It's party time! Work as a party plan consultant

The recession has led to a boom in party plans, with anyone from young entrepreneurs to students finding the flexible working hours and potential to make megabucks – and bag freebies – appealing. And, in an industry worth £2bn, everything from saucepans to scented candles are now being sold by brochure, with men even becoming increasingly involved. TNT examines the options.

Best In Glass

What’s it about? An evening of wine tasting and cocktail-making, with the beverages and barware available to buy. The cocktails are designed by London Cocktail Club mixologist. JJ Goodman.
What they say: “This is one of the few party plans where guys and girls can have a real blast,” sales and marketing director Sarah Rabbitt says.
How much can you earn? A consultant gets £50 worth of products to start, then 20 per cent on accessory sales over £600 a month. At least two parties a week are suggested. Hosts get a free gift, plus the value of 10 per cent of sales to spend on products.
best-in-glass.com

Jamie At Home

What’s it about? For the house-proud, or fans of the crusading chef himself, this is a party selling goods from Jamie Oliver’s kitchenware range.
What they say: “You’ll be selling beautiful designer-led kitchenware, and get the opportunity to meet Jamie himself,” communications manager Fiona Rigby says.
How much can you earn? It is suggested two parties a week will yield about £500 a month, and team managers earn up to 10 per cent commission on sales. There is also a car allowance scheme, and the opportunity for lots of free products. Hosts get to spend a portion of sales made on the brochure, plus they get special offers throughout the year.
jamieathome.com

Chocolates For Chocoholics

What’s it about? Taste and discuss a wide selection of chocolates and sweets not available on the high street.
What they say: “Because chocolate is such a fast-moving consumable, there’s the opportunity to potentially make good money,” director Roger Cossey says.
How much can you earn? You purchase chocolates to sell, and for your guest to savour, at a discounted rate, and pass them on with a mark up of 15 to 27 per cent. Parties are only held between September to December and January to Easter. Top consultants have been known to make £10,000 in a week – that’s a whole lotta chocolate. Before deciding to become a consultant, keep in mind you will need room to store your chocolate deliveries.
chocolate-parties.co.uk