How often do you work?
As often as I can really. I try to do at least two parties a week which means that I get a good amount of commission each month and can afford to do things I couldn't do before.
How does the job fit around your family life?
Perfectly as it is up to me when I want to work and how long for. It is completely flexible. I usually hold evening parties although I do some parties during lunchtimes or hold parties at coffee mornings which I organise with some of the local mums I know.
How much time do you commit?
At the moment I probably spend about 8 hours a week on the business in total if I can. I don't have any sales targets to meet at all though. In 8 hours I can do at least 2 parties and spend a bit of time arranging new parties. A party takes about 2 to 2.5 hours in total although some parties are much shorter and only take an hour if it is a lunchtime or coffee morning one.
Where do you carry out your work?
I only tend to do parties near where I live so that I am not spending too much time travelling. It has been working really well so far as I normally get at least one party booking at each party and it is a great way to meet new friends and contacts. I am a lot more sociable than I was before I started doing this that’s for sure!
How much space do you need for your kit/stock?
I bought a small suitcase on wheels and I keep everything in there in our spare room although if I am busy I tend to just leave it in the boot of the car.
Do you need a car?
You don’t have to have one but it is a definite advantage as it is quicker and easier to transport your kit and means you can get to more places to have parties.
Do you advertise?
No. The company have a press officer and is regularly featured in loads of publications like Grazia, Marie Claire, The Times, Woman & Home, and Hello etc. That was how I heard about Chez Bec in the first place. My customers love it when Chez Bec is featured in a magazine and it makes them buy more jewellery from me!
How did you hear about the job?
I saw a bracelet in Woman & Home magazine from Chez Bec and when I went on their website I read about becoming a Jewellery Consultant and so I applied.
Do you get support/training?
Yes I do. When you join you get a brilliant training guide in your starter pack which contains all of the information you could need really. You also get a telephone training session or one at your home if you live near their offices in Tunbridge Wells in Kent. They are always available by phone and email as well if you have any questions or ideas.
Are there any downsides to the role?
None other than the fact that I now buy more jewellery than I did before and I tend to go out more now as well with the new friends I have made through doing the parties.
Would you recommend this opportunity to other Mums?
Definitely. Chez Bec is a small family run company and you really do feel like a part of their team when you join. Plus the jewellery really is gorgeous and everyone loves it so you never need to do a hard sell.