While the internet is filled with business opportunities that amount to nothing but a lost investment and wasted time, it's nice to know there are still some work from home businesses that offer legitimate ways to be your own boss, make your own schedule and earn money. In fact, more and more legitimate business opportunities are opening everyday, but for those of us who prefer a less risky venture, some of the tried and true brands like Mary Kay, Avon, Pampered Chef and Tupperware are great choices.

Tupperware, for example, has been in business for over fifty years and stands behind its famous 100% guarantee on all products. Representing a respected, well-known brand as a Tupperware consultant helps to get a new business off the ground and running quickly. Tupperware consultants are entrepreneurs who are completely responsible for their own businesses. While Tupperware provides training, recognition and sales materials, it is up to individual consultants to decide how large they want their businesses to grow.

As entrepreneurs and their own bosses, Tupperware consultants can develop their own schedules and marketing plans and work on their own terms. Some consultants operate their Tupperware businesses on a part time basis earning supplemental income while others sell Tupperware full time and build lucrative careers through it. In fact, many Tupperware consultants have other full time jobs and sell Tupperware to make a little extra money or just for fun. After all, Tupperware promotes a career as a consultant as a way to "party while you work."

As times have changed and more and more people look to the internet for information and shopping services, many recognized brands like Tupperware have created opportunities for consultants to capitalize on the growing online market. Tupperware consultants have the opportunity to grow their businesses further by creating a personal website. Companies like Tupperware, Mary Kay and Avon are no longer just about in-home parties. Consultants can work from the comfort of their own homes via their computers to conduct all or part of their businesses.

Like most business opportunities, becoming a Tupperware consultant requires an initial monetary investment, but that investment is minimal at less than $100. Unlike many other business opportunities, becoming a Tupperware consultant is a known quantity. The company and the products are recognized by everyone and have a reputation for quality.

If you're looking for a business opportunity where you can be your own boss, create your own schedule and represent a trusted brand, being a Tupperware consultant may be the career for you. If Tupperware doesn't interest you, here is a list of some other well-known brands that might be a better fit for your needs:

Avon

BeautiControl

Big Yellow Box

Partylite

Discovery Toys

Lia Sophia

Longaberger

Mary Kay

Mia Bella Candles

Pampered Chef

Stuff a Friend

Taste of Home Entertaining

Traveling Vineyard

Tupperware

I should note that my only experience is with Tupperware, so do your research before entering into a new business venture. Make sure you're comfortable with the investment, product and company before you start.