Photo Credit: Here Comes The Guide
If you have ever been to a wedding in any part of the world, you would realize that wedding planning is no easy feat. The wedding planning industry may be experiencing a decrease in event footfall but it is still a globally recognized one that has become a necessity for the benefit of busy people and those who have a taste for perfection.
Although many couples have chosen to push their weddings to the end of the year, there are some that are going on with small unions that still require the services of wedding planners. Here are five tips to help maximize your wedding planning business in a recession:
Increase Your Social Capital
This may be via more engagement on social media with followers, through sponsored posts or on other pages. It’s always a selling point to let people know that you’re ready to conduct business or going through certain transitions in your business life cycle.
You could also begin cold calling or ask for personal introductions through past clients, family and friends.
Including the Corporate Sector
Companies will still have sales and statutory events, no matter how small. Explore a bit of servicing corporates to increase your portfolio and maintain your income streams. You must go where there is money!
Stay Technologically Advanced
With the reduction in movement and physical meetings, you want to make interaction with your brand as easy as possible. Offer to conduct video calls and virtual tours during your wedding planning consultation and event venue inspections.
Treat your clients just like you would a long lost lover in a long-distance relationship that you can’t wait to see.
Know and Hone Your Creativity
People outside your industry may have lost their jobs and are pushing for greatness in other sectors. To remain relevant in your circle of influence, you need to step up your creativity and try to diversify your service offering, making your business process a holistic one.
Apart from the wedding itself, try and offer value you can get paid for.
Understand Pricing and Finances
If you are afraid of numbers, you need to make them your friend, now! In order to be able to relate with your potential clients in a recession, get familiar with price fluctuations of materials and support services like décor, photography and catering. During a recession, everyone wants to spend wisely but still maximize the quality of their experience.
Remember, its only time to adjust and it’s not time to give up!