Behind the Scenes: Getting Ready for an Event
Behind the Scenes
As a customer and follower, operating a boutique may seem like an endless shopping spree! You may not realize the work and to-do’s that go into Lenores events and shows, so I thought that it would be fun to give you a peek into preparing for an event!
To-do lists are great, and I use them all the time when preparing for events! My to-do list may vary but usually consists of the same 5 items:
Advertise event
Make sure I have adequate inventory
Determine if I need help with loading/unloading or manning the booth
Make sure I have shopping bags, cash, business cards
Review my display needs
Advertise, advertise
The first thing I always do after signing up for an event is start to think about advertising. I want all of my customers, friends and family to know about the event! There are many ways I go about doing this. I will start by adding the event to my Upcoming Events on my website. Next, I may create a facebook event or share one that has already been created for the event. This is an opportunity for people to tell me they are coming! I also advertise using social media! By using my personal Facebook page and my business Facebook page to advertise, it lets EVERYONE know what is coming up! I know that whether you are in Kansas or South Dakota, you are bound to find out what is happening with Lenores on Facebook! Lastly, and most importantly, I advertise by word of mouth! Word of mouth is always a great way to advertise and keep my audience up to date in general.
Inventory
Inventory! You can’t have an event without inventory. I go to market 2 or 3 times a year, so I always have inventory. However, I work hard to ensure that the inventory I will be bringing to the event is inventory that my customers at that event would love! For example, I can assume that most of my events will bring customers who are interested in a little of everything. However- I can assume that this specific event will bring customers who want to purchase a purse! If I feel that I will sell a large quantity of purses, I will bring more purses so that my customers have a wider selection to choose from! Catering to my customers’ needs is something that I love to do!
Once I assess my inventory, I order! I order inventory early enough that once I receive it, I can work on pricing it without rush.
Assistance and the Details
I bring a lot of inventory to events, and sometimes I need help unloading and loading.
I always make sure that I have smaller bills for change during the event! For those who may not know, I take cards and cash as forms of payment at my booth! So do not worry about making sure you have cash to purchase your Lenores!
I always give out business cards to my customers and those who stop by! Having an online store means that customers have the option to purchase online at a later date! Only a portion of inventory is available online, and so seeing Lenores at events is the BEST way to find your favorite Lenores accessories!
My Display
The last thing that I do to prepare is set up a table at my house where create a mock display! By doing this, I have the opportunity to decorate, tear down, and re-decorate the display to make it look perfect for the event! I always play around with different ideas, and I am always excited for you all to see the display and inventory!
The to-do list has been completed, and now it’s time for the event! Thank you so much to everyone who checks out Lenores at events and online, and for your loyalty to me and my business! I can’t wait to see you this weekend at the Wagner Farm and Home Show!
