For me it has been more word of mouth. Social networking like FB & Twitter have also been a great way to connect with vendors, they have referred me out.
Who here has a business website? I am very web-savvy and have designed sites for various purposes, so I know I plan to get one up and running soon. I know that this will be key in my advertisement efforts.
If you don't mind, can you share your site so others can get ideas?
Networking in an industry like this is key.
I find that face to face contact (whether it be with a potential client or a new vendor) is the best way to really advertise your love and enthusiasm for what you do - and people will always remember that. My business cards never leave my side - you never know who you'll meet that is either trying to plan a wedding or event or knows somebody who is, so why not turn then into a future client!
We've also taken advantage of sites such as Twitter and Facebook to advertise our company.
Not only are they free, but they also allow you to respond to potential clients through applications like direct chat or discussion boards - both very quick and widely used ways to keep your clients updated and aware of what your business is up to.
Don't forget networking with other wedding vendors and ask to be referred. We make a point of meeting other vendors at wedding shows and build relationships with them. They'll be happy to refer us as they now have a relationship with us and feel like we are trustworthy. Don't treat your competitors as the enimy! They may receive a lead and be already booked on that date - and if you're available I'm sure you'd be happy to accept the referral:)
Networking with your piers and competitors is a great source of business and should not be ignored.
I do like my website - I designed it myself using snappages.com. It is affordable and has been an effective tool in getting information about my business to people I wouldnt normally come in contact with. I also have made great contacts through networking! Referrals and endorsements from other well-respected field professionals are invaluable until you can build your own reputation and credentials. Keeping a positive outlook and patience while you stick with it can not be overrated. Good luck to you and everyone out there. Brides are still getting married and they still need help!
Investing in a good website is priority one. Then listing our site with search engines and getting on tons of the free websites has helped get our name out there. Then we also utilize FB, Myspace, Blog, Twitter to keep our name on top of those internet search results. All of these sites are free but time consuming. Other then that, bridal shows with consistent follow up has been where we get most of our clients. Over the years I have learned which shows in our area to participate in and which ones are a waste. We also organize a networking group for local wedding and event professionals through the site www.meetup.com. It's about $75/6 months and that has been frustrating at times yet an awesome way to meet a lot of the local vendors in a short amount of time.
