I’m a party girl…

Each time I do a candle party, I try to tailor the even to the host. If one likes games, I have a few we can play. If she isn’t fond of candles due to the flames, I focus on the products that are flameless. But, there are several things that I try to remember to do each time.

• Talk about how and why I became a Gold Canyon demonstrator
• Give the host her gift for having the party
• Mention the various lines that Gold Canyon offer (Candle lines, Suddenly Scented items, Homeology, Emerge, holders)
• Talk about candle care and why it is important
• Explain the catalog inserts (order form, customer info card, Deal or No Deal envelope and business card)
• Point out the Party Perks and other customer promos
• Offer three opportunities – To get the customer promo, To get free products (host a party), and To make money (become a demonstrator)

I will admit…there are times that I forget an item. Usually it is the three opportunities. I am getting better with each party, though.

Once upon a time, I was nervous about presenting at parties. Lately that has changed. I’m less nervous about talking in front of a group of mostly strangers. That’s one of the many great things about becoming a Gold Canyon demonstrator.

Prepping for Party Time

Last night I did a candle party at Marie’s new home. Her family just moved in about a week ago!

What fun! Marie made some delicious pepperoni rolls and had fresh fruit and other snacks for dipping in chocolate fondue. She had two outside orders already for the party, and everyone who attended ordered something. There are a few more orders still coming in, but already it is a very successful party.

I do a little prep work for my parties. Some demonstrators don’t do as much, having different styles for presentation and ordering. I just like to be as organized as I can. It is helpful for me and nice for my customers as well.

Catalogs
I put inside each catalog four things: an order form (stamped or stickered “Thank You” on the last page), a Deal or No Deal envelope (a booking party game), a Customer Information card (used for a drawing), and a business card. Depending on how many people are expected at the party, I often put the catalogs on clipboards. If there are more than a dozen people expected, I offer the clipboards at the party.

Products to display
Of course it is important to pack up products to show and tell! I try to have at least the following key items:

• Scent Pod Warmer, with both empty and new scent pods.
• Candle for Kids candle (Baby Powder).
• Essentially Soy Aromatherapy candle.
• Comforts of Home candle – usually Warm Welcome, as it is my favorite in that line.
• One box of tealights, plus one extra tealight candle to burn in the Polished Square Tealight Glass Candle Holder
• One box of votives, plus one or two extra to burn in the Straight Votive Glass Candle Holder.
• Apple Lantern Autumn Candle Holder and a 5 ounce Heritage candle to put in it.
• One each of the 8 ounce, 16 ounce and 26 ounce Heritage candles. Usually the 26 ounce candle is also one I use to illustrate the even wax burn of our candles.
• Crystal Candle Stands Candle Holders. These are great for showcasing items, as they lift them off of the table.
• Scentmate - one of our newer items, this was so popular that it went on backorder (for nearly a month) the first day it was available!
• Emerge Raise Your Hand Silk – so each customer can try it out.
• One item from the Homeology line. This varies, as I have several of the cleaners – all of which I use at home!
• Assorted items from the Suddenly Scented line, like Auto Air Fresheners, Scented Bookmarks, Room Spray, Linen Spray, or Diffuser.
• Candle Care items, such as a Wick Dipper and a Wick Trimmer. I also use these items on my candles while there.

Sometimes I have other items as well. I always ask my host if there is anything that she or he would like for me to focus on from the catalog.

Scent Samples

Of course I wouldn’t be a candle demonstrator worth much of anything if I didn’t offer a complete line of scent samples! Once upon a time I kept the samples separated by their type. I’ve since found that there are several great reasons to just put them in the containers however they will fit.

• If there isn’t much room to put out the containers, having the scents combined instead of separated by scent line or family means less containers to find a space to place!
• Children of all ages LOVE to check out the scents, but they rarely put them back in the correct spots. Since many of my hosts have young children, I try to set up my products to keep them safely out of the reach for little hands. However, the scent samples are something they are still drawn to. That’s OK. It is actually a lot of fun to share the scents with a little one. Also, who wants to get a candle that they think smells great only to have their child loudly proclaim that they don’t like it?
• It is actually easier for me to keep track of the scents. I now know that we currently have 100 scents available. If I am missing one or two, I can easily tell.

Other goodies

I do games at parties if they are requested. If not, I still do two – less involved – “games”: Deal or No Deal, and Customer Info Card drawing. Because of the drawing, I always bring a few prizes for the winner to choose from: Scented Bookmarks, Auto Air Fresheners, Wick Dippers, Polished Square Tealight Glass Candle Holders, and a few other fun things.

I also bring along the following:

• Host packets – for anyone who takes the Deal or No Deal offer!
• Fliers - to advertise my Party Perks, the Gold Customer Program (only available through me), the current and next month’s Promotions, and other important information.
• Extra order forms – in case we need more!
• Host Gift – always important. Sometimes it is something that I use as part of my display as well.

Seems like a lot, I know. It really isn’t though, and it takes just a small bit of time to put together. The items may vary, depending on the amount of space available and whether the host has any requests. The most important thing I bring, though, is my excitement for Gold Canyon and all of the products.

Themed Party Ideas

Dear Ama,

I love hosting parties and I love candles, but I don't want my candle party to be the same old direct sales party that everyone else has. Have any great themed party ideas?

Why yes I do! There are a lot of ways to party with Gold Canyon!

Girls'/Moms' Night In
Host an evening of pampering and fun without the kids! "Emerge" with a manicure using our Emerge line of body products. Relax with the scent of Essentially Soy Aromatherapy candles. Most importantly, just kick back and have fun!


Ugly Candle Party
Have a candle that’s just plain ugly? Bring it to this party for a discount on a beautiful Gold Canyon Candle. The owner of the ugliest candle will win a free replacement candle!

Wickless Wonders Party
Find out why Gold Canyon is more than just a candle company.

This party features Gold Canyon’s scented products that don’t use wicks – Pod Warmers, Diffusers, bookmarks, air fresheners and more! This is a great way to introduce Gold Canyon to those who aren't keen on burning candles, but still love a scented home.

Gold Canyon Design Workshop
Are you and your friends looking for a unique centerpiece? How about hosting a Gold Canyon Design workshop? Each guest will start out with the same base item - like a Ruffled Pedestal ($15.48). A variety of supplies will be provided. Attendees can preorder candles for their centerpiece or order them the day of the workshop.

Guest must prepay for this workshop, in order to have materials available.

Gold Canyon Summer 2010 Catalog preview

Wow! I just looked at the new Summer catalog! It starts May 1, but we are able to view it ahead of time. Let me know if you want a sneak peak!

We have lots of changes coming to Gold Canyon. If you love the Inspiration and Pillar lines, stock up NOW! Those lines are available only while supplies last. If it is just the scents that you adore, don’t worry. Most of the scents will be available in as Heritage candles.

There are a couple new Scent Pod Warmers – including one that can showcase your favorite photo!

New to Gold Canyon this summer are two products that are completely different from our usual.

1. UN-scented candles! You can get an unscented candle in any of our Bella sizes or as tealights. Perfect for those who love the glow of candles, but can’t handle the scents.
2. ScentMate™ Personal Fan Diffuser – A quiet, yet powerful battery-operated fan that uses scented oils to stream long-lasting fragrance into the air.

In addition to these great changes, Gold Canyon is offering a slew of summer seasonal scents, including Fizzy Pop and Sliced Watermelon.

Contact me to order products or to schedule your Gold Canyon party (and earn those goodies for FREE).

Why host a Gold Canyon party?

So, Ama, tell me why I should host a Gold Canyon party?

Well, my friend, there are so many reasons!

• For a minimal investment (just a few refreshments – soda, chips and dip, brownies, etc.) you can earn at least $20 in FREE Gold Canyon product! Most of my hostesses have earned at least $40 in free products and one item at half off the price!

• It’s a great “excuse” for spending time with friends and family. Whether hosting a general Gold Canyon party, or a themed one such as Spa Day, Ugly Candle, or Wickless Wonders, nothing beats the time hanging out and having fun!

• Thinking about earning some extra income? Try hosting your own Gold Canyon party and see what your potential earnings may be! Consider the party a "try before you buy" experience.

• Shop at home and give to charity at the same time! When you and your guests purchase Gold Canyon products, a portion of EVERY purchase goes directly to children in need through our Prayer Child program. Additionally, the proceeds of every Candles for Kids candle is given to the Prayer Child foundation. Want to give more? You can also donate any amount of money desired just by adding it to the order form.

• Are your candle jars coated in soot? Is there a tunnel of wax through the middle? When you host a Gold Canyon party, you and your guests will learn the proper way to care for a candle, and just why Gold Canyon's double wicked candles are the best in the field!

• With over 100 scents available, Gold Canyon has a scent for everyone. By hosting a party, you will be able to sample each scent, choosing those that you know you will love. Also, with a new catalog coming out three times a year, the variety and of decor and scents suites every season.

• Looking for a different fundraiser for your group, but aren't sure that Gold Canyon is the right product? By hosting a party your friends and family can check out the Heritage line of candles and sample the popular scents available for fundraisers. It's a great way to try before buying!

party day

Yesterday was a party day, and not just for me. While I headed out to do a candle party, the hubby headed to his sister P’s house for a birthday party. Our niece E will be 13 on Wednesday. How did that happen?!?

My party was a success. This is especially true considering that only ten days passed between booking the party and its happening. About 15 people were invited and 4 people attended. There were a few who couldn’t due to family birthday parties. As I said, it was party day.

So far the sales for the party are around $240. Ten more dollars in sales and the hostess will be getting one half price item and $40 in free products! There are a few more people who have expressed interest in ordering from the party, but couldn’t attend, so I feel confident that it will close near $400 in sales.

FYI: $400 in sales = $100 in commission for me. Not too shabby, eh?

And, an added bonus: One of the people who attended yesterday has booked a party at her house for the end of April. Yay!

In other fun news, tonight is knit group night. As if that wasn’t awesome enough, I will be getting those evilly adorable knit kits tonight. Here’s hoping it doesn’t end up as money wasted and I will actually be able to make those sweet baby hats and diaper covers.

Gold Canyon Party Perks

Gold Canyon Party Perks (as advertised on Facebook)- Snow Storm Extension

My party was canceled due to the snow, so I am extending my Party Perks for a few more days!

Place an order before midnight, Sunday, February 14, and be entered into a drawing for one of these great prizes:

• Free Shipping on a future party order!
• $10 in Free GC products
• Free 5 ounce Heritage candle of your choice!

Spend over $50 ...and receive an extra entry for each additional $25 in orders!

Take advantage of the sale on previous catalog items (see list in another post).

See if you Strike it Gold with the current customer promotion! Every 26 ounce Heritage candle (current scents only) has an Instant Bonus Offer featuring discounts, free shipping and more. Plus you can be a golden coin winner of $5,000!!

Contact me today to place your order!

Cookie Monster

I’m invited to a cookie party this upcoming weekend at my friend Jen Knitty’s house. This is the second year that I will attend, and I am looking forward to the festivities. I’m not, however, looking forward to eating all those delicious cookies that I will be bringing home.

Alright. I’ll admit that is a lie.

I just ate waaaaaay too many of them last year.

Anyhow.

I am at the point where I should know what I am baking, yet I am far from being sure what to make. There are so many options! I saw a recipe earlier today that sounds yummy. Then there are the ingredients I purchased at the store this afternoon while I was brainstorming. So, that’s another option. Then…just to add to the crazy mix…there are the various cookbooks sitting in my kitchen, my spare room, my living room, my bedroom, my work that are filled with a plethora of deliciousness. Whatever is a Betty Crocker/Suzy Homemaker type to do?

Did I mention that today was my last day off until the day of the cookie party? Urm, change that. Looking at the clock on my laptop, yesterday was my last day off until the party. Joy of joys.

This leaves me with three evenings to bake: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Those who know me and my love affair with procrastination will tell you that I will be frantically baking on Saturday. The only problem with that is the hubby will be home. Guess I’ll have to bake at least one batch of peanut butter or chocolate chip cookies in order to keep him from eating the cookie party goods.

I do believe I am rambling.

Here are the current top choices:

Choice #1:
Pumpkin Cookies with Penuche Frosting

Though, I think they need cinnamon and ginger added to them. Hrm….


Choice #2:

Using this recipe as a base, but with the following changes

Base recipe: Double-Chocolate Dream Cookies

Turtle Dream Cookies: Adding in caramel chips, chocolate chips and chopped pecans

Rocky Road Dream Cookies: Adding in mini marshmallows, chocolate chips and chopped walnuts

Choice #3:

My uber-delicious Loaded Oatmeal Cookies - chock full of chocolate chips, raisins, walnuts, dried cranberries, dried cherries and/or whatever other goodies I decide to add.


Choice #4:

What I thought about making a month ago - homemade caramels or homemade peppermint marshmallows. Neither of these are cookies, though, and therefore go against the whole idea of a cookie exchange party.

Anyone have suggestions?

Let’s get this party started…

I’m having a party on Saturday night. It’s for the Gold Canyon business, and I am calling it a Holiday Shopping Spree. I will be highlighting the holiday scents and decorations. I’m not sure how many people to expect, which makes providing refreshments a little tricky.

Plans for refreshments:

• Assorted Appetizers (from Sam’s club)
• Assorted cheese and crackers
• Some type of baked goods – something Christmassy.
• Assorted beverages – water, milk, teas, wine(?). I don’t drink pop, so I usually don’t buy it.

Even though the hubby and I are firm believers in no Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving, I’ve started putting up a few in the living room. A mini tree here. A snowman there. Nothing major, and more than likely all of the decorations I will do this year.

The next tricky part of hosting a party – at least for me – is getting the house in proper order! This is harder than usual, as last weekend I decided that the wall paper in our kitchen needed to come down. This means the kitchen is in semi-shambles. It won’t be painted until after this weekend’s shindig. I’m sure people will survive that little mess. Thankfully I am off on Saturday and will have time to get all the last minute details completed.

My to-do list:

• Sam’s club trip
• Clean upstairs bathroom
• Mop hall
• Vacuum rugs
• Clear and set dining area table
• Put away excess Gold Canyon boxes and supplies
• Clear off computer tables
• Laundry
• Dishes
• Put together free gifts for attendees
• Check stock and catalogs
• Take out cash from the bank
• Breathe and relax

I’m sure there is something I’m missing.