As a wedding planner, the suppliers you partner with play a huge role in the success of your weddings and the satisfaction of your couples. The better the quality of their products and services, the easier it is for you to achieve your clients' vision.

Whether supplying catering, flowers, entertainment or a niche service, it is important to work with wedding vendors who align with your company's ethos and aesthetic and whom you work well with professionally. As a team, you will be able to curate beautiful designs and experiences that will delight your clients. So, how do you find your dream team? This article explores ways for you to expand your network as a wedding professional and establish long-lasting relationships with your dream wedding vendors. All that is left to do is make the first move!

Be active on social media

Social media is home to countless fellow wedding professionals and wedding suppliers—which means countless networking opportunities! Follow these 3 steps to begin building vendor connections on social media...

1. Follow and connect

Your feed should be full of florists, caterers, musicians, photographers, and more. This keeps you updated on their services and business developments and makes reaching out easier when the time comes. It is also a good way to see what is trending in the world of weddings. Remember, social media should be social, so don't be afraid to reach out. Begin building a relationship with wedding vendors by sharing their content, commenting on posts, reacting to stories, and even sliding into their DMs!

2. Update your feed

Networking is a two-way street. Before you reach out to a supplier you'd like to work with, ensure that your profile is looking in good condition. Treat your Instagram grid as your shop front, it should reflect your best work and instantly communicate what your brand is all about.

3. Join Facebook groups

Joining Facebook groups and other online communities for wedding professionals is an easy way to widen your wedding industry connections. Vendors regularly use these groups to promote their services, so there are plenty of collaboration opportunities waiting to be picked up. To find wedding communities on Facebook, search for keywords such as "wedding professionals" or "wedding planner" and you'll be met with a ton of vibrant communities for you to explore. To narrow down your search, try searching for communities specific to your local area, e.g. "wedding suppliers London". You can also search for groups aligned with your particular niche, e.g. "vintage wedding pros". Once part of a community, be sure to actively listen, exchange ideas and share your experiences with the group. Take note of vendors that catch your attention and make a list of valuable contacts for later. Don't think twice about attending any events advertised in the group—these are invaluable opportunities to meet and connect with wedding suppliers.

Attend trade shows

Wedding trade shows invite professionals from all corners of the wedding industry to exhibit their work and socialise with fellow pros. Attending these trade shows as a wedding planner is a great way for you to browse wedding vendors and the different services they offer. Here's how to get involved...

1. Plan your trade show calendar

You can find wedding vendor trade shows all year round. Look out for advertisements in your wedding Facebook groups, on social media, and in wedding industry publications. Make a note of any that match your needs and book your tickets! Try to attend as many wedding trade shows as you can, the more options you have the better. Here's a few of our favourite wedding trade shows to look out for...

The National Wedding Show

Approximately 2,000 exhibitors and 100,000 visitors attend The National Wedding Show every year. See the latest wedding dress trends paraded down a stunning catwalk and collect advice from experts at WEDTALK.

The Suffolk Wedding Show

Enjoy a beautiful spring day out at The Suffolk Wedding Show and connect with an array of wedding suppliers including floristry, stationary, entertainment and caterers.

PMN Wedding Fayres

PMN Wedding Fayres are prestigious events bringing together newly engaged couples and wedding professionals, making it the perfect opportunity to connect with wedding vendors and even find your next clients.

2. Send a heads-up to target connections

If there are specific vendors attending a trade show that you'd like to connect with, drop them a message in advance to let them know you love their work and you're excited to meet them. Briefly explain what you do, what you're looking for, and how much you're looking forward to the event. The supplier in question will most likely remember your name and look forward to meeting you.

Ask for referrals

If in doubt, reach out to your fellow wedding pros and ask which suppliers they recommend. A referral means you can be sure of the vendor's expertise and quality so you can rest assured they will be a reliable partner.

Start a conversation with a wedding planner you know by asking how they are and celebrating any recent achievements they have had. When you are ready to ask for their supplier recommendations, do you so clearly and explain exactly what you are looking for (area, aesthetic, etc.) No need to double text, your industry friend will reply in their own time. Respect their time, and wait a few days or a week before sending a follow-up message. If they choose to keep their supplier a secret, respect their decision and focus on establishing your own relationships. When you receive a referral, always follow up with a thank you message. Let them know that you'll be happy to offer any help in return whenever they're in need.

Creative entrepreneurs and freelancers often ask: should I charge hourly or set a fixed project price? Choosing the right pricing strategy is crucial for sustainable and profitable service delivery. Charging hourly ensures fair compensation for your services, while a flat project rate offers predictability. There's no universal answer on how to price services as a freelancer, but evaluating both methods reveals distinct advantages and drawbacks. This article breaks down the facts to help you determine the best pricing method for your creative business.

This article will explore...

• Comparing the pros and cons of charging per hour versus per project for creative entrepreneurs and freelancers, offering insights into which method might be more sustainable and profitable.
• Highlighting the advantages of charging per hour, such as guaranteed compensation for all time and effort, flexibility for long-term projects, and protection against unpaid overtime.
• Discussing the benefits of charging per project, including capitalizing on productivity, payment security, and the potential challenges for new freelancers in determining suitable rates and avoiding overwork without additional compensation.

Option 1: charging per hour

Charging by the hour means setting a price for each hour dedicated to a project. It requires diligent tracking of time spent, ensuring accurate billing upon project completion.

Advantages of hourly pricing

No more unpaid overtime

‍Charging hourly guarantees compensation for all time and effort invested. Adjustments, revisions, or unforeseen challenges may extend project duration beyond initial estimates—a flat rate doesn't accommodate these changes, but hourly billing ensures fair payment for your services."

This version integrates the keywords naturally while maintaining clarity and using straightforward language. It also adheres to your preference for concise, punchy sentences to improve readability and engagement.

Ideal for long-term clients

‍Suitable for ongoing clients Certain freelance projects lack fixed scopes or timelines, making hourly pricing ideal. This approach offers flexibility for both you and your client, accommodating revisions and additional requirements as they arise."

This version maintains clarity and uses straightforward language while integrating the specified keywords naturally. It also adheres to your preference for concise, punchy sentences to enhance readability and engagement.

Disadvantages of charging per hour

Challenges with hourly rates

If you're using an hourly pricing method, it's crucial to track your hours diligently and maintain accurate records for clients. Some clients may hesitate to work with creatives who charge by the hour due to concerns about cost transparency.

Income fluctuations

‍Charging per hour means your income can vary widely from month to month. Offering a bi-weekly payment schedule can help stabilize cash flow throughout the project, rather than waiting until completion to receive payment.

If you're a fast worker, charging a flat rate could be a more rewarding way to charge for your services.

Option 2: charging per project

Charging per project, or using a flat rate, involves quoting a fixed price for the entire project, regardless of the time spent on it.

Advantages of charging per project

Boost productivity

If you work efficiently, a flat rate can be more profitable. Flat rates reward high productivity—if you complete projects quickly, you maximize your profit. Charging per project prevents potential income loss compared to hourly rates.

Payment security

When charging a flat rate, you have predictable income, allowing you to budget effectively for your business. Clients also appreciate the transparency and predictability of per-project pricing.

Disadvantages of charging per project

Challenges for beginners

Setting a suitable rate for a project can be challenging for newcomers to the business. Without experience, it's difficult to estimate project duration and material costs accurately. Clients often prefer flat rates from seasoned freelancers for assured quality.

Risk of overwork and underpayment

Misjudging project complexity can lead to unpaid overtime. If uncertain about a project's scope, charging hourly may offer more financial security.

Before you decide...

Both hourly rates and flat fees have their advantages and drawbacks. Your choice should align with your experience level and project specifics. Evaluate your options carefully and plan thoroughly for your project's scope before committing to a pricing method.

What makes you stand out as a personal stylist? The personal styling industry is booming, which means you have to work a little harder to build a personal styling brand that stands out from the crowd. How? By picking a niche and excelling in that area.

Having a niche as a personal stylist will allow you to produce more targeted marketing content, become an expert in your field, and increase your chances of working consistently with your dream clients. By picking a personal styling niche, you stop being just a stylist. You become a stylist with a purpose. Learn why picking a personal styling niche is your ticket to success and find the niche that is right for you.

3 benefits of picking a niche for your personal styling business

It is a common misconception that niching down limits your potential for growth. But in reality, choosing a personal styling niche will open up a wealth of new opportunities that are more aligned with your strengths and interests as a stylist.

Increase your press opportunities

Journalists are always looking to feature people with untold stories from a unique angle, as a personal stylist with an interesting niche you'll be firmly in that category. In your PR pitches, be sure to highlight your niche service and why you love doing it. Additionally, niching down will also help you connect with other key influencers in the same niche. This opens up new marketing channels where you can collaborate and promote your personal styling services.

Improve your SEO

Strong SEO makes you easily discoverable to future clients. One way to improve your SEO is to optimise around a niche. With a niche, it's easier to identify keywords that resonate with your brand and less competition in this area means you'll have a better chance of ranking high on Google and thus attracting more clients.

Reach your dream clients

When you pick a personal styling niche, you attract clients who need and want your specific offering. No more guessing games with indecisive clients! Styling clients want to work with someone who truly understands their concerns and their goals. Working consistently with clients who share the same (ish) requirements will make you an expert in your field—and everyone wants to work with an expert. Your target clients will naturally gravitate towards you more than your competitors, giving you a leg up above the rest.

There is nothing more fulfilling than working on projects you love, and by choosing a niche for your personal styling business you can make that your reality. You'll benefit from stronger client relationships, a great industry reputation, and more satisfaction in your work.

5 personal styling niches for you to explore

Every individual requires something different from a personal stylist, which means there is no end of styling niches for you to choose from. Here are a few you can explore to get started...

Affordable styling

Can you really look good on a budget? Absolutely. Niching can be as simple as positioning yourself in an affordable pricing range to ensure styling services are available to clients on every budget.

Affordable wardrobes are often the most exciting to create. You and your client can develop their personal style in innovative ways such as recycling existing clothing in their wardrobe or visiting thrift stores together.

Corporate styling

How we dress in the workplace impacts our confidence and comfort, which in turn impacts our productivity and performance.

As a corporate stylist, you will work with your clients to build a wardrobe that feels professional yet personal to them. Corporate styling is a rewarding career,  as you'll notice your work also has a positive impact on clients' professional reputations and career trajectories.

Sustainable styling

Clients care more and more about where their clothes come from and the impact their wardrobe has on the environment. Sustainable stylists work to build wardrobes through sustainable sources like second-hand shops and clothing rental companies.

As a sustainable stylist, you'll be able to connect with clients who share your same passion for protecting the environment and prove that you can be both environmentally conscious and effortlessly chic.

Travel styling

The only downside of a holiday? Packing! For many, the packing process is stressful and overwhelming. Naturally, people want to look their best on holiday and feel relaxed knowing they have an outfit for every occasion, but their wardrobe is failing them.

As a travel stylist, your service would be tailored to helping clients look and feel their best whatever their holiday destination.

Plus-size or petite styling

Bodies come in all shapes and sizes. The art of personal styling is finding styles and shapes that flatter and enhance your client's natural body type.

If you niche your expertise around styling a certain body type, you have the power to make your clients feel fabulous in their own skin. If you have a passion for fashion and body positivity, this could be the niche for you.

The creative industry is notoriously difficult to break into, but an internship is a great opportunity to get your foot in the door, explore the creative industries and gain invaluable work experience. For students, young professionals and people looking to change their profession, a creative internship is a gateway to a new and exciting career.

Thankfully, there is a wealth of internship opportunities available. However, that also means finding the right internship can be overwhelming. A good internship should be supportive, and challenging, and leave you feeling equipped to enter your chosen field of work. Therefore it is important to choose your work placement wisely, so as to avoid wasting time and effort which could've been used in a more productive manner.

To help you find the right internship for you, we have compiled a list of the best websites to find creative internships and work placements and outlined criteria for evaluating a creative internship. Your career in the creative industry. We now dive into the best platforms to visit when searching for creative internships in London.

The benefits of a creative internship

An internship is an excellent way to gather real-world experience, further explore your field of interest, and learn from established industry professionals. Completing an internship not only looks great on your CV, but it also has long-term benefits for your personal and professional development. As an intern, you can expect to:

• Gain industry experience. Internships show you the behind-the-scenes of an industry that you can't experience through textbooks. As an intern, you'll learn how different creative roles work and how projects are managed. It is important to understand all of your options before settling on a career path.
• Build your portfolio. Throughout an internship, you'll be assigned a variety of projects that you can use to bolster your portfolio. A comprehensive and diverse portfolio proves to future employers that you don't just think you can do the job but you have done it.
• Make connections. Internships are a great way to expand your professional network. Fostering a strong relationship with your mentor and colleagues means they are likely to point you in the direction of further opportunities and put in a good word for you on your future applications.

What to avoid when choosing your internship

The majority of creative internships will provide a positive experience but unfortunately, some internships are not as good as they first appear. While searching the creative industry for an internship, it is crucial to keep your guard up against exploitative companies that may subject you to various forms of unfair treatment. Watch out for these common red flags when looking for an internship:

• Underpaid or unpaid internships. Some companies will take advantage of your lack of experience and use this to justify paying you less. Or worse, nothing at all. Regardless of your experience, you deserve to be compensated for your time and effort. We don't support unpaid internships, but we understand that some can offer a great opportunity to practice your craft and be mentored by a qualified expert. Apply common sense to the situation and proceed with caution.
• Vague role descriptions. If a company is offering an internship but doesn't really detail what you'll be doing as an intern, that's a red flag. Your daily responsibilities determine how much you will learn from the experience and you need a manager who will be proactive in pushing you to do your best. As an intern, you shouldn't be making the office coffees!
• Bad company reviews. You do not want to work in a company that does not adhere to your personal values or expectations. Make sure to conduct thorough research on the company and pay attention to any negative press. Your best source is the reviews of past employees on criteria such as diversity, workplace culture, and management.

How to decide if an internship is right for you

Working as an intern is a great opportunity, but only if it is the right opportunity for you. Here are five points to help you evaluate whether an internship will meet your needs and expectations.

Read, and read again

Take time to review the internship details a couple of times. The job post should, at a minimum, cover the background of the company, the role and responsibilities, start date, duration, requirements, and whether or not the internship is paid or not. If anything seems out of place or questionable, reach out to the company for further clarification. An example of suspicious behaviour: requiring a long thread of qualifications for an unpaid internship. It is important that you are clued up on the job description to make sure everything adds up with what your hiring manager says during the actual interview.

Research the company

As an intern, you'll be dedicating a lot of time and energy to your chosen company and so it is important you are confident it is somewhere you want to work. Go on a mission to find out everything you can about the company, review the website, social platforms, and any press coverage. Find out what they do, how frequently they offer internship programs, and if they're known to foster a positive work environment.

Reach out to other interns

The most valuable source of information is those who have embodied experience. So reach out to current or former interns and ask about their experience. A few suggested topics to cover: the pros and cons of working in the company, their treatment in the workplace, the opportunities they have had since and if the company supported them in any way.

Ask questions

In your initial outreach, in any follow-up correspondence, and in the interview itself—keep the questions coming.  Questions are your key to understanding the company and your role within it, so don't be afraid to clarify anything you are unsure of with a question. Asking questions also demonstrates that you have a keen interest in the company and your employer will likely be impressed by your diligence and enthusiasm.

Trust your gut

If you feel sceptical about an internship opportunity, listen to your instincts. No matter how great an opportunity sounds, if you don't feel confident and comfortable you won't enjoy your experience. An internship is about laying the foundations for your future career but it is also about having a good time and learning about your passions. Wait until another opportunity comes along, you'll know when the time is right.

Where to find a creative internship

There are thousands of Uk-based creative internships to choose from—so why are they so hard to find? Here is our breakdown of the best websites to browse creative internships, and which one is right for your field of interest. Log in to these creative internship sites and take one step closer to building your dream creative career.

Creative Access

Best for: Underrepresented creatives

Creative Access curates an extensive array of internship opportunities, spanning industries like PR, talent management, graphic design and more. Their mission is to support and spotlight emerging talent from underrepresented backgrounds to build a more inclusive, accessible creative economy. Find extensive creative internship opportunities with Creative Access.

Fashion Workie

Best for: Passionate fashionistas

Those looking for internships in the fashion industry, keep your eyes glued to Fashion Workie. Fashion Workie is a free self-service portal for job seekers and employers in the fashion and beauty industry. They have a wide range of creative internships, from entry-level to senior positions! Sign up to Fashion Workie to get started.

Bricks Magazine Newsletter

Best for: New-gen creatives

BRICKS is an independent publication that champions the work of queer creatives—a perfect platform for creatives who are interested in exploring social issues through the creative lens. BRICKS offer a subscription service that provides subscribers with weekly updates on jobs, freelance roles, and creative internships in the UK. Additionally, it provides invaluable career and business advice on the BRICKS Learner's Podcast. Class is now in session! Subscribe now.

Creative Lives in Progress

Best for: Zero-experience creatives

Creative Lives in Progress is an inclusive creative careers resource, on a mission to transform the way emerging talent access, understand and connect with the industry. The platform has a plethora of creative internships and opportunities for entry-level creatives posted on their Opportunities Board and Creative Company Listings. Find a creative internship in London with Creative Lives in Progress.

Creative Opportunities (UAL)

Best for: Alumni of UAL

Creative Opportunities is the go-to hub that connects graduates and alumni of the University of the Arts London (UAL) with creative internships and opportunities. They advertise jobs and creative internships in London and internationally to help creatives gain valuable experience to build careers that they love. Find the right creative internship for you with UAL's Creative Opportunities.

POV: you're in a room full of fellow industry professionals—everyone is chatting, laughing and schmoozing their way to brand partnerships and PR opportunities. But you're standing in the corner, avoiding eye contact and hoping no one notices your sweaty palms! Sound familiar? Don't worry we get it. Networking can be daunting but it is a great way to create industry connections, unlock exciting opportunities, and grow your business—and being an introvert is not going to hold you back!

Some say you need to be an extrovert to master the art of networking—not true. In fact, being an introvert might even be your biggest selling point. Tip: networking is about listening, not talking. This article is a guide to networking for introverts from all corners of the creative industries, packed with practical tips and proven strategies to help you overcome the challenges of networking. Follow this guide and feel confident walking into your next networking event... but then feel free to cosy up with your dog and a cuppa after!

Five Networking Tips For Introverted Creative Entrepreneurs

Introversion is not an obstacle. Here are five tips to get you started in building your social connections with potential clients and fellow industry professionals.

Prepare ahead of time

Adequate preparation before a networking event can ease your anxiety, help you to introduce yourself with confidence and allows you to decide what you want to gain from the experience. Here are a few ways you can prepare yourself for a networking event:

1. Prepare and rehearse an elevator pitch. Your elevator pitch should describe your work, your ethos and your experience to date. It serves as a great conversation starter or a reliable talking point.
2. Familiarise yourself with the attendees. Create a mental list of the individuals you wish to engage with and prepare some questions you'd like to ask them. You'll feel more comfortable approaching strangers if you know you can hold a good conversation ad they'll likely be flattered by your thoughtful questions.
3. Plan your route. It may sound silly, but removing any worries you have about getting to the event, being late, parking etc. will help to keep you relaxed on the day, which will translate into how you feel at the event itself. Remember: there is no such thing as too much prep!

Think about your non-verbal cues

If you don't feel at ease in social situations, your body language will give you away. But don't worry, it is nothing you can't fix with research and practice. If you are aware of common indicators of nerves or stress in your body language, you can learn to avoid them. Here are some examples of nervous body language and how to combat them:

The problem: Avoiding eye contact

The fix: Maintain eye contact to show you are attentive. We promise it's not as scary as it sounds.

The problem: Crossed arms

The fix: Consciously keep your body language open and relaxed to appear approachable.

The problem: Fidgeting

The fix: Keep your hands soft and relaxed and avoid having anything to fidget with in your pockets. Instead, demonstrate you are focused on the conversation at hand by nodding and offering engaged responses.

Other nonverbal cues that convey confidence and approachability include using a firm handshake, having a genuine smile, and maintaining a good posture. Additionally, mirroring the body language and tone of conversation partners can foster a sense of connection and rapport.

Find a friend

Things are less scary when you've got a friend by your side and networking is no different. Invite a fellow entrepreneur to join you at an event or organise to meet up with familiar faces that you know will be attending. The presence of an existing connection will provide a comfortable foundation, making other social interactions easier to initiate and navigate.

Bonus: your existing connections will be able to introduce you to their connections. It is always easier to meet someone via a mutual acquaintance and serves as a good conversation starter. Just be careful not to rely on your buddy and use them as an excuse to avoid exiting your comfort zone and forging new connections.

Go digital

If you decide that in-person events are not for you, joining digital communities could be a more accessible avenue for networking. Online platforms provide a space where you can directly connect with like-minded individuals and engage in meaningful discussions without the pressure of face-to-face interactions. When building your online network, utilise platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or industry-specific forums and communities, such as Behance, Dribble, and Github. The advantage of these digital spaces is that there are no geographical barriers to the connections you can make—your network can span 5 miles or 500 miles.

Initiate conversations online by sending personalised messages to individuals that you would like to connect with. Start by expressing your genuine interest in their work or inviting them to work on a collaboration project with you. It is important to keep all your social profiles up to date so connections can instantly see who you are and what you're all about.

Schedule one-on-ones

Attending large industry events or social gatherings is not the only way to network. A simple one-to-one meeting can be just as beneficial, especially if that is an environment that will allow you to present as your best self.

Invite your prospective connections to a place you feel at ease, like your favourite coffee shop, so it is easier for you to break the ice. These intimate settings provide a more comfortable and focused environment, allowing you to discuss professional things matters whilst keeping things more personal and candid.

When inviting someone to a one-on-one meeting, always personalise the invitation by expressing genuine interest in their work or insights. Also, be sure to highlight your biggest selling points and outline the value of the meeting for them. Keep the tone friendly, professional, and respectful of their time.

The takeaway

Networking is not reserved for extroverts. Introverts can make great networks, it just times preparation and practice. Remember: networking is not about being the loudest in the room, it is about being approachable, attentive and your honest self. Happy networking!

Okay, so you got a bad review for your wedding planning business—don't panic!

As a wedding planner, you strive to exceed your client's expectations. However, even the best can have a bad day. Hearing that your client is unhappy or unsatisfied is never pleasant, but don’t let a negative review get you down.

Instead, keep an open mind: use this as an opportunity to learn and improve as a wedding planner. Discover how a negative client review can actually be beneficial for your wedding planning business in the long run.

This article covers:

• Why client reviews are essential for wedding planners
• Why bad reviews are not the end of the world for your wedding business
• A plan of action for dealing with negative feedback from your clients

Why is client feedback important for your wedding business?

The strongest form of marketing is the positive experiences of your previous clients. Prospective clients feel reassured by the recommendations of other couples who have been in the same position. You can use positive client reviews as social proof on your website, across your social platforms, and in other marketing content. Likewise, negative reviews are equally valuable to your business. Constructive criticism provides lessons on how to improve your services for next time and helps you continually grow as a wedding planner.

How to respond to negative feedback as a wedding planner

Be calm and rational

It's normal to feel stressed after reading a bad review. Naturally, your emotions will run high, but the last thing you want to do is fight fire with fire. Instead, give yourself some time to process the situation and don't react to the review until you feel calm and collected. Remember: this is not the end of the world.

Reach out to the client directly

The best way to settle the conflict is to reach out to the client directly. This allows you to explain your side in case of misunderstanding and reconcile your differences. Start by sending an email and offering to discuss further. If both of you are comfortable, invite them to a phone call or, if feasible, a face-to-face meeting. In your initial outreach, remain calm and professional. You do not want to appear confrontational, but rather keen to improve. Give your client time to share their opinion and be open to listening and accepting their point of view.

Reference your contract

It can be frustrating when a review references "problems" that were already addressed in your initial consultations or written into your contract. If this is the case, explain to your client that you were simply acting in accordance with the contract that you both signed. If they had an issue with this agreement, it would have been better to resolve it at the time. Your contract can protect you from claims that could damage your reputation—just one more reason to always have a contract when taking on a project!

Learn to apologize

Apologize—even if it is not your mistake. As a wedding planner, you should hold yourself in high regard. Remaining composed in the face of negative feedback and showing a willingness to resolve the situation speaks volumes about your character and will bolster your reputation as a good, reliable wedding professional. When apologizing, try to answer all the points raised in the customer feedback. A story comes with two sides—theirs and yours. Feel confident in sharing your version of events to paint a complete picture of the situation.

Ask a trusted peer to review your response

Responding to negative feedback as a wedding planner is not easy, so it is wise to enlist the help of others. Ask a fellow professional or trusted companion to check the tone of your message. You want to ensure it is polite, professional, and aligned with your brand. Writing a reply to negative client feedback can take an emotional and mental toll, so the support of a friend can help put your mind at ease.

In order to grow your personal styling business, you need to get comfortable with social media. Instagram TikTok and Facebook are all great platforms to connect with potential clients and showcase your personal brand. Whilst a large following is nice, remember that an engaged following is far more beneficial to your business. If your audience is actively engaging with you on Instagram, you know that your message is resonating with them and that they are finding value in your content. Plus, an engaged follower is one step closer to becoming a paying client.

An engaged social media following is built through connection, adaptation and attention to detail. Learn how to apply those principles to your social media strategy and build an engaged social media audience for your personal styling business...

Make your audience feel seen

Engagement is a two-way street—actively engage with your followers' content and they will return the favour. Reply to comments, questions and compliments on your posts and always acknowledge story replies. At the same time, support their social media content with likes and comments to prove you are a true cheerleader! It is also a good idea to pose questions to your audience via story polls or post captions. This way, your audience will feel like their opinion really matters to you and will be more interested in your work. If your audience feels seen and valued, they will continue investing time and energy into you and your business.

Become an open book

Let’s face it, people can be nosy—especially on social media. And that's why "day in the life" content is so popular. Be it a prospective client wanting to know more about your services or an aspiring personal stylist, audiences will always stop swiping for a glimpse into your professional life. What is mundane and boring to you may be someone else’s daydream or adventure.

What’s a typical day like for you? How do you find new clients? How do you style them? Think of all the questions your younger self once had about becoming a personal stylist—and there's your content. If you're ever short of content ideas, ask your audience what they want to see. This is a great way to build rapport and keep your content fresh and relevant.

Share your skills

Your social media is a place to showcase your expertise by sharing timeless styling tips, outlining the latest trends and highlighting brands that you know your audience will love. By regularly sharing handy tips and tricks, your followers will come to know you as a fountain of knowledge and inspiration—and they'll keep coming back for more! No need to overthink it; all you need to do is share your wealth of knowledge about styling, and people will stop and listen.

Deliver the scoop

You have your finger on the fashion pulse more than most. It's time to capitalise on your ability to predict what trends are on the rise, and which ones are on their way out. Trends are ever evolving but audiences want to be kept in the loop, meaning someone has to do the reporting. Could it be you?

Showcase your personality

Is there a meme you find endlessly funny? Put your own spin on it and share it with your audience. Did something crazy happen in your life this week? Share your story with your followers (if you're comfortable doing so.) People connect with people, so always showcase your authentic personality online—that is your biggest selling point. Of course, you need to remain professional and responsible online—your Instagram profile is your shop front. Clients will pick a personal stylist that makes them feel comfortable. Being your true self will make prospective clients feel more at ease and may potentially lead to a partnership.

The bottom line

Think of your social media followers as a community, rather than an audience—include them in your conversations, listen to their feedback, and create content that they find valuable. Over time, you'll see your engagement increase across TikTok, Instagram Facebook, or any of your chosen social media platforms. Good luck!

Is your brand an optimistic yellow? A wise purple? Or does a soothing aqua blue feel more on-brand? Choosing your brand colour is an important step in crafting your visual identity. Your band colours contribute greatly to how you are perceived by the public and should capture the core ethos of your brand. Building a brand colour palette is both an art and a science and so, we asked colour psychology coach, Alison Rood, to break down the process step by step.

Meet your expert...

Name: Alison Rood

Role: Colour psychology coach and a digital transformation specialist.

Favourite colour: My favourite colour has been red since the age of five. I have a strong relationship with red; I used to wear red dresses with matching red shoes. Back then red gave me energy and I still wear red if I'm attending an interview to give me a confidence boost."

With Alison's expert insight, we've developed a series of prompts to think about when figuring out the answer to the all-important question—what colour is your brand?

1. What is your favourite colour?

Ahead of our talk, Alison asked participants a simple question: what is your favourite colour and how long have you liked it?

Interestingly, the majority of our audience had been fond of their chosen colour for a very long time. This came as no surprise to Alison who is familiar with the correlation between colour preferences and childhood—what we're surrounded and influenced by as young children shape our perception of colours as adults. That is not to say our favourite colours don't change over time, major life events can alter our colour preferences—consciously or subconsciously. "In a way, choosing your favourite colour is an exercise in identifying who you are."

But what does your favourite colour have to do with identifying your brand colours? Well, it is a perfect starting point. Your favourite colour says a lot about your values, priorities and style—which likely translate into your brand ethos and mission. With the rise of the personal brand, the lines between personal and professional continue to blur, so why not inject a bit of your own personality into your branding?

2. What does this colour evoke?

You must be careful and intentional about how you apply colour in your branding because it ultimately impacts the way people perceive and interact with your brand. Having an understanding of the effects of the four psychological primary colours will give you a foundation from which to build a colour palette that accurately reflects your brand.

• Red. Red triggers a physical response, it is often felt throughout the body and can even activate our flight or fight instinct. It is associated with intense emotions: passion, fear, anger, etc.
• Yellow. Yellow is the strongest colour in psychological terms because it triggers a real emotional response. Although commonly associated with happiness and positivity, yellow also speaks of warning and makes some people feel anxious.
• Blue. Look to the sky and the sea and you'll understand why blue is associated with depth and expanse. Blue triggers a mental response, deeper blues encourage focus and lighter blues have a calming effect.
• Green. Green is the colour of balance and harmony. It sits between the physicality of red, the intellect of blue, and the emotion of yellow. Green feels fresh and prosperous.

Insights from "The Little Book of Colour: How to Use the Psychology of Colour to Transform Your Life", by Karen Haller.

If your service is international, you should also bear in mind that different cultures hold different meanings for colours. Thoroughly research the associations of each colour within your target audience before deciding on your brand palette.

3. What do you think of when you see... ?

Colour is the first signalling language our ancestors had. We see colour before we take in words. Often, we only perceive colour subconsciously. However, developing your awareness of how you perceive colours, will inform your own colour decisions. Practice consciously noticing the colours around you and how they make you feel. For example, on an Autumn walk you're surrounded by a rich palette of reds, oranges, and golden yellows. Does this make you feel comforted and warm? Calm? Or does the fiery undertone make you feel energised and active?

According to research conducted by Color Communications Innovations, 85% of our initial recognition of a brand or service is based on colour alone. Naturally, our familiarity with a brand influences our buying choices so how your brand colour resonates with consumers is extremely important. We buy emotionally, and then reason with logic afterwards. Brands use colour to capitalise on this behaviour. Here are a few examples of colour's emotional powers being used in branding...

• Tiffany. The iconic Tiffany Blue, aka. Robin's egg blue has a specific Pantone shade and is thoroughly trademarked. The brand describes it as a cool, fresh, aquatic blue shade. It speaks of vibrancy, optimism, and escape and transports you into a world of timeless sophistication filled with luxury and delight.
• Glossier. Glossier's pale pink with a slight shimmer to it is representative of what they champion as beauty: fun, freedom and presence. It is also a way to connect with their younger target audience
• Versace. Versace's gold instantly signifies opulence and elegance. When paired with muted backdrops the gold speaks to assured confidence and refined quality.

The takeaway? Your brand colours need to do more than look nice. Brand colours need to tell a story and evoke an emotional reaction from your audience.

4. What colours are your competitors using?

Because of the clear emotional connotations of colours, certain industries tend to congregate around certain colour palettes. However, differentiating yourself from your industry's conventional colours will help you to stand out amongst your competitors.

Fashion brand Moda Operandi conducted a rebrand back in 2019 to distinguish themselves from their black and white competitors. Their new colour palette is something of a rainbow, with playful shades of pink, blue, yellow and more. Their bright new colour scheme was a bold marketing move, and it paid off.

Although you want to build a unique colour palette, remember to stay true to your brand values and the tastes of your dream clientele. Brands are constantly switching up their look but the art lies in retaining the original authenticity and trust of the client base.

Watch Alison Rood's full talk here, or follow her on Instagram for more colourful content!

As a personal stylist, nothing beats the feeling of seeing your clients happy and confident in their new-found personal style. But as the industry becomes more competitive, it can be challenging to find new clients. Learning how to find clients as a personal stylist is crucial. You need to make potential clients understand the benefits of investing in a personal stylist. We know how the right wardrobe can transform a life; now you need them to understand too!

New personal styling clients won't just come knocking on your door. You have to go out and find them. Personal stylist lead generation requires creativity and persistence. We've compiled a map of potential client hotspots and a guide on how to promote your personal styling business effectively.

Investing in personal styling offers clients more than just a new wardrobe. Over time, they learn how to save money and time by buying clothes that match both their body and vibe. Most importantly, they become confident and comfortable in their own skin. The trick is conveying this value proposition to prospective clients through your website, social media, and any other content you put out into the world.

So, whether you're new to the personal styling industry or looking to take your styling business to the next level, read on to discover exciting new avenues for growth.

Key Teaching Points:

• Define Your Value: Identify client struggles and tailor your marketing to highlight how you solve them. Use social media and various platforms to showcase your unique value proposition.
• Leverage Metrics: Use facts and figures to demonstrate your effectiveness. Highlight savings, client satisfaction rates, and other measurable outcomes to build credibility.
• Utilize Testimonials: Gather and share positive feedback from happy clients. Use testimonials across your marketing channels to build trust and attract new clients.

How to define your value as a personal stylist

See the bigger picture

Everyone knows that hiring a personal stylist means getting a new wardrobe, but your job is more than just picking out clothes. Stand out from other stylists with these three steps:

1. Identify common client struggles. Learn how these issues affect them socially, mentally, and financially.
2. Revise your marketing content to reflect your understanding of these issues. Focus on how you make your clients feel, not just what you do.
3. Make a name for yourself in your niche. If you specialize in making women feel more confident at work, highlight that. Promote your personal styling business through social media ads, Instagram lives, and podcast appearances. Do everything you can to get your name and mission out there.

By focusing on these steps, you'll improve your personal stylist lead generation and learn how to find clients as a personal stylist.

Let the facts do the talking

Numbers and metrics are powerful tools to boost your credibility and help clients see your value. Why say, "This service will change your life" when you can say, "This service will save you $500 per year"? Here's how to use real-life metrics as a personal stylist:

1. Identify the facts and figures that confirm your value. How many clients did you help last year? What is the average amount of money you help your clients save? What is your client satisfaction rate? Gather this data to back up your claims.
2. Plaster those metrics everywhere. On your website homepage, Instagram graphics, TikTok—anywhere potential clients might see them. Use these numbers to boost your personal stylist lead generation and promote your personal styling business.

By using clear metrics, you'll learn how to find clients as a personal stylist and enhance your business credibility.

Use your happy customers

Clients care what other clients have to say—so show them! Posting testimonials is a top strategy for personal stylist lead generation and promoting your personal styling business. Here’s how to do it:

1. Collect testimonials from happy clients. Ask specific questions about your services in areas like professionalism, styling expertise, and communication. Gather feedback that best reflects your value. Always get clients' consent to post their feedback.
2. Use these testimonials in your marketing assets. Share quotes from happy customers on social media, add positive reviews to your website, and encourage clients to tell their friends and family about your services.
3. Update your testimonials regularly to keep your content fresh. With plenty of great feedback, you can continuously publish all that positivity!

By leveraging client testimonials, you'll learn how to find clients as a personal stylist and effectively promote your personal styling business.

Where to promote your personal styling services

Get online

Guess what? Your ideal clients are most likely your neighbours. Your local community is full of people in need of a styling service like yours, so go and meet them! Attend fairs, events happening at your child's school, community networking events and local business openings—the more people you know, the more likely you are to make connections. Remember, word of mouth travels fast.

Phone a friend

Your family and friends are your biggest cheerleaders, if you tell them they are looking for new clients they're sure to recommend you to everyone they know—they might even be interested in your styling services themselves! Maybe you could offer some free consultations to your nearest and dearest so they can see the magic for themselves.

Get online

Many personal stylists focus on Instagram and forget about the real goldmine: Facebook. Many Facebook users are women aged 25-60, and marketing on Facebook is free!

Facebook groups are pre-made communities perfect for personal stylist lead generation. Join groups related to styling and fashion to find clients seeking your expertise. Think outside the box and join groups related to local events and businesses that your target demographic might be interested in. Always be friendly and personable when posting in groups, and include samples of your work along with clear contact details.

Using Facebook effectively can help you find clients, promote your personal styling business, and expand your reach.

Phone a friend

Your family and friends are your biggest cheerleaders. If you let them know you're looking for new clients, they're sure to recommend you. They might even be interested in your styling services themselves! Offer some free consultations to your nearest and dearest so they can see the magic for themselves. This can be a great way to promote your personal styling business and generate leads. Using your personal network is a simple and effective strategy for how to find clients as a personal stylist.

Think local

Your ideal clients are likely your neighbors. Your local community needs your styling services. Attend fairs, school events, and local business openings. Networking at these events can help you promote your personal styling business and generate leads. The more people you meet, the more connections you make. Remember, word of mouth travels fast. This is a simple yet effective strategy for how to find clients as a personal stylist.

Do speak to strangers

Opportunities to promote your personal styling business can come from anywhere. When someone compliments your outfit, strike up a conversation about your work. Have a clear, concise elevator pitch ready that highlights your unique selling points and the benefits of hiring you. Inject personality into each conversation to avoid sounding robotic. Always keep a business card handy. This approach is key for personal stylist lead generation and how to find clients as a personal stylist.

Sharing is caring

Many people search the internet daily for style tips, making it a prime opportunity to showcase your expertise and promote your personal styling business. Create educational resources like mini-courses, infographics, or short tutorials to help people on their style journey. Share these resources on your blog, social media, and website to demonstrate your skills and attract potential clients.

Don't hesitate—there are countless clients out there waiting for you to elevate their style! This strategy is crucial for personal stylist lead generation and how to find clients as a personal stylist.

Creative small business owners looking to increase traffic to your website, blog or other social platforms, listen up! Are you snoozing on Pinterest?

Boasting over 450 million active users and serving as a dynamic marketplace for entrepreneurs and creators, Pinterest is an underrated tool to market your creative business. However, not everyone has been sleeping on Pinterest's power as a marketing platform. Emanuela Schneider of Marketing for Interior Designers has helped countless creatives to grow their businesses using Pinterest—and now she's going to help you do the same! Emanuela Schneider spoke to our community of creative entrepreneurs about all things Pinterest marketing, and we've rounded up the highlights to give you a complete guide to setting up a marketing strategy on Pinterest. Let's dive in...

How do I gain Pinterest followers and increase my brand visibility?

Simple: the more you use it for your marketing, the more followers you'll accumulate. There are a few things you can do to fast-track the process though...

• Always pin your projects with your website attached.
• Use keywords in your pin descriptions.
• Make use of all the features on the platform: use Idea Pins, play music, and add text to your images.

Most importantly of all, find your unique differentiator and use it! What makes you stand out from other interior designers? Whatever it is, use it in your graphics, descriptions, bio—everywhere!

Should I include my branding on my posts?

Always have your website or logo visible on your pins. Treat it as a watermark, that way if people share your pin they'll always know it's your project. You should also think about your brand identity when re-pinning and re-sharing other people's posts. Keep your ideal client in mind and only re-share content that is consistent with your brand identity.

How can I make my pins more engaging?

Using the right format makes all the difference. "Long Pins"—stretched-out portrait images—tend to perform best. That being said, content is still immensely important. Always create high-quality content and keep your graphics clean. For interior designers, that's usually as simple as a photo of your work, with your company website neatly placed over the image. Explore the use of Idea Pins (carousel posts) to switch up your content and provide viewers with a little excitement.

This is a great example of an idea Pin being used to attract viewers and direct traffic to the homepage. This Pin got 1.52k impressions despite the fact the account has very few followers. That in part is due to the clever use of text. Snappy copy placed in a way that entices users to click and learn more always performs well, educational posts suit this format best. Another idea to borrow from this post is the clear call to action. Always think about your intention. Is it to drive traffic to your website? Or is it to increase the views on a particular blog post? Calls to action are the best ways to leverage Pinterest for your brand's marketing. Just make sure to keep it fun as well!

Can I reuse my Instagram content on Pinterest (and vice-versa)?

Since Instagram has a different format, if you re-use those Instagram posts on Pinterest, they'll just get lost in a sea of pins—people won't really notice them. What I like to do instead is reuse Instagram captions for the Pin description and re-upload images to work best with Pinterest's format. Read more about what Pinterest Pin size you should be using here.

Another fun and easy trick is re-using reels or Instagram stories on Pinterest. Those tend to do really well since people love behind-the-scenes content and it's already in the long format.

Can Pinterest be used to promote my blog content?

Pinterest is a great marketing strategy for your blog! Use a few different snippets of your blog post to create a few different pin titles. Since you want to redirect your audience to your blog post, use eye-catching titles in the graphics. For blog post pins, I don't recommend just pinning a picture with your website at the bottom, instead create fun graphics where they'll want to click away from the pin to your website.

Can Pinterest be social?

Pinterest has a somewhat under-the-radar feature called Group Boards—collaborative boards for members of a community to share ideas. As part of a Group Board community, you can more closely interact with fellow pinners. The trick is finding an active group that produces content relevant to your niche. Without active pinners, you're wasting your time and would be better off putting energy into other Pinterest strategies.

Visualist regularly invites industry experts to answer the practical questions of our creative community. Brand messaging, financial management, legal contracts—you name it! Secure an invite to our next event by joining us on Facebook.

Wedding planning is a dream job, but it doesn't come without risks. Whether it's one of your vendors who doesn't show up or a guest who gets injured, unforeseen events can cause financial losses and legal liabilities that could put your business at risk. No one wants that! That's where wedding planner insurance comes in. To begin with, understanding wedding planner insurance can be overwhelming. But once you learn what wedding planner insurance is, what it covers, and why it's essential for your business—it gets easier. Read on for a breakdown of the differnt types of insurnace available to wedding planners and how they can protect your business.

What is wedding planner insurance?

Wedding planner insurance is a type of insurance providing comprehensive coverage for wedding planning businesses against a multitude of risks, such as professional liability and damage or loss to third-party property. Naturally, you'll be thinking, "Great! But, how much does it cost?" Fortunately, there are many insurance plans and suppliers to choose from that will be suitable for your requirements and your wallet! The cost of wedding planner insurance can vary widely depending on the unique needs of your business. When determining the cost of your insurance policy, insurance companies consider multiple factors, such as the length of time you've been in the industry, the types of services you offer, the locations you serve, your annual and projected gross revenue, and the number of employees you have. However, you can find insurance plans for as low as £5 a month.

Advantages of being insured as a wedding planner

Protecting Your Reputation

The reputation of yourself and your brand is invaluable. If something goes wrong during the wedding event, your wedding planning business's reputation could be at stake. With the right insurance policy, you can rest assured that you have a safety net in case something unexpected happens. It also proves that you take the extra steps to protect the people involved in your project, something that clients and fellow industry professionals will greatly respect.

Financial Security

Financial security is key to the survival of your business. Depending on the type of coverage you choose, insurance can provide financial protection in the event of property damage, bodily injury, unpaid wages, or other liabilities that may arise during the wedding event. Without proper insurance coverage, your business could be held liable for expensive damages or legal fees, which could be devastating to your financial health.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that you have insurance coverage in place allows you to focus on delivering the best possible service to your clients without worrying about the potential risks and costs associated with unexpected incidents. You can now proceed with ease in planning and preparing for your wedding event.

5 instances where wedding planner insurance will protect you

There is a wide range of potential risks and liabilities that may arise during a wedding event. Wedding planning insurance can shield your business from harm. Here are five instances where having insurance coverage can provide valuable protection...

1. Supplier issues

If a supplier fails to deliver their promised services, such as the florist not showing up on the day of the wedding, you can be held accountable. Insurance coverage can help cover any resulting expenses or cost of delivery for the missing services.

2. Property damage

Fill an intricately decorated room with an excitable crowd and you open up the opportunity for things to get damaged. If the venue or other property is damaged during the wedding, you may be held liable for the repair or replacement cost. Thankfully wedding planner insurance can provide coverage for accidental property damage.

3. Injury claims

It only takes one rogue wire or accidental spillage for a guest to fall over, or a member of your team to injure themselves on the job. Even if the resulting injust is not your fault, you can still be named in a lawsuit. Liability insurance can protect you from such claims. Accidents happen but it is always better to be safe than sorry!

4. Cancellation or postponement

If a wedding needs to be cancelled or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather or the death of a family member, insurance can help cover the resulting costs. Insurance means you can avoid stressful conversations with clients regarding deposits and potential refunds.

5. Legal fees

If you are sued for any reason related to your wedding planning services, such as a contract dispute, wedding planner insurance can provide coverage for legal fees and other related expenses.

A List of Reputable Wedding Planner Insurance Providers

We suggest these reputable wedding planner insurance providers. Find your perfect match and protect your business whilst giving yourself the freedom to deliver the best service possible for your clients.

• Markel Direct
• WedSafe
• Simply Business
• Hiscox
• Thimble Insurance
• WedSure
• Progressive Commercial
  

An interior design moodboard is the first step in bringing your vision to life and selling your concept to a client. A good moodboard then acts as the pillar for a project and helps to keep you and your clients on the same page throughout the design process—saving you from costly mistakes and last-minute revisions!

But making the perfect moodbaord is not as simple as throwing together a selection of images and hoping for the best. Moodboarding is a skill refined over time but there are a few shortcuts to success. Starting with the five key components of a powerful moodboard—theme, colour, imagery, layout, and text.

Ready to impress your clients with powerful moodboards? Follow our step-by-step moodboarding guide nd explore the best moodboarding tools for interior designers.

Step 1. Curate your concept

Before creating your moodboard, you must first be secure in your concept. How does this room look and feel—what is the end product? Your moodboard should offer your client a glimpse into their future home.

Once you are clear on your aesthetic and the mood you are trying to evoke, you can begin compiling images, furniture, patterns, materials and colours that align with your vision. For example, a maximalist living room moodboard will require a bold mix of colours, textures, patterns, and never-seen-before furniture pieces. On the other hand, minimalist-style boards would stick to monochromes or neutral colour swatches, negative space, and simple lines and shapes.

Step 2. Select your colours

Colour speaks volumes. The colour palette of your moodboard can completely dictate the mood. As an interior designer, it is wise to have a good knowledge of colour theory and apply this to all your work. Aside from that, a good place to start is always with the opinion of the client. In your initial consultation did they mention a preference for a certain colour palette? Or explicitly say they disliked a certain shade? Make sure to bear this in mind when building your concept and curating your moodboard.

Step 3. Consider your layout

The way furniture is arranged in a room changes everything—the same applies to moodboarding. How you position each element of your moodboard and the visual hierarchy you create will play a huge role in how your moodboard is received by your client.

The images that are most important in translating your vision should take up more space on the page, things that play a small role in the final concept should act more as embellishments.

You can explore different types of layouts ranging from grid-like set-ups to a more free-form approach and see what best tells the story of your concept. Also try using visual cues (lines, arrows, etc.) to guide the eye from one element to the next in the way you want your moodboard to be perceived.

Step 4. Provide context

Many interior designers overlook the impact of text in their moodboards. Text adds context to your moodboard and helps your client to understand how this somewhat abstract collection of images, colours and textures will come to life as a room in their home. That being said, you should always keep your text short and sweet. The text should never overpower the visuals—ensure your text contributes to the aesthetic rather than distracting by picking pick a typeface and font colour that matches your theme.

Experiment with the placement of your text. For example, you can overlay text on images, or keep it separate—both connote a different vibe so see what suits this particular concept.

Best moodboard tools for interior designers

Visualist

Visualist is a full-service project management tool for creatives. With Visualist, interior designers can manage their projects and collaborate with clients as well as enjoying first-rate moodboarding features.

Image library, background removal, auto layout capabilities—Visualist has everything you need to make moodboards that wow your clients.

Try Visualist.

Milanote

Part moodboard, part mindmap—get organised beautifully with Milanote. Milanote's drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to convey ideas through text and images.

You can also save web resources with Milanote's web clipper to further illustrate your vision.

Try Milanote.

SampleBoard

Create professional-looking moodboards with ease using SampleBoard.

SampleBoard also automatically generates product shopping lists from moodboards, saving you both time and energy!

Try SampleBoard.