Cleaning up after a party usually just means picking up dirty dishes. But when you host product parties, you'll also clean up on free goodies. The company consultants selling cookware, jewelry, clothing, and accessories do all the work. All you have to do is invite folks over and provide refreshments, and you'll be rewarded with complimentary merchandise. Here are three ways to clean up this holiday season - and help your guests avoid crowded malls in the process. (Company policies vary; check websites for details.)
Silpada Designs
(888-745-7232. silpada.com)
Host receives free handcrafted sterling silver jewelry worth up to 30 percent of party sales (items start at $12). An average Silpada home show brings in $750, which means $225 in free jewelry for you. If the Silpada rep books two or more parties while she's at your party, you'll get a $50 jewelry bonus.
The Pampered Chef
(888-687-2433. pamperedchef.com)
The company sells cookware, bakeware, serving pieces, seasonings, cookbooks, and gadgets (we love our self-sharpening knife), and the host receives free kitchen items worth up to 20 percent of party sales (items start at less than $10). Hosts also get half-price items and discounts of 15 to 30 percent. If party sales are $500, you receive $90 in free products and two items at half price and save 25 percent on additional purchases.
Tupperware
(800-366-3800. tupperware.com)
Host receives free merchandise worth 10 to 20 percent of sales (items start at less than $10), plus half-price items (see page 38 of the online catalog for additional details). If you throw a party this month, you'll get special gifts. You can even host an online party and receive an eGift Certificate (10 percent of online sales of $200 or more).
Sidekick Steals runs on Saturdays. E-mail ideas to jwulff@globe.com
