Building a business through direct sales

For most of America, 2011 was a year of economic hardship.

The housing market drop coupled with job cuts and a stagnant economy left many without the resources they needed to provide for themselves and their families.

For some in Navarre, however, 2011 was a banner year for business. Direct sales is a growing industry nationwide that has provided some women with the economic freedom to work a business they love and help support their families.

The draw to direct sales is the opportunity to make money without having to work a full-time job. Many of those involved in direct sales companies are women, juggling their need for financial stability with the task of raising children and making a home.

Julie Parker of Navarre began her career with Thirty One Gifts in February 2011. Parker is a mother of six children. Frustrated with a corporate job market that didn’t reward her efforts; Parker paid a small fee to join the company as an independent distributor and has not looked back.

“I am old fashioned in that my heart is at home with my family and there is no place I would rather be,” Parker said. “Now I am able to work from home setting my own schedule.”

For more on this story, see the Jan. 5 issue of Navarre Press or subscribe online.