Tupperware and Avon gained popularity in the 1940s and have been going strong ever since. Today you can pick from any number of direct selling companies, including AdvoCare, Scentsy, Jamberry, to start your own business. Maybe sales aren't your thing, but you're a talented musician and are considering offering guitar lessons in your home.
All that extra cash is exciting, but did you know that if you make more than $2,000 a year, it's considered a business! Sarah Faris, senior Personal Lines underwriter, will discuss why insurance is necessary if your hobby is considered a business.
Let's say you’re presenting the latest Mary Kay products at your home and a customer is injured after slipping and falling on your property. If you don't have an in-home business policy, the injured customer's medical bills could be denied.
Or you have a booth at the local farmer's market in which you're displaying a large number of your hand-crafted Christmas ornaments. A strong wind blows through and topples your tent; all of your ornaments are destroyed. Without the in-home business coverage, you would have no coverage for the tent and all of your ornaments.
West Bend’s In Home Business Coverage can help insure your business. The coverage provides you with business personal property and liability coverages as an endorsement to your Home and Highway® policy. You can choose from three different coverage options to fit your needs.
The main business classes are service (photography, dress making, etc.), crafts (quits, gift baskets, etc.), and office/sales (accounting, etc.).
If you're hosting an in-house party this year, here are some tips to make it safe and successful.
1. Plan accordingly. While an in-house party can be a casual evening, it will be more successful if you plan accordingly. Work with your sales representative to find out what they'll need to display their products. The last thing you want to do is to tear your clean house apart looking for an extension cord or that extra card table and chairs. Make sure you have enough seating for your guests, as well as food and beverages. Planning can take away the stress and make it a more enjoyable party.
2. Send invitations. Send out “Save the Date” postcards or emails well in advance. Between work and running kids to a million activities, family life is hectic. To ensure people attend your party, send out invitations early; don’t rely on word of mouth. Lastly, follow up with a phone call the day before your party. I's easy for people to ignore an email, but not a phone call. In addition, a phone call is a nice personal touch. You can share party details and answer any questions they may have.
3. Tidy up the inside. A clean living room and bathroom are important. Pick up the kids' and pets' toys and put them away for the evening. Declutter your party space to make it more comfortable for your guests and provide more room for displaying products.
4. Tidy up the outside. Make sure your driveway and sidewalk are clear of snow and ice, as well as other debris. Wet leaves can be slippery and make the approach to your house hazardous. In addition, low hanging branches can be dangerous. Lastly, make sure your property is well lit. Don’t forget to fix the burned out light bulb at your front door.
5. Make arrangements for your pet. If you own a pet, you'll agree they bring a lot of joy to your family. Your guests, however, may not feel the same way. Rather than risking wagging tails knocking over displays or your kitten biting your guests' ankles, it's best to keep pets off the invite list.
6. Watch out for greasy appetizers. Not serving food or light snacks at a party could be considered a bust by some so when planning your menu, consider serving non-greasy appetizers. Greasy appetizers can make a mess in your home and on the merchandise.
If you offer piano lessons or make and sell crafts, be sure to contact your local independent agent to discuss your individual insurance needs and what's best for your business!
Do you have any tips or information you’d like to share? I’d love to hear them; please share them in the box below.
This article is intended for general educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be construed to communicate legal or professional advice. Further, this article is not an offer to sell insurance. Please consult with your licensed insurance agent for specific coverage details and your insurance eligibility. All policies are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, definitions, and exclusions contained therein.
