Catalog Parties

[mdpathome]

I'd like to do more catalog parties, any suggestions on how to get more bookings for these parties. So far, everyone I've asked doesn't seem interested.

[Guest]

Hi! , you can put a prize in a paper bag , decorative bag and on the outside write "CATALOG PARTY" , Tell your guests that if they start a catalog party ,they can take the bag home with them!
You can also have Catalog party Hostess packets ready to go , put somewhere between 6-10 order forms, Catalogs , a sheet of any specials for Hostesses and customers specials , maybe a sample or two , discuss them at your shows and how convienient they can be , tell them it's less hassle for the same benefits as an in home show , but always emphasize that a home show is the way to go! Simply because the guests can see all the features and appeal of your merchandise , hope this will help , Lisa with Spice It Up Parties

[LisaS]

First I try to talk the guest out of the catalog! Explain why.
Its easier just to have everyone at 1 time, then you trying to get catalogs to everyone. Plus.. I tell her.. my avearage catalog show is $200. my average home show is $500 or more!.... So in the end she works harder to earn her FREE merchandise!

Lisa Sohn
Comforts of Home
Where Life and Stlye Come Together

[samantha]

Personally, I love catalog parties and find them easy to book compared with home parties. BUT- I find that I get a lot of disappointments as far as people never turning them in. Lots of times I give out the info. and never hear from the person again. (Even if they were excited to do it.)
I don't know why...
I Try to use them as a last resort. Better a book party than nothing, but I agree with the writer who suggested asking for a home party first.

[MegMerchant]

[homepartygirl]

[MegMerchant]

[Debbers]

Hi I`ve done a few book parties some cases they work great . another way to go is I offer my home . Some ladies don`t have time to do a party . It works out great , and you don`t have to go anywere.

[Sterling Silver Mary]

I agree with Debbers
I have had many, many parties right at my own house. Sometimes when I attempt to book a party with someone, I get the "I live in a small apartment" or whatever.

There are benefits to holding at your home for both you and your hostes....
Hostess: doesn't need to clean the house, it's a night out for her as well as her friends
You: don't need to go out, may have more product at home than you than you want to lug out (I had this with a prior business).

As far as book/catalog parties go, I think they can be very successful but you need to put the effort into it just like you were going out to do a show, follow up w/ the hostess, make suggestions on where she can get orders, make a wish list with her so she has a goal, incent her to aim higher. Just like with a home party, the success depends on how good your hostess is an how well you've coached her.

Have a great day!
Mary

[rebecca]

[propartyplan.com]

[jewelryladi]

In my line, we don't do catalog parties without a mini-kit. The kit has books, order forms, and a roll with about 6 pieces of jewelry in it. The hostess signs a card stating she's responsible for anything that is lost. Jewelry is different from a lot of products because it doesn't photograph much. Many of our bright, shiny silver jewelry looks white in the book!

I'm toying with making an "interactive gift guide." (Does she like blue? Check out page 22. Is she a golden girl? Check out page 30) but I wonder if it's just too much for people.

[Sterling Silver Mary]

Hi Everyone....

Have you ever been to a Belinda Ellsworth seminar? She is amazing!

Anyways... a tip on catalog parties from her.... she suggests that when someone books a catalog party support her in that decision, coach her through the process & set up a date/time to pick up all the orders/money -you will bring some of your products to show her and help her pick out her free goodies. She of course is welcome to invite a few friends to actually see your product as well (presto - home party). Often times, these 3 or 4 friends will order more than the entire catalog party.

Hope this helps someone!
Mary

[Petlane]