Yeah! I had my last home party for 2006 last night! I am always happy to be done for the season because with the holiday shipping deadline looming, I am always nervous about customers not getting their products. I work until a few days before the cut off because hostesses tend to need to keep the party open for a few days (there are always guests who can not make it last minute but want to order) and I want to give myself and them padding. Unfortunately, shipping is a problem most home based businesses need to face.
One other problem with the end of a season is items sell out or go on back order. Though I let the hostess know what is no longer available, often toys will get ordered. I’m not a confrontational person, and always dislike telling someone that I can’t get an item.
It is funny, when you go into a store and an item you want is not on the shelf, you may be a little annoyed but understand. You know that hot items will sell out. However, I do have a few customers who are unhappy if I have an item that is sold out. I have to explain to them that just like any other store, we try to order enough to get through the holidays but it is hard to predict what will be the “hot” toy for the season. Most of my customers do understand. I often give them 10% off for when the item does become available so I will still make that sale later on.
Luckily my toy business has a good network of consultants who do buy extra items and keep inventory, so often I can find the product, though it may not count towards the party.
As humans, we tend to avoid things that are painful or we don’t like. That is why I close my doors a little early. However, I will continue to take orders if they come in. Now I get to focus on other fun things for the month like cleaning my office! I promise to post before and after pictures.