Thread: What do you think? Prop & accessory rental.

Hello everyone,

I came up with an idea the other day and wondered what others thought.

I know alot of you make your own accessories, so you know they cost lots once you've bought all the bits and bobs.
I don't perform but adore creating accessories using Swarovski crystals. As they are expensive pieces for performers to buy for their shows, I was thinking there may be a market for hiring out some of the pieces I make. (embellished canes, crops etc..)

I thought if people had acts where they want a particular colour scheme or item that they may not use again, I could make it, mail it, then have it returned after the shows!

I know it could potentially be risky due to the odd dishonest person out there (not any MOB members I'm sure), but i'm I could sort out some form of system to minimise any problems.

I'd love to have some feedback to see if it's worth considering.....

Have a sparkley weekend.

Porcelaindolly
crystalwhips@sky.com

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Perhaps a deposit so that if an item wasn't returned you would at least have something to help cover the costs? Also make sure you have full contact details for whoever it is you'd be providing it for.

I think it's a great idea, particularly for people like myself who can't afford all the costumes I would like xxxx

yeah i think its a wonderful idea and i would like to use it myself for special performances
although i do need to buy some new stuff to keep
xxxx

Its a good idea but not sure it would work. You normally need the prop you are using to practice with and sometimes you get gigs out of the blue so how would you no when to book it form you. Also it might mean you running to the post office a lot to send stuff off. Would it be cost effective in the long run, for you or the performer?

Diva x

maybe you could set up a business making custom pieces for people. i mean if they have a small budget you could be the creative brain that finds a cheap way of producing a similar effect or something that is really cheap but looks very plush... i mean i use foil lined glass beads on costumes as they are dirt cheap and give a similar affect to crystals and look lots more professional than sequins (as they can sometimes look cheap) especially if they are used right..

I think there could be a market there.

Also it would be good for people just starting out, who cant afford to buy, or those testing new acts. You could rent the item out for up to a month if necessary, so if someone really needs it to practise with, they can have it. For expensive pieces, you could ask for a full deposit, to cover close to the whole price of the item, to be refunded when you get it back.

I'm sure lots of people would use it for fancy dress events too.

However, to be successful, you might need a large range of items to encourage people to come to you and keep coming back, so it might be worth getting together with someone who makes things that you dont, to expand the range and encourage custom?

:grin:

Sounds like a great idea to me - maybe you could put together a catalogue of stuff, and if the rental thing falls to pieces, you'll just have to sell it off!