Shopping for gifts for the holidays is often a busy, time-consuming process that causes more stress than enjoyment, but it doesn't have to be this way. You can host a “holiday shopping in one night” event to make life easier.
Find local vendors who are willing to set up booths for you (either for a set fee or for a percentage of the eventual takings). Speak to representatives from well-known companies like Avon, Mary Kay, Tupperware, and Watkins to see if they'd like to get involved — most companies have online directories that enable you to find representatives in your area, or you can simply ask around.
Get the word out about your event by sending flyers home, sticking up posters and putting advertisements in the local newspaper. You could perhaps offer a free grab bag or raffle ticket to the first fifty shoppers to attract more interest. The vendors who are helping you might also want to donate gift baskets or product samples that can be given away.
To raise additional funds and to feed your eager shoppers you can put on a bake sale and concession stand at the same time. Think about having craft vendors present as well, but remember that it's important that visitors can get around everything in one evening. Everyone who turns up will be sure to appreciate being able to complete the bulk of their shopping in one go.
