Education and networking are very high on my priority list for things to do this year. I just tackled both with one quick trip to Indianapolis to attend Eventology 2009 an intimate, collaborative and intensive business conference designed especially for wedding planners. This conference was organized by K Sherrie + Company and was a perfect balance of education and networking as I had hoped.
Three exceptional speakers shared their knowledge and expertise, quips and tips to the audience of 80 plus planners from around the country. Liene Stevens, founder and owner of Blue Orchid Designs and The Smart Planner spoke about Marketing Your Wedding Business in Today's Market and as usual Liene didn't disappoint. I'm a huge fan of Liene's and thought my diligent devotion to reading her blogs has kept me sharp and informed, but I learned I have a lot more to learn and learning from Liene is just the way to do it.
Saundra Hadley of planning...forever events offered an amusing and animated session on How to Close the Deal; Sales Methods for the Wedding Industry. Saundra is one of those people you like the first time you meet. Her presentation was clear and concise yet had everyone roaring or as my friend, Kelly McWilliams of Weddings by Socialites says, ROFLMAO.
Our last speaker of the day Terrica Skaggs of Fabuluxe discussed How to Turn Brides into Fans: Nurturing Your Relationships with Clients. Terrica provided invaluable perspective on what brides want in this very competitive market without losing yourself, your family and keeping boundries between them. More importantly she offered suggestions on exceeding brides expectations without working 24/7.
Since this was the first ever Eventology, Katasha and her team at K Sherrie + Company have a huge problem on their hands...how to raise the bar next time. Congratulations Katasha and everyone involved in making Eventology a "must attend event" for planners who are serious about taking their business to the next level.
