We did this last month for the first time. It was put together on the fly actually and worked out well. We did not make alot of money, $1000, but was a good learning experience.
Just an fyi, you need to make sure that you have some vendors who sell point of purchase. Many vendors, like Longaberger and Southern Living only take orders. Scheduling pick up dates can be dicey, you need to just chose one if you are going to use the school to pick up ordered items.
You can't have multiple vendors for the same items either. That would be redundant and dilute the volume sold.
I do think it is rather self serving for the parents to expect the PTO to market their business but everyone has a different agenda.
Also, don't forget to alot of print and sign advertising. We thought we had done enough but alot of static from vendors who didn't like the turnout. Also, have it on a Saturday, not during the week.

Does anyone have experience sponsoring a small business "boutique" at their school? We have a couple of parents who own at-home businesses who want to set up a one-night shopping boutique of other school parents (ex: tupperware, pampered chef, etc.). Basically, the participants would pay a registration fee and donate a minimum value door prize. Somehow, we would manage the issue of mulitple vendors selling the same thing - any ideas? Anyway, the event would last maybe two-hours and be open to our school families. Maybe we would also sell refreshments. This is sorta a craft fair, only without the emphasis on crafts.

I am interested in doing this so we can satisfy the many requests the PTO has had from individuals who want the PTO to sponsor a fundraiser using their business. But, I'm sure there are pitfalls we need to avoid. Any advice you all can share before I get back to the moms who are raaising this idea?