In Home Jewelry Show-Success Checklist

Long before I had an e-commerce site, I sold my jewelry through in-home shows/parties. These were great ways to build my local customer base and get referrals.

Whether you are just getting ready to show the world your designs or you are a seasoned designer, hold an Open House in your home/studio and invite your local clients.

Jewelry Show Success Checklist

• Choose a date and time that there is nothing major going on in your community. Scheduling a show on Homecoming Weekend would probably NOT be a good idea!
• Use e-vite to send out e-mail invitations 3 weeks before and a "card" in the mail 1 week before as a reminder.
  
• Ask your family, friends and customers to RSVP via e-mail or phone. Encourage them to bring a guest by offering an incentive (discount, etc).
• If possible, ask at your church , children's school, hair salon, local coffee shop, etc...if you can put up a flyer to invite people to your Open House. This is a great way to get more exposure within your local area.
• When setting up your display. Simple is best. Remember, the jewelry should be the focus. Arrange your jewelry by color, style or price so it is cohesive.
• Don't forget to have a few mirrors so guests can try on and see jewelry on.
  
• If possible, have a friend or two that can help out to answer questions, help check out and /or gift wrap.
• Offer a refreshment and snack. It will help people linger.
• Put your game face on and interact with customers. This is not the time to be the wall flower. Ask someone what drew them to a design....start a conversation...that is how relationships start!
  
• Don't forget to have ample cash on hand to give back change. Have a designated area to check out and specify what types of payments you accept. This is also the perfect area to have a "gift wrap" area.
  
• Make sure you have business cards and promos to put in bags and to give to everyone who attends. Even if they do not buy, you want them to be able to contact you in the future.
  
• Have a sign up sheet to collect customer information. Ask for referrals!
• Remember to smile and have fun! You will learn something at every show just by engaging your customers!
  

Check out this great article at Fire Mountain Gems on holding an In-home Jewelry Show. Plus, if you are a "beader" they have a great idea and printable resources on how to host a Swarovski Workshop.

Here's to your success having a fantastic jewelry show!

~Randi