Discussions : Introductions : Advice needed from Party Plan Experts
Biddi wrote:
Hi There
I am looking for some advice from experienced Party Plan Sellers.
I have had a retail business for many years and whilst sucessful in many aspects of the business, I have failed dismally in the management and financial side.
The horrific effects of the drought, being in a small country town were a major factor along with other problems.
I have recently closed the business and have kept aside a small amount of money to start another business of some sort as I have debt and commitments and an ordinary job just will not cut it.
I have considered party plan over the years when my business ( Ladies Fashions and accessories) was very quiet. I did experiment at a girlfriends house late last year and held a "jewellery" day. There are a few things I did not like, one being I felt a little uncomfortable. Being in your own store and behind your own counter is your own domain. The thought of booking a party and entering a strangers home is a little daunting.
Apart from that small hurdle, I am wondering how successful party plan can be??? My plan would be to have a jewellery business and to have consultants. Two to four to start with would be fantastic. Are keen, energetic consultants easy to find??
I have read bits and pieces about party plan over the last six months and realise this would take committed people working under you and extremely good planning.
I have always bought my jewellery from wholesalers and have been told that I have a very good eye for jewellery.
To be quite honest searching on the net, there is nothing out there quite like I do!!! My jewellery has always been quite unique consisting of freshwater pearls, sterling silver and beautiful costume jewellery.
I would appreciate any advice available.
I need to start something asap as I have huge commitments and debt from my business. My other alternative is to take over a small cafe in town which has huge potential, however I am in turmoil.
I am sure the cafe would be a more secure and regular income for the commitments I need to meet , however would be a 7 day, 13 hour a day business.
Hard work does not phase me at all, but if anyone out there thinks that I could run a successful business with consultants working under me, I would love any good and bad points.
Looking forward to tips and advice!!
Biddi
scrappy replied:
Hi Biddi,
Welcome to Party Plans! I have been in PP for 11+ years, and love to work this way,
but have never owned a PP. I do however have friends that do, and with as much hard work as the Cafe would take, but for a lot less time, Party Plan would yeild greater results. First you need to get GOOD advice, a small business centre, financial advisor etc... Depeding on what state you are in you can get this all FREE including the Market research!! It really pays to spend your time doing homework first, as most just jump in and drown. Hope this helps, Cheers,
marina replied:
Hi Biddi,
Quote "The thought of booking a party and entering a strangers home is a little daunting."
this was the one thing that put me off party plan. I was a professional taxagent and there was no way known i was going to go into peoples homes selling jewellery.. I saw the proof of how much money was to be made but just did" not get it " until 7 months later.
The heck with the rat race and working like a dog for peanuts and having no time.. I want the money and the lifestyle.. so i called up the jewellery lady and guess what.. I joined up and now have an amazing team under me and an amazing income..
It was scary at the start but you do build up your confidence over time..
Apart from that small hurdle, I am wondering how successful party plan can be???
It is up to the individual.. remember you have no boss, so the ball is in your court.
I am proud to say that the business for me has been very successful.. the first year bonus cheques every month were betweem 2k-4k and then the 2nd year they went between 4k-8K per month every month.. plus sales on top are extra.. minimal hours.... again you have to be passionate, and get the bookings to get the recruits....
building a team gives you the residual income..and freedom of time.
Are keen, energetic consultants easy to find??
they are easy to find and not easy to find.. just depends....and you will find them mostly at your parties.. but the number one thing is you have to have to talk about the business at your parties.. and have a business plan that appeals.
I am sure the cafe would be a more secure and regular income for the commitments I need to meet , however would be a 7 day, 13 hour a day business.
you have to ask yourself do yo want to work 13 hours a day... ?
Party plan can be very secure and you can have a regular income.. it really is a career. if you can focus on the recruiting aspect of it all and get an income of $4000k per month ( bonus) for not doing anything,, how great would that be???.... also just by having 3 shows a week can give you extra income on top....
you will know what is right for you..... sometimes it is hard to know what road to take, but by asking questions and talking to people you will know soon enough.
all the best
marina