The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #88284 Message #1740202
Posted By: Janie
13-May-06 - 07:16 PM
Thread Name: BS: Input wanted re herb workshops
Subject: RE: BS: Input wanted re herb workshops
Hi Lynne,
I'd like to say that has never happened to us, but....
I think Kat is right in suggesting you not quit just yet. It really can take awhile for word to get around. Word of mouth, with people who attended hubby's workshops, then singing their praises to others, are what eventually built up his clientele.
He also learned, if it is a workshop or seminar that has some expense to it, to get clubs and organizations to sponsor the event. They provide the space at no charge. And they do most of the advertising. We use only materials that we need anyway for his herb business, so we are not out the costs of materials and supplies if the workshop doesn't happen--we just use them in our own manufacturing of herbal products.
Finally, he always has advance registration that requires a 50% deposit with a deadline at least 3 days before the workshop. The deposits are refunded ONLY if the workshop is cancelled because minimum registration was not met, and he will cancel only if not enough registrations have been received by the deadline. The deposit usually comes to $50 -$65 dollars US, which is enough money that people don't readily sacrifice it--they show up. It is also enough to cover expenses if they no show.
Lastly, we have mastered the art of making herbal preparations in the field, with some basic equipment, including a camp stove. This really saves on overhead since it isn't necessary to rent a space. If it rains, we put up a tarp.
Now--what did you cover for the workshop? Inquiring minds want to know.
Janie