Pamper Evenings

Pamper evenings have recently become the way to raise funds at schools in my area!

Guests book sessions in advance with a selection of masseurs, aromatherapists, nail technicians, beauty therapists, etc, then arrive in the evening to be pampered. As they often have to sit around waiting for their various appointments, there are usually several stalls for them to browse in the meantime.

I’ve done several stalls at this type of event, and although they’re not quite as lucrative as a home party, I do well enough for them to be a good ‘filler’ when party bookings slow down.

Pamper evenings have a much more personal feel to them than a craft fair, and people are there to treat themselves, so are more open to buying. And the fact that they are spending to raise money for their school helps your sales too!

I set up just the same as at an open house style party and chat to whoever comes to browse. It's a good opportunity to advertise your home parties as well, and hopefully get a few bookings.

There is usually a table fee, which is either a flat rate or a percentage of your takings, and they often ask for a raffle prize. So your cost is roughly the same as at a home party.

Alternatively, if you’re a bit more adventurous and know anyone who you could team up with, you could do your own pamper evening!

Consider any friends who are masseurs or beauty therapists, or even party plan consultants for home spa products (provided they’re not in competition with your handmade products). Your friend could then treat guests in 10 minute sessions, while the rest of the guests mingle, chat and browse your crafts.

It would be a fun thing to invite friends to and your takings would probably be more in line with your usual home parties. And there would be two of you inviting people, so hopefully you would get plenty of guests, some of them brand new customers for you!

Or how about holding a pamper evening as a fundraiser for your favourite charity?

It's definitely worth bearing in mind for those times when you don’t have many bookings – and you’ll probably have great fun too!