More! Secrets to Success from Wedding Industry Experts
In a previous post, I introduced Wedding Industry Experts as a phenomenal resource for information pertaining to the wedding and event industry – especially for novice planners and aspiring event pros. Much of the information is presented in reports featuring a panel of experts providing candid answers to a series of questions.
I’d like to share links to the most recent reports. For a few questions below, I included my response – although by clicking through to the full report, you will see a very interesting and insightful array of answers.
Report #11. What marketing method has proven the most effective for you in attracting new clients?
Report #12. What do you consider as the most important skill a Wedding Planner or Wedding Designer should have and why?
Report #13. Please name some vendors you love working with.
A: Tough question because the list is l-o-n-g! It’s important to preface my answer by stating that every client deserves a tailored list of vendor referrals based on their needs and expectations.
However, when I have the opportunity to bring together my fave “dream team” vendors, VHVideo.com is always on my list. I also reach out to Encore Creations for weddings and events with an elevated level of production due to theming, entertainment or both.
What makes them, as well as more than a dozen other unnamed “dream team-ers” so great? For starters, they all share these characteristics: high level of professionalism, quick response time and follow-up, respect for me and my role as project manager/team leader, drama-free, excellent quality equipment/service/product, dependable, consistent, pleasant personality, always prepared and willing to over-deliver.
Report #14. What is a random interesting fact about you or your business?
Report #15. How did you determine pricing for your services when you first started out and what advice can you give new planners/designers?
Report #16. What’s your favorite part of the entire wedding planning process?
Report #17. If you could give only one piece of advice to a bride/groom, what would that be?
A: Recently I completed an elaborate wedding for a very detail oriented bride. The venue manager said to me (while we were loading in and setting up) “I was surprised she hired a planner”.
Considering our team of three was on-site for 12 hours overseeing every imaginable aspect and occurrence, I don’t dare think what that wedding would have been like without us! A member of the venue team approached me at midpoint during the event and complimented our work; it was obvious from her comments and the actions of the staff they were somewhat out of their element. My advice: Hire a planner… Even if others think/tell you that you don’t need one.
Report #18. What trends are your seeing this year?
Report #19. Fill in the blanks: I love working with a couple that …
A: I love working with a couple that is excited by trying new things – especially if they’re willing to entertain a few wild suggestions and unconventional ideas. Pair that up with a decent budget and I am in heaven!
Report #20. What is the biggest strength that you bring to your clients?
A: The number one benefit that comes to mind is experience… Twenty-something years in the industry translates into literally hundreds of events that I have either planned, coordinated, attended or collaborated on. “An investment in experience is far wiser than savings gambled on inexperience.”
The second major benefit is my network – consisting of seasoned, connected, like-minded professionals, who are driven to satisfy and succeed!
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To learn more about the how Elisa is differentiated from other Wedding Planners and Coordinators, please click on over to HIRE ME for additional information.
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