Party planners

So many stay-at-home mums have struggled to earn a living while chasing toddlers and keeping the house clean.

But you’re about to meet some wonder mums who have mastered the business of having a party - making friends AND making money.

Corporate escapee Sonia Williams, farmer’s wife Phillipa Pickette and mum-of-four Lisa Barnsley all found the answer in party planning — holding parties in people’s homes as direct selling opportunities.

They’re just like Tupperware parties or lingerie parties — but the sky is the limit in what you choose to sell... toys, food, clothes, aromatherapy...

Phillipa became a consultant for Chef’s Toolbox and her business is thriving in Bethungra in country NSW.

“It was just something that I was able to fit in around my life instead of try and squash a life in around a job,” she says.

Sonia has conquered the art of small business and has even written a book about party planning: Give it a Go. For more info visit: www.giveitagowhathaveyougottolose.com.au

Here are her tips to help you start having your own party:

PASSION
“You need to be passionate about the product you intend to represent because if you are not the customers will see through it and it will be very difficult to make sales.”

AMBITION
“You need to be ambitious. Set yourself goals and targets and what it is you want to achieve out of the industry.”

RESEARCH
“Research the company you intend to represent. Make sure it’s a credible company. Look into their reputation in the industry.”

TRAINING
“Make sure you attend the training sessions — it’s critical to your success as a party planner.”

YOU
“What's in it for you? Look into the party planners’ remuneration scheme and structure and work out how you actually are remunerated.”