Women Making Profit on Girl's Night Out

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY - Woman across the country are finding new ways to make an extra buck while having a little fun.

Chatting up friends. A fabulous dinner. Some shiny new jewelry. For millions of women, this isn't just a girls' night out, it's work!

With the economy in the tank and unemployment on the rise, ladies across the country are banking on direct selling where they peddle products at house parties, then take a cut of the proceeds.

While there are no stats for this recession, the Direct Selling Association said history shows that during bad economic times, more women turn to home parties as a way to help fill the income void, and it's not just makeup and jewelry. These parties feature everything from cookware to scrapbooking supplies to pet products.

The average seller works part time and earns about $200 a month, but for those who choose to sell full time, there's the potential to earn up to six figures. But there can also be other motivations.

"And as for the non-financial motivations, you have people who are interested just in the social aspect of it," said Amy Robinson with Direct Selling Association.

Many women said they love the flexibility of working for themselves and count on the extra cash to pay for things like daycare, credit card and mortgage payments.

But before you sign on, experts said investigate the company thoroughly. Ask what start up costs are involved and what the buyback process is if the business isn't for you.

More information on the Direct Selling Association