This is the time of year when a lot of us (I think its safe to speak on behalf of the wedding industry here…) when the inquiries for weddings next season really start to roll in! Between chatting with new clients, we are also keeping up with our business relationships we have already and creating new ones as each year moves forward.
That being said, I believe there is nothing more important than the coffee date (or tea, beer, wine…pick your bevy!). And yes, so important that it gets its own full post about it. Let me explain why, in my eyes, it is such an important tool.
To clarify, most of these points are relevant to both new clients and vendor relationships, and to clients hiring other vendors, etc. Any way you cut it, both are two key pillars to event success and pure job love!!
Meeting in personis the top reason, of course! People’s tones can sound different over email verses in person, so having a conversation face to face gives everyone a better first impression of who you are. We can get through the material and details more efficiently and I have the opportunity to show you previous work, examples, and other visual aids to elaborate on my answers so you have a full understanding. If meeting in person is not an option, jumping on a phone or video call works great, too!
We are an open book! You will be more confident asking questions in person as they naturally flow verses over a black and white email you will likely ask more questions than if we just chatted over email.
Coffee shops provide a more relaxed atmosphere if you do not have your own workspace or studio to host these meetings at. It’s not as formal as a restaurant, or as loud as a bar, if it’s the vibe you need.
Developing a relationship beyond being strictly professional is something I love about the modern way of doing business, especially for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers! (Is professional-wedding-best-friend a thing yet?) What I mean is finding common interests…a mutual love for a genre of music? Or great craft beer? New hiking trails? Travel itineraries? Getting to know each other beyond just talking about event related things helps keep the journey fun and exciting. And you will likely learn something new!
Moving forward, there will be many more meetings over coffee, best to break the ice early! See if all the personalities vibe well together…we will be working together for a long time, best to know we mesh well early on.
Event planning should be an experience, not a chore. This goes for everything – weddings, proposals, showers, elopements – all of it! We are helping you plan one of your milestone moments in your life, and that alone is intimidating, but we are here to make that process smooth and easy to get through. We have the knowledge and expertise to advise you on what to do and consider. So don’t fear if you are walking into this knowing next to nothing – we have your back!
To be comfortable and confident in who you are hiring and working with is essential. It is always best to be surrounded by a team of vendors who you like, get along with, and make you feel secure for one of the biggest celebrations of your life! If you know if you will enjoy each other’s company and have that unconditional trust, it makes the process even more enjoyable!
CREDITS:
Photography: Courtney Ingram Photography | @courtingramphoto | Hera Studios | @herastudiosinc
Blog Write Up: Jeanine from Niche Events | @justjeanine_events @nichestylists
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