Collaborating

AND WORKING TOGETHER

In listening to friends, family,aquaintences and random people (you know me, I'll talk to almost anyone) about the challenges of promoting and selling products from their entrepreneurial businesses I am throwing out this idea.

What if several of you hosted a combined event under one roof?  Maybe for holiday shopping or after the holidays in February when people begin showing the signs of cabin fever.

Who do you know, that has a home with enough space to accomodate and would be willing to open it up to such a collaboration for one day to set up some display tables? Who do you know that has access to a FREE commercial space?

Each vendor could set up a display table, the host can serve a light snack and beverages (the cost of doing business). 

Come prepared with "Specially priced items", business cards, marketing materials and a registry for people who would like to be contacted in the future.

Hand everyone a FREE 2 part perforated ticket at the door for a chance to win a basket that will include a sample item from each of the vendors as a door prize.  The 2 part ticket should have ample space on the back of the half that you will keep, where the customer can write their name, address, phone and email address (I think you can purchase them pre-printed on the back).

Don't try to hold the customer hostage for the day.  Lose the stipulation that the winner of the door prize must be present at the drawing (could be a motivator for the customer to provide complete contact information on the back of the ticket).

Invite businesses that are not in competition with each other like:

• Mary Kay
• Tupperware
• Pooka
• Body Magic (big hit with physicians)
• Mellaluca/Melaleuca
• YTB
• Jewelry (an artist that makes their own jewelry)
• Baker or Caterer (someone who will bring samples)
• Stocking stuffers

Lastly, I'm sure we all have a friend or family member (heck get your children involved if they are old enough and well behaved) who would volunteer 1 day to help you make this a successful event.

Advertise on your website, Facebook page, create an email distribution list, FREE websites, your blog, my blog, the library, send an Evite invitation, your church!!!!! 

Just brainstorming.