If you’re here, you already understand the importance of investing in a Brand Designer for your wedding business.
I’ve worked in, on and with the wedding industry for over 15 years and can confidently say there isn’t another Brand Designer out there who knows the wedding industry better than me but I also believe it’s really important you find a Brand Designer right for your small wedding business.
If you’re looking for a Brand Designer to transform your wedding business, here are five pro-tips on finding The One:
One: Define a few basic goals and visions
Ok, I know right now you might not have a picture perfect vision on your goals as often, this is something I help my clients navigate, but to get you off the ground and to help you when choosing a Designer ask yourself a few super simple questions:
- What message do I want my brand to convey? This will help you find a Designer who can align with your vision.
- Am I looking for a specific visual aesthetic (i.e. minimal, intricate etc…)? Some Designer’s niche to a specific design style so if it’s important you achieve a specific aesthetic, ensure you rule out Designer’s whose portfolio doesn’t reflect this.
For example, if you’re seeking to position your business as a luxury brand within the wedding industry, seek to find a Designer who understands this end of the market and whose portfolio of work aligns with this.
Two: Check for Industry experience
Unlike other industries, the wedding industry is a unique niche with its own set of trends, aesthetics and expectations. It’s essential to find a Brand Designer who understands the nuances of the wedding world.
A Designer within wedding industry will understand that a wedding isn’t just an event for your clients, they will be on top of trends, which can be very specific to weddings alone and finally, they should have a really good grasp on the spectrums of the industry to ensure the work they create for you positions you confidently within market.
Their expertise in the emotional journey for your own clients, wedding aesthetics, trends and client relationships can make a significant difference in the success of your small wedding business.
Three: Ask for References
The wedding industry is full of talented small business owners who have been where you are now and come through the other side.
Speaking to those who have worked with the designer will give you valuable insights into their professionalism, work ethic, and the impact of their designs on other businesses. It’s a great way to assess the long-term effectiveness of their work.
Don’t hesitate to request references from past clients of the Designer’s you’ve shortlisted.
Four: Don’t be afraid of waitlists
I know you want everything now but trust me when I tell you waiting for the right Designer is going to cost you less in the long run.
Designers with waitlists often have a higher demand for their services, which is typically a testament to their exceptional skills and reputation. That subtle brag aside, remember you have a lot of prep-work to do, particularly if you’re planning to have a full website built too which you’ll need to fit in alongside running the business itself – give yourself time and give your brand the dedication is deserves but choosing a Designer with a two+ month waitlist to give yourself flexibility with the prep work.
I have at least one client a year who enquires, feels my waitlist is too long and doesn’t book, only to return 6-12 months later full of regret from either investing in their backup choice or attempting a bad DIY job.
Five: Trust your instincts
Just like with your own clients, not every Designer is going to be right for you. Even with rave reviews and a showstopping portfolio you may simply not click and that’s fine.
A personal connection can be a powerful indicator of a successful partnership and it’s’ really important you feel comfortable with your final choice as you’ll be spending a lot of time working together.
From luxury Wedding Planners to Bijou Florists to Stationers to Fine Art Photographers, I’ve worked with every corner of the wedding industry but it’s the small, independent business who I adore working with the most. If you’re looking for a Designer who thrives within your Industry, I would love to hear from you!
