An industry that was popularized with household name companies such as Tupperware and Mary Kay, U.S. direct sales made an estimated $30.47 billion in 2005, according to the Direct Selling Association in Washington, D.C.
And as today’s woman sips wine, munches on tasty appetizers and browses a better selection of merchandise, it’s apparent: These aren’t your mother’s Tupper-ware parties.
“It’s given women an opportunity to stay at home with the children and have a business,� Benchley said. “You’re only limited by yourself.�
After her sister-in-law introduced her to Pampered Chef products 17 years ago, Kerry Cichowski of McHenry decided to start selling the company’s kitchen tools. A consultant makes about $100 for each party, said Cichowski. She attends about six parties a month.
Photo: Weekenders
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