by Guest Blogger, Meagan Eagles, WPICC of Weddings Tied With Lace , in Niagara
Networking is important in any industry, but when it comes to weddings, this is the one industry where we get to work with different vendors every week! As planners it is important for us to create and build our network as a referral source for clients, but also to build a referral source for ourselves.
If you’re new to the industry or you just want to increase your network here are my tips for making that happen!
- Start a list of vendors in your area that you want to meet and/or work with.
- Make a point of reaching out to each vendor to introduce yourself. You can start by adding them to social media sites as it’s an easy way to make that introduction.
- Ask if they would be interested in setting up a coffee date so you can get to know each other (chances are, they will!). If they are a venue, set up a site visit with the venue coordinator.
- Ok, this one can be tough for some people, but actually ask them questions. (It’s not all about you and what you do).
- Build relationships. It’s great to meet a bunch of new vendors but if you never plan to meet with them again or put the effort into building a relationship, how can you expect to build a network.
- Try to set up a meeting once a week (in the off season) with either a “yet to meet” person on your list, or someone you want to build a better relationship with.
The stronger the relationships you build are, the stronger your network is going to be. Having a strong network will create more trust in your team, and the more trust you have in your team, the smoother your weddings will run!
Meagan Eagles, WPICC is the principle planner and owner of, Weddings Tied with Lace, in the Niagara Region. She is also the WPIC Niagara Regional Representative.
It’s funny that you’re posting about this today! That is exactly what I have done and what I am doing now. Currently I have a list of preferred vendors that I offer to my clients (they get discounts with those vendors) and I have a list of other vendors that I love to work with. I host industry girls nights as well for all of us, and it’s great for those that you might not met any other way (for for the shy ones among us).
I agree 100 % with Meagan! As soon as I became certified (WPICC) I attended as many networking events as I could, to meet other vendors & to get my name out there. I also did a lot of networking with local businesses on Facebook. Then one day it hit me, I should organize my own networking event. My first event had only 7-8 attendees (most of which I use & recommend to clients). My second event had over 30 attendees, not bad!
I make a point of getting out as much as possible, meeting with these great vendors & new vendors as well.
I did so much networking in my early days (and still do) that I was approached by an event planner who was organizing a networking event & was asked to be a guest speaker. The topic (of course) was the importance of networking.
My first year of business, all the weddings I had came from vendor referrals! I actually had a pretty good first year
These vendors continue to refer me to their clients & I refer them as well. I also volunteer at least once a year to a local charity event. Great way to get your name out there & meet other great businesses, not to mention, giving back
Networking, in my opinion is the BEST way to market yourself, become a successful business & in many cases, very easy on your wallet
Now get out there & get networking! I’d love to meet you 😉