Dear Diary + Readers,
Yesterday, I attended my first Networking Brunch with Richmond Weddings. I wanted to share my experience if any Travel Agents are interested in attending networking events in their area. This event did not have any prospective brides, it was all vendors and potential partners to work with: Event Planners, Florists, Caterers, Hotels, Lighting people (this is a big industry apparently), and a team to represent the Photo Booths. The particular photo booth that was the sponsor was really cool different though. It wasn’t your typical photo booth stand that takes your 5 shots in a row where you have about 5 seconds in between shot. This was advanced, you could do slow mo movies, and all types of editing. It’s the little things…
So, while my original goal was to meet someone at a David’s Bridal or another dress shop in hopes of having them display my business cards in their stores it didn’t really work out. There were literally no associates at these types of retail stores. The plus side though is that I was able to meet an Event Planner who I’m hoping can help me plan a Sandals ‘Caribbean Party.’ In a previous post, I explained how as a Travel Agent you have the opportunity to host Sandals events and meet with prospective clients and introduce them to the Sandals brand (while the rep of the company joins you to help close). This is the perfect opportunity to spend a few months marketing and networking and getting people excited about this event. So, waiting on a quote from the Event Planner but I’m hopeful we can collaborate together and give her some business for the event, while hopefully closing a lot of business myself :-). 20 Couples that book $3,800 each (which is the starting amount for 1 week at one of their resorts) is $76,000. You do the math on the 15% commission for that one Sandals event night 😉
It all starts with Marketing, which is what my background is in so I guess that’s why I understand the importance of it. All forms are important – digital, social media, print, CRM, and of course word-of-mouth at networking events. Plus, who doesn’t love Mimosas??
I would encourage all Travel Agents to get out there and network, network, network. Don’t just collect business cards for funsies with no intention of following up. Even if you think they can’t be a direct assistance to helping you gain leads/referrals, EVERYONE knows someone who travels and that’s just a fact. Maybe they don’t know that engaged couple looking to spend a couple grand on their honeymoon but I promise you they will have a birthday every year and possibly:
- An anniversary
- Spring Break trip they need planned with their families
- Girls/Guys Weekend
- Bachelor/Bachelorette party
- Mother/Daughter trip
- Retirement celebration trip
- Family reunion
- Babymoon
- Divorce (Yes, this celebration is a thing. Ask Party City)
- Graduation trip for their child etc.
My point is, there’s countless reasons people travel, and one reason might be no reason at all. Just get out there and give your card to as many people as you can, since you never know who can help you. Reinforce the fact that your service is free so they aren’t shied away. No need to be stingy with your business cards. $9.99 for 500 cards at VistaPrint (+ shipping & handling of course), I think you can afford to spare a few. If you make just 1 sale, you’ve already made the funds for VistaPrint back. So give away, and be thankful you’re not the lighting guy. Kidding.
Until next time, xoxo,
C
