Dealing with a Flaky Host: Tips for Handling Last-Minute Show Cancellations

[mrssyvo]

We did the Babies "R" Us booth a couple of weeks ago, and I booked a show from there for tonight. It was only about 2 weeks ahead, so I was not able to do my usual host coaching (mailing invites for host, ect) but I did stay in touch by phone, and I even called her last week while I was on vacation, to discuss some things, and I told her I would call her Monday (day before the show) to finalize count and get directions, since she lives in a new area, not on mapquest. I called her yesterday, and she answered,and I identified myself the phone went dead. (she may of hung up, I am not sure) I tried to call back, and it went to voice mail. I tried several more times during the day, the last time leaving a message, that I needed her to call me back that evening, to confirm the show was still on, Still no call. I purchased the ingredoents, ect, which I can use elsewhere, I guess. Should I assume she flaked on me, and just leave a message that I am assuming there will be no show, and go on about my day. I have plenty to keep me busy (with 5 more shows to close this week, and a show on Thursday) I still may be able to hit the $3,000 mark.

 

[reba515]

or you could leave a message saying "i'll be arriving at x:00 to start setting up,see you then!" she is sure to call you back then.
or try calling from your cell or another # try to catch her that way.

 

[mrssyvo]

I did that- I called from my cell, and that is when she "hung up" She knows I cannot just show up, because she knows that Mapquest does not give directions to her home, and I was to call her to get directions. I think I will just plan on not having a show tonight, unless she calls. I am not going to do the prep work unless needed.

 

[pamperedinAlaska]

It's probably past the time for your show, but I wanted to let you know I had a very similar situation last week. The host simply wouldn't get back to me. I left several messages about the show,planning,recipes etc. Then I left a couple more saying if I hadn't heard from her by the day before the show I would take another opportunity I had for the evening, and we'd reschedule for a later date. Two days after the "show" she called and appologized profusely for "blowing me off" and would like to schedule for late July/August. We'll see, but it did end on a hopeful note...hope yours did too!
Ember

 

[mrssyvo]

no, It did not end well. She has not called me back at all. The problem is, I spoke to her on the phone several times to discuss her show, and every time she was excited about her show. It was only the call yesterday that she hung up on me, and no return calls. That is the problem.

 

[pamperedinAlaska]

Sorry to hear that.
But, I would call back and leave a message on voicemail or whatever asking for a date to reschedule her show, be excited ...maybe she just couldn't get people to commit and didn't know how to tell you, but would still like to have a show. Perhaps this will give her the extra time she needs to gather outside orders and remind her potential guests. Good luck!