What Should I Offer at a Formal Vendor Event?

[ChefinHarmony]

I have a neat opportunity... I'm invited to be a vendor at a formal (she said, Dress like you are attending a wedding) event. I will be set up from 5-7pm offering appetizers. It's like taste-testing prior to a Fundraiser dinner. I can promote my products, take orders, offer a raffle, try to get bookings, etc.

Any suggestions on how to set up? Should I offer a raffle for any guest that Books a show or places an order? I have an extra set of Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls, do you think that's too High priced?

I fell kinda silly trying to sell at a "formal" event!

Thanks!!
Joanne

 

[PampMomof3]

definitely bring your Simple addi+ions + the stands. Put your appetizers on there. Last weekend I did something like this but we did 300 bite size desserts. The only problem was that people kept thinking we were caterers (I had one woman put in a order and I had to tell her that we didn't do that!) even though I had my PC banner up and everything! Crazy! Good LucK!!!

 

[chefann]

The only problem was that people kept thinking we were caterers (I had one woman put in a order and I had to tell her that we didn't do that!) even though I had my PC banner up and everything! Crazy! Good LucK!!!

The banner doesn't really help any, because with the word "chef", people assume it's a catering company. I've encountered this at bridal fairs. The only way to combat that thought is to hand them a catalog or mini-cat.

 

[PampMomof3]

I know I handed each person a new mini and I even had them set on the table. It was a very nice event for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

 

[Wildfire]

Hi Joanne,

Congratulations on being invited to be a vendor at the formal event! It sounds like a great opportunity to showcase your products and potentially gain new customers. Here are a few suggestions for setting up your booth:

1. Create an attractive display: Make sure your booth is visually appealing and eye-catching. Use tablecloths, banners, and other decorations to make your space stand out. Display your products in an organized and appealing manner.

2. Offer samples: Since this is a taste-testing event, be sure to have plenty of samples available for guests to try. This will give them a chance to taste the quality of your products and hopefully entice them to make a purchase.

3. Have promotional materials: Make sure to have business cards, brochures, and other promotional materials available for guests to take with them. This will make it easy for them to contact you after the event if they are interested in placing an order or booking a show.

4. Consider a raffle: A raffle can be a great way to generate interest and potentially gain new bookings. You could offer a prize for anyone who books a show or places an order at the event. Make sure to promote the raffle throughout the evening to encourage guests to participate.

As for your extra set of Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls, it's ultimately up to you whether or not you want to include them in the raffle. Just make sure the value of the prize is reasonable and aligns with the type of event you are attending.

Don't feel silly about selling at a formal event. Remember, you are offering high-quality products and this is a great opportunity to showcase them to a new audience. Have confidence in your products and your ability to sell them. Best of luck at the event!

Sincerely,

Pampered Chef Consultant