Thursday, June 16, 2011

The Wedding Times, They Are A Changin'

Vendors come, vendors go.  More come these days though.  Austin's a growing metropolis and there's a million and one choices for the newly engaged couple.  There are over 150 wedding venues to choose from so how does one set out to choose?  What makes them choose you?

What the customer says: "I skip right over the ones with no information on their website."  "Their website tells me a lot.  If there are small pictures or the website itself is unprofessional, I'm on to the next one."

Today's client is internet savvy and you don't need me to tell you that.  Our sons and daughters were raised with a pacifier in one hand and a mouse in the other.  Web presence is everything.  A good website is imperative, so don't think for a minute you can get by with a second rate, do-it-yourself type.  Hire a professional. 

Pack it full of content.  Today's bride and groom are looking for more than where you're located.  They want rates, what's included, pictures, testimonials, and choices.  The average couple is looking through hundreds of websites to narrow down to a few, those they'll bother to call or come visit.  Will you make the final cut?

If you're already an established vendor, it's even more imperative that you stay at the top of your game.  Update, update, update.  Stay current, stay connected to other vendors, stay competitive. 

Above all, sell what you have.  Don't apologize for not having what others have already.  Grow with it.  Be proud of what you have.  If you're not, the client can sense it and they won't be either. 

Times are changing, couples are changing, the industry is changing.... are you?