Traveling Trunk Show 101: How to Pack and Transport Your Jewelry When Doing an Out-of-State Trunk Show

This past year has been a whirlwind for me, traveling to nearly 30 cities in the past 23 months. I’ve brought Stella & Dot on the road with me as I travel, doing 15 out-of-state trunk shows. Below are my tips on packing and transporting your jewelry when traveling to do a trunk show or an opportunity event.

Keep your jewelry displays simple. This is what I usually pack:
* 2 neck forms
* 1 t-bar for long necklaces (14″ from nilecorp.com)
* 1 Stella & Dot 2-tier display for short necklaces, earrings and bracelets
* 1 Stella & Dot ring display
* 1 small display frame for earrings
* optional: medium display frame and another 2-tier display

I generally don’t bring display trays as they are very bulky and heavy to pack in a carry-on suitcase. You can always pack the tray inserts (from nilecorp.com) and use them to display the jewelry – a good trick to save space and they aren’t too heavy. You can always ask your out-of-state hostess if you can use her housewares to display jewelry at her trunk show. White serving platters and plates are great to showcase necklaces and bracelets; drape pearl and bead necklaces in a wine glass or martini glass; hook earrings on the side of a wine glass or tea cup; put rings and small earrings in a saucer, sugar bowl or sushi plate. Just be creative, improvise and have fun! And don’t forget: You can always lay jewelry straight on the table — there ain’t nothin’ wrong with that!

When traveling with your jewelry, you want it to arrive at your destination unscathed and untangled. And to do that, I swear by Ziploc baggies. Put nearly ALL your jewelry in a bag inside your large jewelry tote. Trust me – the last thing you want is your delicate Arrow Necklace to get tangled with the Chelsea Necklace and you have to operate on it an hour before your trunk show. Items that don’t really get tangled – wood & beaded necklaces, ribbon tie necklace, leather wrap bracelets, the soiree bracelets, la coco chains, etc. can be placed in the jewelry roll. And choose two large statement necklaces — ask your hostess which is her favorite — to bring to the trunk show. You can display them on the two neck forms that you bring. You can certainly bring more statement necklaces, but do you really need to be traveling with 5 necklaces, all worth $200 a piece? It’s not worth the risk of losing, breaking or someone taking it.

Other travel tips:

* Bring along the Charm Book to help you showcase the charm collection – sometimes it’s too much work to set up a huge charm display when doing a trunk show on the go.

* Bring your laptop! Play the ‘Style Inspiration’ DVD during the trunk show and input orders on-the-spot. This way, you won’t need to carry around a huge stack of order forms when you travel, and it saves paper.

* Before the trunk show, mail your hostess EVERYTHING you both will need in a flat rate box. The large box is $14.95 to ship and fits about 20 catalogs, hostess planners, invitations, order forms, and more. This way, you won’t need to break your back carrying Look Books through the terminal. Also, your hostess will have catalogs and invites to pass out before the show.

* Don’t pack everything. You don’t need all your jewelry and you certainly don’t need all your display items. Ask your hostess what pieces she thinks will be a hit at her trunk show, follow your instincts, and plan accordingly.

* Be sure to tell trunk show guests that you are traveling to do the trunk show. Mention that you are growing a team or growing the area and ask if they know anyone who is interested. Also, if you plan to come back to that area at a later date, tell them. You can book a trunk show for the next time you’re in town.

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Stylist of the Month for July

Please join me in congratulating our Stylist of the Month for July – Krista Demcher from Bel Air, MD! She is a wonderful Stylist who consistently sells and sponsors, averaging sales of $2,310 each month. Krista is about to promote to Senior Stylist, and I’m sure she will reach Star Stylist by the end of the year! She is an excellent example of how consistency can positively affect your business. We are so proud of you Krista, keep it up!

Quick Facts:

Name:  Krista Demcher

City/State: Bel Air, MD

Career Rank:  Stylist – hoping to hit Senior this month!

Start Date:  May 2010

Jump Start Earned:  $2000 – $1000 from my own sales and $1000 from the two stylists I signed up that also hit their Jump Start!

Q & A:

Q: You’ve been a Stylist for over a year now. What did Stella & Dot mean to you when you first started? And what does it mean to you now?
A:  I started with Stella & Dot simply because I loved the jewelry and I was looking for a fun way to contribute to my family’s financial security.  I researched the company thoroughly before beginning and knew that Stella & Dot was on to something BIG!  Having always been cautious with any new venture, this started off no differently – I was afraid of being that pushy sales lady that we all try to avoid!  My first few months in business I stayed within my circle of family and friends, but going to Danielle Redner’s Bootcamp really transformed everything for me.  I came away with a new outlook and the determination that in order for this to perform like a business, I had to treat it as one – and that’s what I’ve been doing!

Q: Looking back, who were your first six hostesses and how did you approach them?

A:  My first six Hostesses were all friends and family – four in my current state of Maryland, and two in my home state of Pennsylvania.

Q: Looking back, what did you find challenging as a new stylist and how did you overcome it?
A:  My biggest challenge was definitely finding the confidence to book outside of friends and family.  I didn’t want to put anyone on the spot or make them feel pressured, because I hate feeling that way myself!  At Bootcamp I heard such a great analogy – if the manager of your favorite store (in my case, Anthropologie) told you that they would close down the place for you and your friends to shop and then you would earn a portion of the sales for free, would you say no?  Obviously not!  When I began reminding myself that we have something of great value to offer, my confidence had a major boost and I became much less timid when trying to book!

Q: You have been a consistent Stylist, always qualifiying each month – with average monthly sales $2,310. Any tips on how to stay consistent with trunk shows all year long?
A: Set yourself up for success by looking ahead and overbooking your month by at least one trunk show.  I always assume that at least one show will cancel or be particularly small, so I try to add at least one extra to make up for it in advance.  Worst case scenario is that all go off without a hitch – then I have a really great month!  I also stay in close contact with my hostesses before and after their trunk show – before to get them excited and encourage them to expand their guest list, and after to collect outside orders.  Most are really grateful for the extra touch of customer service!

Q: Any tips for juggling the work/life balance?
A: I’m still working on this!  I’m so lucky to have an extremely supportive and helpful husband who is happy to take over with our two girls while I do my trunk shows in the evening.  I try to accomplish some of my work during naptime and my girls are used to making trips to mail Look Books – we are regulars in Postman Plus!  I’m Mommy first so I try to keep my business separate from my personal life, but of course there is some overlap.  Sometimes it works in my advantage though – my daughters often ask complete strangers if their jewelry is Stella & Dot which opens the door right up for me!

Q: If you could give a new stylist only 3 tips, what would they be?
A: 1.  Stay positive and show your excitement – it’s contagious to others!  2.  Do something to move your business forward each day – even if it’s just sending one email to follow up with a customer.  3.  Spend your time on what matters – booking trunk shows and recruiting stylists!  No need to use up your hours on designing fliers or invitations – Stella & Dot has done all of that for us already!

Q: You were the second highest in sales in July for the entire team – How did you ensure a strong trunk show schedule during the summer months?
A: I started to look at my summer schedule back in April and kept my focus on booking during those months.  I revamped my Who Do You Know List to make it even bigger than it already was and began prospecting with those people.  I also overbooked the month knowing that I’d probably have a cancellation or two – which I did!

Q: Now that you’re almost a Senior Stylist and soon-to-be Star, what do you find challenging now and how do you plan to overcome it?
A:  Balancing my personal sales, coaching my team and recruiting new stylists is proving to be more challenging than I thought!  I’m hoping to hire a sitter for at least one morning a week this Fall so I can have a few uninterrupted hours to focus just on my business and make some phone calls without little voices in the background!

Q: What’s something that you’ve learned that you wish you knew when you first started?
A:  Don’t be shy – people want to hear what you have to say and why you love Stella & Dot.  Guests come to your trunk shows expecting to get styling advice and to learn about the brand, so don’t be afraid to share what you know.  It’s not pushy – it’s personal service!

Q: What’s your next goal with Stella & Dot? What’s your one-year goal?
A:  I’d love to hit Star by the end of the year, and then stay a consistent Star throughout 2012.  While Director is a long-term goal of mine, right now I think that Star would definitely be the sweet spot for me!

Now… For the Fun Stuff!

Q: If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
A:  Chocolate Peanut Butter.  I am convinced that God meant for those two flavors to go together!

Q: Cookie or brownie? Cake or pie?
A:  Definitely cake!  Yellow cake with the icky, over-the-top sweet icing.  It’s the highlight of my birthday each year!

Q: Favorite place you’ve ever visited and why?
A:  Rome.  I spent ten days there in college and fell in love…the history, the people, the pizza – loved absolutely everything about it!

Q: Finish this sentence: When I was a little girl, I dreamed of….
A:  Being a teacher, a mommy and a Rockette.  Guess two of three ain’t bad!

Q: If you were a Stella & Dot piece of jewelry, what would you be and why?
A:  The Turquoise Sea Necklace – bold yet classic, multi-layered and brightens up any outfit!  Also happens to be the piece of Stella & Dot that I first fell in love with and prompted me to become a stylist!

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How to Post Meetings & Events on Stylewatch, Eventbrite and Craigslist

Hi Team!

I have had several of you ask about this, so I figured I would write a “how-to” guide for you lovely ladies… So here goes….

#1 – Stylewatch
A stylist with the career rank of Star Stylist+ has the ability to post the following events on the corporate Web site under the Stylewatch Events section: Local Opportunity Event, Spring/Fall Soiree, New Stylist Training, All Stylist Training, Monthly Team Meeting and Campus Event. Please refer to the document entitled “Stylewatch Event Page” in the Stylist Lounge for more info.

1.) Create an event on www.Eventbrite.com – (see below for more info)
2.) Create your event description — You must use specific verbiage seen here:
* “Local Stella & Dot Opportunity Meeting – Newport Beach, CA”
* “Stella & Dot Open Team Meeting – Newport Beach, CA”
* “Miami Fall Soiree Model & Mingle Event”
* “Stella & Dot New Stylist Training – Newport Beach, CA”
* “Stella & Dot Stylist Training – Miami Beach, FL”
* “Stella & Dot Campus Event at UCLA”
3.) Fill in the event details — You must use the specific text that is provided from Home Office:
* Opportunity Event: Come see what all the buzz is about! As featured in the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, this hyper growth company is enabling a new kind of success for women with a professional, flexible, profitable home based business. Come along, even bring a friend or two, to learn about starting your own part or full time career as a Stella & Dot Stylist at this informal Opportunity Event.
* Spring/Fall Soiree Model & Mingle: Featuring the new Fall collection! Come one, come all to see the fabulous jewelry collection. Model & mingle to meet stylists in your area and receive tips to grow your oh so Stella and Dot business.
* Open Team Meeting: Join in our monthly meetings, led by our field leaders. Hone your selling, booking and sponsoring skills, celebrate your successes and meet Stylists in your area.
* All Stylist Training: Come one, come all! Focused training to assist you in continuing to grow your oh so Stella & Dot business. Hosted by: [Your Name, Independent Stylist with Stella & Dot].
* Campus Event: The Stella & Dot Entrepreneur Program is your dream internship in fashion and social selling. Get hands-on, resume building experience while learning real world skills in marketing, sales, e-commerce, public relations, public speaking and fashion merchandising — all while you earn a great income. As a Student Stylist, not only will your training include the functional skills you need to market and sell your jewelry online on your own e-commerce site and at trunk shows, you’ll also get a general fashion and social selling education. Come join us to learn more!
4.) Lastly, please email your Eventbrite link and your meeting details to the Home Office at events@stelladot.com.

#2 – Eventbrite
This site is searchable, which means that search engines such as Google and Bing will pick up on key words when something is searched. So, for instance, if someone searches “become a stella & dot stylist in Annapolis, MD,” your opportunity event may pop up in the google search since it has most of those key words listed in the event description. Here is the most effective way to post an event or meeting on Eventbrite:

1.) Go to www.Eventbrite.com
2.) Log-in or create a username if you are new the site.
3.) Click on “Create Event” on the tab at the top of the page
4.) Create your event title – if you are creating an opportunity event or monthly meeting, please refer to the titles mentioned above
5.) Create ticket information – don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun! You can put something simple, such as “Stylist Ticket” or you can say something cute, such as “Yes, I’ma Stylist and I can’t wait to attend!” -or- “I’m not a Stylist yet, but I would love to learn more about Stella & Dot.”
6.) Add the event details. Refer to the Home Office approved verbiage mentioned above. ALSO, please re-type all the event details in this section. Re-type in the event title, date, time & location. Don’t forget to include your name, title, email, phone & website.
7.) Fill in the “When” and “Where” categories with the appropriate information -and- upload an imag ein to the “Logo” section
8.) Create a Host for your event. Include a fun anecdote about yourself or your business and be sure to include your contact info and your personal website.
9.) Lastly, personalise the event URL line. Find it under the “Step 3: Add Event Details” section in a grey box. Include the city or location of the event and the type of event, such as “miamiaugustmeeting” or “southocopportunitymeeting.” This is a great way to advertise the event with a memorable link.
10.) Be sure to advertise the event thorugh your Facebook and Twitter account to spread the buzz!
11.) You can also add a “Category” for your event and input “Keywords” (such as “stella & dot,” “jewelry,” “direct sales,” “consultant,” etc.) for your event.
12.) If you are charging a fee for Stylists or guests to attend your event, please note that Eventbrite does charge a fee to accept payment. You can either… Take responsibility for this fee and absorb it yourself as the leader, -or- Tack on the fee to the Stylist’s payment (so, for example, if you are charging $10 for the monthly meeting, the Stylist would essentially pay the $10 plus the $1.50+ charge to Eventbrite for a total charge of $11.50).

#3 – Craigslist
This is another great, FREE, searchable even listing that you can use for your event and meetings.

1.) Go to www.craigslist.com
2.) Under the Community section, click on “events”
3.) Click on “Post” on the very top right corner
4.) Type in the event details and info. You can copy/paste the exact eent details from your Eventbrite posting.
5.) If you’d like, you can add in a few more keywords or sentences to increase your chances that someone will find the event from Google or Bing.
6.) Include your website and phone number, but don’t give out your email address, in an effort to decrease email spam.

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Erin’s Top 3 Tips for Organizing a Meet Stella & Dot Opportunity Event

My top three tips for holding a “Meet Stella & Dot” event, otherwise known as an MSD.

1.) Location
* Choose a location that’s fun, hip and oh-so-Stella & Dot – usually a wine bar, bistro or coffee shop that is close to freeway access.
* Ask around to find out what people are saying about the venue, or go on Yelp and Google Reviews to read what others are saying.
* To keep costs down, don’t worry about agreeing to a room fee or a food minimum – Partner with another venue if that’s the case.

2.) Inviting People to Attend – the most important part!
* First go to hostesses & customers (they already love S&D) to spread the buzz and ask them to join you at your event
* Contact friends & family to see if they’d like to join you also – And have them share & forward the event details to anyone they think is interested.
* Partner with the manager or owner of the venue and ask them to post flyers or share flyers within the venue location.
* Bonus Tip: Utilize Facebook, Twitter, Craigslist, Eventbrite and other online resources to help you spread the buzz! Just be sure to check Stella & Dot’s policies and procedures beforehand.

3.) Keep it Simple During the MSD
* Set up about 3 jewelry trays and 2 neck forms – you don’t need much more! Keep it easy for yourself & don’t overwhelm your potential stylist.
* Have a folder ready to hand out with the following: Look Book, opportunity brochure, Jump Start printout, Start Kit Contents printout, and your business card.
* Bring your calendar so you can schedule their launch show on the spot! Or if they aren’t ready to jump in right away, you can schedule a trunk show with them so they can get to know Stella & Dot even more.

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Stylist of the Month for May!

I am so incredibly happy to introduce our Stylist of the Month for May – the fabulous Michelle Gallagher, Star Stylist in Maryland! She leads by example and has built a fabulous East Coast team. Each month Michelle has $3,000 PCV or more, she consistently sponsors new stylists and she consistently hits her Star Stylist pay rank – all of which are the key factors in this business. We appreciate Michelle’s enthusiasm, positivity and business smarts, and I personally want to thank her for also being my good friend.

Lots of love and many congratulations, Michelle!

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Quick Facts:

Name: Michelle Gallagher
City/State:  Olney, Maryland
Career Rank: Star Stylist
Start Date: Feb 2009 was my first big show, although I signed up Nov 2009 (we had record snowfalls that year!)
Jump Start Earned: $2500.00

Q & A:

Q: You’ve been a Stylist for over a year now. What did Stella & Dot mean to you when you first started? And what does it mean to you now?
A: At first Stella & Dot meant that I got to war great pieces of jewelry and have fun have a trunk or 2 and share the excitement with my two friends & stylists on my team, Robyn and Traci. Now, Stella & Dot is my business — a real source of income to help support my family. I always know that I have a bright future that I have control of! It is even more fun and exciting, and my Stylists are like extended family!

Q: Looking back, who were your first six hostesses and how did you approach them?
A: My first 6 hostesses were all close friends and family, I just told them that I am starting a new business and they were happy to support me!

Q: Looking back, what did you find challenging as a new stylist and how did you overcome it?
A: I found it challenging to book shows , I overcame it by changing my mindset to thinking of their trunk show as a gift to them (free jewelry, fun & laughter with friends), and I also started picking  a definitive date and penciling it in right away.

Q: You’ve mentioned that your strength is in coaching and not in selling, but you have maintained consistent sales since you’ve started. What’s your tip for strengthening your “weaker” areas of the business?
A:  I actually work harder on my weakness by really maximizing each sale with add on pieces  to make a “complete” look and I always suggest gifts for whatever the next holiday is up and coming.  I recently had one sale of $750 to a lady that liked our packaging so much that she did her Christmas shopping in May after I suggested it to her!

Q: Any tips for juggling the work/life balance?
A:  Get help in the areas where you can’t do it all. Make a schedule that suits your life style and stick to it. If your only free day for trunk shows is Sundays, then book Sundays!

Q: If you could give a new stylist only 3 tips, what would they be?
A:  1.) Be persistent, it pays off! 2.) Spend time every day on your Stella & Dot business, even if it’s just for one hour! And 3.) Share the opportunity with others, it is a rewarding feeling to help others and as an added bonus, you can layer your income.

Q: This month marks the one year anniversary of you reaching STAR. What are your tips for maintaining a solid team & continually sponsoring new stylists each month?
A:  I find that empowering my stylists with one-on-one coaching truly helps them to succeed.  I like to offer an incentive gift if they reach a specific goal.  They will reach that goal 100% of the time if you reward their success!  I always  wear Stella & Dot, even in my own social life — a compliment is the perfect opening to a sponsoring conversation!

Q: Last year, as a new leader, what did you find challenging and how did you overcome it?
A:  I found it challenging to balance doing my own shows with supporting my stylists. I overcame it by booking my shows first then I was open to help others.

Q: What’s something that you’ve learned that you wish you knew when you first started?
A: I guess I wish that I knew how to book shows because I did not know how to do that when I first started.

Q: If a Stylist wanted to duplicate your success, what would you tell her (or him)?
A:  Be sincere and genuine and share your passion for Stella & Dot with contagious enthusiasm.  Be persistent and never give up – I promise you it will pay off! Make specific goals for yourself and strive to achieve them.

Q: What’s your next goal with Stella & Dot? What’s your one-year goal?
A: My next immediate goal with Stella & Dot is to help launch my 2 College stylists for the summer, sponsor at least 2 new stylists and find my next Star stylist – My one year goal is to become a Director with a goal of being a Senior Director.

Now… For the Fun Stuff!

Q: If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
A: Ben & Jerry’s Vanilla Heath Bar Crunch  – you have to keep looking for those rewarding rich, crunchy chunks of Heath Bar!

Q: Cookie or brownie? Cake or pie?
A: Pie – homemade apple…YUM

Q: Favorite place you’ve ever visited and why?
A: Eleuthera, Bahamas – natural beauty- turquoise waters, white powder beaches, abundant wild life – undeveloped, quiet & peaceful, at night the sky looks like a piece of black construction paper that has been splatteredwith glitter – the stars are bright, sparkly & everywhere!

Q: Finish this sentence: When I was a little girl, I dreamed of….
A: being a famous gymnast in the Olympics…..I also always loved fashion, clothing & being stylish.

Q: If you were a Stella & Dot piece of jewelry, what would you be and why?
A:  I would be the Casblanca Bib because it is bold, but earthy, a bit sparkly, but not too showy, comfortable & eye catching – always evokes a conversation!

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Michelle’s 10 Tips to Get Out of a Rut

Are you stuck???  Try these ideas……..

1)  Pick up the phone and call a past customer that you think would honestly
make a great hostess.  Go to your order page and click on an order , call
that customer and chat about what she ordered in the past and match up new
pieces that you think she would like, then say ‘ Let’s get you that for free
and have a show!”

2)  Leverage Facebook.  Send a Personal message to individuals.  Think of
friends you have reconnected with that may not know you are an entrepreneur!
Connect with those that you honestly think would make a great hostess.

3) Adopt the “What do I have to lose” mentality.  Pick up the phone – and
call until you actually speak to the person!  What do you have to lose,
right!

4) Go run errands looking cute & stylish wearing your favorite Stella & Dot
pieces ~bring 10 mini lookbooks with your info on them & hand them out AND
get their info to follow up with a call!

5) Join new groups!  Think outside the box.  Join a recipe club, yoga group, meetup.com or a book club.

6) Move outside your family and friends.  Use your family and friends to
help launch your business to connect with their neighbors, co-workers,
family, etc….It is easier to have trunk shows once you break outside your
immediate circle.

7) Write a short note & send it with a lookbook.  A personal touch can go a
long way!

8)  Book Trunk shows at trunk shows!  At check out ask specific questions,
“Would a weekday be best or a weekend?”  “Would you rather do a ‘swing by
for style’ with coffee and bagels or a’ girls night out’ with wine and
cheese.  Have a hostess pack right there ~ place a lookbook, hostess
planner, postcard or 2, an order form or 2 and a little bag of candy in
branded gift bag with tissue, give them the bag after you choose a date and
pencil it in.  When you get to your computer, book the show into your party
assistant and send out the email from your Lounge page!

9) Be persistent! Take a block of uninterrupted time every day to nurture
your Stella & Dot Business – a plant would die without water – treat your
business like a plant, water it, nurture it, and watch it grow.

10.) Celebrate your successes – big & small, treat yourself when you have a
great show – buy those new shoes!

“You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of
the shore.” – Christopher Columbus

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Stylist of the Month for March!

I am so incredibly proud to announce our March Stylist of the Month! Ericka Martinez has been a stylist for nearly two years. Ericka has hit some bumps, run into some walls, and had to put on the brakes a couple times, but her confidence, tenacity and overall attitude have helped to launch her to the top of her game. Ericka beat her best in March by hosting five trunk shows – landing her in the top 5 in sales on the Haughty Dotties team! I couldn’t be more proud of you, Ericka, and I’m so blessed to be able to call you my friend.

Quick Facts:

Name: Ericka Martinez

City/State: Placentia, Ca

Career Rank: Stylist

Start Date: 4/14/ 2009

Jump Start Earned: $0

Q & A:

Q: Your 2-year Stella-versary is coming up on 4/14. CONGRATS! What do you love most about your Stella & Dot business?
A: I love that Stella and Dot is on it’s way to becoming a household name! It’s a brand that I am definitely proud to represent for it’s quality and irresistibility. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime, and I’m excited to be a part of that!

Q: You had an incredible March with 5 trunk shows and over $5,000 in sales! Who were your 5 hostesses and how did you approach them to have a trunk show?
A: A few were mommy friends from my daughter’s school, a family friend, and a client I had met last year in May. (She is my new stylist I signed up this month-Tracy Taylor:))

Q: You have been pretty consistent in doing about 1-2 trunk shows per month. But now you are doing 4-5 shows per month. Have your goals changed? Why are you shifting gears?
A: I have always believed in Stella and Dot ,but I’ve also been a firm believer in building quality relationships over time. Whether it be personal or business relationships, I like to cotinuously work at it even if it’s at a slow pace. The fruits of my labor have paid off and Hostess’ are now contacting me, so I take every opportunity!

Q: What have you found challenging as a stylist and how have you overcome it?
A: Everytime I approached someone I did not want to come off as this sales girl, so I decided to change my mentality and really think of myself as a stylist! Every experience was a learning opportunity to grow personally and professionally. With experience comes confidence, and I’ve learned not to take things personally.

Q: Any tips for juggling the work/life balance?
A: Still working on that …lol! Being a stay-at-home mom, everyday can be unpredictable. Erin and I always have this conversation. Time management is huge and it’s still a work in progress. 🙂

Q: If you could give a new stylist only 3 tips, what would they be?
A: 1.) Start building relationships and take an appropriate opportunity to mention your excitement about Stella and Dot. 2.) Time Management – Determine what days you want to do Trunk Shows. I usually like to recommend Thursday or Friday evenings, it’s less overwhelming when you are looking at a whole month of planning. It makes it easier to suggest a few dates. A great selling point about Thursday is that people are looking forward to the weekend and are able to make more of a commitment because weekends are usually crazy for most with families. You’d be surprised at how many people are ready to unwind by Thursday and have some cocktails! 😉 and 3.) My favorite place to shop is Nordstrom! My experience as a customer has taught me a lot about how I like to be treated. Be polite, attentive, and geniunely interested/concerned about their needs. Go the extra mile whether it be a sale, exchange, or return.

Q: What’s something that you’ve learned over the last 2 years that you wish you knew when you first started?
A: To not take “no” personally! It never hurts to ask.

Q: If a Stylist wanted to duplicate your sales success, what would you tell her (or him)?
A: Figure out your style and play with it. Find a few key pieces that you are really comfortable with and show ther versatility, layering, etc. Check out magazines and read up on the latest trends. From trendsetters to conservatives- be prepared to have something in mind, it will help build your professionalism and expertise. There are always a few pieces that sell really well or complement each other. Layering is the ultimate fashion statement, so model different ways and they will sell on their own. Focus on a few affordabe price points. ( Everyday pieces people will enjoy…. revival bracelet, soiree studs, sun disc earrings, vintage twists).

Q: What’s your next goal with Stella & Dot? What’s your one-year goal?
A. Star Stylist! One-year…let me think about??? lol I know what Erin wants me to say:) I will say this, I don’t ever give up and whatever I commit to I give it 150%.

Q: You have attended Hoopla in the past – Do you recommend a Stylist go this year? Why?
A: Yes, it’s a testimony of what you can achieve! If you work hard, then you play hard

Q: What is a favorite Hoopla memory?
A: The overwhelming feeling I had being in a room full of such inspiring, classy women, and thinking “This is it!”

Now… For the Fun Stuff!

Q: If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?

A: Pralines and Cream! It always reminds me of my childhood Birthdays 🙂

Q: Cookie or brownie? Cake or pie?
A: Brownies!

Q: Favorite place you’ve ever visited and why?
A: Vegas! I never get enough of it! lol

Q: Finish this sentence: When I was a little girl, I dreamed of….
A: being a fashion designer.

Q: If you were a Stella & Dot piece of jewelry, what would you be and why?
A:  The vintage twist in gold- it complements everyone, and one is never enough! :0)

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Monthly Recap For March 2011

Whew! What a month we just had! We are now done with the 1st Quarter and are on our way to accomplishing great things for Q2. Can you feel the energy? Can you see the momentum building? Can you hear us coming? I am so proud of all your girls for an amazing March. So many of you reached for your goals and stepped out of your comfort zone, and you really reaped some major rewards. Two stylists promoted this month, several of you sponsored for the first time and countless stylists held more trunk shows than they ever have before, resulting in their best sales month EVER.

I am beaming with pride, ladies, because I am so DANG PROUD of you and so blessed to have this as my job and have you as my friends. I’m the luckiest girl in the world.

Erin
🙂

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Top 5 in Sales:
$6,272 — Rebecca Carrera
$6,195 — Heather Krout
$5,685 — Kacie Keenan
$5,318 — Blake Hannon
$5,182 — Ericka Martinez
$5,129 — Michelle Gallagher — Honorable Mention
$4,920 — Erin Markland — Honorable Mention

Who Reached $1500+ PCV:
Erin Markland
Michelle Gallagher
Ericka Martinez
Heather Krout
Kacie Keenan
Michelle Rosata
Mary Theresa Orcasitas
Pam Aiello
Missy Stalcup
Christy Lee
Shayna Perlman
Lily Chen
Rebecca Carrera
Blake Hannon
Alison Sappington
Laura Best

Top Sponsorships:
Alison Sappington — 3
Rebecca Carrera — 2
Erin Markland — 2
Michelle Gallagher — 2
Angie Maurer — 2
Julie Peterson — 1
Nicole Lawrence – 1
April Martin — 1
Blake Hannon — 1
Christy Lee — 1
Ashlynn Curtis — 1
Colleen Donovan — 1

Please Welcome to the Team!
Jessie Janus
Jacqueline Chase
Jessica Matthews
Toshiana Baker
Juliet Woodall
Kathleen Hemphill-Pacis
Kim Nguyen
Alicia Collins
Michelle Hobson
Colleen Donovan
Caitlin Evans
Jennifer Wheeless
Wendy Wilhelm
Danielle Cruz
Kaltheen Emmerich
Emily Sammis

Look Who Promoted!! – My deepest congratulations to you ladies! – I’m so proud of you!
Rebecca Carrera – Senior Stylist
Missy Stalcup – Senior Stylist

March Madness Incentive – Who Beat Their Personal Sales Best?
Michelle Gallagher
Kacie Keenan
Ericka Martinez
Rebecca Carerra
Mary Theresa Orcasitas
Nicole Wright

March Madness Incentive – Who Beat Their Personal Sponsoring Best?
Angie Maurer
Rebecca Carerra
Alison Sappington

* Not on this list? If you beat your personal sales or sponsoring best in March, please let me know so I can add you to our list!!

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Stylist of the Month for February 2011

Quick Facts:
Name: Kristy Lisser  
City/State: Laguna Niguel, CA
Career Rank: Stylist
Start Date: January 2011
Jump Start Earned: the 1^st $500 free jewelry credit and so close to the next!!

Q & A:

Q: You became a Stylist in January. Looking back, how did you initially fill up your calendar with trunk shows?
A: I started off with my close friends who have a variety of friends that I don’t know/hang out with.  My close friends were more than willing to host and support my new business and channeling into a different group of ladies helped me book future shows with people I don’t know. 

Q: Who were your first five hostesses and how did you approach them?
A: My first 5 shows were with friends.  Most of them offered, but the ones who slightly mentioned the possibility of hosting, I took the initiative and emailed or called them to set up a date and I let them know that I would love to be their stylist for their Trunk Show.  Also, people love the sound of ‘free jewelry’!!!

Q: You’ve hit your $1500 PCV each month. Any tips for having a consistent business?
A:   I am constantly trying to get the word out about Stella & Dot and how much I love it!  I think that booking shows is key and coaching your hostess so the guest list is plentiful is most important. However, even the small shows helped push me up to $1500 PCV.

Q: What did you find challenging as a new stylist and how did you overcome it?
A: I have 2 major challenges, booking and time.  I have 2 small kids and no outside help.  Finding time to market myself and book trunk shows is really hard when you are exhausted and around kids all day.  I thought to myself, ‘how do I find hostesses when I am not around adults?’  So, I try to do small tasks in small amounts of free time.  Also, I use the internet, email & facebook a lot to try and book shows.  I mail out look books, hostess planners and personal notes to potential hostesses, friends, neighbors, family, my husband’s co-workers, my son’s preschool teacher, etc.

Q: Any tips for juggling the work/life balance?
A:  Balancing life and work is a major work in progress!!  I do what I can, when I can and I give it my best.  I have the personality to get down on myself if I don’t do ‘enough’ but I try to realize that sometimes you can’t do it all.  Most of the time, when I look back, it all works out exactly the way it should because I know I put in 150%.

Q: If you could give a new stylist only 3 tips, what would they be?
A:  1. be organized   2. LOVE what you are doing…people can feel the passion:)  3. have trunk show guests try on the jewelry….if they don’t put it on, put it on for them!  4.  Thank your customers!!

Q: What’s something that you’ve learned that you wish you knew when you first started?
A:  I wish I had watched the booking videos before my first shows.  They are so helpful and I try to watch them often to help boost my confidence when approaching potential hostesses.

Q: You really want to sponsor and grow a team, how do you plan to approach your potential stylists about the Opportunity?
A:I plan to use my own experience and let them know what a great opportunity Stella & Dot is and can be for them.  It is a wonderful career for the modern woman/mom who can’t or doesn’t want to go back to work in an office type setting.  I will let them know the sky is the limit and the jewelry is awesome!!!

Q: If a Stylist wanted to duplicate your sales success, what would you tell her (or him)?
A:  I would tell them to set goals for themselves and do everything they need to do to achieve them.  Create a momentum in the first part of their career and keep it going.  Also, make sure everyone knows what you are doing and how excited you are about starting a new business venture.

Q: What’s your next goal with Stella & Dot? What’s your one-year goal?
A:  I want to keep trying to book 4-8 shows a month and begin sponsoring new stylists.  My next goal is to be a Senior Stylist. I would like to be a Star Stylist in a year.

Now… For the Fun Stuff!

Q: If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
A: Vanilla with a different topping every day…..I love a great foundation, yet the ability to mix it up however and whenever I please. 

Q: Cookie or brownie? Cake or pie?
A: Chocolate Chip cookie!  Definitely cake.

Q: Favorite place you’ve ever visited and why?
A: I love Maui because of the carefree, island lifestyle, the gorgeous beaches and sunsets.  I also love Merida, Mexico because of the kind people and the intense culture.

Q: Finish this sentence: When I was a little girl, I dreamed of….
A: living all over the world

Q: If you were a Stella & Dot piece of jewelry, what would you be and why?
A: the Bardot spiral bangle…because it is simple and quiet, yet it adds the perfect amount of sparkle and style and grabs attention without overdoing it!

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Increase Sales with Outside Orders — Jessica’s Tips

Jessica Chatterton is a rock star seller, being consistent each and every month with $1500 PCV or more. And she is great with collecting outside orders. Read her tips below on how to maximize your time and energy by selling “on the run.”As a mother to three kids, she knows a thing or two about time management. And on top of it all, Jessica has a natural knack for feeling out someone’s personal style. She hand picks a few pieces of jewelry that she feels would be best for them – and she’s usually right on! Jessica truly embraces the role of “personal stylist” when talking about Stella & Dot jewelry. See… Told you… She’s a rock star. 😉

——————-  JESSICA’S  TIPS  FOR  OUTSIDE  ORDERS  ———————

I love collecting outside orders, and think it is an area often over-looked!   One tip  is to set up the top-selling pieces (or your fave pieces) somewhere in your home between trunk shows (I set up mine in the vanity area of our master bath). This is like having a little boutique in your home and makes it easy for friends and customers to stop by and take a look at the jewelry in a casual setting.

Recently, I got two orders in one week – and both from my doctors!  I had a dentist appointment and arrived armed with the catalog, as well as about 8 – 10 pieces that I thought my dentist would like.  My dentist happens to be a beautiful Persian woman, and I thought I had a feel for her style.  She browsed through the catalog, and asked about the enamel bangles — (which I happened to bring, thinking she’s like them!)  I told her I actually had those, and she looked at them and ordered two.  Another day, that same week, I had a dermatologist appointment.  I didn’t feel that I had a good read of her style, so I simply brought the catalog & wore some of my favorite pieces – including the single strand Rio Coin Necklace.  And she ended up ordering the necklace I was wearing!

I’ve also reached out to husbands before Valentines, birthdays and anniversaries with some success.

I also mail the catalog and a personal note to friends and customers to let them know that my home is open to view the jewelry anytime, and that I am also happy to bring any pieces to them for a one-on-one style session.

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