Publisher's Desk: Save Yourself the Schlepping and Host a Home Art Show like Janice Czerwinski -- Read Her Top Tips Here for Super Success

Oil on panel, "Always and Forever" by Janice Czerwinski...Scroll down to view more of Janice's work as exhibited in her home show including how this piece could look in a room setting.

Recently I attended a by-invitation-only home art show hosted by Janice who lives in Aurora, IL. Throughout her lovely home -- dining room, living room, studio and hallways she displayed her outstanding work -- more than 60 pieces. Additionally in her kitchen, she served the most incredible appetizers along with a selection of white and red wines. Her husband, Bill, was her helpful and cordial co-host.

In the 5.5 hours she ran her home show (Friday evening and Saturday afternoon) she sold NINE paintings!

Just think about this, there's no "schlepping" when you feature your work in your own home. Plus, it gives you the luxury of visiting with your patrons to learn more about their tastes and art needs. You can also share the stories behind your work which many collectors enjoy learning so they can share with others once it is hanging in their home or office.

The key to communicating this event is twofold: utilizing emailed newsletters to inform interested parties and a large enough database of local buyers to make this approach work.

Here's how Janice planned her home show using the help of an established art marketing coach's YOUTUBE video and AI...

Janice says:

WHO ATTENDED? "Several of my top collectors attended and some newsletter subscribers who became new collectors.

"I sent invitations through my email newsletter. Our preference was to host an exclusive event as a private preview for collectors and subscribers to get a chance for a "first look" before selling it at any shows.

WHAT ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA? "I did not promote using social media or any other type of publicity. I wanted to attract only serious art collectors since i was inviting them into our home, gallery, and art studio.

WHAT WAS YOUR COMMUNICATION FREQUENCY? "I emailed one month before, two weeks before, one week before and a few days before. This is not too frequent. It takes multiple views leading up to the event for reminders. I requested an RSVP from my email newsletter to know which day they were coming. However, be prepared that most won't RSVP and will just show up.

WHAT WAS YOUR EVENT TIMEFRAME AND WHY? "I chose hours before or after mealtime to avoid spending a lot of money on food and beverages -- Friday from 6:30 to 9 PM and Saturday from 2-5 PM. I recommend keeping food choices simple with nothing greasy or saucy and display it elegantly.

ANY ADDITIONAL TIPS? "I offered a sale incentive of a set of five notecards with each painting sold that features my artwork on the front.

"Also, make sure all art displayed have price tags clearly visible to avoid customers being too shy to ask, "how much" and possibly losing a sale."

BE SURE TO FOLLOW JANICE ON HER WEBSITE: www.janiceczerwinski.com

Display upstairs at Janice's house in the LOFT area.

Another view of the LOFT area.

Janice's studio

Janice's newsletter invitation included how her artwork could look in a room setting -- I think this choice is stunning!!!