grater andyou can demo the knives as well. Hit on SA with WS, stoneware and cookware. That way you can get some bookings because you can tell them, hosting you never pay full price!
Hope all goes well with this for you!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential items to bring for a vendor event at a high-end preschool?

When setting up a table at a high-end preschool, it's important to bring items that are visually appealing and relevant to your products. Essential items include a well-designed tablecloth, product samples, brochures or catalogs, business cards, a sign with your branding, and any promotional materials like flyers or special offers. Additionally, consider bringing a small display stand for your products and a cash box or mobile payment system for transactions.

How can I attract parents to my table during the event?

To attract parents to your table, create an inviting and engaging display. Use bright colors and clear signage to draw attention. Offer free samples or small giveaways that are relevant to your products, such as kitchen gadgets or recipe cards. Engage with parents by asking questions about their cooking habits or needs, and be ready to demonstrate how your products can make their lives easier. Personal stories or testimonials can also help create a connection.

What strategies can I use to manage my time effectively during the event?

To manage your time effectively during the event, plan your setup in advance and arrive early to avoid last-minute stress. Create a schedule for engaging with attendees, allowing yourself time to step away for breaks if needed. Consider bringing a helper, such as a friend or family member, to assist with customer interactions and transactions. Prioritize your goals for the event, whether it's making sales, collecting leads, or simply raising brand awareness.

How can I follow up with leads after the vendor event?

After the event, follow up with leads by sending a personalized email or message thanking them for visiting your table. Include any special offers or promotions you discussed, along with links to your website or social media. If you collected contact information, consider sending a newsletter with recipes, tips, or product highlights to keep your brand top-of-mind. Engaging with leads through social media can also help maintain the connection.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when setting up at a vendor event?

Common mistakes to avoid include not having enough product samples or promotional materials, failing to engage with attendees, and not having a clear pricing strategy. Additionally, ensure your display is organized and visually appealing; cluttered tables can deter potential customers. Avoid being overly aggressive in your sales approach; instead, focus on building relationships. Lastly, remember to bring necessary supplies like a pen, tape, and a backup payment method to avoid any hiccups.

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