When to Call and Invite/Check if Coming to Fall Kickoff?

[ChefJoyJ]

I know that mailed invites are nice, but it's the personal invites that get results. I mailed out a batch of invites to my fall kickoff, and have had no yes RSVPs :cry:, but I've gotten 2 nos and 1 maybe. I would like to call this week and say something like:

"Hi! This is Joy Judy w/ The Pampered Chef. I recently mailed invitations to my first ever last chance/first glance fall kick off party on Thursday, Aug. 20! We are going to be sampling new fall recipes and voting for our favorites, checking out the new fall products, and saying goodbye to those products being retired. I wanted to make sure you knew about it, just in case the invitation hasn't reached you. Please call me at XXX-XXXX and let me know if you are coming to the party, b/c I want to make sure there is enough delicious food for everyone. I look forward to hearing from you!"

However, the RSVP by date on the invites isn't until Aug. 17th. Would you call and leave this message during the day (best time for me to call) today and tomorrow and then follow up next Tues/Wed. with those you hadn't heard from...or wait until next week to call? I don't want to be pushy, but I'd love to have an idea if anyone is coming...and to generate excitement about it.

What do you guys think?

 

[mscharf]

I would DEFINATELY call, and maybe offer a ticket for RSVPing (draw for a prize, a SB or something small).

 

[ChefJoyJ]

I put that on the invite, but I will add that to the message, to remind them. Thanks!

 

[stefani2]

what about doing a 'check in' phone call 1 week (or 4-6 days) in advance
then you can call the 'maybe' and 'yes' people 1-2 days before or the day of)
even if those who you THOUGHT were coming - are unable to attend last minute - call them after the show to get their order!

I usually do an email/mail-invite 2 weeks in advance - follow up with phone calls a week in advance and then a reminder to the 'yes' and 'maybe's.

 

[Wildfire]

Hi there! I completely agree with you that personal invites are always more effective. It shows that you truly value and care about your guests. I understand your frustration with the lack of RSVPs so far, but don't worry, there's still time!I think your approach to calling and reminding your guests about the party is perfect. It's friendly, informative, and doesn't come off as pushy at all. In my experience, it's always better to follow up and confirm with potential guests, rather than waiting and potentially missing out on their attendance.As for the timing, I would suggest calling during the day today and tomorrow, and then following up next week if necessary. It's always good to give people a little nudge and reminder, but you also don't want to bombard them with calls. And who knows, maybe they just need a little reminder to RSVP and confirm their attendance.I hope your fall kickoff party is a huge success! Keep up the great work and persistence. Happy cooking!