Compass Conversations: Pampered Chef with Terry Heiligenstadt
One thing I love about Terry, is her boundless energy and eternal optimism! This is one woman who is just plain fun to be around!
Each month, we'll take you on a journey through the unique stories, passions, and dreams that drive our local entrepreneurs. These are the stories behind the logos and social media posts, the spirited souls enriching our daily lives with their craft and dedication.
What inspired you to start your business?
After living in VA for 1 year it became necessary for me to add to our family income. Due to family needs and a personal health issue, I needed something VERY flexible.
I had hosted a fundraiser show for my son’s baseball team just before moving to VA and the consultant thought I would make a great consultant and asked if I would like to try on an apron. When looking for employment, I remember her asking and decided to give it a try.
How does your business contribute to the local community?
As an Independent Pampered Chef consultant, I can offer fundraising opportunities to non-profit groups, churches, civic groups, sports teams, school clubs, and the like.
The Pampered Chef and I donate a percentage of each sale to the benefiting groups. I also have used our products to make both personally & customer-sponsored meal kits for a local ministry.
Can you share a memorable experience or success story related to your business?
I would say “launching” my business was memorable. At the time, 4 parties were required to qualify as a consultant. Having moved to VA not knowing a soul and our home is not in a neighborhood, I thought, “HOW am I going to pull this off?”
I began sharing with everyone I encountered about my excitement for my new business adventure. One very kind baseball mom said she would love to be my first host. I continued to share my excitement and Terrychef was born.
What challenges have you faced in building your business, and how have you overcome them?
Finding a balance between health and family needs has, at times, hampered my desired growth. However, I am grateful I have the flexibility of an independent consultant.
Offering a variety of party styles and opportunities has allowed me to serve my customers and keep an active calendar. For example, in-person, virtual, catalog, wedding shower, and fundraising parties.
What makes your business unique?
While Pampered Chef is an international company of thousands of independent consultants, I make Terrychef unique, providing fun informative experiences to help us all look good in the kitchen!
For me, it's all about the connections and helping people with their mealtime struggles so they spend less time in the kitchen and more time around the family dinner table.
What advice would you give to other small business owners who are just starting out?
Definitely do something you love! If you love it, you will never work a day in your life. Be flexible and open to new opportunities to keep your business relevant to and meeting your customer’s needs.
How do you see your business evolving in the future?
I love how Pampered Chef is keeping pace with technology for both customers and consultants. I see my business becoming more of a hybrid offering both in-person and virtual parties to meet my hosts and guests where they are while maintaining a fun experience filled with tips and ideas.
Do you have a special message that you'd like to share with the community through this article?
Find time to connect with friends and family doing something fun! If it happens to be a Pampered Chef party, I would love to be your consultant!
