Will My RSVP Disaster Ruin My Business Launch Show?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the challenges faced by a new Pampered Chef consultant, Rebecca, as she prepares for her first business launch show with low RSVP responses. Participants share their experiences and suggestions regarding managing RSVPs, promoting attendance, and handling the outcomes of the show.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Rebecca expresses concern over low RSVPs for her show, having received only one positive response out of seven calls.
  • One participant suggests calling those who haven't RSVP'd to gauge interest and potentially turn the event into a catalog show.
  • Another participant shares their experience of a similar situation where only a few attendees showed up, but they still achieved a decent sales total.
  • Several users mention the idea of using reminder flyers to encourage attendance, with some suggesting incentives like drawings for free shipping or discounts.
  • One participant notes the importance of personally inviting a larger number of people to increase the chances of attendance.
  • Rebecca updates the thread, sharing that despite low attendance, she received bookings from her guests and found the experience enjoyable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of reminders and personal invitations to increase attendance, though individual experiences with turnout vary significantly.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences related to hosting shows and managing RSVPs, highlighting common challenges faced by new consultants in the community.

Who May Find This Useful

New Pampered Chef consultants may find this discussion helpful as they navigate similar challenges in launching their own shows and managing guest responses.

R
RScozzaro
I just started my business (SSI) and thought it would be a great idea to host my own show for the Moms at my son's preschool. Two weeks ago I made up really nice invitations and put them in all the kids' cubbies (27 total).

Well, the show is on Sunday (6/11), and I've had only seven RSVP calls. Only one was a yes, the other six were No's. I dont have phone numbers for any of the parents, and I just don't know what to do!

Should I set up for the show and hope that people come, or just call my one Yes and cancel altogether? What if I cancel with my Yes and people show up at my door? I gave all six no's a catalog, so there might be a chance for outside orders. I just don't know if I'll even make it to $150 to be considered a show!

UGH!
Rebecca
 
Can you call every one who has not RSVP'd? That is what I have my hosts do two days before the show. If no one is going to show then I would say turn it into a catty show.

I hope it ends up working out for you...

Also, welcome to chefsuccess and congrats on your new business.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
The school does not give out phone numbers for "privacy reasons". I guess I'll just have to set up for a show at 2:00 and hang around. Worst case, I guess I'll just make the Veggie Antipasto Pizza for dinner!

I guess this was a classic newbie mistake. But from what I'm reading here, a lot of hosts have trouble with RSVPs, even from people they do know.
 
How about making reminder flyers and putting htem in the cubbies. These reminder flyers could have extra incentive like drawings for who gets free shipping, who gets 20% off, etc. Then go ahead and set up and have the show. You never know who might show. And dont' forget to invite all the teachers too. :D
 
Great idea Barbara! Also maybe put drawing slips on the reminder flyers so people can be entered in a drawing even if they can't attend, then called for a free show! Then you'll have their contact info for the future.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
What does it mean to call them for a "Free Show"?
 
Offering a free show to me is they don't have to pay for the ingredients.
 
I agree with the reminder flyer, maybe you could throw in something about a Mystery Host show. This is were they by a set $ per ticket to win the host benefits. I gave away the SS mixing bowls at my show in March it was a $700 show.
 
I had kind of the same case happen to me. I had my own cooking show my first month and had invited about 20-30 people and only 3 showed up. I did have a $200.00 show or so but I didn't do any reminder phone calls or ask them to RSVP so that was my biggest mistake. I would just keep your show and maybe more people will show up. I think doing the invitations to the mom's of preschoolers was a great idea. Also welcome to PC. Chef Success is a great place to get ideas.
 
Princess said:
Offering a free show to me is they don't have to pay for the ingredients.
Click to expand...

So the host is to normally pay for the cost of food? What if they want more than what you are making at the presentation?
 
If they want to put out more than what you are preparing they are welcome to put out whatever they want - chhips, dips, etc...but THEY pay for the food.
 
This is a great way to learn how important it is to PERSONALLY invite at least 40 people. Many of these people may not know you, so they have no incentive to respond promptly. Assume they are not coming and invite more people. How about moms from the church nursery? neighbors with kids? playgroup moms? Good luck. If you have five moms and two kids each, you'll have a crowd - not a great show total, but more people than you might know what to do with....
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
Show UpdateI ended up putting reminder cards in all the cubbies on Friday. I did not get even one more call, and I know that some parents got the cards because the kids were in school that day! Anyway, I kept my show on - only two people showed!

That was OK for my first show, though. I think that just getting over the "first show hump" is a success for me.

Both guests ordered and BOTH booked shows!!! - one for July and one for August. Total Show sales so far: $144 (4 orders). I know I have at least one more solid order coming in, so I'll make the $150 to call it a show.

I have to be happy about the bookings and not so concerned about the sales at this point. It would be nice to make SSI bonus, but the products aren't going to keep my business moving forward - bookings will.

And best of all - I had FUN up there!!! Thank you all for your suggestions and encouragement. I love this board!

Success to All,
Rebecca
 
Good for you!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a lot of last-minute RSVPs for my launch show?

Last-minute RSVPs can be overwhelming, but they don't have to ruin your launch show. Focus on the guests who have confirmed and prepare for them. You can also reach out to those who RSVP'd late to see if they have specific interests or questions, which can help you tailor your presentation and ensure everyone feels included.

How can I handle guests who RSVP but don't show up?

It's common for some guests to RSVP but not attend. To mitigate this, consider sending a reminder message a day or two before the show. After the event, follow up with those who missed it to share highlights and offer them a chance to place orders or schedule a one-on-one consultation.

Will a low turnout affect my business launch show negatively?

While a low turnout can be disappointing, it doesn't have to negatively impact your launch. Focus on providing an engaging experience for the attendees you do have. Personal connections and quality interactions can lead to better sales and future referrals, even if the numbers are small.

What if I have technical issues during my virtual launch show?

Technical issues can happen, but they can be managed. Have a backup plan, such as a phone number for guests to call in if they can't connect. Stay calm and communicate clearly with your guests. Most people are understanding and will appreciate your effort to keep the show going despite challenges.

How can I turn a challenging launch show into a positive experience?

Focus on the positives, such as the connections you made and the feedback you received. Use any challenges as learning experiences for future shows. Engage with your guests after the event, asking for their thoughts and suggestions, which can help you improve and build stronger relationships moving forward.

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