Happy New Year!

Hope everyone has a fun,safe and wonderful New Year! As my gift to you I have some INCREDIBLE Advertising packages available just for you! and ONLY FOR 3 DAYS!!!! This WILL NOT happen again and you save lots!. Make your new year the Best one yet!!

Advertising descriptions and price here: http://tvbmwin.blogspot.com/

Don't forget! Purchase Any Advertising package and be entered into the Very Busy Mama Sweepstakes!

Thank you!
Jordan

Congratulations to Sherri Burton of Scentsy!

Sherri Won our amazing advertising package! WOO HOO! Congrats!

Jordan

25%-75% off sale at Gold Canyon!

Looking for a great deal on Wonderful candles? Gold canyon is having a terrific sale on a variety of candles and other, up to 75% off!! Great time to get these deals before their gone!

We Are now Twitter!!

Make sure to follow us on Twitter!! Where you can receive the latest News!! http://twitter.com/theverybusymama

Jordan :)

Arbonne Files for Bankrupcy?

There have been several posts around the Internet on Arbonne Filing or about to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. In November they held a conference call and stated that if they did not receive additional funding of $400 million dollars they may file for Bankruptcy. Even though no news from Arbonne has been confirmed, many reps and consultants have responded.

You can view some of the over 200 comments here:
http://mlmblog.net/2009/10/arbonne-bankruptcy.html

Chapter 11: Also known as reorganization, this type of bankruptcy is for individuals and more commonly, businesses to restructure debt. Similar to Chapter 13, in that it allows the filer to draft a plan to repay some debt while retaining assets. Chapter 11 is much more complicated, and therefore expensive, making it financially feasible mainly for businesses and very wealthy individuals.

We will keep you updated on this story as we receive more info...

Scent-Sations makes Sensational Donation!

Scent-Sations Inc. in Wilkes-Barre has made a $15,160 donation to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The funds were raised in October through the sale of scented natural wax ‘Hope Candles for the Cure’ created specially by Mia Bella’s Gourmet Products.

Love it!

Buttons Make Cents /Out of business

I just visited there site and on there home page is this message:

Welcome to Buttons Make Cents!

******

I am no longer accepting orders at this location. Effective 12/11/09 I am no longer making buttons. If you are interested in purchasing my supplies or leftover stock buttons please contact me.

******

Sorry to see ya go :( Hopefully at some point you can get business going again!

Super Saturday Special!

OK ladies and Gents! Today ONLY I am offering an incredible Deal!

For just $5!! You will receive:

-First edition of our weekly "The very busy mama" newsletter
-FREE Advertising link (includes your name and link)
- FREE Advertising Link here on my blog for 2 weeks!

Over a $15 value all your for just $5! TODAY ONLY!


PLUS! Don't forget to sign up to win AN INCREDIBLE Advertising package with The Very Busy Mama! Become a follower and visit:

http://tvbmwin.blogspot.com/

make sure to add your name and email address!

75% off sale "At Home America"

I just had to share this! At Home America is having a LARGE sale up to 75% off some great Christmas items and other wonderful decor. Over 100 items! Go check it out!

www.athome.com

New Updates with our Nesletter! Please read!

Hopefully by now you have signed up on our sister page for a chance to win an incredible advertising package! If not make sure you do! Contest ends Dec 26th!

Plus If you sign up for a yearly subscription to the Very busy mama by Jan 15th you will also receive 5 FREE 2X2 ADS to use at ANY time through out the year! That's over a $65 value, YOURS FREE!!

If you would like to advertise in our first newsletter I need your advertisement by Jan 25th!

I will be adding special package deals for the holidays to our advertisement section on our sister page so make sure to check them out here in the next few hours!. There incredible deals that will be gone Jan 1st! So take advantage of them now!

Thank you so much!
Jordan :)

Etsy On Yahoo!

This is just terrific! I have sold on and off with Etsy for a while and love them. Just never had the time to really invest into something. So great to see this wonderful story! If you are a crafter just remember that this COULD be you! What a great inspirational article!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/17/fashion/17etsy.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&no_interstitial


Jordan :)

WIN AN ADVERTISING PACKAGE!

Are you a Follower of the blog? if not become one today!! Once you become a follower please click here: http://tvbmwin.blogspot.com/ for a place to put your name and email address.

I will hold the drawing on Dec 26th! This advertising package is valued over $30!! You will receive:

A top banner to placed on my site for 2 weeks
a button on the side for 2 months AND A quarter page ad in our first newsletter!!!

Plus!! If you refer a follower you will receive an extra entry!!! THAT'S RIGHT!!

This is an incredible offer! Make sure if you are already following that you sign up!

thank you and good Luck!
Jordan

Fantastic Search site!

GoMatador is a dynamic website created specifically for entrepreneurs and those seeking entrepreneurial opportunities. Our aim is to provide a legitimate, one-stop-shop for those seeking work-at-home opportunities to review, compare and ultimately select an opportunity that is best for them. Additionally, we are providing a forum for Franchisors, Affiliate Marketing companies, Direct Selling reps and Brick-and-Mortar companies to find new members, recruits, franchisees, employees or representatives.

Make sure you visit!http://www.gomatador.com/

Enjoy , :)
"The very busy mama"

ALERT:New Ground Floor Opportunity!

My Vintage baby

This company Just opened their doors for Direct sales on Dec 1st! Get this- Only 91 Direct sales representatives through 23 states are with this company!Now is the time to get on board!

As a My Vintage Baby Direct Sales Representative, your primary role is to sell irresistible clothing! You’ll offer private trunk shows for our exclusive My Vintage Baby clothing line in a casual, no pressure setting. We’ve got the support you need to run your business. Come one, come all. No special skills required.

Enjoy a career that’s independent, flexible, FUN and unlimited in potential!

• Receive 15-25% commission on Trunk Show sales!


• Earn free apparel, accessories and gifts!


• Receive a 30% Representative discount!


• Receive up to 50% off your next sample line for reaching the


• My Vintage Baby Direct Sales Goals! Goals to be determined each season.


• Win bonuses and prizes with seasonal incentives.


• Build a Sales Team and earn incremental commission on their sales!


• Continue to receive commission throughout the season with additional online sales!


• Be the first to participate in the End-of-Season Sales with great discounts.

Visit www.myvintagebaby.com for more information! If you join make sure to check back and let us know!

Drink coffee and Stay Fit?

How would you like to wake up every morning with that delicious cup of coffee and know that its good for you?

A great coffee that give you the vitamins you need, plus helps you stay fit and keeps your energy up!?

Visit http://www.myjavafit.com/

The company offers a variety of full bodies coffees that will change the way you drink that hot cup of Joe each morning!

Newsletter Subscription News!

I want to thank those who voted for the newsletter. I have decided to make the newsletter a weekly send out! That's right!! You will receive a newsletter every week if you sign up for a subscription!. This will start Feb 1st!.

Please make sure you check out the NEW subscription prices along with advertising and so much more!

PLUS! As a thank you anyone who signs up for a 3 month subscription or more will receive a FREE Button on my website for 2 months PLUS! a FREE advertisement in our first newsletter!

This deal ends December 26th! so get it now!

Thank you!
Jordan

Funny regifting stories!

My brother's wife is always giving me interesting gifts. So much so that I came to the conclusion that she is regifting me as a way to put one over on me. I've gotten a floor mat. I have gotten a furry bright purple throw. Last year was the worst. My mother received a package that was addressed to someone else. They didn't even check and remove the tag. We have received food gifts that look as if they have been plucked from gift baskets and shoved into a pretty little box with a bow on it. My mom has received puzzles that have been opened and don't have all the pieces.

My brother's wife is always giving me interesting gifts. So much so that I came to the conclusion that she is regifting me as a way to put one over on me. I've gotten a floor mat. I have gotten a furry bright purple throw. Last year was the worst. My mother received a package that was addressed to someone else. They didn't even check and remove the tag. We have received food gifts that look as if they have been plucked from gift baskets and shoved into a pretty little box with a bow on it. My mom has received puzzles that have been opened and don't have all the pieces.

My brother's wife is always giving me interesting gifts. So much so that I came to the conclusion that she is regifting me as a way to put one over on me. I've gotten a floor mat. I have gotten a furry bright purple throw. Last year was the worst. My mother received a package that was addressed to someone else. They didn't even check and remove the tag. We have received food gifts that look as if they have been plucked from gift baskets and shoved into a pretty little box with a bow on it. My mom has received puzzles that have been opened and don't have all the pieces.

Lorraine K.

My cousin's wife, notorious for her frugality, was invited to her former classmate's birthday party. She came in early and since there was a lull at the moment, the party girl started to open the present my relative had brought her. In the middle of this, the latter looked back towards the front window and hurriedly said, "Oh, no! Please hide the gift! The girl coming in gave it to me a couple of months ago and I don't want her to know I'm regifting. It's a ceramic swan that originally held perfumed soap. I used the soap but I thought you'd like to have the swan." A stunned silence ensued. To this day those of us present still talk about this unbelievably tactless chatter. She didn't know when to keep her mouth shut!

Maria N

One year , for Christmas, I opened up a gift from my 6 yr old grandson and was surprised to find a beautiful stone lighthouse that lit up. My daughter began laughing. She said, "I had gotten out my Christmas decorations and later wondered where my lighthouse was." I still have that special gift and chuckle every time I see it

Dorothy F

I know when I regift to make sure the original buyer will not find out. At least I thought I knew better. I once was given a pretty nice spice rack from a secret santa party at my fiances work. It was nice, but I already have a stainless steel one that matches my kitchen perfectly. I decided to re-gift it the following year to a couple we are friends with that were moving into a new house. Little did I know they knew the original buyer. The couple ended up re-gifting it to the original buyer and her husband! And they called us! I was so embarressed and my fiance was mortified but we all ened up lauhing it off. Now I decided I am never re-gifting again!!

Candi C

Spotlight company!

Initial Outfitters

A home party direct sales company that specializes in personalization. Our line of products features jewelry, soap, embroidered towels and handbags, and home decor items.

You earn 30% on every sale, no minimums/month, no requirement to recruit, no inventory, and you set your schedule to fit your life. If you choose to recruit, your earnings potential grows exponentially…but the choice is yours! Initial Outfitters provides the administration - a generous hostess plan, virtual office, consultant website, processes credit cards, remits sales taxes, ships orders to hostesses…and lets you focus on the fun stuff! Be the first in your area to get started in this ground floor opportunity for $199, $299, or $499.

http://www.initialoutfitters.com/

2 Day Sale On Advertising! Incredible Deals!!

I'm offering a Fantastic deal on our Blog advertising! HALF OFF prices!! Just 2 days ONLY! This will be the Only time I will be doing this in December so Grab them now!!

Side link-1 month= JUST $1

Button -added in order received -1 month=JUST $2.50!!

Button-ALWAYS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST (Only 2 allowed 1 on each side) SO grab them quickly!! JUST $5!!!-1 MONTH!!

Top Banner-ONLY 1 AVAILABLE!! 1 MONTH-JUST $8 !!! (First come,first serve!)

Bottom banners-2 available -1 month $3!!

Click the Drop down Menu on your top left and Buy now!

Get your link/button/banner at The Best/busy Direct sales blog today!

The Very Busy Mama!

Please Vote!

I am so excited to get "The Very Busy Mama Newsletter" going. I am having trouble deciding on whether I should send a weekly newsletter or monthly. I have a LOT of ideas so I want to see what you would prefer. If weekly it would keep you more up to date. If Monthly The newsletter will be bigger but I know how some companies offer weekly or every 2 week deals and I want to give you the best info possible. Please Vote when ya get a chance!

Thank you so much !
The Very Busy Mama

A little holiday Fun

I thought it would be fun to share stories of Re gifting. So have you ever Re gifted an item or received a Re gifted item? Please email me at wahmblog@yahoo.com .

I will post the great stories soon! :)

The Very Busy Mama

We have a Merge!

Partylite and TwoSisters Gourmet have merged!. Thats Right Partylite picked Two Sisters Gourmet up and now offers them as "Two Sisters Gourmet By Partylite".

Now you can have your candle and eat it too... Well sorta..

Tired of Paypal?

Do you get aggravated with all the Fees Pay pal takes sometimes?

Want A service with No Fees, A FREE "Debit" Card,FREE to send and receive money and more!??

Try Revolutionary Money Exchange. Its very easy to set up, you will receive a FREE card in the mail that you can use on over 100 stores and ATM's. Unlike pay pal that seems they charge for everything. Their Customer service is wonderful and Best of all its Completely Secure!

Sign up today!

www.revolutionmoneyexchange.com

FYI: The Very Busy Mama also excepts RME. If you would like to use RME as your payment for a newsletter subscription,ad spot or other please use jordangaffey@yahoo.com for the RME address.

9 days left to get FREE advertising!

If you are interested in Signing up to receive our "Very Busy Mama Newsletter" Starting in Feb, make sure you pay for your subscription by Dec 20th to receive a FREE Link in our FIRST Newsletter!.

Thats right! Just $10 for a 6 month subscription (1 a month) and a FREE Link! This is a Real Snail mail newsletter! No Email newsletter. Only subscribers will receive Special offers,find great tips,coupons.giveaways and so much more!

If you would like to sign up please use the Drop down menu on your right for subscription prices. This would make a great Gift for a New or established Wahm/Sahm!

The Very Busy Mama

Are you stuck with unsold Merchandise?

Did you know that member companies of DSA (Direct sales association) are required to repurchase 90% of your inventory within 12 months of Purchase? Click Here>

Guy and Eva gets Lucky!

The Company "Guy and Eva" , will have a set of their fantastic Earrings listed in the 2010 Lucky Magazine!

This wasnt the First time Guy and Eva was in a Fabulous Issue!

Instyle featured a Guy and Eva Ring on page 208 in their December's Issue

also

Womans World (December 7th issue) featured a Guy and Eva Necklace on page 50!

Congrats Guy and Eva!

To purchase these fantastic earrings, necklace, ring or other wonderful stylish Jewelry make sure you visit www.guyandeva.com/shop

Would make a INCREDIBLE Christmas gift!

Gotta tip?

Know about a big change coming to your company? Or an INCREDIBLE deal a company is having? Let me know!!

email your tip the Very busy mama's tip line at wahmblog@yahoo.com !

Dove Chocolate to be Featured!

The Company "Dove chocolate discoveries"will be featured on the Dec 16'th Show "Martha Stewart Living". Congrats Dove!

New Company Alert!

I was reading on this earlier and this sounds interesting. I saw where they mentioned you can earn rewards,discounts and more! Wish I had the time to really check it out. I cannot really describe it..just watch the video and read more here:

http://www.mondelis.com/

Let me know what you think!!

NEW! Changes coming to the Very Busy Mama!

I am having my blog updated soon! Hope everyone likes it!. It will give me more room to let you know all new updates and great new areas for you to advertise! PLUS! A great giveaway coming soon!

Thank you so much for following my blog! :)

Jordan

New Company Alert! Guy and Eva!

Guy and Eva affords you the opportunity to be who you want to be.

You can be a part of an exciting new company, with an amazing line of quality, affordable jewelry, and a wide open market. Take advantage and be one of the very first to join the Guy and Eva family and grow as we grow. The opportunities are truly limitless and you will be supported in your endeavor from the very first day with our top notch customer service, endless training programs, and front line business systems.

1. Earn a minimum of 30% commission on every sale you make and grow that to over 50% as your business builds.

2. Receive commissions immediately at the time of sale.

3. Choose from one of three unique career paths.

4. Offer your Hostesses amazing incentives at no cost to you.

5. Earn commissions on your first recruit, three levels deep.

6. Receive your own personal corporate sponsored website with online shopping to offer your customers.

7. Process your customers’ credit card orders for free.

8. No restrictive territories.

9. Present your customers with their jewelry in attractive, protective packaging.

10. No required stock to carry.

11. Choose to have orders shipped directly to your customers, to your Hostess, or to yourself for delivery to your customers, adding that personal touch.

12. Easy set up and take down, with no presentations to make.

13. Vacation days — yes, we said vacation!!

14. Bonuses, prizes, gifts, and so much more!

Tazsa Ewbank, Guy and Eva Advisor
Email: guyandevagal@yahoo.com

Website: www.guyandeva.com

Phone: 518-770-6240

How did you do with Black Friday?

Did your company have a Black Friday Sale? Or did you shop some great deals From a Great Direct sales companies? Share how well you did! Please post a comment of even email me at wahmblog@yahoo.com with a picture of the items! or a list of your Black Friday story! :)

Great Deals $10 and Under!

Looking to get loaded up on great deals from great companies? Heres a list of some great Companies with Items you can purchase for $10 or Less! Thank you to our wonderful reps for letting us know what great deals they have going on!:

Personalized Pacifiers and so Much More-Items starting at just $5.50!

http://www.momandbabypagesstore.com/-Personalized_Pacifiers/cat121750_104147.aspx

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Relax find for all of your babys needs-Items starting at just $5.75!

http://www.stacysorganicboutique.com/category_398/Luscious-Soap-Tarts-Collection.htm

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Mary Kay Over 90 items under $10 plus FREE shipping on almost all items!

www.marykay.com/nfrise

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Custom made Personalized items and more! Lots of items under $10!

http://thedebbiecollection.etsy.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Sonbeams- Home School Preschooling. Great Responsibility Chart for just $7.95 (Includes shipping!)

http://sonbeams.com/

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Snootybootydiapers: Great Reuseable Diapers and more! Has a "Diapering under $10 Section" located here:

http://www.snootybootydiapers.com/store/WsPCollectionsDet.asp?ID=60&pID=11

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Inspirational Gifts- Lots of items under$10!

http://storesonline.com/site/inspirationalgift

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Bath Bombs and More!

http://www.beyondthebomb.com/

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Passion Parties (Adult)

http://passionpartiesbykristy.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Tastefully Simple

http://www.tastefullysimple.com/Cultures/en-US/

(Please email all orders to adultpartylady@gmail.com)

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Beeluxe-

Wonderful natural made lotions,candles and more starting at just $7!

www.beeluxe.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Barefoot Books

http://diane-carman.barefootbooks.com

Discovery Toys

www.discoverytoyslink.com/

Cello in a Box
www.celloinabox.com/shop/shopaff.asp?affid=56

FullerBrush

www.fullerdirect.com/0405792

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

We Cook with Daddy

http://wecookwithdaddy.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Bella Luna Toys

(Lots of wonderful toys under $10!)

www.Bellalunatoys.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Scentsy

Great Gift idea and lots under $10!

www.scentsy.com/kcasagranda

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Coffee Cozy Cafe

www.coffeecozycafe.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Natural Organic Skin Care Products

http://www.my-mamas-love.com/

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

The Red Country Cupboard

www.theredcountrycupboard.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Princess Parties

http://www.myprincesspartytogo.com/holidaypromo.html

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Black Friday Deals from our Wonderful Wahms:

Offered by Nichole Frise (for more information please contact Nichole at nicholefrise@yahoo.com)

www.marykay.com/nfrise

From 5 am - 6am - all items 40% off

From 6:01am-7am - all items 30% off

From 7:01 am -8am - all items 20% off

From 8:01 am - 12 midnight - all items 10% off

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Bogo Sale at Debbies Collection on Black Friday and CyberMonday!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/thedebbiecollection

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Sonbeams will be offering a Black Friday deal but does not have details just yet. I will keep you updated :)

http://sonbeams.com/

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Snooty Booty Diapers will be having a BlackFriday sale. Will be up soon, will be located at :

http://www.snootybootydiapers.com/store/WsPCollectionsDet.asp?ID=35&pID=9

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Kristy Garland will be having a Black Friday Sale which will be released Wednesday Morning. You need to be on her mailing list to receive the great Deals! Please contact adultpartylady@gmail.com for more information!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Barefoot Books

Offering 20% off and Free Shipping over $35

http://diane-carman.barefootbooks.com

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

My Mama's Love is offering a great 30% Black Friday Discount. Please use the Coupon code "Black". Its good from now until Dec 1st!

http://www.my-mamas-love.com/

Thank you so much to all of our Wonderful Wahms for emailing me your great deals:

Tracy Ammon with Mom and Baby Store

Stacy Labrun with Stacys organicBoutique

Nichole Frise with Mary Kay

Deb Smith with Debbies Collection

Mrs.Candace with Sonbeams

Michelle with Snooty Booty Diapers

Elaine Stephen with Inspirational Gifts

Kristy Garland with Passion Parties and Tasefully simple

Tina Kennedy Gallagher with Beluxe

Diane Carman with Discovery Toys,Fuller Brush,Cello in a Box

Trisha with Beyond the bomb

Carolyn DiBlasi with Cooking with Daddy

Kathy Casagranda with Scentsy

Brenda McLean with Coffee Cozy Cafe

Leslie McCann with My Mama's Love

Linda Linzi with Princess Parties

Beth O' Connell with The Red Country Cupboard

If you would like to be listed for Great Gifts under $10 or our BlackFriday Deals please email me at wahmblog@yahoo.com with you information! Thank you!

Black Friday Deals Under $5 section coming soon!!

Looking to stay in,snuggle up with a cup of coffee and do all of your black Friday Shopping from the comfort of your own couch? I will be posting a list of some great Direct sales/shop owner deals...coming soon...stay tuned!

New Company!

I believe this company has been around for little while but not really sure the exact date.Very interesting though! Go check it out!

www.athomewithharrah.com

Craft/Business Fair Time!

As the holiday season approaches their are many craft/business fairs being held all around you!. Make sure you jump in and become involved. These shows are wonderful and help promote your business.Never been involved with one? I have come up with a guide to which I follow every time and I hope this helps you.

Learning about the fair:

-Make sure you ask questions including what are the table fees?, do I need to pay a certain percentage of what i make? (Some places ask for 10-20% of what you made that day on top of table fees) Is their a Door prize donation?. Allow your self time to plan for it,and make sure you are available and free the day/s of the fair.

Preparing:

-Check Inventory. Go over all of your inventory. Write down what items you will need to order,what items have gone on sale, what items are no longer available etc. Here's a small checklist to look over :
-Any items you have in stock
-Order forms
-Catalogs
-Business cards
-promotional items
-sale flyer's
-Inserts


- Have items in Stock. I always make sure I have enough items in stock so i can sell them at the fairs. I will usually add an extra quarter or 50 cents on top of the price to cover shipping charges. I order a large supply (depending on how big the fair is) to cover everything.Before I was a Work at home mom I went to many fairs and It really drove me away when I approached a table and their was nothing to purchase. Just grab a catalog and either order or book a party. I purchase in the moment, I do not want to wait,especially if I have to pay to get into the craft fair. They would have some of their items out (demo items) but nothing else.

- Price you items. Always price your items before the fair,not during. You don't want to have "extra" work to do at a fair. If your constantly working on your table it could drive away customers. You want to be prepared and show others your prepared also.

- Organize!. No matter what you sell you need to have your items organized. Place them in Rubbermaid containers,boxes, or rolling totes. Something that is easy for you,and still looks professional.

- Make your signs. If you have any specials,discounts or free gifts, make sure you print up or make a cute sign that says so. You want to draw your customers to you. I love seeing signs that state "75% off!" or "Free Gift!" I have a radar for those he he. Also make sure you have enough door prize slips.

The night before the show:

Make sure you double check everything. Nothing worse than forgetting something important and than having your hubby have to load up the kiddos and bringing you left item!. Here's a checklist for items other than your inventory:

-Pens
-White out
-calculator
-gift certificate's (if you offer them)
-Change
-Business cards
-extra price tags (they can fall off through out the show)
-Door prize box
- Table decor (items like table cloth/s, stands and other decor)
-Lunch including snacks and a drink (Your going to have people continually coming to your table so you may not have a chance to go grab some grub.) Bring food that's easy to eat and not messy.

- Pack all of your stuff the night before so you can leave fresh and early with your coffee and no worries.

- Go to bed early and get a good nights rest

My experience:
The first business fair I did. I didn't pack my items the night before thinking it wouldn't be a problem. I also didn't double check anything the night before I just assumed it was all their because I checked it a week prior. Well after getting ready the morning (Hair, makeup etc.) of the fair, I went to pack all of my business materials into the car, it was very windy and my car door was locked. I forgot my keys in the house so i had to run back in to get the keys,in the mean while the wind blew a top of one of my containers off and papers flew everywhere! I struggled to get everything together. Finally after Everything was packed I get into the car and my Hair was one big knot from the wind, my coffee was cold and I was running late. After I got to the fair to set up I realized I had forgot so many things! I had to borrow items left and right from other booths. It was unprofessional and just a mess but I learned a lot from it.


The day of the show:

- Set your alarm a little earlier than you need just in case you have ideas that come to mind. (I always get new ideas in the morning). Also so you can get up and have your "time" especially if you have kids.

- You have arrived!. Grab your business materials and find your table. When setting up for booth, make it stand out!. Don't make it too cluttered or unorganized looking.

- When making sales (especially if your selling items from your inventory) write down any and every items you sell and for how much. Its nice to have a simple list to see what you sold and how much you made. This also makes it easier when its time to restock and reorder.

Tips to make your table stand out!
- Add different heights to your table like placing boxes under the table cloth and place an item on it. It really stand out.
-Have color!
-Decorate according to the time of year. If its right around the holidays, have a Santa table cloth (or something to do with the holidays).
-Make you sale signs visible.
- Have a door prize box. Place a sign above it "FREE Drawing!". Have customers fill out a door prize slip. Not only are they entering a Free drawing for a free gift you are receiving info about them. Here's what I add to my slips:
Name:
Address
Phone number:
email address:
would you like to join my newsletter?
Would you like to host a party? (catalog or home)
Comments:

Some Do's and Dont's for craft fairs:

Do's:
- Do make yourself approachable and ready to converse
- Be prepared
- Be up to date with specials or sales
- Have catalogs ready with order forms nearby ready for customers to order.
- Be courteous to other booth renters. If someone is looking for candles and you don't sell them, direct them to the nearest table that does sell them. Also if you are playing music or have candles lit, make sure the music is suitable for all ages and the candle isn't too strong.
-Be on your feet as much as possible
- Always be positive!

Don'ts:

- Do not chew gum. Nothing worse than conversing with a consultant that representing a business and their smacking away at their gum.
- Do not sit the whole the time. Your making it look as if your not interested or excited to be there.
- Don't be obnoxious to other booth renters. Like commenting on their products "That doesn't work" or " You'll never sell that". (I had a woman do this to me about a year ago. She kept commenting on my items "that's to expensive" " I would never put that in my house" she was just rude to everyone around her. Sure enough she didn't sell one single item )
-Do not be negative about your business or company. No one likes to hear about how bad your products are,mistakes your company has made or how much you have made or haven't made.

- After the Day is done, pack up your items, clean up your booth area. Pack all of your items nicely so you can go through them when you get home.

After you get home:

Go through and see what items sold, what items were looked at the most. (So you know what items were most popular and make sure to order more next time.)

Follow ups!- Those good Ole' door prize slips now come in handy. I usually wait a day or two before I contact them. Not to long after though or they may forget. Contact them either by email or phone.

Now that you have done your first (or another) booth you always learn something new!.

Please add any experiences you have had or do's and

Etsy vs Ebay

Etsy vs Ebay

I know their are many crafters out there including handmade jewelry,cards,scrap booking,knitters,handmade soaps, candles and much more. I am one of those crafters myself. Now if you are looking to make a profit and sell them to the online community where should you start? Well there are many ways like starting up your own website which can cost a good amount of money,blogging which is free but there are so many of these for one company. Than theirs the perfect Solution: Etsy and Ebay.



What is Etsy?

Etsy is a wonderful site where you can buy and sell home made items. It has a very active forum for discussing all kinds of things. You are able to have your own shop at no extra cost and make it your own. See for yourself http://www.etsy.com/

When crafters first start out turning to ebay is the easiest way. Yet the fees can add up, especially if your items do not sell.



EBay vs Etsy



Etsy Pro's

-You can start by opening your own store for Free!

- When listing an item the listing fee is only $.20 flat rate.

-You receive 5 Free spaces to place pictures of the item you are wanting to sell.

-Item stays on site for 6 months (unless it sells before the time is up)

-Only handmade items,vintage (over 20 years old), or craft supplies are allowed to post on the site.

-Does offer an "Alchemy" area



Etsy Con's-

- Must self promote,though Etsy is getting more traffic every month it still is not as well knows as ebay

-No auctions go on within the site (I love doing these sometimes)


Ebay Pro's-

-Have many options to listing your item

-Can add an auction to your item

-First picture is free

-Large selection to look over (its amazing what you will find on ebay)



Ebay con's

-Any picture you add after your first is $.15

-there are extra fees for items over a certain amount of money

-Item can only be listed for 7 days unless you pay for more time

-Using paypal with ebay is just a waste. So many fees occur when using these two together. I personally find it not worth it for low priced items.

- If someone does not pay for their auction your pretty much out of the fight. I have had this happen at least 10 times and not one single time have I received my money or bid $ back.

Join a Group!

Have you joined a Trade group?

Their are many places to receive advertising through on the Internet. Have you ever joined a trade group, a Shopping group or a "swap and shop" group? You can find these through yahoo groups. Their are many groups like this to choose from, so make sure you take your time and go through them. Some times you can join one and see how they operate before you join in, if you do not agree with the way it operates you can simply send the moderator a nice email explaining that you are not interested.

How does a swap group work?

When you join a group the moderator will place you in a group of 5-20 people (depending on the size of the whole yahoo group). You will be required to purchase any one item from the company of one of the consultants in your group. Usually they require one purchase once a month, some groups require 2 or 3 purchases a month. Each consultant will have their advertising time once or twice a month and each other member in your group must purchase an item from you.

How does a Shopping Group Work?

A shopping group works similar to a swap group but your not placed in a "group". Most of the time once you join a group you will know when they hold there "grabs". Many groups grab on the 1st of the month. How do I grab? or what is a grab? A few days before the "Grab" the moderator will let out a few notices to remind you to place your Business information into the grab database. Once Everyone is in the Grab database the moderator will let you know what time you are able to choose who you would like to purchase from. Once the 1st of the month roles around and the time for the grab is here you are now able to grab that person. I have found in most groups you must post to the group first before you write your name next to the rep in the grab database. This is a great way to do this as there will be no confusion onto who grabbed who first. Once you have grabbed your person for the month, you have the 1 month to make your purchase. Every group is different on their amount you must purchase from the rep so make sure you know this before hand.



Some questions to ask your self before you join a particular swap group,Shopping group or trade group:
- Is the moderator active? Does she help out, answer questions, and make sure all members obied by the rules?
- Am I going to be available to get to a computer during the times I need to make a purchase or receive sales?(If you are gone a lot, this wouldn't be a good idea unless you have a access to a computer to answer questions and such. Being an active member helps you meet more people and give you a good name.)
- Am I here to help others out? or just to make sales? ( Both! Don't join just to advertise, its a great way to meet other consultants. Other members will catch on quickly if your an advertising "troll". They wont read your post and you will be deleted quickly from the group.)

- What is the purchase amount every month?

-What other events go on in the group monthly?

Pro's of Joining a Group:

-Great way to meet other wahms

-A terrific way to meet a customer base and make sales

-Gets your name out online in the wahm world, being well known is a positive as many reps may go to you for that one specific company.

Cons of joining a group:
- When it comes time for you to purchase any items from a consultant, the company they represent may not be your "cup of tea". Either way you must purchase something. Think if a friend or family member would like or use something from that company.
- Their are a lot of people who join just to make sales and than they leave and just take the sales and never purchase from anyone else.
- If your a little tight with money very often,don't join. Not only will this be a hard time for you but if you cant make a purchase for another member it can lead to lots of bad reports for you.

Its a Mystery!

Mystery Hostess Party!

Looking for a great way to invite everyone you know and those that you want to introduce to your company? Have a Mystery Hostess Party! Don't know where to start? :

-Make a list of friends and family that would be interested in attending, don't forget co-workers and teachers.
- Send out an email or call to everyone with the date and time. Include what specials you will be having, if their will be snacks, drink or games. Also let them know if any prizes are going to be given out.
-Let them know the rules: for example: for every $10 you purchase, you will receive one raffle ticket (or however much you would like to make it). If a person books a party that day they will receive 5 raffle tickets. If they join under you they will receive 10 tickets.
- Try and close the party the day of so you can get the total of the party , draw the mystery hostess and let them pick out the FREE products and or half-off items.
- If the party isn't able to close that day..give them a week at most and than close it.

DO's for a successful Mystery Hostess Party
-DO call and email as many people as you know
-DO advertise
-DO state the "rules" clearly of the party before hand
-DO close within a timely manner
-DO email/call all guest afterwards thanking them for coming

DON T'S
-Do not change the rules in the middle of the show
-Do not cheat on the drawing of names, just because "Maria" is a friend doesn't mean she should receive the products. Everyone came for the chance to win also. Even if the name drawn is that of an enemy, reward them.
-Do not state an exact amount that the mystery hostess will win until all of the orders have been processed.

Have you had a Mystery Hostess Party before? Share your story

Offline advertising

Selling and recruiting in your own town is very important. Online advertising helps out a lot, but getting to really know your customers is the topping on the cake.

Here's a couple of ways:

-Advertise on bulletin boards around town. Along with leaving flyer's, catalogs, business cards. Think, Grocery Stores, beauty salons (just about everyone picks up a magazine when their getting their hair done , might as well be your catalog :), local stores and shops.

-Get your name in the paper. If you live in a small town advertising in your local paper can be inexpensive. If you have a big budget advertise in papers in towns around you.

- Get your business in the radio, once again most small towns don't require a large amount for a quick advertisement.

-Place your business card in any outgoing mail. Bills, newsletters, anything you may sell on eBay and others. You would be surprised at how many will keep that card and may even give you a call about a purchase or a recruit.

-Have an open house! Of course you are going to want to advertise this. When people come, you will want to tell them about the business, make some sales, and hopefully even have people join. Make sure everyone leaves with a catalog, and you leave with names and numbers.

These are just a few ideas. Do you have any other ideas? what have worked for you

Advertising is the Key!

What ways do you advertise?

Advertising is a huge part of building your business! So how do you advertise? Here's a few simple tips to successful advertising online:

-Take advantage of Free Advertising, whether its a blog,or new website. Even if you spend $3.00 here and $10 there for advertising it does add up quick! You will be surprised at results sometimes. Of course use your own judgement, don't post on widely used "just for advertising" sites. Its usually just a spam board and your wasting your time. Stick to simple sites.

-If you have the budget whether its just $10 a month or $100 pick high traffic sites like www.wahm.com . They usually have their listing spaces up for bid at eBay, granted it can get very spendy so just bid within your budget. A lot of wah sites that have been around for less than a year usually have very affordable ad space. So get on board!.

- If your already part of a WAH message board (most have a signature line) use that!. Even use your avatar Space to your advantage. Include a link to your site, and make it simple to get too.

- Online Vendor Parties are a great way to get your name and business out there! You can find them sometimes for Free and some cost $1.00-$5.00. It goes on in a live chat room, their are usually about 10-20 other vendors their. You talk about your company including sales or discounts going on that current month..go over some items and talk about the company (great for recruiting). Some people like sticking to their "cello in a box lady" or "Toy lady". This is a great way to become a rep for some very loyal customers.

Happy Advertising! :)

If you have any other great ideas about online advertising please email me and ill add them:)

All about online parties!

Monday, April 9, 2007

All about Online Vendor Parties!

Joining in on an Online Vendor Party is a great way to get your name and company out there. It happens in a live chat room, and at your time you will present your company.The usual Vendor party works something like this

First off do your research. Some online vendor party sites have a screen in the chat room, so as you talk about an item you simply show it on the screen. In that case you need to make sure you have the links already written so you can just copy and paste. Some sites do not have these. Some sites you may need to do something extra to copy and paste. Make sure you know about it prior so you are prepared. If you really want to research it further join in on a vendor party as a guest not a rep and see how they do theirs.

-Check their Online Vendor party times and schedule.

-Sign up under a time that is good for you that you are free (you don't want any distractions)They have vendor spots for 30 min -60 min (you may have to pay extra if you want 60 min)

-Usual vendor party's cost about $1-$5, so make sure you have a pay pal account.

-Make sure their are no other reps for your company. All the vendor sites i have been too only accept one rep per company per party. (Which makes sense)

- Some sites require a prize giveaway (around $5). Unless your company has items that you can purchase at this price, use a gift e-certificate. This gives the winner a free $5 and will usually give you a sale. So lets say your prize is a small bottle of hand lotion that cost you $5. Well if that person wins this, he/she may not like it.Even though they won and took it doesn't mean they will like it or use it.They just want something that is free sometimes. When someone else that loves that lotion would have loved to receive it. Also remember it cost a little to ship..so lets say $3 for shipping theirs an $ 8 loss. By giving them a $5 gift e-certificate it gives the winner a chance to purchase something they want. They may even end up purchasing more (so theirs a great sale for you!). Now if someone is not interested in purchasing anything from you they will not use the gift certificate and no money lost to you.

- Once the mod receives your request he/she will have your name on the schedule.

- Now its time to type up all your information. You usually will only have 30 min to represent your company, so you want to spend less time typing and more time answering questions( 30 min goes by very fast). So type up your info and save it so you can copy and paste your info (quicker). Include your link, any sales or discounts your company is offering for that week/month, talk a little about certain items (usually your top selling , or new items), and also include information on becoming a representative (awesome way to recruit!). Also you may want to think about including a discount for the day or a prize or both. Some shoppers who attend these love discounts and of course who doesn't like free stuff?.

- When the day comes for your Vendor fair make sure your wide and awake. You want to be attentive to your audience. *remember Your not just going for a sale, but a way to meet other great wahms!. So chat with everyone, also make sure you have your pay pal ready their may just be something from some other rep you would like and maybe even a discount :).

- Your time is here, first off introduce yourself and link. Simply copy and paste your info from the list you wrote earlier. Don't just go copy and paste crazy, make sure your looking out for questions people may ask, or comments. After you finish your presentation make sure you chat with everyone else about your products and ask if their are any other questions.

- Use all of your time, just don't stop after you have finished, keep people attentive to you even throw in a little game or two for a small prize. This really gets people's attention.A good Moderator will not allow constant chat between each other unless its a "shopper" chatting with you. I have been to a few vendor parties before that during times of "representing" their is chat going on about what their kids did that day or whatever between other people and the rep can barely get a word out.Especially if you paid for a vendor spot I'm sure you would be highly upset.

- Let everyone know the options for instance :" I can take pay pal or credit cards, or please email me your order or order directly off my site"

- When your finished thank everyone for their time, and you will be standing by for any other questions and or orders.

- Unless you have to go do other things, stay in the room for at least another 30 min or even till the end of the party. When someone purchases or thinking about purchasing they don't want to see the rep leave right after their presentation. Not only is that a bit tacky but some that were planning on purchasing will not now, due to them thinking your just all about the money and not about customers.It also gives people a chance to catch up and ask questions. Sometimes during a break the mod will let everyone post their link again and their may be someone that just joined in and sees your link.

Some quick info..

A lot of online vendor party's you attend will usually not have more than 20 people in it. Sometimes you get a great turnout, sometimes you don't. Either way, represent your company in the best way. So make sure you advertise it as much as you can to everyone so they will show up to the party.

Sometimes you make a sale, sometimes you don't. Don't get upset though, just look at it like practice.

Some "shoppers/vendors" will ONLY purchase from you IF you purchased from them. This is an ongoing battle that needs to stop. The same with you, if theirs something that you really want and you like the Representative than purchase from them. Don't expect them to turn right back around and purchase from you. Sometimes they will and sometimes they wont. I wont purchase anything unless i want/need it. Not because they just purchased from me. I will be very thankful though :)

Party hardy! :)
Have you had experience with an online vendor party? How did it go? let us know!
This article may be republished as long as the resource box is kept at the end and fully intact.
Author: Jordan Gaffey
Written: April 9,2007

What Changes have you made?

With the Economy being unpredictable these days. Have you made any changes to the way you run your business? If so what?



Here are some responses:

Welcome,Welcome!

I am so excited you are able to join me!. I have dedicated this blog to being your one stop news update for all of your Direct sales needs. We will keep you up to date with New Buisness openings,Business Closings,start up kit changes and much more! Come join us!