Tis the Season to Sale, Sale, Sale

Hey there, stranger!

Sorry about my current blogging vacation.

I don't have to tell you that life gets crazy and some things move to the back-burner.  But, that's why I love my Paparazzi Business.  Sometimes it is non-stop and other times I stop it all together...and give myself a much needed break.  Either way, I get to choose how much time & effort I put into it.

So...welcome back!  

This is the most wonderful time of the year!  

You can already hear holiday music on the radio and all the big box stores have their Christmas decorations neatly organized by color and style.

Everywhere we turn, people are already thinking about Christmas.  That's good for us Papa gals! We get to help those shoppers find fashionable gifts, without breaking their budget.

Now...how do you find those shoppers?  


HOME PARTY TIPS:
*Host your own home party, even if you just had one.  I try to host MYSELF a party every other month, and I make it a goal to add 5 new people to my guest list.  Give your party a fresh perspective by adding a fun holiday game, or even have a holiday special.  My special for December is Customer Appreciation and I'm having a Buy 3, Get 1 Free SALE!  
*Call your previous Hostesses and give them a smoking special if they book a party in the month of November or December.  Let them know that this is a great time to get FREE jewelry to give to others for Christmas.

*If the weather is nice, have your own yard sale.  Throw out some of the crap you found deep in closets while Fall Cleaning, but make the sale mostly about your jewelry.  People will stop.  People will shop...and when they do, tell them you are looking for hostesses.


EXPO TIPS:
*November & December happens to be the busiest time of the year for Expos.  Work hard to book yourself one, or see if you can't share a booth with another Consultant in your area.  Sometimes, you hardly break even at an Expo, but you are likely to book additional parties.  In order to do this, you MUST make a personal contact with each & every person who walks by your booth.  A few of my favorite lines are: "Have you heard of Paparazzi Accessories?"  Whether they say yes or no, I just carry on with my little script: "Everything is JUST $5."  When they give you that double-take and stop in their tracks to look, I say: "Paparazzi is a party-based company, and I do home parties, events and shows."   

*While at the Expo, make it a POINT to visit with other vendors and collect their cards.  They often know of the next show or event, and there ain't no shame in a "cold call" later on to ask them where their next event is.  Pretend you are interested in their product, and ask them for the contact information for the event organizer.  Try it. It totally works.

*Make sure each and every person who shops or stops gets a business card from you.  In fact, give them 2 or 3 and ask them to share with their friends.  Also, if you have upcoming events you already know of, make sure you include a small slip of paper in each sales bag that tells where you will be next & when.

*If you accept credit cards, your passers-by need to know!  Shout it from the rooftops...or at the bare minimum have a large sign so they can see it from across the room.  Most visitors to expos/events actually have very little cash on them.  Let them know that if they got "No Money", they got "No Problems."

*Share your participation at expos/events on nearby FOR SALE Facebook sites.  You might consider having a special if your customers mention your ad when they visit your booth.

SOCIAL MEDIA:
*Gotta love me some Facebook.  But the problem is, you can post something and it can be a gazillion posts down in your NewsFeed.  So, if you are posting on Facebook about your business, be sure to do so as frequently as possible.  Once every other day seems acceptable.

*On Social Media sites, make sure your post is appropriate for the site.  For instance, I found a "Children's Items For Sale" site.  So, I make the post about my little girls' jewelry, but throw in information about the Mommy Line too!

Paparazzi's Marketing Materials

If you haven't done so, be sure to check out these amazing Marketing Materials from Paparazzi!

Starlet Shimmer

Starlet Shimmer items are great and so affordable for families--plus Mommy can shop longer when her little diva is shopping from the Starlet Line at the same time.  Paparazzi requires you to sell your Starlet Shimmer pieces for a minimum of $1 each--but don't feel like this puts you in a box.  I have seen Starlet go for $2 or 2/$5.  At my next re-launch party, I am giving them away!  For every piece Mommy buys, Mini-Mom gets a free one.  Consultants can purchase these in the Back Office 10/$5, or just 50 cents each!  Get some...RIGHT NOW!!

 Pink Paparazzi Sale Bags

If you are doing an event, these are a must!  If someone is familiar with Paparazzi and they see another event-goer carrying a bag, they will WANT TO KNOW where your booth is!  Because, once someone buys Paparazzi, they keep coming back.  What I love most about these bags is that they are ridiculously affordable at just $4 for 100 bags.  

Loyal Customer Cards

These are perfect for enticing some of your closest family, friends and customers to buy more...and come back for more!  After 12 purchases, your customers will receive a 13th item for free!  These are just $1 for a pack of 10.  

Customer Information Sheets

Building a customer base is a big deal for Paparazzi.  Why? Because our jewelry is memorable!  Once someone becomes a customer, they typically stay a customer. The trick is to make sure they stay YOUR customer.  Ask your customers to fill-out a Customer Information Sheet so that you know how to get in contact with them regarding your next event, next party, or new inventory.  To help people feel more comfortable, offer these as the "tickets" for give-a-ways or drawings--your customers will be more likely to fill one out if they think they will earn a freebie!

Family Road Trip

Nothing like a short weekend trip to rejuvenate your soul and to advertise your awesome $5 deals!  

Our family is taking a short trip to a wonderful place just 2 hours from our home.  And, while the main focus of the trip is for family fun, I am not going to pass up this opportunity to make part of this trip about advertising for my business.  And, now that our customers--new and old--can order online, we can advertise everywhere we go.

Business Travel Tips

1. Flyers & Business Cards: Bring along a separate bag filled with simple flyers & your business cards.  For every place you stop, eat, shop and pee or poo, find a place to leave behind your mark--not referring to the pee or poo, but your flyers and cards.  Most restaurants, gas stations, and hotels have a place to leave something behind.  Keep your eye out for cork boards and business card holders--which are ironically & usually located near the pee & poo place. I don't know why?!

2.Hotel Computers: Make a quick stop at your hotel lobby and be sure to add your website to the desktop of every computer you pass. I mean, who doesn't check the history of the person who used it before you got in??  Some people really are checking the status of their flights, and some are well...checking other things.

3.Jewelry Case or Basket: Bring along a case or basket of your jewelry.  Make a point to pull-it out during your continental breakfast at the hotel--and make sure somewhere there is an oh-so-subtle sign stating $5 on your case or basket.  Bring along a notepad or binder and pretend to write down some business notes--like descriptions of jewelry or something like that.  Hopefully someone will notice you and approach you.  If not, enjoy your terrible hotel coffee and free muffin. 

4. Wear your Jewelry:  Be sure to wear your jewelry everywhere you go, and carry a few business cards in your back pocket.  When someone comments on your jewelry, tell them the price, watch their jaw drop, pass them a card, and smile. 

Travel Tax Tips

We should travel every weekend and deduct it as a business expense, right? Wrong.

Let me explain. For this little road trip, I am not going to consider the whole kit & caboodle as a business expense, even though I am going to advertise along the way.  

What can I deduct?

Hotel? Nope.

Food? Yep, but only for 1 meal for me (not my entire family).

Gas? Nope.

Mileage? Yes.

The reason I am not deducting my hotel and all my meals is because this voyage is only 5 hours round trip from my home.  It wouldn't be deemed necessary (if this was just for business advertising) for me to stay a night in a hotel.  In any other situation, I would drive the 2 hours, advertise around town for 1 hour, and simply drive home.  It would be considered normal for me to need to eat sometime during those 5 hours, so I am going to deduct one of my meals.  I just have to make sure I ask the waitress to separate my meal from my family's.  I can, however, deduct all of my miles (round trip).

What if I was vending or hosting a party away from home?

In that case, you are able to deduct more of your expenses.  Let's say you are vending for 2 days in a location other than your home.  Then, you can deduct a hotel's night stay and any meals consumed by yourself, as well as anyone assisting you in your booth.  Have a camper or trailer that you plan on staying in?  Be sure to deduct the camp rent, miles driven, and even a percentage of your camper or trailer payment.  If your payment is $100 and you used your personal camper for business uses for 2 nights for an event, then calculate 2/31 of your $100 towards your business expenses.  It might not be much, but it will surely help in the end.

Safe Travels!

'Tis the Shopping Season

I am so excited for fall, and you should be too!  From now until Christmas, everyone everywhere is looking for affordable gifts for family & friends.  Make yourself available to all those shoppers!  Let them know what you have for sale, and how you can help them keep their holiday budgets, while still getting something for everyone on their list. 

Launch Party TIPS:

If you are new to Paparazzi and you haven't done so, host your own Launch Party at your home.  Not-so-new to Paparazzi?  Host a Launch Party for your new Fall Accessories!  Just because you have already had a "Launch," doesn't mean you can't "Re-Launch," right?  

1. Invite everyone you can think of.   And, when I saw everyone, I mean EVERYONE!  You will be surprised who will come and who won't.  Your closest friends and family might not show, but that lady you met at the soccer field just might come.  Personally pass out simple invitations, post your party on social media, and email every Jane & Doe you know.

2. Hunt for future hostesses and let everyone know that you are open to host a party at their house and they will FREE jewelry for doing so!  One of the great things about Paparazzi is that corporate doesn't dictate what your hostess incentives are...you do!  Typically, it is 10% of jewelry sales in free jewelry, 1 free piece for hosting, and 1 free piece for each friend who books a party.  But, you don't have to stick by this rule of thumb.  You could give more or less in freebies, or even a new car (just kidding).  Bring your calendar along to book parties right then & there!

3. Have a give-a-way and include on your invitations that if someone brings a friend, they get entered into the give-a-way!  Again, you choose what you want to give-a-way...maybe free jewelry, maybe a Starbucks gift card, maybe a new car (hahaha).

4. Have flyers on hand that detail your home party rewards.  And make sure everyone that comes leaves with a business card--or two--or three.  It never hurts to ask your customers to share your business card with another friend.  Ask them to add their name to your business card, and if one of their friends calls from their referral, throw them a bone...or a discount on their next purchase.

5.  Let your customers know about your next stop. Make sure your customers know where you plan to be next, and have a flyer or card ready to put in their bag with their goodies.

6.  Add a little treat for each customer.  These can be super affordable, clever and adorable.  "Be a Smartie--Host a Party" can be added to cardstock with a smarties candy.  Or, "You are Mint to Earn Free Jewelry--Ask me How" and tape on a peppermint candy!

7. Ask you customers to leave behind their email (on a paper and clipboard), to enter for yet another door prize.  Now, you can keep them informed and up-to-date concerning your newest inventory, or next event.  Also, be sure to send them a personal Thank You for attending the party, and be sure to share your replicated Paparazzi website with them (to allow them to shop online in the future).

Holy Festival

I am not referring to anything religious or holy here.  Not at all.  When I say "Holy Festival," I am referring to the ridiculous amounts of festivals and events that happen every year from now until Christmas.  Keep your eye & ear out for all of these events--and put in to vend whenever you can. It is only at festivals, fairs, and events that you will be able to expand your audience to those beyond your personal outer circles.  Just Remember: Paparazzi policies allow for only one consultant per event, so be sure to check with the Event Director before registering.

Sometimes, great sales opportunities are disguised in various ways...so don't be afraid to think outside the box.  The worst thing someone can tell you is, "no," but you will never "know" until they "no."  

Consider selling at any of these events/places:

-Fall car shows

-Fall festivals

-Halloween events (dances, parties, trunk-or-treats)

-OctoberFests

-Christmas stores at Schools

-Fall gun shows

-Flower shops & salons (ask to set up weekly)

-Hospital gift shops

-Christmas craft fairs

-Offer "Pink Friday" shopping in your own home

-Back to school nights

-School sports fundraisers--give a % of sales back to fundraising effort

-School sports venues

-Offer gift certificates during Holiday Season

Online Ordering: How has this changed our taxes?

Change is inevitable

--except from a vending machine.  

Fall is fast approaching, which makes me remember that everything changes. And, Paparazzi is no exception.  Just like any company, Paparazzi has to make changes that they hope will best benefit their consultants and customers alike.

Personally, I like the addition of online ordering.  I feel like we can not only host many more parties online, but that we can also reach an audience much larger than friends, or friends of friends, or friends of friends of friends.  Catch my drift?  With online ordering, I might make an online sale from some lady, who loves affordable jewelry, somewhere in West Virginia whom I've never met.  I just might make a sale to a soon-to-be-Mrs. looking for some lime green bracelets for her wedding party.  The sky is the limit, if we just continue to put ourselves out there!!  To make Paparazzi work for us, we have to BE a salesman.  We have to THINK like a salesman and we have to ACT like a salesman.  So, we have to advertise our butts off--and so much of our advertising can be done through technology.

Think about it this way: If you want someone to come to your Garage Sale, you have to let them know you are having one (first), and sometimes you even have to let them know what you are selling...just to entice them to come.  We should be no different.  We have an awesome, affordable product.  Let's get the word out there!!

Change in Taxes

I just love how online ordering has changed my tax situation as a small-business owner.  Even though I already used my computer, internet, and phone for business, now I feel more compelled than ever to make it count towards my taxes.  The truth is...without technology we cannot promote our business, right?

Again, there is an entire list of business expenses that we can deduct, because we are now conducting our business online.  Yes, for some of us, we are simply using technology to advertise, but there is a huge potential for lots & lots & lots of online orders.  So, our tax deductions are going to change.

Internet Service

First & foremost: We all pay for internet service!  And, we all use our internet service to conduct our business.  But, here's a word of caution...chances are you are NOT primarily using your paid service ONLY for business.  My son plays games on PBS every once in a while, my husband shops online for dirt bike parts more often than he should, and I openly confess to watching far too much internet television.  However, I can estimate that I use our internet approximately 10% of the time.  Plus, we have 5 electronic devices that are sharing the internet plan.  Seems reasonable to deduct 10% of my internet service, without getting red flagged on my taxes.  To count this as a monthly deduction, you need to have receipts for your internet service for each month.

Cell Phone/Telephone Service

Did you list your cell phone number on your flyers or business cards?  Do you conduct business on your smart phone, via internet?  If so, your cell phone bill can be deducted from your taxes--IF AND ONLY IF you also have a land-line you use for personal reasons.  However, again, I would not suggest deducting the entire cell phone bill...because I know as well as you know that you are totally texting your sister while you are driving.  Truth is, your cell phone is being used PRIMARILY for personal reasons!!  I feel it is reasonable to deduct 25% of your cell phone bill for business!  Some people, however, get a second,new phone and number that they use solely for their business; in this case, the entire cell phone bill could be a business expense.   I wouldn't suggest deducting the miles driven, or the postage required for your phone or internet business, since a percentage of the bills are primarily for personal reasons.  However, again, if you have a second cellphone JUST for Paparazzi--then go for it--deduct the entire bill, miles driven to pick up the bill and drop off the bill at USPS, and postage to boot!

New Computer or Tablet

Do you need a new computer or tablet or printer?  You can actually count the entire cost of your new equipment, as long as it isn't replacing your old one.  Let me explain.  Your computer or tablet needs to be designated for your business, because there are far too many personal uses for these devices.  Does that mean you can't check the news, watch cat videos, or shop Old Navy on your computer?  No, it just means you have to have an additional device that is used primarily for personal use.  In my home, my husband has an older laptop he primarily uses, my son plays on our older tablet, and I just purchased a new computer for business.  Yes, sometimes I use my son's tablet to check my Paparazzi account...and yes, sometimes my son watches Netflix on my business computer because it is newer and much faster. And, sometimes I take my son's tablet to events with me, to enter my credit cards sales. This is totally allowable and the entire cost of my new computer is deductible, because I can verify that at least one of my devices is meant for business.  

Malware & Computer Repair & Strange Cords 

With computers, there are always additional expenses.  Have to buy Malware or Microsoft Office?  Does your computer need more memory, or RAM, or due for a repair?   These are write-offs, as long as they are being used on the same computer you are claiming for business.  And, as long as you have a receipt.  Do you need earplugs that you plan to use for Paparazzi webinars?  These count, even if you might use the same earplugs when you work-out.  Do you need a microphone or webcam to make online Paparazzi webinars for your team?  I do!  I am going to buy them and use them as a write-off...and sometimes we will use them to Skype with Grandma, too.   And, don't forget all the strange cords & devices that computers require.  We have an entire box in the garage, and I'm sure they were required for one of our devices somewhere along the way.  Just remember to keep your receipts.  And, don't forget to log the miles driven to purchase your new equipment.

Tax Advice--Disclaimer

With any business, I would recommend meeting with a CPA or tax adviser before submitting any official tax information to the IRS.  I am not a certified CPA, or tax adviser, or pool lifeguard for that matter.  I just like math...does that count?  I am simply sharing my knowledge with all of you, and encouraging all of you to maintain honest records.

Pay Day

It is almost Pay Day!

With the end of the month fast approaching, this means your commissions will soon be calculated.

Receiving your Commission: When you enrolled you choose to be mailed a check, or to receive direct deposit into your checking account.  If you need to change your payment choice, contact Consultant Support.  Our commission will be posted in our Back Office by the 10th of every month, and our paydays are processed shortly after.

Earning your Commission: You will receive 45% retail profit for all your online sales.  Plus, once you start building your own team, you will also receive a percentage of their sales & purchases.  It takes just having one person join under you to earn 5% of their sales.  And, once you have a minimum of 3 people enrolled, you become a Director; this means you earn 10% of the sales for those directly under you, as well as 5% of the next line.  This can really add up!!  You also receive 15% commission when a new consultant enrolls and purchases a Starter Kit.  So, start thinking about who would be a great addition to Team Fashion4Five!!

Checking your Commission: You can check your commission in your Back Office. If you have no team members under you (yet), you will only be able to earn commission off your online sales and online parties (booked right on Paparazzi's website).

$20 Minimum: Paparazzi chooses to pay-out your commissions once they total a minimum of $20.  This doesn't mean you lose any earned commission from a month in which you don't earn at least $20, it is just banked until your payout totals $20.  You can view your Commissions in your Back Office--once your payout totals at least $20, you will see a green dollar sign next to the amount(s) that are being paid out for that month.

Keeping Active: Once you have consultants enrolled under you, you do have to keep an "active" status with Paparazzi, in order to receive your Downline commission.  This means, your total Personal Volume (or PV) for the month must total 50.  Each accessory holds a volume of 2, so 50 PV equals 25 accessories.  The Starlet Shimmer line for little girls doesn't count towards your PV.  You can achieve this PV simply with your orders for your own inventory, and even for the online orders made by your customers.  Your PV requirement must be met on the last day of each month.

Something NEW we learned this week: If you choose to receive your commission through Direct Deposit, you don't have to pay a $2.50 processing fee to receive a physical check.

Milkin' It: Tip of the Week

When it comes to taxes, every little bit will help in the end.  The secret is to focus on your business, think about your business, and make all things "about" your business.  

Milkin' It 

Tip of the Week:

First and foremost, I am a mother.  Next, I am a wife. And then there are plenty of additional roles that are just a part of the previously listed two -- I'm a nurse, maid, personal chef, Lego-builder, spider-killer, professional toilet scrubber, butt-wiper, booger-getter. 

Somewhere in the midst of all these "other" jobs, I am also an Independent Consultant for Paparazzi Accessories.  It can be tough, some days, to even think about my business.  But, if I just take a second when I am drinking my coffee in the quiet of the morning, I can create a way to make some part of my day "about" my business--even when it feels like every single minute of that day is dedicated to one of my many other jobs.

This week, I took my son swimming.  I remember the days when all you needed for a relaxing morning at the pool was a cold drink and a good book. Kids change that. Completely.  Now, it takes all morning for me to prepare for a not-so-relaxing time at the pool.  Instead of relaxing, drinking and reading at the pool, my new goal is to maintain constant supervision of my splashing, smiling son.

While loading the overflowing swim bag into the car, I quickly grabbed one of my business flyers.  While checking-in at the pool, I asked the receptionist permission to hang my flyer on their advertisement board.  I took note of the date, as well as the name of the rec-center employee who gave me permission. 

And, there you have it.  A small part of my day became "about" my business.  This trip was mostly about swimming.  It was mostly about that very important first role of mine--raising a little person.  But, I found a way to also make this day about my business. 

How did this help me?

First of all, our swimming pool is actually a hotsprings that hundreds of tourists frequent weekly. Someone is bound to see it, right??  And nobody would argue the "potential" business from hanging my flyer in such a busy-little place.

Second, we live 30 miles away.  So, on this particular day, I drove 60 miles for my business.  

As long as I record it in my records--to include the date, reason, and the miles driven--I am covered.  Again, I will caution you to not go overboard.  If you take your child to swim lessons 2 times a week, I would not count every single trip to the pool, just to hang a simple flyer, as a business expense.  That's a huge red flag come tax time.  But, on the other hand, if you are carting jewelry around in the back of your car, and selling the heck out of it to the Moms at swim lessons, then by all means those trips are business expenses.  Just make sure that somewhere on your sales receipts, you show record that your swim lesson sales were made right there at the pool.

Tax TUESDAY...or Wednesday...or Whatever!

I should know better than to put myself in a box.  I should know better than to promise my blog stalkers that I am going to write about taxes...on Tuesday.  Because, Tuesday came and Tuesday went.  I can't exactly recall what happened on such a chaotic Tuesday that I couldn't squeeze in 20 minutes to write.  But, that's what I love about Paparazzi!  I am my own boss.  I make my own hours, and if something more important (or just fun) pops up, I take an extra-long lunch break. Or, I come into work super late.  Or, I wear my pajamas to work.  Or, I just call in sick.  And nobody cares.  Except maybe for you...my blog stalker...who was hoping & wishing & waiting all day Tuesday.  Or, since you too are a Paparazzi Consultant, you took the day off as well! Good for you!!

The Dreaded IRS

My father has owned his own business--of some sort or another--for over 20 years.  Whether it be a little bit of this on the side to make extra money, or a little bit of that to pay for Christmas.  I think over his lifetime he has owned 10 different businesses.  And he has never once been audited by the IRS until just this last year.  Why?  Because of his beloved stamp collection.  He had a personal loss of over $50,000 in stamps, and they discovered a leak in the roof.  He was never once audited for his businesses, because he was honest.  He kept honest records and he never went hog-wild with his expenses.  Sadly, our family never went on lavish vacations to Hawaii for "business."  

That's the secret. Be honest. Keep good records, and don't get too crazy!!

There are tons of business expenses that you probably haven't even considered.  Expenses that just a part of what you do--but that help you promote your business.  Start thinking more about this...and I will start to share some of my tips & ideas too!

End of Month Records

Basically, your end of month sheets will have 4 columns.  DATE/REASON, Expenses, Mileage, Income and NOTES.  For all your home parties, if you have them organized by my envelope system (see last week), then the rest is going to be super easy for you.  Make double-triple sure that if you have an expense, you have a receipt!!  Otherwise, you are basically lying to Uncle Sam...or at least that is how "he" will perceive it.  I know if you are viewing this on your mobile device, my columns may look goofy & off, but I know they align correctly on your laptop or computer.

Here's an example of my August Tax Records:

DATE/REASON                            Expenses     Mileage     Income    NOTES

August 15th/Sara Home Party         $63.12         109 mi      $244.50   

August 23rd/USPS                                              12 mi                    pick up Papa order 

August 24th/Walmart                     $12.52            34 mi                   stationary/office supplies

August 27th/Paparazzi                   $56.89                                        

August 28th/Soccer Field                                     12 mi                    pass out business cards

See? Pretty simple, right?  At the end of the month, just tally up your totals for each column.  And come tax time, you will be rocking it!

UP & COMING for Tuesday TAXDAY;

*Milking It--Just a Little Bit!

*Online--How has this changed our tax deductions?

*Home Office--If you have the space, make it count!!

Get This Party Started: ONLINE

What an exciting time for Paparazzi!

Finally, our customers can shop online, and our hostesses can host an online party.

I love this option because if you are hosting a home party, you can also create an online party for your home hostess--and add their link to your invitations--so her friends who can't attend the home party, or who live miles away, can still shop!

I love this option because if you are hosting an event, bring along your laptop and have it available for girls to shop your online store.

I mostly love this option because if we continue to promote our website, we will continue to gain new customers, and bigger commissions.

Need Some Help?

Let me tell you how amazing it is to be part of the Paparazzi team!  Whenever you need something, another Consultant will always fill your need.  Have a question? Someone has the answer.  Need an idea for a flyer? Someone will make one for you.  My favorite resources can be found on Facebook--either "Frank Divas Group" or "Let's Get Creative For Our $5 Habit."  These groups have tons of ideas, and whenever I have personally posted a question, I find 10 people willing to help me answer it.  Check them out, and if you are currently a Consultant, ask them to add you to their groups!

Online Party Tutorials

So, when it came time for me to figure out how to provide you with online party support, I turned to these Facebook groups.  And, somewhere in my News Feed, hiding behind all the people dumping ice buckets on themselves for ALS (seriously, just donate the $10 already), I found this amazing youtube video, created by another Consultant.  In detail, it shows you how to set-up your online parties, and check your customer's orders.  It is about 17 minutes long, so get comfy & cozy before your click on the link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5x6OGJEvWo  Pay close attention to the video about 5 minutes in.  It shows how you must create a password for your hostesses.  I missed this small text box for 2 of my parties, and had to start all over.  Also, note that your hostesses are getting a customer number next to their name--this is their log-in.

You will also want to catch Paparazzi's webinar from August 20th: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-xPKEWrZo0&list=UUChopbTxaqRrfgs_KX7DB_Q

Wanted: Online Hostess

Now, how do you find people who want to HOST an online party?

My advice?  Start by hosting one yourself, especially if you are a new consultant.  To do this, you have to create yourself as a customer (or use your husband), and you will get a customer number and have to make a password for yourself.  But, you can name you party anything you'd like--get creative.  Invite friends through social media, email, text, phone calls, or even hand-out invitations personally.  Don't forget to invite all your past customers, too.  Make sure when you head out to hand-out your invitations, wear your jewelry.  If you happen to leave the house wearing something besides Paparazzi--gasp--use my good friend's line, "Yes, this is Paparazzi. Yes, it just cost $5. Sorry, this piece is no longer available. But, our new website probably has something similar."  W.A.I.T!  Are you telling me she fibbed?  And you are asking me to do the same? Yeppers--to both those questions.  Are you uncomfortable telling a little white lie?  Have you ever told your kids that there is such-a-thing as a tooth fairy? And has that same "tooth fairy" paid money to your poor, unknowing, innocent children? All while they slept soundly in their beds?  Case-closed.  Get over it, already.

After hosting your own party, or while hosting your own party, start with the most obvious options for online parties.

1. Family--Poor dears have no choice, because if they don't host a party, you may add some Ex-lax to your beloved pumpkin pie come Thanksgiving.  Don't want to wait until Thanksgiving?  Labor Day is just around the corner.  On a serious note, I sure hope you have the support of your family in your small-business efforts.  It can make all the difference in the world.  And, if they don't, try the Ex-lax. Or at least threaten them with it.

2. Friends--Again, if you are lucky enough to have the kind of friends I have, we all owe each other for at least one favor.  Remember that time when I bought those awful cookies for your daughter's field trip to the zoo?  Host a party and I won't serve them to you at our next Bunco game, okay??  Remember that time I told that crazy joke and you went wee-wee in your undies? Host a party and I promise not to tell anyone (I mean...anyone else).

3. Past Hostesses--Make a personal phone call to each of your past hostesses.  Chances are, they love your jewelry, they loved hosting a party at their house, but they not-so-love all the cleaning it takes to get their homes ready for a party.

4. Past Customers--Maybe you have a customer who keeps coming back for more?  But, has never shown interest in hosting a home party.  Call her and let her know she can host one from the all-amazing internet!!  She has her reasons as to why she didn't want to host a home party, but maybe an online party is more in her comfort zone.

Training & Supporting your Hostess

It's a great idea to send out an email to your hostess and let them know what to expect--plus you will need to share their log-in id number and their password (that you have created for them).  Your email should include: logging-in to their party, inviting friends to their party & earning freebies.  If you'd like a copy, just leave your email address in the comment box--unless you are part of my downline, and I will automatically send you this.  

After getting the party started, be sure to support your hostess.  Check in with them periodically.  Remind them of their freebies.  Ask them what you can do to help them.  Watch their party sales closely, and act accordingly. If their party is stagnant, don't be afraid to call them out on that.  "Hey, I see you don't have any sales yet, can I send you a flyer through email to pass out at work?"  Maybe their party is totally rocking it, acknowledge that. Or offer to hold their party for 2 more days.  Or give 2 more freebies from your inventory.

Now, here's the trick!  For people in groups #1 and #2, they are probably not as excited to host a party as people in group #3 and #4.  So, sweeten the pot for them, and make it as easy as possible. While they earn 10% from Paparazzi, add another incentive from your own inventory. You know these people better than anyone, so use this to your advantage. They love Starbucks?  Offer them a Starbucks card to total 10% of their sales.  Use the new FASHION FIX to your advantage.  If you have signed up for the FASHION FIX, you receive exclusive Paparazzi Accessories before they are available to anyone else.  The FASHION FIX also groups accessories together, known as Trend Blends, which takes the guess-work out of what-goes-with-what for your customers.  Offer-up your FASHION FIX for your online hostesses.  Sell 5 items online--earn the Trend Blend necklace.  Sell 10 items online--earn the Trend Blend necklace & ring.  And...so forth.   Also, help them pass out invitations; you may have to promote their parties ten times more than they do.

BE BEAR AWARE

 GLAD I GOT YOUR ATTENTION!

Okay...no bears here, but if you don't pay attention to these things, you will either be running up a tree, or "playing dead" to save your life...I mean party.

1. When you are signing up a hostess and you are in your Back Office, DO NOT click on Close Party.  This will totally close the party.  They have created a fail-safe, which will ask you to verify Close Party.  DO NOT verify, unless you are ready to close that party.
2.  Inform your hostess that their party will close when they shop.  So, they will need to wait until the very end of their party to make their choices via Paparazzi's site. If they shop early, the party closes early.  Poo.
3. Paparazzi is also allowing potential consultants to use their 10% towards their own starter kits, but you must call Consultant Support to set this up.

GOAL FOR THE WEEK: 

Host ONE Online Party--even if it is your own!  

Even if you just get a few sales, you will gain the knowledge and experience of your new Back Office.  Next Monday, I will share some new ideas for promoting online parties (to those other than your family, friends, or past hostesses)...so stay tuned!!

COMING NEXT WEEK

Time to take a short break...

Because it's the weekend.

Because, I have spent far too much time promoting my new replicated website: www.paparazziaccessories.com/22788.  My fingers are automatically typing the address...even in my sleep!

Because, it is time to weed the garden, and make lunch, and attack the laundry bomb that has recently exploded in my living room.

Because, even though I am a Paparazzi Consultant, I am first and foremost a Mom. My son is overdue for some ninja training and Lego building with me.

I hope you have spent a little time getting your website out there for the world to see.

If you haven't no big deal--there's still time.  Maybe consider reading my Motivational Monday blog from earlier this week to get you refocused.
If you have...keep up the great work, and keep brainstorming ways to get that web address out there for the world to see!!!  I would love to hear your ideas too.  Don't be afraid to comment!

Stay Tuned. 

NEXT WEEK:

Promoting Online Parties
End of Month Records
Taxes: Milkin' It

Why??

Everyone has a "why" when it comes to Paparazzi. Why do you sell Paparazzi Accessories?  Why are you an Independent Consultant?  I suggest that each Consultant add their "why" as their story on their replicated website.  You should do this not only for your customers to get to know the real you a little better, but to also remind yourself of your reason for joining Paparazzi.  My "why" motivates me, and helps me push forward.

How to add your Story:
1. Log into your Paparazzi Back Office.
2. Click on My Profile.
3. Click on Edit Profile.
4. Find the empty text box titled "Replicated Site Text."
5. Think long & hard about your "why" and type away.  Be aware that the text box will only allow for 1000 words or less.
6. Click save at the bottom.

Here is "My Why."  A true story about a home jewelry party that makes my heart hurt, but also changed my life for the better.

One jewelry party changed my life, changed my attitude and changed my heart.  We have all been invited to our fair share of parties...candles, jewelry, kitchen utensils, even romance parties.  And we know that when a friend invites us, there will be a hu-mun-go catalog of over-priced "things" that we neither need or want.  But we hesitantly go, and spend away our hard-earned cash.  Let me tell you about the home jewelry party that changed my life. As soon as I walked in the door, I couldn't help but notice the young mom with the new born baby still hung from her hips. She oohed-and-aahed at the beautiful jewelry, but when the catalogs were flipped open, her demeanor changed.  Nothing in the catalog was under $20, and some pieces were priced upwards of $100.  For costume jewelry, seriously?  When it came to place our orders, she left the party empty-handed.  And even though she continued to smile and chit-chat with the girls at the party, I could feel her struggles through her smile.  Because I have been there.  We have all been there.  I don't have to explain to anyone why she left the party empty-handed...we have all felt her struggles at one time or another. I left that party with a heightened sense of empathy for this young mom.  I knew there had to be a better alternative, not only for her but for all of us.  This home party, little did I know, would change my entire life. Shortly after, I was introduced to Paparazzi for the first time. A colleague of mine wore a sparkling necklace to work and I automatically assumed it was from the expensive jewelry party just a few weeks before.  That's when she told me, "No, this was just 5 bucks." I was hoooked!  Without ever seeing the rest of the jewelry, I booked my first party.  By the end of my own party, I was ready to sign up.  Guess who inspired me to do so? Yep. The young mom, who I even invited to my party, and who left the party with a few accessories to call her own.  I sell Paparazzi, not only for that young mom, but because I believe we all deserve a better alternative. I like Paparazzi because it can make women feel like a million bucks, but only spend 5.  I love Paparazzi because I know it can change lives!  

Change...is...Good

I don't know why, but until just this week I was almost fearful of sharing my Paparazzi $5 Habit with anyone.  Maybe it was because I knew if they didn't want to come to a home party, or I didn't want to attend an event, that they would NEVER, ever buy my jewelry.  Maybe it was because I recently moved a gazillion miles away from all my family & friends--who were my biggest support of my Paparazzi journey.

The new online ordering...has changed everything for me! And, change is good!  Everywhere I look, I see a potential customer.

I consider myself an out-going person, but was never really out-going about my jewelry.  This week, my attitude has changed.  I am reaching out to strangers, friends and passers-by.  Each person that crosses my path is being exposed to my $5 habit!

I'm hoping the new online ordering has changed your attitude.  And your motivation.  It sure has changed me.

Share, share, share Paparazzi with everyone you pass.  Because for the first time, everyone is a potential customer.  Don't you just love technology??

Paparazzi Webinar

Just in case you missed it, here's the link to the Online Ordering Webinar from August 20th:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-xPKEWrZo0&list=UUChopbTxaqRrfgs_KX7DB_Q

This is a must-watch for all Consultants and potential Consultants, alike.  For the first-time EVER, our customers will be able to order Paparazzi Accessories online 24/7.  This means our customers will be able to order the exact piece, style & color they are looking for.  I am beyond excited.

I know there will be some changes that we will all have to adjust to, but we will get through this together!

Recorded Call

If you didn't catch the live call from Frank Divas Group, catch it at 1-805-399-1099.  Punch in access code: 686536. The call is approximately 30 minutes in length. 

The call talked about sharing your Paparazzi story with others, and encouraging others to join your team.  Yes, joining Paparazzi can help you add to your family's finances, but Paparazzi has the power to change your life!  The call featured my personal sponsor, Liesel Webb, and it talked about her struggles starting out in Paparazzi, and how after a few years not only has the company helped her family financially, but has changed her life completely!  Great job, Liesel!  

How has Paparazzi changed your life?  What is your Paparazzi story?  Begin sharing with everyone you meet!  

TAX Tuesday: Home Party Expenses

There are so many benefits of being an Independent Consultant for Paparazzi Accessories:

-we get to party everyday, while at work
-we can create our own schedule & work from home
-we always look amazing because we can shop our own accessories 24/7
-we make additional income on a weekly-basis 
-we meet new people, inspire others, and help women feel confident without breaking the bank

All of these are awesome benefits, but my favorite BENEFIT comes once a year...on TAX DAY! Because Independent Consultants are considered Independent Business Owners, we qualify for the many deductions set aside by the IRS.


Unfortunately, like everything else involving the IRS, we MUST keep honest, organized records in order to take this awesome tax break once a year!

WAIT-A-MINUTE!  If we are making money, shouldn't we have to pay taxes on our income?  Well, yes!  But, if you maintain your records accordingly, you will see that being a small business owner actually costs you money, even if you are earning it along the way.  Hopefully after today's blog, you will have a better understanding of how this all works.

There are a gazillion business expenses that you probably haven't even considered because they are such a normal part of your normal day.  Of course, we all know of the expense of purchasing our jewelry from Paparazzi, and of our income from parties we hold or events we vend for. Continue to keep these receipts--both from sales, and also from your Paparazzi orders.

HOME PARTY EXPENSES:

For just home parties, there are some expenses that you probably haven't even considered.  

Here's a list to get you thinking about business expenses in a whole new light:

Did you have to drive to the party? Record the mileage driven to and from the party.

Did you have to go to the bank for change beforehand or afterwards to deposit checks? Record the mileage driven to and from the bank, as well as any bank fees charged to you for withdrawals.

Did you drop of invitations to the hostess?  Yep, these miles count too!

Did you put together a door prize or goody bags? Not only does the expense of whatever you put in your door prizes count, but also the mileage driven to and from the store to purchase them. To count your money spent at the store, you MUST keep the store receipt.

Did you have to drive to the post office to pick up your Paparazzi order before the party? Miles, are miles, are miles.  And, if you are driving them, they totally count!

Did you provide simple refreshments like chocolate or water bottles? Again, what a great deduction you may have not considered, not only for the expense, but also for the mileage driven.  Plus, most parties in which I provide a small refreshment, I end up taking the rest home for my family to enjoy. When I host a party in my home, I provide finger sandwiches and chips, and feed it to my family as well.  Dinner-is-served, and my business has provided it!  Don't go overboard with steak and lobster for 100 people, just be conservative and you won't be red-flagged come tax time.


Now...just looking at the mileage your drove for one home party, you should have quite an accumulation of miles driven.  And, the IRS pays over $.50 per mile.  Does that mean you are going to get back $0.50 per mile?  No, not at all.  Taxes are based on your income, and adjusted according to some magical formula.  But, this does add up!

How can you track this and stay organized? 

 Try my envelope system!

I make an envelope dedicated to each Home Party.  I put in all receipts related to the party inside, as well as the receipts from the parties' sales. On the front, I document all my miles driven (to include the date the miles were driven, where I drove to & from, and the reason for the miles--documented as RT to stand for Round Trip).  Also, on the front, I include a total for the expenses, and the total for sales.  And, I tally up the number of miles driven.  I NEVER, ever, EVER add expenses that I can't verify with a receipt of some kind.


So, my envelope front will look something like this:
SARAH's PARTY on 8/14/14
Expenses: $45.12
Sales: $232.50 receipts # 1234-1257
Mileage: 91 miles total RT
8/12/14 USPS to home--12 miles RT--pick up order
8/13/14 Sarah's to home--11 miles RT--invite drop off
8/13/14 Safeway to home--14 miles RT--drop off flyer for party
8/13/13 Wells Fargo to home--10 miles RT--change
8/14/14 Walmart to home--23 miles RT--purchase door prizes
8/14/14 Sarah's to home--11 miles RT--party date
8//14/14 Wells Fargo to home--10 miles RT--deposit checks from party

WOW!  See how quickly that can ADD UP..for just ONE HOME PARTY?  See, Sarah just lives 5 miles from your home, and the little bit of running around you do for her party seems so normal to your everyday.  But...before you know it, you have driven ALMOST 100 miles for 1 party.  At 50 cents per mile, that is another $50 in expenses you probably haven't even considered.  When it comes time to report this to your tax advisor, or your tax program if you do your own taxes, you will simply provide the total number of miles driven for your business.  No real calculating needed on your part, just a little bit of adding it all together on December 31st.

Now, the big trick is to find a way to incorporate these miles into miles you already have to drive.
Finally, your "Mom's Taxi Business" can make some money.  If you are going to the USPS to pick up your order, get your mail that day too.  If you are going to Walmart for "business" supplies, might as well grocery shop too.  Get the best bang for your buck, when it comes to mileage.

GOAL FOR THIS WEEK

This week, start organizing your Party Envelopes for your last few parties.  This is a GREAT WAY to just get started.  In your organizing, if you find receipts that you aren't sure which party they belong to, just set them aside, and we will get to those later.  You will have orders from Paparazzi that don't technically belong to any particular party, or supplies for your display, and even business expenses like stationary/calendars/computer ink that belong somewhere, just not with any individual home party.  Hang on to these...we will cover ALL of this...one bite at a time.

Next week on TAX Tuesday, I will show you how to make your records for the entire month.  I will also explain how to milk it...just a little bit...while still remaining honest about your business expenses. By the time TAX day is here next April, our records will be in tip-top shape and ready for our refunds to come our way!  WOOHOO! Cha-ching!

I.HEART.PAPARAZZI

Disclaimer: I am in NO way a CPA, or certified tax advisor, or accountant. I do, however, like math. Does that count? I am an Independent Consultant, just like all of you.  I believe in being honest about our business expenses, by keeping exceptional records.  I am simply sharing my knowledge and research with all of you.  I do advise that you seek tax advice from a certified and trained individual, as any business owner should.

Motivational Monday: Start TODAY

It is going to be a GREAT week for Paparazzi!  With the all-NEW-Paparazzi making its debut this Saturday, as Independent Consultants, we have to start working TODAY to ensure sales in the future.

People love to shop online.  It is easy, it is convenient, and there is no pressure on their part to buy.  And, starting Saturday, our customers will be able to shop Paparazzi online 24/7. 

I don't know about you, but I am very excited about this...

And, I am very nervous about this....

If customers don't know where to go to shop, they won't shop at all.  

So, this week will be dedicated to getting your replicated web address out for all the world to see.

Here are some TIPS to help you do just that:

TIP #1: BUSINESS CARDS

Chances are, your business cards don't have your Paparazzi website address...nor do your cards state that customers can shop online.  So, simply add this information.  Whether it be to the back of the card, hand-written, or type the information on a small sticker and slap those puppies on!  If you can, visit Vistaprints.com and order new cards asap!

TIP #2:  CURRENT CUSTOMER LIST

Check your current customer list.  E-mail all your customers and text message everyone you know.  Hit-up every contact you already have, by whatever means you can!  SHOUT it from the rooftops--"Order ONLINE!"

TIP #3: USE SOCIAL MEDIA
Post it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.  Use social-media to your advantage here.  Search online sales forums in your area, and make a post.  At least once a week, revisit your posts and add a comment with a cute picture of a "new" accessory...this moves your post back to the top of the feed (but doesn't seem to over-bearing, either).

TIP #4: RIP-AWAY FLYERS

Create a small flyer or poster (and include the small strips that can be ripped off easily, that include your website) and find 10 places around your neighborhood or hometown that you can leave your mark.  Bring along a few push-pins and a roll of tape and head downtown--leave your mark at laundromats, restaurants, gas stations, beauty salons, college/schools, rec centers.  You can do this all in one big haul, or simply keep a few copies in your car for places you already frequent. TAX TIP TIME: Record your dates & miles driven, as these are considered an "expense" for your business, even if your miles are to your child's Elementary school (as long as you drop off a flyer).  To get the best bang for your buck, and to save time, just drop off the flyers at places you already plan to go.

TIP #5: THANK YOU

Use your contact list to send out THANK YOU cards.  Thank your customers for supporting your business, throw in a new business card, and mention that you now will feature ONLINE shopping for their convenience.  Send out 10 cards, which will cost you just under the cost of selling one $5 piece.  TAX TIP TIME: Purchase a set of 18 or more stamps, and let your "business" pay for them.  Just record the date, miles drive to/from the post office, and get a receipt from you USPS employee.  Cha-Ching!

TIP #6: GIVE IT AWAY (GASP)

Still trying to catch my breath. The thought of this TIP makes me cringe. Cry. Moan & scream, because I don't want to give away my jewelry, I want to sell my jewelry. But, I am going to give it a try!  First, think of 5 people you can randomly thank for something they have done for you, or your children or husband.  Give them a Thank-You gift to include a few of your Paparazzi pieces, and a thank-you card.  On each tag, glue on a small slip of paper that lists your website for ordering. Throw them in a cute frilly bag with some tissue paper, and V-I-O-L-A.  You may have a potential customer on your hands.  Again, record those miles driven for "Advertising Expenses." 

Need help coming up with 5 deserving people? With summer coming to an end, there's a whole group of people who do their work with little thanks: soccer or baseball coaches, ballet teachers, dentists and doctors office, lifeguards at the local pool, parks & rec summer program helpers, librarians who sponsor summer-reading programs,or even event directors with whom you vended for this summer.  And with fall approaching fast, there's an even bigger group: tons & tons & tons of school employees.  I know it is typical to give your child's homeroom teacher a Back-to-School gift, but there's a whole handful of adults who work at the school and receive very little recognition for what they do (and rarely gifts for that matter): school librarians, nurses, teacher-aides, secretaries, custodians, "lunch ladies," and principals.  Be the first to introduce them to Paparazzi!