1) Definitely a raffle however one where they need to fill out a small form with name, email, phone number etc (hey presto! automatic mailing list of everybody who came
)
2) Drinks - something a little different - say like if you are going to do sparling wine - well buy some grapes or little flowers (edible mind!) ,to pop in the glasses - this makes a conversation piece - it is good to have people who dont know each other talking
3 ) Instruct (yes!) your close friends to bring a friend, mum etc - but when you send out your invites make sure to say the invite is for XXXX plus 1
4) goodie bags are great - but a little sample gift with a price list nicely presented on a tray is a lovely gesture (ikea for example do facecloths for like 50p - roll 'em up, pop a flower in the top add a sample or two, pricelist) - tie em up and voilá - simple and stunning (think about placing these near the table with the pens for folks emails ; ) )
5) Look the part! (simple ... you are representing an industry and if that means getting your hair done - or popping down to the MAC store for a quick paint - do it - do not look tired on the night - and wear something that will make you stand out a little - not your uniform - or if you wear black normally, pop on a black sparkly top or something - just for effect! Put some bling on your toes!!
6) Expect that not everyone comes .... its true... expect like 10% of the people you have invited plus their companions... so invite lots of people
Let them know when/ what time youre demos are on - its better to have a crowd than one or two random people standing.
7) Use the day to your advantage, get photos taken, let the local press know, invite the editors of every magazine, send them the photos after the party, invite your suppliers (ask them to supply the samples for the day) Put these photos on your website (you need a boyfriend or brother or someone like this to take the photos)
8) You need someone to actually take the bookings for you - you are hopefully going to be too busy networking to be able to do this - offer 10% off or something if they book on the day
9) Follow up ! Thank those peeps for coming ! You have their emails or telephone numbers, take 2 mins and thank them for their support - regardless if this is your mum/sister/girls in the shop etc
10) SMILE! SMILE! SMILE! ... (no matter what happens:green
Well done you for getting this far, I've been there its nervewrecking but totally worth it, remember YOU are your business, you know your stuff, this is your moment to impress, so put petrol in your engine and knock 'em dead!!!
luv and hugs
Cait x
