How Do You Handle Doing a Cooking Show at Someone Else's Holiday Party?

[susanr613]

Hello:

A potential host has a tree trimming party every year, and she is considering having me do a cooking show at the party. We talked a little bit about collaborating on the menu and cooking. She wants to think about it as she plans her party (Dec 1)

She is what I would call a lukewarm prospect; she was my financial advisor and we met just a couple times. She doesn't seem too familar with PC. She was polite when I spoke with her, but thoughtful when considering how we'd integrate PC into her party.

I sent her information about PC, host benefits, and a link to the PC website.

My question for you all is: what has been your experience not being the focus or reason for the get-together? How do you do the demo and presentation? Did anyone resent that they were there for a party, and you were there to sell PC?

Thank you for your input!
Susan

 

[sarahlegare]

Is she going to let her guests know you will be there, ready & willing to take their orders? Maybe she could let them know you can help them get some shopping done while they are socializing?! I say as long as they know you'd be there, they can chose to order, or not! As far as a demo, I'd talk to her & see what she wants. Maybe have the food ready to serve, and just do a garnishing demo or 2!
Good luck!! Hope it goes really well~if nothing else, it'll definately get your name out there, and maybe fill your calendar for Jan & Feb!!

 

[finley1991]

It sounds like to me that she's hiring you to cater for her... does she really understand that you sell products, not prepare food?

 

[chefann]

The fact that she's not too familiar with PC puts up red flags, in my opinion. Does she really understand that you will be there to do a demo and sell things, not just serve as a caterer? If she does know that, then make sure, if you decide to do it, that she tells all her guests that you will be there, too. I'd feel ambushed if I went to a party-party (not a home sales party) and there was someone there selling things with no warning.

 

[cmdtrgd]

Who approached whom? If she approached you, then make sure she understands what you are going to be doing there, like Ann said. If you approached her, I would set up a January show with her so people can use up that holiday cash and purchase what they didn't get from gifts.

 

[susanr613]

hi everyone...
thank you for the thoughts and ideas. i agree that i need to make it very clear that i am there to sell, and that she needs to make her guests aware of it too.
thanks!