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Do IT this week: Layering
Consultant brings together vendors for event
By Paula Schleis Beacon Journal business writer
Published on Sunday, Sep 16, 2007
In the year that Ellyn Moser has been selling kitchen tools for The Pampered Chef, she has tried a variety of strategies that go beyond the traditional home-based party.
She's set up tables at bridal fairs and signed up for online wedding registries.
Waste of time.
''I (signed) no shows from them, and no one returned my phone calls,'' she said.
Disappointed but determined, Moser has gone to Plan C, which might turn out to be the best yet.
She's organized a ''vendor blender'' that gives shoppers the opportunity to buy from, learn about or sign up for parties put on by a variety of companies.
From 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Green Community Center, the public can stroll through the offerings of 17 vendors, from the likes of Avon, Creative Memories, Discovery Toys, Herbalife, Longaberger and Mary Kay Cosmetics. The lineup covers a variety of wares, such as jewelry, wine and books.
''It's a nice way for people to be introduced to products they're not familiar with,'' Moser said. ''A lot of people haven't heard of Tastefully Simple. Now you can see it, even taste it.''
Some of the consultants will have samples; others will give demonstrations. Some products can be bought on site; others can be ordered. And all the consultants are seeking the Holy Grail party bookings, which usually lead to contacts for more parties.
The public event is also a great opportunity for those considering a career as a consultant to talk about the industry with people on the inside.
Moser, who had a regular 9-to-5 job before the birth of her first son, wanted more flexibility in her schedule. Now the mother of two sets her own pace; she decides when and how much she wants to work.
The money helps with household bills. A typical month's income will cover the car payment and then some.
And conducting parties is a welcome social outlet.
''It gives me a night out with no kids and some adult interaction,'' she said, ''and gives my husband a chance to bond with the boys.''
With Sunday's vendor blender, Moser has added ''event organizer'' to her resume.
''If this is a success, I'll do it every year,'' she said. And, although her original mission was to build her own business, her definition of success now is how well the group does.
''I may only have four orders, but if we have a constant flow of people here from 2 to 5, then someone is getting business, and that's what it's about.''
Paula Schleis can be reached at 330-996-3741 or pschleis@thebeaconjournal.com.
In the year that Ellyn Moser has been selling kitchen tools for The Pampered Chef, she has tried a variety of strategies that go beyond the traditional home-based party.
Get the full article here.
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